Hollywood, CA (BDCi) — The short film “Distance” by director Ismael Gomez, and co-directed by the Brazilian filmmaker Rafael Yoshida debuted in the film festival circuit as a Best Short Film Nominee at the Arpa International Film Festival at the Egyptian Theater. It was the world premiere of the black and white movie, which has a heart warming message for Latino immigrants.
THE PLOT:
‘Distance” is a family drama that takes place during the winter break, when a Cuban American student finds out he must quit college to look after his ailing immigrant grandmother.
“Its intention is to show the generational culture gap among immigrants and how a family member, an elder, reiterates the importance of keeping one’s culture and the old country alive.” said director Gomez.
(L) Rafael Yoshida – (R) Ismael Gomez – Photo: Janete Weinstein
The proud director used his own family to play their respective parts. He said due to the family chemistry, no other actor would be able to express their feelings so well as themselves. “It was fun and also challenging, since I am the one used to take orders from them and not the other way around,” added Gomez.
The film will also be featured in the Denver Film Festival and lastly in Miami, where the director hopes to touch the heart of many more Cuban American immigrants.
ARPA FILM FESTIVAL
AFFMA (Arpa Foundation for Film, Music and Art) is a non-profit organization, formed for the purpose of promoting the arts and enhancing the cultural environment of our community by supporting artists who bridge the cultural divide, unifying diverse people and cultures through the arts.
To date, the Arpa Foundation for Film, Music and Art (AFFMA) has awarded over 150 individuals with grants in support of their creative endeavors.