The GuadaLAjara Film Festival (GLAFF) is back in Los Angeles, celebrating its 14th edition from November 1-3, 2024. This year’s festival promises an exceptional lineup of films and exclusive events, showcasing a rich blend of talent, cultural themes, and impactful narratives. Featuring some of the most notable names in cinema—Zoe Saldaña, Rooney Mara, Raúl Briones, Producer Jewerl Ross, Fernanda Valadez, Dylan O’Brien, and Nava Mau, Sofia Yebes, Ximena Urrutia and production designer Eugenio Caballero —the festival continues to bridge Latin American and Hollywood cinema, drawing in audiences from around the world.

This comprehensive lineup, combined with the festival’s dedication to community engagement, highlights GLAFF’s role as a cultural bridge and platform for cinematic excellence.

GuadaLajara Film Festival 2024

Founded in 1986, the Guadalajara International Film Festival has become a prestigious event within Latin America and beyond. Initially focused on promoting Mexican cinema, the festival has expanded over the decades to embrace an international audience, providing a platform for emerging and established artists alike. It has also played a pivotal role in elevating Mexican cinema onto the global stage, helping filmmakers reach broader audiences and gain recognition at an international level.

GLAFF in Los Angeles serves as an extension of this legacy, bringing Mexican and Latin American film talents to the vibrant landscape of Hollywood. By bridging diverse cinematic cultures, the festival has continually fostered an environment where stories, perspectives, and creative visions come together to celebrate the art of film.

In a remarkable shift, the 2024 GLAFF is embracing community impact like never before. The festival has announced that 100% of its box office proceeds will be donated to individuals and organizations making a meaningful difference in the Los Angeles community. This charitable initiative reflects GLAFF’s commitment to creating a positive influence beyond cinema, aligning its artistic vision with social responsibility.

A significant event this year is the Día de los Muertos Gala on November 2, held in collaboration with Gloria Molina Grand Park. This gala not only celebrates Mexican cultural heritage but also serves as a heartfelt reflection on themes of life, death, and remembrance. The evening will feature the world premiere of “Monstruo de Xibalba” directed by Manuela Irene, a film rooted in ancient Mayan mythology, adding a profound cultural layer to the gala’s celebrations.

Film Premieres at GLAFF 2024

The 2024 GLAFF is packed with over 85 films and 120 full feature films, shorts, and documentaries that showcase the best of Latin American storytelling. The expected attendance is said to be in thousands this year. This year’s festival opens with “Sujo”, a Spanish-language drama directed by Astrid Rondero and Fernanda Valadez, which has also been selected as Mexico’s official submission for the Oscars in the Best International Feature category. The opening night is anticipated to set a high bar for the cinematic experiences that follow.

The most anticipated 5 top films that will be premiered at GuadaLAjara Film Festival are:

La Cocina
Directed by Alonso Ruizpalacios, this highly anticipated film stars Rooney Mara and Raúl Briones. La Cocina explores the intricacies of family relationships through the immersive setting of a culinary school, blending themes of ambition, heritage, and connection. Ruizpalacios’ direction brings an authentic and thought-provoking perspective to this heartwarming narrative.

Ponyboi
A bold, queer drama directed by Esteban Arango and featuring River Gallo alongside Dylan O’Brien. Ponyboi captures the struggles and self-discovery journey of a young man coming to terms with his identity. With its powerful storytelling and resonant themes, this film is expected to leave a lasting impact on audiences.

Ecstasy
The directorial debut of cinematographer Carolina Costa, Ecstasy stars Mabel Cadena and Natalia Solian. Known for her visual expertise, Costa brings a visually captivating tale of love and desire, exploring the complex emotions that underpin human connections. Ecstasy is poised to become a visual masterpiece of this year’s festival.

Rent Free
Directed by Fernando Andres, Rent Free is a comedy that received acclaim at the Tribeca Film Festival earlier this year. This comedic film provides a witty take on the trials and tribulations faced by young adults in modern society, weaving humor with relatable, real-life struggles.

The star-studded lineup at this year’s GLAFF includes prominent actors whose work has shaped both Hollywood and Latin American cinema. Zoe Saldaña will be making a much-anticipated appearance, with buzz surrounding her role in Jacques Audiard’s “Emilia Pèrez”. Rooney Mara is set to attend the screening of La Cocina, while Dylan O’Brien will accompany the premiere of Ponyboi. Their presence not only adds to the excitement of the festival but also highlights the growing interest in cross-cultural film collaborations.

GLAFF 2024

The 14th edition of the GuadaLAjara Film Festival is not only about showcasing cinematic brilliance but also about fostering cultural dialogue and supporting meaningful social initiatives. This year’s emphasis on community-driven projects and its collaboration with local organizations underscores the festival’s commitment to positively impacting Los Angeles and beyond. The films, the talent, and the unique cultural events make GLAFF 2024 an unforgettable experience that resonates with both Hollywood and Latin American audiences.