Founded by pioneer Josefina Lopez (Real Women Have Curves) in 2003, the Latina Independent Film Extravaganza (LIFE) stands as one of the longest-running festivals dedicated to Latina voices in entertainment.

Our mission is simple: champion Latina directors and drive solutions that expand our place in the industry.

We see cinema as both art and action. Our films do not just tell stories, they challenge, disrupt, and open doors. Through screenings, panels, and mentorship, LIFE connects filmmakers to industry access while building real pathways forward.

By elevating Latina voices on screen and behind the camera, we are not just showcasing talent, we are reshaping the future of film.

Awards & Prizes

Awards will be presented but the ultimate goal is to lift up our community collectively!

Rules & Terms

All films have to be directed by a Latina Director.

All screenplay submissions have to be written by a Latina Writer. This is for screenplay submissions only. Film submissions directed by Latinas do not need to be written by one.

Latina identifying is US born and Immigrants/Foriegn born Cis or Trans Women with family roots from Latin America, i.e. Mexico, Caribbean, Central America, South America, and Iberian Peninsula. Latinas residing in the mentioned regions are welcome to apply as well.

Films must have been 2020 or after.

Travel and lodging is not available at this time.

ATTENTION STUDENT SUBMISSION: In order to receive the student submission fee you must email in a copy of your student ID and proof of school enrollment for spring 2026.

26 Reviews
Overall Rating
Quality
Value
Communication
Hospitality
Networking
  • Vergi Rodriguez

    This is a great film festival for any Latina filmmakers looking for an opportunity to showcase your films.

    April 2026
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  • Erica Soto

    I feel so honored that our short film "Someday" had it's LA premiere here. LIFE was beyond incredible in every way imaginable. So well organized, the communication was fantastic, the events inspiring and the films and workshops all exceeded expectations. Every detail was handled with care, and the team stayed connected every step of the way, making the entire experience feel seamless, supported, and genuinely welcoming. What truly sets this festival apart is how inclusive and supportive it is. It was a dream to be surrounded and supported by all of the talented Latina filmmakers. There’s a real commitment to uplifting diverse voices and creating space for our stories. You felt it in the programming, in the audience reactions, and especially in the way the organizers and filmmakers showed up for one another. Big thanks to everyone involved! I truly look forward to seeing this festival shine year after year.

    April 2026
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  • TRINA CALDERON

    This is a fantastic festival. Well-organized, insightful, and fun, I would recommend filmmakers to submit as well as attend. The curation was terrific. It was a special place to premiere my short film in the perfect community in Los Angeles. This festival is a gem of Los Angeles.

    April 2026
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  • Oddett Garza

    This was the most powerful and inspiring festivals I've attended! They go above and beyond to create welcoming and inspiring opportunities daily. Everything was top notch- the films, the food, networking, workshops, pachangas. Amazing experience

    March 2026
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  • Natalie De Diego

    Great hospitality and a wide selection of talented filmmakers. It was such a treat to screen here. Highlights are the fantastic guests they obtained and two of the best film panels I've ever attended. Don't sleep on this one. I imagine it will only get bigger and better with each year.

    March 2026
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