Cine Las Americas Brings RGV High School Mariachi Doc to the Big Screen
Cine Las Americas to showcase films from more than 25 countries in its 26th annual international film festival.
The Cine Las Americas International Film Festival, which runs from May 15-19, kicks off at AFS Cinema with the much-buzzed about film “Going Varsity in Mariachi,” which made its Texas premiere at the South by Southwest Film Festival in 2023.
“Going Varsity in Mariachi” documents the highs and lows of Mariachi Oro, the Edinburg North High School’s student mariachi group and their journey to the mariachi state championship. Filmmakers Alejandra Vasquez and Sam Osborn as well as Abby Garcia, who was featured in the film, will join the screening for a Q&A. Attendees will also enjoy live mariachi music during the opening night reception.
RELATED: COMUNIDAD SHINES IN THESE 5 FILMS
On May 18, the fest presents its signature programming track “Hecho en Tejas,” at the Austin PBS studios. The popular showcase features short documentaries shot and/or produced in Texas and includes a reception and red carpet for attending filmmakers. An “Hecho en Tejas” showcase feature will highlight the film “God Save Texas: La Frontera,” directed by Austin-based filmmaker Iliana Sosa.
End the festival at AFS Cinema with the closing film “La Contadora de Películas,” directed by Lone Scherfig. It’s set in 1960s Chile and centers on a young girl’s uncanny ability to retell films.
For 26 years, the festival has promoted cross-cultural understanding through cinematic storytelling. From documentaries to short films, the fest features a diverse array of selections from countries ranging from Argentina to Mexico.
“As we kick off Cine Las Americas’ second quarter century, we are delighted to present screenings with several filmmakers in attendance to encourage that connection between artist and audience,” said Cine Las Americas Executive Director Gabriel Ornelas. “This is a unique film festival that brings together people from several different countries, cultures, and life experiences, whether that means the stories on screen, or literally the people themselves.”
Other beloved programming tracks include the Emergencía short film series that shines a light on young filmmakers under 19 and the Femme Frontera Filmmaker Showcase, a partnership with the organization centering women and non-binary filmmakers from the U.S. border regions of El Paso/Juárez and Las Cruces, New Mexico. Fest badges cost $125 and individual tickets can also be purchased. All films in languages other than English are subtitled. Find the full program here.
Author
Related Articles
5 SXSW 2026 Artistas to Add to Your Playlist
In honor of Women’s History Month, we’re highlighting some fierce female performers who performed at South by Southwest and should be on your playlists.
Mexican Director Jonás Cuarón’s film “Campeón Gabacho” premieres at SXSW
Red carpet moments highlight a powerful story of migration, struggle and self-discovery.
SXSW 2026 Films that Ask: What Does Moving Forward Look Like for Nuestra Gente?
From Chicano rock legends to young bachata musicians and a trans couple preparing to welcome a child, several South by Southwest Film & TV Festival selections this year explore a shared question: What does it mean to keep going?