Can I get uhhhhhhhhhhhh… Latino stories in Hollywood?

Latinos have stories to tell yet we only make up 1% of Hollywood stories but McDonald's is taking a big step in making a change by awarding emerging Latino filmmakers $225k to produce their short films and help boost representation with Spotlight Dorado.

I was in the studio when the big surprise for the 3 finalists was announced, and it was a big golden celebration. Stephanie Beatriz surprised them with the big news and all the confetti splashed down. Director Carlos López Estrada and Showrunner Ilana Peña came out and presented them with big checks to get their project started. They will also have mentors throughout their film creation journey like Danay Garcia and Nancy C. Mejía.

The three finalists include:

Jazmin Aguilar, Kid Ugly

Jesus Celaya, Lucha Noir

Lorena Russi, A History of Sitting in Waiting Rooms (Or Whatever Longer Title you Prefer)

I can’t wait to see the short films after meeting them because they are super talented individals. The finalist short films will debut in November on spotlightdorado.com. Fans will have the opportunity to vote for their favorite short film and help determine the grand-prize winner.

Spotlight Dorado is part of McDonald’s long-standing commitment to feeding and fostering the Hispanic community through programs that fuel Latino pride and representation.

For more information about Spotlight Dorado, visit spotlightdorado.com.