Bullfighter's Cafe

The shadow knows...

2011-12-04T09:07:00.001-08:00

The shadow knows...
Originally uploaded by Angel Aviles McClinton

There's nothing more natural than a human being that radiates simple, unaffected humanity..." ~Deepak Chopra

My take away from The Shadow Effect by Deepak Chopra, Debbie Ford, and Marianne Williamson: Light and dark exist. We exist in and because of this dance of opposites. Recognize. Share. Forgive. Embrace. Grow. Love... and repeat.

Valentine Funny Animation

2009-02-11T20:06:00.001-08:00

Valentine Funny Animation
Uploaded by BullfightersCafe

Scary movie funny video kids cartoon

2009-01-24T11:38:00.001-08:00

Click to Play

Diablo is up to his old tricks but gets foiled by a little girl on scary movie night.

BFCafe.com

2008-11-12T17:43:00.000-08:00

Bullfighter’s Café may have began as a fun project, but after receiving tremendous support and feedback, Angel and I have decided it was time to close the doors on the old Bullfighter’s Cafe and open the doors on a new improved BF Cafe.

Our goal from day one has been to showcase and promote Latino artists, filmmakers and performers utilizing all the new technologies available through the Internet. In view of this, we determined that we needed to rebuild BF Café on a new platform in order to make use web 2.0 practices, media development and many more exciting technologies.

To date, we have completed a new layout design and as you may have noticed, a new logo! As we reach into new media outlets and continue to build our brand we knew our logo had to be compact, readable and identifiable to reflect our standards of quality. We hope you like it.

In the next couple of months we’ll be working closely with our back-end programmers to help us get the new site up and running. We felt it was best to focus on the new site’s features and functions, so we’ll be taking a break from posting interviews on the current site. However, don’t worry, we’ve already lined up new interviews, animations and video projects for the new launch. We can barely wait for the BFCafe.com to go up!

We are looking forward to a better economy and prosperity for everyone in the New Year; most certainly, we look forward to a bigger and better Bullfighter’s Café to serve all of our supporters and friends.

Until we meet again, be safe, be creative and be happy, and thank you again.

With gratitude,
Paul Martinez

Forever My Lady By Jeff Rivera

2008-10-28T20:58:00.001-07:00

We had the pleasure of interviewing Jeff Rivera last year. He's been BUSY! Jeff started his own publishing company and is newest novel is being released Oct. 28th -- the day this edition is being released! Jeff was kind enough to give us his interview before he took his book on the road.

Many people reviewers have been quoted as saying that Forever My Lady made them cry. How does that feel?
It feels really good because that's what I set out to do. I mean move people not necessarily make them cry. That's when you know you've really touched a chord and connected with people when you've moved them to tears or made them laugh.

What's a typical day like when your working on a novel?
When I'm actually writing and in writing-mode I can write 20 single spaced pages a day but otherwise I tinker throughout the day and after 8 hours of procrastination I'll cram 8 hours of work in a couple of hours.

You seem pretty well-respected in the industry. How important is it to network as a writer in order to get published?
I think it doesn't hurt especially when you're first starting. The mistake I see writers make is when they meet an agent they have this desperation energy that agent's feel and it turns them off. People like those who are calm, cool, confident in their abilities and aren't anxious about being signed.

Do you think you need to live in New York in order to have a better shot?
Not at all. I sold Forever My Lady when I was in Miami but being here in New York really does make it easier to meet people face to face and associate with them, get to know them as real people not just as objects of desire.

Where can we get copies of Forever My Lady?
Try Amazon.com or your local bookstore or even my website: www.JeffRivera.com

Vote for Winning film at Christopher Coppola's PAH Fest Hollywood 08

2008-10-18T17:27:00.000-07:00

Hola Amigos! It's been a while since my last post but I have been busy making waves and movies... This weekend I had the chance to be a coach at The Project Access Hollywoof (PAH) Festival. PAH-FEST is a week-long, digital media festival, traveling to cities throughout the US and internationally. The PAH-FEST encourages visual storytelling, fosters community engagement, and promotes the production of fictional and documentary videos, which will be shared and enjoyed globally. People from all walks of life, with engaging story ideas, are provided with digital equipment and a professional “helping hand,” enabling them to create their own short digital films. Participants acquire confidence in handling cell phones, digital cameras and computers, while having fun learning the skills to visually tell their stories and portray their communities.

Last year our home girl Wendy Rodriguez from Green Dream Productions brought home the gold with a first place win for her film HOPE DEPOT. While I was the coach on The Team Actors project, I must admit my heart belongs to Team Poet Vs. Puppet for this years win. Ok. Ok. I know it looks like I am just biased because this team is Latino BUT SERIOUSLY, do you think I'm that shallow? Michelle Zamora is a talented puppeteer, a creative thinker and positively adorable. See for yourself. I've posted Poet Vs Puppet and you can go to http://www.pahnation.com/theater.php?loc=hollywood08 to view and vote for all the films.

Other Venice Film Festival: Online Video Director Interview

2008-09-02T12:11:00.001-07:00

Click to Play

http://www.bullfighterscafe.com Ruby dela Casas is an artist and activist. The community he calls home is none other than Venice Beach California. His intimate festival is packed with bold films. http://www.othervenicefilmfest.com/

Bodybuilding Legend Flex Wheeler

2008-07-01T19:20:00.001-07:00

Click to Play

Bodybuilding legend Flex Wheeler's last quest for Mr.Olympia in 2002 included gut wrenching workouts - Steriod Free! Ever seen someone dumbell curl 185 lbs? Leg press 1000 pounds? These guys did and it was amazing. A documentary was shot at Gold's gym in Venice California, this was the trailer. http://www.teamflexwheeler.com/flex/shop3.html

Cheech Marin's Chicano art at LACMA

2008-06-14T22:24:00.000-07:00

WOW! I usually leave the art section to Paul but when I came across this article in the LA TIMES, I had to give my 2 cents! Having interviewed and been completely blown away by Gilbert "Magú" Luján, I must confesss, I have mixed feelings.

The Los Angeles County Museum of Art originally turned down Cheech's offer to display his art collection (which features three of the four founding members of the famous Chicano Art collective Los Four.) That the museum turned down a Cheech's show should comes as no surprise since they have been turning down Chicano art for years. I'm not one to dwell on the past or complain that things aren't changing but the refusal of LACMA to acknowledge the artform belonging to a community as much if not more a part of the LA experience as the museum itself. Can somebody please explain to me what's up with that?

Thank goodness, Marin persisted and "Los Angelenos/Chicano Painters of L.A.: Selections From the Cheech Marin Collection," shows through Nov. 2, Los Angeles County Museum of Art, 5905 Wilshire Blvd., L.A. (323) 857-6000 or www.lacma.org. on Sunday.

Check out the article
(photo by Richard Hartog / Los Angeles Times)

An Independent Film Festival in East Los Angeles

2008-06-01T19:40:00.001-07:00

The photo above is of Prof. John Ramirez (Director of Reel Rasquache Film Festival), yours truly and Filmmaker Cristina Soto.

Once again, I had the great fortune of attending a filmmaking event that highlighted the diverse Latino culture. Last nights schedule included High Voltige and Muñeca from Puerto Rican filmmaker Christina Soto as well as Niña Quebrada/Broken Girl, a powerful thesis project from AFI students, Jen Kleiner & Diana Romero.

The Reel Rasquache Festival takes place on the Calstate LA campus. I had never been to the campus and found the Luckman Fine Arts complex intimate and impressive. It kind of reminded me of Lehman College in the Bronx an, unexpected gem in a forgotten borough…The Calstate campus is smackdab in the middle of EasLos and serves more than 22,000 students, 53% are Latino.

The Festival was designed as an East meets West project of sorts. They have successfully managed to involve the University’s neighboring communities and to bring a broad base of community members together with Latino independent video filmmaker and industry reps.

Video Clip From Film Festival Next Week!

2008-05-24T09:49:00.000-07:00

I have a long history with filmmaker/photographer Cristina Soto. I didn’t know it when we interviewed her for BFC but she was one of the significant women in my brother’s life (RIP Rick Aviles) I remember hanging out at her house in Washington Heights and feeling so at home…Anypues, Cristina’s film MUNECA is screening on Saturday May 30, 2008, 6:00 p.m. at the Luckman Theatre in LA at the Reel Rasquache film festival. Rico and I will be there and hope to see many of you there as well. Don’t forget to stop by and say “hi.” I really enjoy meeting people from the virtual space in real life.

Mexican Movie Review

2008-05-23T11:36:00.000-07:00

Finally had a chance to see Lucía, Lucía; the Mexican/Spanish film based on the book La hija del Caníbal and directed by Antonio Serrano. Actress Cecilia Roth does a fabulous job as a writer thrust into chaos when her husband disappears. Feeling past her prime, she becomes involved in a love triangle (of sorts) with the neighbors who offer to help find the husband she doesn’t really know.

This movie was not as commercially successful as Serrano's first film Sexo, Pudor y Lágrimas (a movie I describe as a funnier, sexier, Mexican version of “FRIENDS”). I can sort of understand why. I LOVED Roth in All About My Mother, and because I am a huge Pedro Almodóvar fan and found myself unfairly comparing the films. Mexican actor Kuno Becker is almost as adorable as Gael (García Bernal…in my mind we are on a first name basis :-) but falls a bit short. Serrano fans expecting the sequel to “Sexo” will be disappointed.

Although this review slants towards the negative, I DO still recommend Lucía, Lucía. I caught it on IFC and you can probably catch it on DVD.

MUST SEE Movies On DVD

2008-05-09T09:33:00.000-07:00

Just saw the Puerto Rican drama "Ladrones & Mentirosos" on DVD. I admit to being completely biased in favor of pretty much anything that is imported from this island...so sue me! Ladrones & Mentirosos wasn't shot with a particularly original style but the story was tight. It stars Steven Bauer (best known as the hottie from Scarface) who does solid work but unfortunately does not always choose great films. Fortunately this film was good. The supporting cast (while virtually unknown by US standards except for Lymari Nadal of American Gangster) held up really well. Magda Rivera's performance as the obsessed business owner was great. My favorite part of the entire movie was the authenticity. I love hearing Puerto Ricans chit chatting in that fast slangy Spanish. It's funny; the things you miss when you're far away from something that was once so familiar.

Also out on DVD this week is Bella Produced and starring the horribly deformed (LOL) Eduardo Verástegui. I saw this movie in the theater and loved it. Bella has been endorsed by many Christian organizations but it's not a religious film. I found it to be a provocative movie about LOVE, choices and second chances. Realistic? No but full of hope. I loved the portrayal of the multi-culturally mixed Latino family. I haven't often seen middle class Latinos portrayed in American cinema, so I found it refreshing. Bella is worth checking out. Even my husband, "Manly Man McClinton," took me to see this as a "date" movie and found it quite compelling.

Human Trafficking: Sold in America Filmmaker Interview

2008-05-04T07:50:00.000-07:00

Chelo Alvarez is an award winning documentary filmmaker. Her work on the documentary “Tin Girls,” compelled her not only to produce another film about human sex trafficking, but also to make a difference in the lives of her protagonists. Her film SOLD in AMERICA observes the lives of girls sold into slavery, not in Asia like her previous movie but in Los Angeles!
Read her article at http://www.bullfighterscafe.com

If your skin crawls at the thought of children being sold and used as sex slaves please visit the Women's Transitional Living Center website.
The WTLC is the only domestic violence Emergency Shelter Program in Orange County that provides shelter for clients with substance abuse problems, mental illnesses, and human trafficking victims. I will be the MC at a Fiesta on May 18th helping to raise funds and awareness for this cause. http://www.wtlc.org/upcoming_events.htm

Luz y paz,
Angel

Finding Familia on YouTube!

2008-04-27T22:00:00.000-07:00

So I am almost TWO YEARS OFF but I can't help but beam with pride. My brother, Rod Reyes is one of the Latin Heavy Hitters of Comedy at the Nuyorican Poets Cafe. Andale hermano!!!

For those of you who don't know my family history...you can say we all bring jokes. My brother Rod is a writer performer, my brother Rick was a well known comic and me...I'm just a clown. I rarely mention my sister as she's not an exhibitionist like the rest of us but don't let her corporate demeanor fool you. Sis, brings jokes just like the rest of our clan.

Anypues. Thought I share my moment of pride and discovery.

Hellboy To Hobbit: Director Guillermo del Toro is On Fire!

2008-04-25T08:20:00.000-07:00

Just read today that one of Pablo’s favorite filmmakers, Guillermo del Toro, will be moving to New Zealand for the next four years to work with Peter Jackson on the next two features in the Lord of the Rings franchise.

I think Guillermo will do a fantastic job on the Hobbit. I loved “Pan’s Labyrinth.” He did great work creating the surreal almost chilly environment in that film, juxtaposed against the fiery characters of the young girl and General. I think a similar relationship between characters and environment exists in the Lord of the Rings in a more complex way. Good thing have more money (LOL)!!! It’s my personal belief that if a person can’t create great art on a small budget, they’ll probably just waste cash with a big one.

BTW, I just read that “Pan’s Labyrinth” set a record as the highest grossing Spanish language film in U.S. box office history!

Oh yeah, the redheaded chonchito in the picture, is Guillermo del Toro. I find it hard to believe that any one reading this blog would not know that there are white Mexicans. Pero, just in case…

Al rato,
A

Latin Quarters: 4 Latinos On Their Art & Hispanic Culture

2008-04-19T12:53:00.000-07:00

Latin Quarters: 4 Latinos On Their Art & Hispanic Culture
Uploaded by BullfightersCafe

A quick look at life and talent inside Latino culture. I am always fascinated by the diversity of the Latino culture. How many people exclude themselves from the culture because they don't understand that the experiences, even within the community are infinite. At NALIP we met so many people, from various backgrounds and one common passion...MOVIES!

As promised in a previous blog here are Camila Martins and Alexis Beauford, Cory Fernandez and Anthony Nardolillo.

Vote For Best Video on MTV3

2008-04-16T21:45:00.000-07:00

Ok. So I'm not going to go on and on about how brilliant Daniel is in this post. I'm just going to plug his video!

Malverde’s Music Video “ESTE CAMINO” directed by Daniel Hastings moved up to #5 on MTV tres miTRL this week.

To Watch the video click on the link and VOTE (NO NEED TO LOG IN)
Just click on the link, wait ‘till all the thumbnails load up.
Look for “MALVERDE – ESTE CAMINO” click on the little circle next to it and click submit.

Drug Abuse Videos by Alejandro Gonzalez Inarritu Are Not for the Faint of Heart

2008-04-15T22:59:00.000-07:00

Inarritu happens to be one of my favorite directors. I came across this series of videos and I found them chilling. I’ve seen all of Inarritu’s films so I shouldn’t be surprised by his ability to bring such a high level of tension in such a short time. Meth is a scary thing. It’s like crack…on crack.

Here’s a blurb from the Reuters article:
LOS ANGELES (Reuters) - Acclaimed Mexican film director Alejandro Gonzalez Inarritu, whose works include "Babel" and "21 Grams," has created a series of TV ads aimed at discouraging methamphetamine use by U.S. teenagers, organizers said on Tuesday.

http://www.reuters.com/article/entertainmentNews/idUSN0128588520080402?sp=true

Rosie Perez and her BIG MOUTH!

2008-04-14T19:51:00.000-07:00

I read a post on a blog that stated Rosie’s press lately was mostly focused on her sex scene with John Leguizamo in "The Take," directed by Brad Furman. The blogger went on to explain how her commitment to activism even at 19 had gotten her into the film industry. So what happened? According to the blog, she had been at a club where Spike Lee was having a Big Booty contest. She got up on stage and told the women that they shouldn’t let him degrade them. Spike was apparently impressed with her bravado and offered her a role in his next film.

So, how do we balance a sense of confidence in our sensuality and respect at the same time? It’s a topic I hold dear to my heart. Hollywood is an easy place to loose one’s moral footing. There’s a TON of money to be made and let’s face it, almost everyone wants that 15 minutes of fame. More than one young starlet has compromised her own self-worth in order to be the next big thing. It takes a strong woman to enjoy the privilege of beauty, the discipline to maintain it and the power to command respect for it! There are several women that I commend for being sexy and SMART. I’ll probably blog about it someday.

Anypues, Rosie Perez has a big mouth…and it I love it! She wasn’t afraid to speak up then and she not afraid now. The blog includes her PSA for AIDS awareness and you can read it in full here: http://blogs.takepart.com/2008/04/08/rosie-perez-sex-scenes-and-activism-stories-from-actor-choreographer-director/

I hope you will check out www.takepart.com (powered by Participant media). Why wait to be famous to make a difference?

The AFL-CIO Online Video Contest Call For Entries

2008-04-13T00:06:00.000-07:00

Hey guys. As you know, I’m always looking for ways to encourage my fellow film and video enthusiasts to get creative and make movies. I just found this and wanted to pass on the information. Now is your chance to say what’s on your mind AND make money.
http://www.turnaroundvideocontest.com/judges.php
http://www.hispanicprwire.com/news.php?l=in&id=11217&cha=10

WASHINGTON, April 10 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ -- The AFL-CIO today launched the "Turn Around America" video competition -- its first-ever online video contest -- and will feature the winners in television ads in part to engage voters and 2008 political candidates in a national dialogue about what is necessary to get America back on track.

Participants will be invited to submit online videos in any creative form that will answer the question of how to turn around America. The contest will run Apr. 10 through May 20 and winners will be announced in early June. The winning videos will be featured on national and local television. The categories include a national winner, who will receive $2,000 and the chance for the video to appear in national TV ads. City winners will win $1,000 and may be featured at AFL-CIO rallies and on local television. A "young activist" category will also be awarded to the best video made by someone between the ages of 14 and 25. The contest is open to the public.

10 Reasons NOT to watch La Misma Luna WARNING/AVISO!!! This blog may contain spoilers.

2008-04-10T19:10:00.000-07:00

If you are embarrassed to sob uncontrollably- do not watch La Misma Luna.
If you have an aversion to hot Latinas- do not watch La Misma Luna.
If you hate watching adorable kids who can act and totally steal movies- do not watch La Misma Luna.
If you hate a feel good story- do not watch La Misma Luna.
If you are mad that you don’t speak Spanish and are too lazy to read- do not watch La Misma Luna
If you need to see blood and guts- do not watch La Misma Luna.
If you are too narrow minded to feel like you can relate to THOSE illegal immigrants- do not watch La Misma Luna.
If you get upset when talented people bring their cinematic dreams to fruition- do not watch La Misma Luna.
If you don’t like character actors that add depth and HUMOR to a film- do not watch La Misma Luna.
If you aren’t into modern day classics- do not watch La Misma Luna.

GOTCHA! Ok people, did you really think, that one of the internet’s biggest fans of Latino culture was going to hate one of the best movies of the year? (at least in my book…and ahem, it is my blog ;-)

A recent article in the LA Times says:
In Mexico, the heartfelt drama, written by Ligiah Villalobos, had the highest opening weekend for any Mexican film for all of 2007 and is holding that record for 2008 so far. On Monday of this week, the film was No. 1 at the box office, according to Fox Films in Mexico.
http://www.typepad.com/t/trackback/816965/27944338

So...If you haven’t seen this or other movies we’ve mentioned in previous posts, please turn off your monitor and go!

Graffiti Controversy

2008-04-09T23:48:00.000-07:00

photo by Damian Dovarganes / Associated Press

Controversy. How do you create it? Become a graffiti artist. Alex Poli, a graffiti artist could probably write a book on the tribulations of creating art with a spray can and public walls. In September, Alex legally attained permits to paint 10,000 square feet of concrete wall at the Los Angeles River banks. The trouble began once the project was completed and now Alex is being threatened with fines by the county to cover the murals. (read the full article)

Go through the art history books and you can find many occurances when great artwork was questioned and deemed as not being art. Why can’t graffiti art transcend the scrutiny of public disdain? Perhaps it’s the gang tagging, the amateur attempts or the lack of art appreciation that seems to be a by-product of graffiti art.

In the future, the Bullfighter’s Cafe will take a closer look at graffiti art and examine all the issues that makes this type of artwork so contentious.

Top Ten Latino Movies

2008-04-05T21:50:00.000-07:00

“Hollywood doesn’t make Latino films”. How often have you said this or have heard someone repeat this? I admit it; I’ve said it a few times. It wasn’t until I saw Angel’s entry on her top ten Latina movies that I realized that the statement is not entirely true. I also realized I have a top ten list, and here it is:

10 - Stand and Deliver – Blood In-Blood Out – American Me
Yes, I’m cheating by having three movies count as one, but as you may notice these movies are centered on the Cholo motif. While Stand and Deliver is my favorite of the three, I mentioned the other two because they still resonate with Chicanos. For me Stand and Deliver is more memorable because I went to school with Dominic, a buttoned up, slicked hair, strutting Cholo who was one of the smartest and nicest guys I have ever known. He was the actual Lou Diamond character, which made the film more truthful to me.

9. Mi Familia (1995)
Is there any other movie that depicts a family of migrants from Mexico to America? The story follows a family’s travels and generations as they face acculturation and assimilation, which touch on similar themes for almost every American. What I found similar is, I do remember my grandmother being as superstitious as Maria (Jennifer Lopez) in the movie. Maria proclaims that death, in the shape of an owl follows her son Chucho, until death finally catches up and takes him. My grandmother used to tell me about similar stories, which scared the crap out of me!

8. Amores Perros (2000)
I’m not a dog person so I hesitated to watch this movie, but I’m glad I did. When I think of this movie I always recall the ending, when an old man walks off into the sunset with some grungy, old dog. They both looked like they were about to die, but instead they seem to live with hope, joy and vigor to see another day. I remember this movie as being intense and full of contrasts, which imprinted lasting images in my consciousness.

7. Pan’s Labyrinth (2006)
Guillermo del Toro has become my favorite director. Ever since I saw El Espinazo del Diablo (The Devil’s Backbone) I’ve been watching Guillermo’s films. I’m a fan of fantasy, mythology, and good old monster movies, and at the moment no one is doing it better than Guillermo. Pan’s Labyrinth could be considered a girl’s movie, but when you consider Guillermo’s courage to do the film in Spanish, this film has to be recognized.

6. Apocalypto (2006)
OK, I expect some backlash on this choice but let me remind you that I’m talking movies here and not documentaries. With that said, when I saw the Myan city in the film, I was awestruck by the images and beauty of the people. Yes, maybe its Hollywood makeup at its best, but it is still a wonderful thing to see so many beautiful brown faces on the big screen! On a serious note, this movie did wet my appetite to see more stories on the Myans and Aztecs, so that’s got to be a good thing too.

5. City of God (2002)
Every time I think of this Brazilian film about homeless, gangster kids it breaks my heart. The scene where the little boy gets shot in the foot brings a lump in my throat. How the director was able to get the nino to act through the scene is beyond me. Although, the film has been criticized for its artistry, I believe the beauty of the film added to the contrast of the bleakness of the kid’s lives. A powerful film to say the least.

4. No Country for Old Men (2007)
For Javier Barden’s performance alone, this film is remarkable. As I was sitting in the theater watching the film, I found myself tense and holding my breadth because of the evil projected by Javier’s character. Like Angel had mentioned about Jessica Abla’s ability to land nonLatina characters, I believe Javier’s performance should convince producers that there are talented Latino actors that can play a range of characters, given the opportunity.

3. Desperado (1995)
Danny Trejo throwing knives, Cheech Marin telling jokes and Selma Hayek… do I really need to say more? Well, to be fair I should say something about my business partner, but in respect to her wishes I will only say that this is truly one of my favorite films and I am lucky to have friend who was in this fun film.

2. La Bamba (1987)
If there is anyone reading this who hasn’t seen this film, do me a favor; give yourself a three stooges slap on the head. From motorcycles, rock-n-roll, bar fights to Tijauna whorehouses, this has to be one of the best guy’s movie ever made. The scene that I most relate to is when Ritchie’s family is celebrating and being filmed by a 8mm camera. I think Bob sticks his tongue at the camera, which looks like my family in so many of my dad’s early family films. This has to be considered the first mainstream, contemporary film that opened the doors for other Chicano films.

1. The Milagro Beanfield War (1988)
This film is my top pick for many reasons. Primarily, the film was a Chicano film without having to say it’s a Chicano story. The characters lived in a community where they could be who they were without having to prove their ethnicity with tired clichés. The story is about a community fighting corporate greed. It’s not about an individual fighting to live within his own brown skin but rather a human fighting for the righteousness of community. The magical realism and whimsy in the film also touched on aspects of Latin culture without over dramatizing the supernatural. Overall, I chose this as my top Latino film because it was the first film that I noticed that not all Latino stories have to be centered in the barrio, on gangsters or drug dealers. Latinos can just be “people” with common people challenges too.

Well that’s it. Although, these films made a lasting impression on my life, I’m sure your list may differ. In fact, by next week my list may change, as Angel said Motorcycle Diaries should be included, but I haven’t seen the movie yet, so who knows by next week it might be my number one film. Comment with your top ten, I’d like to know if I missed any other good films.

with gratitude,
Pablo

Hip Hot Reality TV

2008-04-02T07:18:00.000-07:00

Endemol lands reality house Co. acquires 51 Minds Entertainment
By JOSEF ADALIAN

In a deal valued at upward of $200 million, Endemol USA has acquired Cris Abrego and Mark Cronin's 51 Minds Entertainment, the reality factory that perfected the celebreality genre with nonscripted comedies such as "Flavor of Love," "I Love New York" and "The Surreal Life." read the full article

I am a huge Abrego fan, not of his shows per se, but surely as a producer and DEFINITELY as a business man. The 51 Minds model is one that should be copied for any producer wanting to compete in the world of reality genre television. Chris Abrego was on the Hip Hot Reality TV panel at the National Association of Latino Independent Producers and was an absolute idea factory! It was great to see a young veteran in the tv field...SO EXCITING! Ok, I may be biased but I was happier in a room with Chris than I probably would've been with Mark Burnett.

Looks like Endemol acquired a real winner.

The Kid From Brooklyn

2008-03-28T19:00:00.000-07:00

I met Cesar De Leon at NALIP. He was at a table full of filmmakers chatting away about their projects and was kind enough to let me rudely interrupt. I made my way around the table asking each one, what they were working on and why they had come. Cesar quietly waited. I was almost intimidated to get to him. That statement, undoubtedly shocks those of you who know me, but this guy is intense. He has this stare that makes you feel like he knows all your secrets, then he blinks and a warm smile emerges…

Cesar is complex and bold. He seems to have lived a million lives already. This week alone he has sent a rough cut of his feature SALUD to a potential distributor and is applying to the IFP Rough Cut Lab coming in June, he shot a student film, and has landed a small role in the upcoming Natalie Portman film "I love New York. "

I just uploaded his interview (http://bullfighterscafe.com/bfc_filmlounge/cesardeleon.html) and it is fantastic. His trailer is also now playing in our theater (http://bullfighterscafe.com/bfc_theater/03_cesarDeLeon.html). I urge you to check him out asap.

Top 10 Latina Movies

2008-03-22T12:37:00.000-07:00

It's Saturday morning and I'm going over my list of things to do, which always includes movies that I want to see with Rico. While I anxiously await Maldeamores, Garcia Girls and August Evening to come to our small Mexican town (aka Los Angeles), I thought I’d put together a list of movies that have contributed to my love of film and to the careers of a few of my favorite Latinas in film.

#1 Mi Vida Loca (1994)
This is a film that actually changed my life. Written and directed by Allison Anders and released by HBO pictures. MVL was one of the first auditions I went on after moving to LA from NYC. I fell in love with the project on so many levels. It enjoyed the privilege of being an art house gem so we traveled the world film festival circuit. Hey did you know that the even had copies of MVL in the Middle East? I always found that interesting…With the tagline: “Mothers. Warriors. Sisters. Survivors.” How could Mi Vida Loca be anything but, interesting!

Selena (1997)
Jennifer Lopez has been a superstar for a while. OK! I’ll admit, at one point in my life I used to compete with her for parts and I simply had NO LOVE for her. After Selena, however, my view of JLo changed. Say what you will about her singing or acting…(haters!) She took on this role with remarkable passion, and a performer emerged. Passion is something that I think she shared with the beloved protagonist in the film and as a result the work was wonderful. JLo has gone on to countless roles, some less honorable than Selena but what she has done for Latina power in Hollywood is extraordinary.

Do the Right Thing (1989)
Not only was this a movie a brave statement about racism and intolerance, it introduced the world to Rosie Perez! With that piercing voice and killer bod, Rosie quickly became a go to gal for comedic female roles. This is not a review or commentary on her acting but an observation of what her role in cinema was at the time (at least by my account ;-) In Rosie, America found a safe love interest for male characters of any ethnicity. She was the prototype for Jlo and Selma. Some of us have always known that brown is beautiful but Do The Right Thing gave Rosie Perez further opportunity to cash in on it.

I Like It Like That (1994)
A character driven film about a young couple learning to “work it out!” I haven’t seen this movie in a while but I remember thinking it was great because (much like members of my own family) it walked the fine line between camp and reality. This film launched the careers of Lauren Velez and Lisa Vidal and also starred the brilliant Jesse Borrego.

Como Agua Para Chocolate (1992)
Laura Esquivel wrote an amazing book and then penned the screenplay that was directed by her husband Alfonso Arau…That, in itself sounds like a romance novel. I love food and film and this movie brilliantly ties the two together. The cast is awesome and includes a favorite actress of mine Yareli Arizmendi, along with the beautiful Marco Leonardi and Lumi Cavazos. Mexican cinema has been tremendous for almost a century but I think this movie introduced it to a new generation of film fans, I most certainly was blown away.

Desperado (1995)
Following the success of El Mariachi, Robert Rodriguez made Desperado. I had the great privilege of being in this film but who paid attention? All eyes were on the positively GORGEOUS female lead, Selma Hayek. I had worked on Mi Vida Loca with Selma and she had recommended me for the part of Zamira. While on set, I knew immediately that this film was going to propel her to stardom. We called Antonio and Selma the Latino Ken and Barbie, they were just so perfect. Great film, great direction and great casting!

Mujeres Al Borde De Un Ataque De Nervios (1988)
I jumped on the Almodóvar bandwagon when this movie came out. Campy films may not be your thing and I fully respect that but I found this movie completely HILARIOUS. The women in this cast were amazing.
Julieta Serrano as the crazy wife continues to be a model of absolute commitment to a role and it’s no wonder Carmen Maura is a European fave. Some people might argue that Spaniards are not Latinos. I say…whatever.

Real Women Have Curves (2002)
Ok, this movie takes the cake: wonderful breakout role for America Ferrer, beautiful direction by Patricia Cardoso and based on a play written by Josefina Lopez. This story was particularly powerful for me because it dealt with issues that I feel existed at a certain level in my own life. Ana had to struggle to find herself in spite of her family’s expectations. My family was the polar opposite; in our neighborhood, we were the weird ones. But I always felt like people judged me because I didn’t live up to what they expected a good “Latina” should be.

Fantastic Four (2005)
I can just hear the teeth gritting from people who hate Jessica Alba because she doesn’t claim to be a “Latina actress.” I have my own opinions on this matter and will share them on another blog BUT I will spill on what made Fantasic 4 pivotal for me. She’s brown. I don’t care what she says, how she was raised- which btw, is very common these days. When you look at her you can tell she’s brown. They bleached her hair, gave her some blue contacts and Chris Evans for a brother; and guess what? People watched it! I’ve seen it a billion times with my own kids. Commercial successes only improve the chances of other Latina actresses having the chance to work on parts not specifically written for the “HOLLYWOOD HISPANIC.”

Maria Full of Grace (2004)
A powerful movie about the use of poor people to transport drugs to the U.S. Unfortunately the filmmakers could have easily replaced the Columbian location with any number of places where young people dream of better life only to be disappointed and worse.Catalina Sandino Moreno was amazing in this film. Sandino's role in this movie made her the 3rd Latin American Actress nominated for an Academy Award.

This is not a complete list, by any means. I am a film fanatic and as you see, always have a ton to say. If you into Latino Film and interesting movie blogs check these out too:
http://www.nylatinofilm.blogspot.com/
http://www.latinaviva.com/50226711/latin_movies.php
http://www.ahorre.com/weblogs/bitacoras/bolivia/raquel_welch_found_her_bolivian_identity/

…coming up my 2 cents on La Misma Luna

Producers Top 10 Action List

2008-03-11T13:05:00.000-07:00

Angel and Cory Fernandez

This weekend BFC attended the National Association of Latino Independent Producers (NALIP) Conference 9; being invited to attend as press, was an honor. Pablo and I were excited but had never attended before and really didn’t know what to expect. To say that the event was amazing would be a cop out and yet to try to eloquently express what went on would probably just be self-indulgent. I have been to my fair share of conferences in my years as a media producer and nothing comes close to the energy and excitement of this one. Is it because Latinos are finally THE target market? Has the moment finally arrived when the media is going to stop trying to dictate what my personal Latino experience should be and instead, ASK what it is?

If you are considering any kind of career in film, you should be attending conferences, BUT if you want to go to a conference that is as nurturing to your business as it is to your development as a human being, I urge you to make it to NALIP next year. I will be uploading tons of footage shot during the event but I hope to tease you with this list first:

#1 Offer Hospitality
Abel Salas, thank you!

I walked away from the film industry over ten years ago. Although, I’d never have admitted this to Paul on the way down to Dana Point, my stomach was in knots. My first love was dance, but a broken foot turned my attention to acting. I’m just gonna keep it real here. If you want to be in the biz, it’s HARD. You don’t just stroll into a part and have your career take off. It takes the 33% equal part solution talent/luck/perseverance to make it and I just didn’t love acting enough stay. I DID however love storytelling and the filmmaking process. I met some great people and had some incredible experiences back in my acting days.

Abel was a young hippie/roc writer who wrote the best piece of press on me that I’ve ever read. When I saw him at the NALIP information desk, I didn’t recognize him. He recognized me, remembered all the details of our first meeting, and proceeded to introduce me to everyone who passed by. Abel has this INCREDIBLE memory. I don’t know if he took a course or what but man did he inspire me. Abel is the kind of person that makes everyone around him feels important. He doesn’t do it in a fake “Hollywood “ sort of way, but in a manner that makes you feel like you’re a part of something big and beautiful. I want to do that…I am going to start today. Abel’s a fancy pants writer now for the major newspapers but you can catch what he has to say at www.chicanos-chilangoides.blogspot.com

#2 Share Your Vision
Rodrigo Garcia, you rock!

Funny that one of the complaints that I received about the Mi Vida Loca movie was that it “Romanticized Cholas.” My response was always, “Hey I wore big hair and black lipstick for 8 weeks, blame Rodrigo Garcia!” Rodrigo simply can’t help sharing what he sees with the world. He’s a brilliant cinematographer and director.

Rodrigo sat on the panel of “Creating A Pan Latino Cinema With Global Appeal.” Some very interesting questions arose, among them: what does it mean or not mean to identify as a “Latino” filmmaker and of course the always allusive “What is Latino?” Rodrigo said that the roles he wrote for Things You Can Tell Just by Looking at Her, just weren’t believable for him in a Latin context. Yareli Arizmendi challenged him with a “why not?” "Why can’t we break out of seeing OURSELVES in certain ways?" In the end the artists all agreed that telling the truth from wherever you stand is most important. This may seem obvious to the countless aspiring artists out there, but when you’re inside the business, lines are easily convoluted. It was incredibly encouraging to see the respect that the panelist had for each other as filmmakers and people. My favorite line from Rodrigo Garcia when asked about his choices for making films was “Me and the market have a mutual disregard for each other.” Funny he should say something like that. I’ve seen all his films 10 times! http://imdb.com/name/nm0006554/

#3 Make a Difference
Chelo Alvarez you brought me to tears.

I will not say too much here because I not only got a great interview with Chelo on tape but I also will be posting her feature article soon. Chelo’s film “Sold in America” deals with sex trade in America and follows a 55-minute documentary she previously co-produced on the same subject, “Tin Girls.” Tin Girls resulted in the formation of the Masala project, an income-generating project in Nepal. Hearing things like this reminds me that we can all DO SOMETHING to make a difference in this world. http://www.soldinamerica.net/masalaproject/index.html

#4 Open your Eyes
Camila and Alexis…Buena Suerte!

Two gorgeous women rushed the desk while I was talking with Abel. Camila Martins and Alexis Beauford were invited to the Latino Media Market™. (From NALIP - The 2008 Latino Media Market™ is designed to bring Funders, Studio Executives, Distributors, Dealmakers, Agents, Mentors and Employers together with NALIP members and their projects. The Latino Media Market™ consists of a meeting series for up to 32 selected projects. Filmmaker participants meet one-on-one with industry representatives who can commission pilot scripts and episodes, provide broadcast licenses or documentary completion funds, as well as fund feature development or production.) After they set their appointment, they agreed to meet with us to discuss their film, a documentary about the people occupying Skid Row in Los Angeles. These women met on the set of a big budget commercial and were looking for places to volunteer their time. Although Camila is from a very poor city in Brazil and Camila is a native Angelino, both women said that the biggest tragedy on The Row is that is exists smack dab in the middle of one of the most glamorous places on earth.

#5 Go A Little Crazy
Kiki Melendez you GO girl!

I met Kiki on a TV show she was shooting. My memory leaves a lot to be desired, I have a strict write it down or it aint' happening policy, but Kiki is unforgettable. I love comedy and I don’t care what the backlash is here, I have always felt it is a harder road for the women of comedy. Kiki has this bit in her act where she gives her best dance performance only to find it’s a gay club. She really takes her physicality to another level and it cracks me up. Kiki has a TV show of her own in development and I can’t wait to see it. I grew up in a crazy family and she would fit right in. http://www.kikikiss.com/

#6 Be Brave
Anthony Nardolillo you da bomb!

If you come to LA and think there is a fireworks show, it just may be this kid. He is a Puerto Rican/Italian, CPA, who professionally dances and has become a filmmaker. MANO the movie http://www.manothemovie.com/ is a short that is intended to serve as the treatment for the full-length feature but it has become a phenomenon! With over 150,000 views on his myspace page and superstar line up coming out to the premiere of the SHORT, you know this film is hot! Check out the trailer, if you know dance you will get the chills. Like the filmmaker, the dancing is the real deal. I will have video on Anthony so I won’t say too much except for this, it takes more than charm, looks and talent to make it in this biz and he has it…more.

#7 Give to Others
Daniel Hastings YOU are an Angel!

NALIP is all about networking and sometimes it happens in the most beautiful ways. We were in the business office after dinner on Saturday because it was the only place quiet enough to do our interview with Alicia Villarreal-Wallach. Daniel needed to do some printing and thoughtfully waited for us to end our shoot before running off his copies. When we were done he came over, shook Alicia’s hand and said “Wow! Your story is so inspiring I would like to offer my help to you. I can shoot your movie poster if you’d like…” Some of you may not be floored and I beg you to visit his website http://www.atomicuscreativegroup.com/. Daniel shoots the kind of pictures that can change your life. Seriously, how many times have you seen an ordinary person transformed into a supermodel? Perhaps you’ve seen a record cover that made you think, “that looks off the chain…” and off you went to buy it; that was probably Daniel’s work. He’s shot hundreds of celebs, covers for rock stars, you name it, on Saturday he shared some of his family history with us and I would love to get him to do an interview for BFC. I am sometimes awed by great talent but always moved to the core by random acts of kindness.

#8 Encourage Laughter
Cory Fernandez (Fernandez-Aviles) I have just adopted you.

I overheard Cory sharing with Jeff Valdez that he’d be performing at the comedy show set up for Saturday night. Being the nosey “reporter”, I quickly chased him down for an interview. He was so polite and of course HILARIOUS in his interview. We got it on tape so; I’ll show you later. When tape stopped rolling I told him how much I respected comedians, having come from a family like mine. He asked me who in my family performed and I mentioned my brothers, Rick Aviles (R.I.P.) and Rod Reyes. He couldn’t believe it. He told me he had had a shirt made up with my brother on one side and Freddy Prince on the other. He’d never had a chance to see Rick perform but it was his way of thanking these guys for paving the way. I, of course, was boo hooing, but that didn’t last too long around Cory. In my experience with comedians, there is a unique intensity about them. Maybe it’s because they observe the world in a whole different way. My brother was/is like that. Intense almost absent sometimes and suddenly out of nowhere, busting out jokes. I loved the shirt, which he offered to give me, but it brought up too much emotion and for that day, I just wanted to enjoy Cory in all his funny glory.

#9 Honor your Past
Alicia Villarreal, Si se Puede!

I’m on the dinner line and the cutest couple is standing in front of me. It is Alicia Villarreal-Wallach and her dad, Roberto M. Villarreal. They hand me their cards and we exchange pleasantries until I ask her what her film is about. Atanasia is inspired by the true story, of her great-great-grandmother Atanasia Escobedo, illegitimate daughter of the great Mexican General Mariano Escobedo. Atanasia features war, murder, kidnapping and the violence of 19th Century Mexico and South Texas. Sounds intriguing, doesn’t it? It’s sheer madness if you’re a first time filmmaker but that didn’t stop the Villarreal family. While Alicia admits to breaking every rule she ever read in her filmmaking books she also states that with her dad as the driving force, the story was going to be told no matter what. They wrote the script, financed, shot on HD, built sets, made costumes, got music…all in their little town in South Texas. I haven’t seen the movie yet but they are super heroes in my mind for getting the film made! For everyone that has stopped short of living his or her dreams the Villarreal’s are callin’ you out!

#10 Be Humble
Jose Rivera…The wise in heart are called discerning, and pleasant words promote instruction. Proverbs 16:21

This guy wrote a little film called the “Motorcycle Diaries,” perhaps you’ve seen it? Rivera was the first Puerto Rican to be nominated for the "Best Adapted Screenplay" Academy Award. AMAZING! I sat in this workshop and was unable to even speak to him afterwards. This might have been a good thing, as I would’ve probably just babbled something silly. He floored me! Rarely do I ever hear someone speaking and think it’s pure poetry but that was Jose. I’ll just type in what I wrote in my notes on what Jose had to say about:
Literary influences - “Literature is important but life, is more important.”
Mentorship - “The most fundamental kind of education for making art, is sitting beside a wise man with a big heart.”
Latinos - “From the time Columbus landed and called this India, we’ve been in an identity crisis.” “For me the juxtaposition of living life as a Latino is Sci-Fi in and of itself.”
There was so much said here about his life and his first screenplay. He was funny and humble, not in a false way, looking for compliments but in a way that allowed us insight into his way of surviving the business. I read that he grew up in a home where only the Bible was read. Excuse me while I burn down my library… http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jos%C3%A9_Rivera_(playwright)

So I’ll admit this list is a tad unconventional, but I was inspired and I hope you will be too.
You Can Make Dreams Come True. I want to see you get there.
Sin Cera,
Angel

Art & Politics: Paul is gonna kill me for this...

2008-02-13T11:43:00.000-08:00

I got an email from a group I am a part of stating that: The Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute Seeks Applicants for Congressional Internships, Fellowships, and Scholarships...

Paul and I have frequently debated over the function of art and politics and most often art IN politics. I'm of the mind that since artist are often the leaders and developers of our communities, it is almost a natural inclination for us to be politically, or at the very least socially involved. Paul, just thinks I'm a busy body...

Anyway, for those of you out there interested, here is an excerpt from the article with a link that follows:

"The Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute, an educational and youth leadership development organization, has launched a national campaign to recruit Hispanic students — undergraduate and graduate — for its nationally recognized youth development leadership programs.

Guidelines and applications for the following programs are now available at the CHCI Web site:

The Congressional Internship Program provides college students with Congressional placements on Capitol Hill for a summer period of eight weeks (June to August 2008) and a winter period of twelve weeks (January to April 2009) to learn first-hand about the United States' legislative processes. Housing, travel, and a $2,500 stipend are provided. (Deadline: January 31, 2008.)"

http://foundationcenter.org/pnd/rfp/rfp_item.jhtml?id=200900079

Sin Cera,
Angel

Rosario and Wilmer Inspiring Young Latinos To VOTE!

2008-01-30T08:34:00.000-08:00

La Pasion de la Decision

Add to My Profile | More Videos

I was rolling. If this little skit doesn't take me back to my grandmothers house back in the day I don't know what will! It's nice to see Latino Hollywood using their talent and pull to make a difference.

So what are you waiting for? GO REGISTER TO VOTE!

A

Chicano Artist Studio

2008-01-21T08:25:00.000-08:00

Pablo did a great job putting together this series. It's no secret that Magu Lujan has become one of our favorite people in the world. His manner is easy, sense of humor at peak and his art and life...inspiring.

In this video clip, Magu talks about good communication art skills and producing new entertainment with a social conscious. Find out more about Magu Lujan and other Latino Hispanic heroes in the fine and performing arts at www.Bullfighterscafe.com

See the other vids in this series as well as others at any of the following sites.
YouTube, Yahoo, MySpace, Metacafe, Google, Revver, DailyMotion, Blip.tv, Veoh, Crackle and Stupid Videos

Donde hay gana, hay maña.

A

Happy Holidays

2007-11-28T21:41:00.000-08:00

Well, there’s no sense in trying to give another apology for not updating the blog, it’s been far too long since the last entry. All I can say is do not fret, (really is anyone fretting?). Here’s the deal, Angel and I have not abandoned or given up the on the Café. Actually, we’ve been busy, working daily on the Café, researching, planning and writing up plans for the future. Due to the tremendous response we’ve received since we launched BF Café, Angel and I decided to take a step back and develop a plan that will enable us to grow and offer everything you expect in a web site that best represents Latin culture. At this point, I kindly ask for your patience until we get our plans in motion.

Before I sign off let me also mention:
CONGRATULATIONS to Wendy Rodriguez, a fellow bullfighter! She won the Pah-Fest short film for Hollywood. See the film at http://www.pahnation.com. Go to Mobiflicks, then find the short film titled “Home Depot”. Good job Wendy!

Latina Fine Artist Wanted! We are looking for Latina artists for both our virtual gallery and for a project that may prove to be great exposure. Send us a link to your web site or samples of your work. Details of the project to come soon but we need your name now!

In my last entry I said we were going to open a store, well after Angel bought and received a shirt from our vendor we put a hold on the store. Cheap ain’t going to cut it! Until we find a vendor that offers quality shirts, we’ll wait to open shop.

Have a joyous and safe holiday season my friends!

With gratitude,
Pablo Martinez

Store or bust

2007-08-31T14:39:00.000-07:00

I know, I know… What’s the point of keeping a blog if I’m not going to update it on a regular basis! To be honest, the happenings behind the Café doors have not been very exciting. Really the biggest thing Angel and I have been doing is survive on pennies and dimes. Like everyone else, bills have become a big time pain in the ass for us. The fact is we are broke. Bone dry. We are about one month away from pushing our computer in a shopping cart with a sign reading, “Will work for electricity!”

Having to pay bills while staying true as an artist, is what Bullfighter’s Café is about, but honestly, it’s not fun writing about money problems. Don’t get me wrong, it’s not as if we are down on our luck on hard times. Luckily Angel and I have skill sets in an industry where we can find a job fairly easy, but the trouble is, we have become passionate about the Café and we don’t want to leave. After meeting so many tremendous people through the Café we have become hooked and want to continue building the Café to its full potential.

I mention this because, very soon, we are going to open up an online store to start selling T-shirts and other items. We are also looking into other money making ventures to help us keep the Café open, but more importantly, we’d like to start eating again - I’m starting to lose my sexy curves! Seriously, after a year of investing in the Café we can no longer fund the Café ourselves but before we close the doors we want to try everything we can to keep bringing Latino creativity to you, because we’ve only scratched the surface of what Latinos have to offer. We hope we can count on your continued support, so please visit the store and let us know what you think.

If you aren’t able to purchase anything from the store, then could you do us a favor? Could you run out an extension cord from your house and let us borrow some electricity for our computers? As Angel and I walk the streets it will be nice to get online once in awhile and check our email.

With gratitude,
Pablo

Since it's the early worm that gets eaten by the bird, sleep late!

What Is the Function of Art?

2007-06-27T19:30:00.000-07:00

In Magu’s, In Studio interview you hear him ask the question, “What is the function of art?”. It is a good question. It’s definitely appropriate for this month’s featured artists.

First you should know that Angel primarily gets the new artist features and I usually don’t see them until it’s time to upload them. Well, after seeing Glenn’s and The Welfare Poets’ features, I told Angel that I was going to direct all the heated feedback to her (I’m kidding, please don’t, I’ll get a butt whoopin’ for it). After all, it’s said to never talk about religion and politics, but here are two artists that do just that!

Angel and I have talked endlessly on how we should handle controversial material. In fact, we had to figure this out quickly in our first few days of going live with this site. Angel had received a very hard line, pro-Latino interview, while I had an artist refuse to participate in our site for fear of being labeled as a Latino artist. They were very opposing views and we wanted to feature both of them, but we felt we were neither hard line nor a non-ethnic web site. As result, Angel and I decided that our position should remain open to all views and provide an unbiased platform for artists to express themselves. Of course there are professional and aesthetic criteria that help us determine who we feature but for the most part, our aim is to promote Latino art in all it’s magnificent shades of brown.

So what’s the answer to, “What is the function of art?”. Well, since Magu asked the question I’ll give an answer that is implied in his interview. Art is suppose to connect with people’s emotions. For this reason, we showcase artwork, written interviews and videos that let artists tell you the intention of their work. It may be political, cultural, commercial, personal, or perhaps it’s a combination of all four. It may be controversial or casual too.

Now if Glenn Stwart's short film or The Welfare Poets work shock, surprise, anger, disgust, inform or amuse you, then perhaps the artwork served its purpose. After all art is not always about pretty flowers or sunsets over the ocean horizon. Sometimes it’s about getting your attention and being thought provoking!

With gratitude,
Pablo

Art above is described as “functional art” or “art furniture” and is by Joseph Somers

Where has the time gone?

2007-06-14T00:18:00.000-07:00

Wow. Where did the time go? The last thing I remember is getting on the 405 freeway in Los Angeles. See that’s a joke, cause it’s been more than a month since my last entry and the freeway is slow moving... okay I know, I’m no comedian.

So where do I start? First, I should mention that grandmother is good and still chewing spikes and body slamming the grandkids. However, one of my aunts unexpectedly passed away and then one of my uncles got married. I’ve seen more of my family in the last month than I’ve seen in the last five years. I didn’t recognize half of my cousins; they’ve gotten bigger, grayer and have more kids. I didn’t even know some were old enough to make kids! After all the time that has past, my family is still crazy, funny and sometimes irritating. My family, I love them.

Here in the café things are getting exciting for Angel and myself. Although, the café appears to be quiet, Angel and I have been talking to people behind the scenes that we believe will help us take the café to the next level. In the next month or two I hope to give you more details on our plans but for the time being, I’m posting a few photos of art shows I went to or were sent to us by artists.

Be sure to check back soon for our next artist feature updates. Until then, call a family member, say hello and catch up on family news. You may have new baby cousins taking your grandma to the matt!

Photos are of shows by Albert Reyes, Magu Lujan and El Fantom.

as always,
pablo

Weeping Woman

2007-04-22T21:02:00.000-07:00

Things have been tough these past few weeks. Last week the tragedy at Virginia was unbelievable. I tried to break away from the media saturation of the killings but I couldn’t help myself, I read every article I came across on the Internet. I’m not sure why I felt as if I needed to know more than the fact that thirty-three people died unnecessarily.

Then a few days ago, I received an email about how America has always had a history of tragic killings. The email described the killing of 350 Native Americans by the U.S. Cavalry. After giving a brief explanation of the slaughter at Wounded Knee Creek, the author of the original email then stated, “My intention is not to downplay the horror of what has happened this week in any way. But we have a 500-year history of mass shootings on American soil, and let's not forget it.” It’s a somber thought to think of how many people have died by evil motivations.

In addition to these readings, my grandmother has become ill and is not expected to live much longer. Needless to say I feel as if a dark cloud has drifted over my head. Death is a sad part of life, probably more so for the living. I know I’m going to miss my grandmother when she passes but I take comfort knowing that she has lived a long life and given me some wonderful memories. My best memory is of Christmas celebrations when our whole family would gather at my grandparent’s house. There were presents, laughter, food and toys from wall to wall. When I was a child, my Grandfather used to wink and hesitate to prolong my anticipation, before handing me a big, shiny Christmas present. I’ve forgotten what the presents were but I’ll never forget those times. I’m grateful for these memories, but it is a shame that the families of the slain students will not be able to experience these types of special moments. Everyone should have these memories in their heart; it gives life meaning!

I have to admit that I struggled to write this entry. At first I wanted to ask questions and respond with respect to these events, but I realized I don’t have the insight or wisdom to understand the meaning of these deaths. The only thing I can do is refer to what inspires me and expresses my emotions – and that is art! Above is a painting by Pablo Picasso and the painting says it all for me.

With gratitude,
pablo

Back on Track… again!

2007-04-06T19:26:00.000-07:00

Yes, the Locamotion is back on track! It’s been a stressful experience but we are happy that “LocaMotion Derailed” is rolling online for Loca fans to enjoy. As you may have noticed from my previous post or the first day we launched the LocaMotion, the show didn’t go on as planned, which almost put Angel and myself in a padded room! After weeks of testing and retesting it was extremely disappointing to see the launch of the movie crash on the first day. I’ll spare you the details of what went wrong; actually I just can’t bear to relive that day. However, I do want to do a little cleanup after the wreckage and let you know that all was not lost in the experience.

After walking around in a daze the last couple of days, things don’t look so bad now. Now that we’ve been able to get the film online for free we don’t feel as if we’ve lost any ground on the project. Our goal has always been to grow the café into a full multimedia experience and I believe our first project with Stevie is a step in the right direction to make this happen. We learned from this project and we look forward to many crashes in the future, after all that’s how we roll, or try to roll!

Another thing I want clear up is on one of my previous entries, I said that we were going to have a feature on Valsartdiary, but you may have notice there’s no feature on Val. Well, as best as we try, we send out interview requests, most come through and a few don’t. We understand that artists are busy so we don’t hold any grudges; we can only promise that as soon as Val sends us her article we’ll post it. However, to replace Val’s article, I hope you read the article from El Fatom, the artist that created the cover art for Rage Against the Machine’s, “Battle of Los Angeles”. He also art directed the band’s video Bulls on Parade video, that’s in the screening room. We have been talking to El Fatom extensively and there may be collaboration between us in the future. For now I just want to thank El Fatom for coming through for us at the last moment.

Until next time, please watch and enjoy LocaMotion Derailed. God knows we paid for this one with blood, sweat and tears, …and we’d do all over again in a heartbeat!

With gratitude,
pablo

LocaMotion Derailed Again!

2007-04-01T22:32:00.000-07:00

Well, as some of you may know we attempted to bring the LocaMotion film short to the café, but it didn’t happen. On behalf of Angel and myself we apologize to those who came to the café, and paid for a ticket, anticipating seeing the film short. Believe me, we are as disappointed as you that we couldn’t get the show on track. We do want to let you that we are making other attempts to bring the film back online as soon as possible.

Once we find another solution we’ll be sure to let you know or I’ll post more on our progress in this blog. I’ll also let you know what went wrong in the first place. I don’t want to say anything now because our service provider has some explaining to do. Until then thanks for all your support and patience!

With gratitude,
Pablo

The Blues of Being an Artist

2007-03-14T19:47:00.000-07:00

I saw this video the other day and I just had to share it. While Bullfighter's Cafe is a Latino site, Angel and I are fans of all artistic endeavors by all people and I felt like this video deserved attention here in a corner of the Cafe. I don't want to say too much, but sometimes the call to be an artist is stronger than anything else in life.

I hope you enjoy the video.

pablo

This Month's Update

2007-03-05T23:28:00.000-08:00

When I hijacked this blog from Angel I thought it would be interesting to talk about our current projects. For the past few months I have failed to mention our monthly updates but this month, we are excited about two fine artist interviews that we think you will find very interesting.

Ramon Ramirez is an artist that is influenced by architecture and composes his paintings with unique color combinations and brush texture. A sample of Ramon’s painting is above and is titled, “Totem The Dogs of War”. Our second artist that we plan to feature is Valsartdiary. We found her on YouTube where she shows video shorts on her painting process and concepts. You can see a video of her in our Screening Theater. We think you’ll find both of these artists very informative and unique in their approach to art. Be sure to read about them in our next update.

On a personal level, I told Angel that I had a story that I want to produce as a documentary. When I told her that since 1997 when my uncle was awarded the Silver Star for his actions in the Vietnam War there has been support from many people, including a congressman, for my Uncle to receive the Medal of Honor. It’s the highest award for valor in action against an enemy force. Today I started the project by collecting reports and letters that describe my Uncle's act of bravery. In the coming my months I’ll let you know how the project is progressing.

Thanks for your interest,
Pablo

Anonymously asked…

2007-03-02T18:27:00.000-08:00

I see we received a little activity in the comment section on my previous entry. An anonymous person posted a reply. Angel reciprocated, but since I’ve been posting on Loca I thought I would directly reply here this one time. See the comment section for Anonymous' full comment.

(anonymous) “Yes lets all bring “Blackface” Back too –
(pablo) I have to admit I don’t fully understand this reference to Loca. I would understand it better if Stevie applied brown paint to her face and posted her video in color, then repressed Latinas from posting their own videos. In that scenario then yes it would be offensive. However, she doesn’t do that, so we may just have to agree to disagree on this point.

(anonymous) “Everyone has their own click” –
(pablo) Yes I admit I belong to a “click”. My click is filled with artists, filmmakers, writers and performers of all colors and ethnicities. In my Latino click, I’ve meet dozens of great fine artists here in LA, but through Bullfighter’s Café I’m meeting artists from New York, Chicago, Texas, San Diego and every month my click is growing! Although I have to say there is one person that I am dedicated to, and consider a mentor. His presence is evident throughout the Café and if you want to know about this person then read Mr. Magu’s Quest. Be sure to visit mentalmenduo.org and read the mission statement too. It’s a statement I take to heart.

(anonymous) How does Stevie Ryan elevate the Latino people? –
(pablo) For the sake of brievity let me address this question as a businessman as there are many reasons. Simply, LittleLoca is controversial. Controversy sells and brings attention! Controversy is a numbers game and we need numbers. It is a fact that Loca/Stevie brings more traffic to the café than all the Latin artists combined in the café. I need these numbers so I can go to advertisers and sponsors for revenue. I need revenue to pay the bills for the server, software and living costs that are currently coming out of Angels’ and my pocket. I need revenue to hire journalists, designers, animators, photographers and filmmakers that will help me build this site into a real life cafe. As many local cultural centers are closing or struggling to find funding through grants, contributions and community support, it is Angel’s and my dream that this café become a self-reliant cultural center through our commercial efforts. Will Loca alone do all this for us? No, but it’s a start. She is just one brick, of many to come, in the long road that will pave the way to our goal.

Are there Latin artists that might bring as much traffic to our site? Yes, I hope so. We have sent out invitations to artists that we hope will generate interest and we hope to bring them to the cafe as soon as possible.

As far as elevating the Latino people, we have no delusion that Stevie or us are the saviors of Latin people. Latin people are intelligent and passionate enough to elevate themselves, we just want to build and provide an additional platform (cultural center) where they can express and display their diverse ideas. Case in point is Liza Orozco, you can read about her in the art lounge.

(anonymous) “I won’t call you sellouts” –
(pablo) You can call me anything you want because it doesn’t have any effect on my self worth. I only used the term as a means to address the issue and my position on my art. In fact, I really have no animosity towards you for the label and in truth, I appreciate your passion for Latin culture. Again I’m glad to answer your questions, because I hope it shows that there is a grand plan here. If you don’t like Loca or us then that’s fine with me. However, if you do support your culture or “real” Latina’s like Nadia Rowinsky then I hope you show it by rating her film in on theLot.com or support Christina Soto by voting for her film at the Berkeley film festival or support any other artist by purchasing their artwork. If I can get you to act on your passion then my mission is accomplished; my art, my design of the Bullfighter’s café has brought a supporter to a fellow artist and that means more to me than any negative or positive label I’m given.

(anonymous) “What is the message?” –
(pablo) Again, this is a question that I’ve tried to address in these blogs but the problem is that there is a no single answer, even Angel and I see things differently on Loca. In fact, I believe Loca brings up more questions than answers and that’s what makes it art. Loca makes us question our own beliefs, perceptions and ideals. Personally I’ve questioned my belief that I had to work twice as hard to overcome the negative reputation of the cholo subculture and my hatred for that reputation that seemed to be associated to all Chicanos. It wasn’t until I examined Loca that I realized that I resented my cousins - my family for their participation in the cholo culture! I have since come to realize that I shouldn’t resent the cholo; I should hate the conditions that enabled the cholo to exist. I should hate the lack of education, job opportunities and drugs that exists in the Latin community. You may see this a stretch but like I said, ultimately the single message is for you to personally formulate.

(anonymous) …we need a white woman to explain to Cholas "The WAY to BE?" –
(pablo) I think this question is backwards, Stevie’s intent is not to teach Latina’s, rather she is exhibiting what Cholas taught her. If you read her article in the café, she says she admired the strength of her friends. She admired their beauty. Unfortunately, what is not in the article or her video blogs are additional stories she told me about her experiences living next door and being close friends with Chicano families. Basically, Loca is a reflection of her experiences. Loca is homage to her friends that helped her get through difficult times in her youth. Loca is a tribute to her best friends (note: Her chola friend did receive a BA degree, and that’s what influenced Loca to go to college).

Believe it or not I had reservations on supporting Stevie/Loca until I asked Stevie one question. I asked Stevie, “What do your chola friends think of Loca?” She said that they loved it and to keep doing it.

Now for me, Stevie’s motivation and the blessing from her friends showed me that there was an understanding between friends, between two cultures and between two ethnicities and between women. Shockingly to myself, Stevie didn’t see Cholas as I saw them. Stevie saw beauty through her friendship with them! And likewise, Stevie’s friends saw Stevie as one of their own. They didn’t see Stevie as a white girl pretending to be one of them, rather she was accepted as a sister. They saw that Stevie had assimilated into their culture by emulating their dress and speech. They understood that Loca was not a spoof because Stevie lived their culture by growing up alongside with them in their home.

Again, this made me question my own belief that the cholo subculture should be despised. After all, here is a white woman that finds beauty in Cholas. If an “outsider “ can find beauty in chola culture then how can I resent my own. How can I resent my family? Needless to say I’ve promised myself that I am not going to hate any longer especially those from my own ethnicity, no matter of social standing. Yes, there may be traits in the chola culture that can be described as abrasive and undesirable but every person has faults. Finding beauty in perfection is easy but finding beauty in imperfection is an act of will.

(anonymous) “How can you defend Little Loca?” –
(pablo) I support Stevie/Loca because she found beauty, strength and friendship in those I only saw as outcasts. She reminds me that beauty can be found and should be found in everybody; even those that we may think don’t deserve it.

You, the reader, may still disagree with Stevie and our decision to back her, I only ask that you look at the big picture and see that Stevie is just one artist we support. In the café we currently have 25 Latin artists that we showcase but many, many more are to come. I’m sure they would appreciate your support for their efforts. Also if there is a Latina (Chola or not) talent that we should support then by all means let us know, we would be happy to meet her.

Thank you for the opportunity.
Pablo

Every negative event contains within it the seed
of an equal or greater benefit-- Napoleon Hill

In Search of the Latina Goddess: Part 1

2007-02-26T00:06:00.000-08:00

I’ve received a few emails touching on an issue that I thought would make for an interesting series of entries. The issue can be summed up with one statement, “Loca is not a role model”. Before I address this issue I thought it would be interesting to see if I could find the ideal Latina role model on public television. Being that I’m limited to a blog entry, I narrowed the experiment to characters and not actresses, after all LittleLoca is a character too.

Here’s what I found:

A. From “My Name is Earl”, Catalina is an illegal immigrant, that works as a maid for a cheap motel. In this photo, she’s working as an exotic dancer. Summation; Catalina is the hot sex vixen. Show producers are Greg Garcia, Marc Buckland and Bobby Bowman.

B. From “Desperate Housewives”, Gabriella Solis is a divorced, self-centered, adulterer. Summation; Gabriella is the hot sex vixen. The show creator is Marc Cherry.

C. From “Ugly Betty”, Betty Suarez, is a sweet, intelligent and hard-working assistant. Summation; Betty is the oversized peg in the petite round hole in the fashion industry. The show creators are Salma Hayek, Silvio Horta, Ben Silverman, Jose Tamez, James Haymanand and Marco Pennette.

D. From “Grey’s Anatomy”, Callie Torres is an orthopedic doctor. Summation; Callie is passionate, intelligent and dedicated to her profession. The show creator is Shonda Rhimes.

E. From “American Family”. I believe the show it is no longer on air.

F. From “George Lopez Show” the females are as follows: Benny, George’s mother, is a loud mouth, obnoxious mother that drinks, smoke and curses. Angie Lopez is a bit of a bubblehead and dresses in tight clothing. Show creators are Bruce Helford, Deborah Oppenheimer, Robert Borden and Sandra Bullock.

After going through the list, based on the criteria that is placed on the Loca character, all these Latina characters, except for one, should be rejected and banished by the Latin community. Here are the guidlines I gathered from Loca detractors and applied it the characters listed above. 1. The character must be portrayed by a Latina actress or created by a Latina. 2. The character should have no faults or negative behavior.

Well, as you can see that leaves one character, Betty Suarez from Ugly Betty. Here you go ladies, your role model; the image that society buys, embraces and projects across half the world. It’s hard to argue against the success of the show. It is one of the most successful show across Latin countries, as well as being Emmy worthy here in the states. I’m being political correct here by excusing the ugliness as a fault, after all Betty is a cute, ugly, if there is such a thing. For my taste, I think the show’s environment is cartoonish, the characters are cliché’s and the storylines are too over-the-top to make the characters believable and realistic. But then again, I'm not Latina so my I'm probably not the intended demographic for this show, and the show is not designed to retain my interest.

For my liking, I think there’s a better role model than Betty but I had to dismiss her according to the criteria. I’ll have to tell you who she is in my next entry. Until then, I invite you to watch and examine these characters and ask yourself, do I think these characters are role models? Are they stereotypical or not? Are they racial or not? If they are role models (like Ugly Betty), do Latinas pay attention and learn from them? If they are detrimental then why aren’t they being bashed like LittleLoca? Of course you know I have an opinion on these questions, and I promise I’ll try to be “ugly” with them.

Happy TV watching!
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...but is it art?

2007-02-13T14:08:00.000-08:00

The other day I read that Angel and I are “sellouts” to our race. Angel has repeatedly warned me not to read the YouTube comments on LittleLoca but I can’t help take a peek at them every once in awhile. The jest of the comment is that we are sellouts because we made a short film with LittleLoca. You are probably thinking the same thing I thought when I read the comments, “will this discussion ever end”? Every time I think people have gotten passed the idea that Loca is a stereotype and an insult to Latinas, someone comes along, rehashes and bashes LittleLoca and her fans. It gets to the point that I wonder if it’s worth the effort to continue the Loca story.

After going to the gym and cooling my blood over the comments, I remembered an article I had read a long time ago about Steven Spielberg and the criticism he received on directing “The Color Purple”, which was nominated for 11 Academy Awards. The argument was that Steven was not black enough to tell this story of a black woman and should be replaced. If i remember correctly, his reply was that human suffering is colorblind. This led me to think that if Steven had listened to his “haters” or naysayers would the film have ever been made. Fortunately Steven stood up for his art and was able to transcend the black story and tell the story as a human experience for everyone to relate to and experience. Steven’s example reminded me that artists have to believe in themselves and create what is right for their art.

I wonder how many artists have given up their dream because someone told them they are stupid, untalented or not ethnic enough to express an idea? I also wondered what would have happened if Steven had stopped making films because a few people bashed him for being Jewish or a sellout.

I’m not so much concerned about my personal venture as a filmmaker. At this point in my life, I am utterly thrilled and fulfilled when I can just bring an idea to fruition. So if I am considered a sellout for taking a stance and making art then yes I am a big time sellout! I hope to always be a sellout to my ideas, creative voice and intelligence to create the right message for an art piece. I want my art to be challenging and spark debate. I might not always create good art but the only thing worse would be not to create art at all. After all I have a responsibility to my race – the human race. So I ask the question again. Is it worth it to take a stance with LittleLoca and continue her story? Yes. After all, a can of soup is a work of art too.

Thanks
Pablo

LocaMotion Derailed Trailer is online

2007-01-18T22:24:00.000-08:00

You may have noticed that we posted a trailer for the Loca film short today. It's been a great experience working on this project with Stevie and Angel but it's also a bit of relief to put this project to bed. At least that's what I thought, until now that Angel and I are looking through film festival calendars. Being that this is my first time l never knew that a press/sales package for the film is as important as the film, and almost as much work to create. In fact, a film festival director told Angel that festivals are more about the filmmakers than the films. Funny when I've gone to festivals I go to see the films not filmmakers, but I guess it depends one which side of the camera you are sitting.

I mention this because in the next few weeks, Stevie, Angel and myself will be looking at film festivals, online festivals and other viewing opportunities that are available to us. I have no doubt that Loca will keep her fans updated and I'll try to add a few behind the scenes tidbits for hardcore Loca fans. Meanwhile let me get back to putting our glossy sales package together, after all this is show business and we still have some business to get done.

A New Year

2007-01-03T21:57:00.000-08:00

A new year has begun… and for us it’s looks like it’s going to be an exciting year.

When Angel and I began this site we began with no real expectations. At the very least we thought it would be fun to post our animations, film shorts and maybe make a few friends along the way. To our surprise, people have responded with enthusiasm and encouragement to our efforts. We’ve also met awesome artists, filmmakers and actors that have inspired us with their stories and work.

After our first year of publishing, we’ve realized that the only thing holding us back is our ability to create and develop new content. There is an abundance of Latin talent out in the community and we are excited to bring these talented artists to our site as fast as possible.

We plan to open the art gallery, hold online film festivals and much more this year, so be sure to visit us throughout the year. We also look forward to reading your comments and suggestions to make this site the best representation of Latin art on the Internet.

Thank you to everyone for making the café a special place for us and have a great year…. and remember, be creative!!!

Angel and Paul

LocaMotion Derailed is Done!

2006-12-28T21:35:00.000-08:00

Today I sent Stevie and email to let her know that I will be picking up the master DVD of LocaMotion Derailed tomorrow from the post house. It’s understandable that Stevie is nervous and excited about the project. Speaking for myself I am exhausted and glad that we are done.

You may have noticed that I have not posted in a few weeks. I’ve been unable to post because I’ve been working nonstop on the project. Angel and I have been shooting, editing and animating like crazy to make our deadline and I just couldn’t break away to write up an entry. In fact, I’m making this entry a short one. I plan to go to sleep until New Years, then party, and then I’ll be back to work. I promise to catch you up on the events and anxieties that almost brought the project to a halt. Fortunately, it’s done and I got a fat pillow waiting for me!

To make up for the lack of entries, the photo above is a frame from the animation in the short. I can’t say much about it, only that it took us four weeks to complete and Frankie Bones scored us some great music for the scene.

be back laters,
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Hollywood is Knocking?

2006-12-02T00:10:00.000-08:00

Angel called me the other day, laughing. She was laughing at how the reporter in the Fox News referred to us as “Hollywood”. Angel said, “poor Stevie, if we are Hollywood she is going to be very disappointed.”

Earlier today, Angel and I got together to review our film short and watch a rough cut. We still have a couple of scenes to complete before we insert the music score and a few other odds and ends, nevertheless, it was good to see how the story is taking shape with Loca. Actually it’s a bit nerve racking to watch the rough cut.

When Angel first walked through my door she was excited and overwhelmed with enthusiasm for the project but by the end of the day, I think Angel was sick with nervousness. If you read my previous entries you know that Angel and I began this project as fun side project. Loca was relatively unknown. There was no pressure. Today, Stevie has blown up and been reported on by print and broadcast media, now there is pressure.

Stevie’s press has most likely gained Loca both fans and haters. The fans want to see Loca as her usual entertaining self, and the haters want to see Loca fall flat on her face. Of course, Angel and I know that no matter how good or bad the film is, some people are going to like it while others will hate it. However, our concern is how Stevie will feel about the film – that’s the pressure on us!

At the moment, Angel and I can only see the mistakes and technical errors in the film. Because we started this film with no budget we took liberties with our equipment, figuring it would suffice for an Internet film short. However, now that the film has a good chance to be shown at the Venice Beach Film Festival, Angel and I are very concerned about the limitations of our equipment. In hindsight we’ve asked ourselves if maybe we should’ve waited until we had a respectable budget to hire an audio person and additional equipment that would have helped us overcome our technical problems and enable us to focus on the story. Our answer is no. No, we couldn’t have waited because we would have missed this opportunity to work with Stevie and create this film, no matter how raw the recording.

In the spirit of our web site, Bullfighters café, we try to highlight artists that are dedicated to producing their art no matter the limitations they face. Stevie is an example such an artist. She captured the attention of mass media with a $300 camera and a consumer laptop. Her limited equipment didn’t hold her back so why should ours? After all, our goal isn’t about creating a blockbuster or entertaining the masses, like I mentioned, our biggest aim is to satisfy one person, Stevie. Not really the kind of lofty goals you see from “Hollywood”. So it’s a good thing that the real Hollywood is knocking on Stevie’s door, I’m just glad to say that Angel and I are already in Stevie’s house! We just hope that when Hollywood swings by to pick Stevie up, they leave a few things behind like some good audio equipment!

A Girl Named Stevie

2006-11-12T00:57:00.000-08:00

…Son, this world is rough
And if a man's gonna make it, he's gotta be tough
Johnny Cash – A Boy Named Sue

A few weeks ago on Stevie’s myspace web page, a fan asked if anyone had ever met the real Stevie Ryan. It seems like a silly question unless you are familiar with the many faces of Stevie’s characters. Watch a video blog from any of these YouTube characters and you may be amused by The Real Paris’ imitations or perplexed by Ooolalaa’s behavior or challenged by LittleLoca’s rants or entertained by Jamie Lynn’s ramblings. After you’ve seen these characters you may be asking yourself too, what is Stevie Ryan really like?

About five months ago, after we had published our article on Stevie for bullfighters café, Angel and I arraigned to meet Stevie for lunch in a Venice restaurant. I admit I was infatuated with Loca, and although I knew better, I was anxious to meet Loca! Well, after the first minute of meeting Stevie, I realized that Loca wasn’t going to have lunch with us. Stevie is not the in your face, expressively featured, highly opinionated LittleLoca on YouTube. Rather Stevie is soft spoken, humble and cheerful like a kindergarten schoolteacher. She’s always saying thank you, and means it. She laughs and smiles every chance she gets and radiates with positive energy.

If this were a celebrity blog I could go on gushing, but the fact is, Stevie is more than just an attractive actress. Stevie is a filmmaker and an artist. She is smart, creative and dedicated to her craft to the point of being obsessive. On a Friday night, Angel and Stevie went to a “Hollywood party” to network but after an evening of plastic hob-knobbing, Stevie told Angel that she wished she had stayed home to edit her next video blog.

Stevie is focused on being creative, period. She studies, asks questions and works hard to be as entertaining as possible. Yes, she writes her own material. Yes, she shoots and edits her own video blogs. And yes, she knows her characters create controversy but she relishes knowing that her characterizations challenge people and spark debate.

The other day Stevie and I were talking about her new character Jamie Lynn and I mentioned how surprised I was that Jamie Lynn wasn’t receiving as many racial comments as Loca. As we discussed this, I was left with the impression that Stevie is not only entertaining us but she’s performing a social experiment. She is creating characters that make us (the viewers) ask questions about our social issues and personal beliefs. Stevie is like a painter that paints a cubist figure and then asks us what part of the figure we see. Some people see (Loca or Jamie Lynn) as a stereotypical, racial, nit witted character, and if this is correct, then why aren’t they both being commented with similar racial slurs? That’s a question Stevie and I could not answer at the end of our discussion, but I’m sure Stevie will continue to experiment and test our sensibilities with the characters as long as people respond to them.

Life is art for Stevie. Not only does Stevie use racial issues, she also uses her real life occurrences as fuel for her video blogs. A couple of examples are that Stevie’s car was broken into and Silent’s friend was stabbed in his head. This is what makes Stevie’s performances so compelling, at some level she is always telling the truth. I think Stevie’s ability to incorporate truth with make-believe is what frustrates viewers as to whether they should accept Stevie’s blogs as real or not. When Angel and I have casual conversations with Stevie, she’ll mention that she’ll makes notes on instances in her life that she may use later in a blog. In fact, Angel and I have become careful on what we say or do with Stevie because we know she may use some aspect of it.

There’s one more quality you should know about Stevie. This girl has guts! She is tough. It’s not easy putting yourself out there for everyone to see, especially when you get comments ranging from juvenile to evil, ugly. It’s a testament to Stevie’s courage that she continues her work and that speaks for itself.

Well, I’ve gone on too long. It just goes to show that Angel and I believe that Stevie is a multifaceted filmmaker, it’s just up to you to choose which side of Stevie you want to see. In our eyes, a girl named Stevie is a tough artist that can be amusing, perplexing, observant and challenging and that’s what makes for great talent and we are thrilled Stevie has let us come into her world of creativity.

*The photo above is from the Fox 11 (KTTV) interview with Loca and Angel. The segment will air November 25th.

pm

Shhhh! Silent Girl is Talking

2006-11-01T17:35:00.000-08:00

Last week, Angel and were excited because we were going to shoot a scene with Loca and Silent Girl. We didn’t know Silent Girl’s real name, which was a little odd because we felt like we knew so much about her from the video blogs. Well, here’s what we found out it. Silent girl is really silent! She hardly talked, so I can’t tell you much. Although, I can say that Silent is as sweet in person as she appears to be in the YouTube videos. She has an innocent quality about her that is nothing short of charming. Her smile is infectious and she is just as beautiful in person as she appears in the videos.

I asked Silent how she felt about Stevie getting her involved with YouTube and she basically shrugged her shoulders and said it was fun. I thought she was going to say that she was surprised at the attention or that it was becoming bigger than she ever imagined. Instead, Silent said that when Stevie visits and if they have time they make a video, that's it! It’s nothing more than just two cousins spending fun time together.

I think Silent Girl is like Ethel Mertz to Lucille Ball, except that Silent's relationship with Stevie is real. Silent Girl is the loyal companion to Loca no matter what the circumstance that Loca creates. For instance, we had audio trouble on the shoot and it took us almost all day to get the scene shot (here’s some irony, we had audio trouble with Silent Girl’s scene!). Anyway, Silent sat in the corner patiently waiting for us to get the scene done. She never complained or asked when we would be finished. She just smiled and supported Stevie as we worked on a difficult scene. The impressive thing was, Silent had took the day off from school and work, drove to L.A. and was going to drive back home, almost a two hour drive after eight hours of shooting. Now I don’t know how many of you would do the same for a friend or family member for no pay, but that’s Silent for you, a dedicated sidekick to Loca.

Before we wrap every shoot, I take photos for this blog (also when Stevie becomes a major star I want proof that we were the first to work with Stevie). When I mentioned I wanted to take a photo, Silent seemed to get excited on spoke up and asked to be in the picture with Angel, aka Sad Girl. Now when Silent Girl speaks up you know it’s important and everybody listens, so we were only too happy to accommodate Silent Girl. You’ll notice I never appear in the photos, probably because no one gets excited to take a picture with me, but I’m not complaining, after all, I got to spend the day with the three most famous chicas of our time! Eat your heart out fellas!

Thank you Silent Girl!

PS: Yes, we know Silent’s real name now, and if you listen very carefully she might tell it to you too!
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The Little Engine That Could

2006-10-22T17:30:00.000-07:00

BAM, Locamotion rolling all up in your face! Sorry, but Loca’s lingo is too fun to say; it just rolls off the tongue. I’m sure you’ve caught yourself repeating a few of Loca’s signature expressions.

That’s the thing about Loca, you take away the racism, stereotyping and bashing aspects associated with Loca and you’ll find that Loca is fun. She has a sense of humor, great wit and at an outrageous perspective on daily life. The trouble is some people can’t get past the negative aspects of Loca, and I have to admit, I can understand their position. The cholo culture brings up a lot of negative images; cholos are thugs, dope dealers, drug addicts and welfare recipients and there’s nothing funny about these images. I’m not going to address these issues here, but rather, I want to talk about how we developed the film’s story with these aspects in mind.

As Angel and I continuously adjust Loca’s story, I keep thinking about these two viewpoints that viewers bring to Loca. There’s Loca the comedian and Loca the hated chola. However there’s also a third side, Loca’s internal motivation. At the heart I believe Loca is like “The Little Engine That Could”, she thinks she can or as Loca might put it, “ Damn fool, get the hell out of Loca’s way!” In plain speak, Loca believes she will over come the barrio life by remaining a virgin and going to college to achieve her dream of becoming a filmmaker. It’s here on this perspective that Angel and I chose to focus our story. Loca, like any good dramatic character, is striving for a better life while overcoming difficult situations.

Now that I’ve set the stage, here’s the story. Loca is about to complete her most important project, her college video submission. Prompted by the racial comments from the YouTube board, such as “fuckin Mexicans we need to get rid of them”, Loca talks to friends, neighbors and community leaders on how to handle the discrimination she faces as the subject for her video. However, before Loca can finish her video, her camera is stolen and destroyed. As Loca looks to complete her project she tangles with a clothing stylist, two opportunistic homies (the photo above) and an eccentric woman that make her journey the more difficult. I won’t give away the ending but we believe this story finds the balance between the negative and humorous aspects of Loca, while she continues to grow as a character.

At this point we are almost half way through filming, with two very big shoot days next week. Our deadline is fast approaching and we have a lot of work to complete. As I continue to write entries about our production I’ll try to elaborate more on how we wrote the screenplay and found the balance of all the story’s perspectives. Like Loca herself, we still have to overcome some difficult obstacles to complete this film but as the little engine from the barrio would say, “Toot, Toot, can’t stop the Locamotion. Much love and respect everybody”.

pm

Location, Location, Location

2006-10-04T23:19:00.000-07:00

A funny thing about making films, it’s all about location! I’ve come to realize that without a location it doesn’t matter how many actors, equipment, and crew members there are, if there’s no place to shoot, then there’s no shoot! Well, fortunately Angel knows people who know people, and today we went to visit a café owner to see if his café would be a good fit for our LittleLoca project. (The picture above is a test shot to see how the scene might be framed. I hope Angel doesn’t see this picture, she’ll kill me if she knows I used it).

The owner of the café was very cordial. He permitted us to move tables, shoot photos and he even turned the music off so we could get a gauge on the noise level in the café, which was still very noisy from exhaust fans, clanking dishes and people chatter. We talked with the owner for twenty minutes before he mentioned a fee of $200. Well, Angel and I admitted that the price was a bargain, considering that we were going to close down a section of the café for an afternoon. However, as Angel and I talked, we began to consider that we should bring in an audio professional to assist us so we could shoot the scene quickly, which brought the cost up to almost a $1,000! Again, it’s not much money if you have a budget. The trouble is we don’t have a budget.

When we began this project our plan was to show this film in segments on YouTube where production value is done on the cheap! (This by the way was in the works before the LonelyGirl15 revelation came out…just some trivia for the YouTubers). However, as we started to tell friends about our film with Stevie, the news traveled around until it reached the founders of “The Other Venice Film Festival”. As it turned out, one of the festival’s directors was familiar with LittleLoca and asked us to submit the film for the next festival. I believe my response was, “What? Wow, …what? Are you sure?” Then I fell to the floor having just realized that our small Internet film had just been called up to the big screen.

Needless to say the pressure was on. Angel and I wondered how we would shoot a film with no budget and little resources. Our answer was to shoot it guerilla style! Shoot it fast, free and creatively. In case you don’t know our meaning of the word “creatively”, it means beg, barrow and steal whatever is necessary to get the job done. If you read my first entry then you know that Angel and I are extremely experienced in being very “creative”. Well, after leaving the Café we realized that paying for a location and hiring an audio professional goes against shooting guerilla style, and after all, rules are rules. At this moment, we are rewriting the café scene to an outdoor scene that will cost us little to nothing, exactly within our budget.

I guess the real estate people are right. It’s all about location, location and location, and if the first location doesn’t work out there’s always another one just around the corner. I’ve also realized that having limited funds doesn’t mean that our project is undoable it just means we have to be more creative.

More about the story to come…stay tuned,
Paul m

YouTube.com a typical community?

2006-09-26T19:10:00.000-07:00

The following are a few YouTube comments made by viewers on one of Stevie Ryan’s LittleLoca videos. They are presented as they were written:

maltedm
LIL LOCA IS EXPOSING ALL YOU AMERICANS FOR THE RACISTS YOU ARE....IT'S A HOAX YOU MORONS!!!....I KNOW MORE ABOUT THE LATIN COMMUNITY OF LA THAN YOU ALL AND I'M FUCKING ENGLISH!!!.....IF YOU THINK ALL LATINOS ARE GANGBANGERS, THEN LIL LOCA IS EXPOSING YOU FOR WHAT YOU ARE...I SAW THROUGH IT ON DAY ONE.....

GabTheScab
how would you know more about the Hispanic community in LA than any American on this video forum? and why do you assume that all Latin Americans live in LA? if you actually lived around Hispanic American hip-hops you would understand why this is funny. if you want to point your finger with proper terminology you would say that Loca is being sardonic towards hip-hop culter and ethnocentric -- not racist, as most Hispanics are considered caucasoid and Loca isn't poking fun at caucasians.

rangerwest
WOW you guys are hilarious. Talent. The new Cheech and Chong.

hurrcane
i dont see anyone ASSUMING THEY ARE REAL and btw, the fact that silent girl is probably a joke doesnt necessarily undermine anything. 'real' latinos are allowed to have a sense of humor too.

SpeakingMyMind
So this stupid spick bitch made this video to talk shit on everyone? Damnit I hate you fuckin PLAGUERATS. GTFO Spicks. Your countries suck, so you come ruin ours, you lawncare fucks are fuckin disgusting.

jesikasaeffing
hahaaha iloveyour videos girl :]

Redbeast411
anyone that says la raza can suck my dick. fuck la raza and fuck mexico and fuck latinos.

JapaneseWomanTy
aww I love it im so proud to be Latina

NickInjecton
YOU ARE AN IGNORANT BRAINWASHED MTV ZOMBIE. READ A BOOK AND STOP ACTING IN A MANNER THAT MAKES SPANISH PEOPLE SEEM IGNORANT AND UGLY. YOU MAKE SPANISH PEOPLE LOOK BAD!

******

I was going to write an entry on why we chose to produce a short film but I thought it would be better to let you read a few of the comments that show the diversity of emotions, opinions and beliefs that people bring to Stevie Ryan’s videos. As a filmmaker it’s a gift to find a story that has already sparked passionate debate and interest. Angel and I didn’t pick this story because of the controversial aspect, but rather, because art sparks debate and questions.

We became involved in this story because Stevie managed to raise numerous questions through her videos. What is racism and stereotyping? What is culture vs. conformance? What is humor vs. mockery? What is confidence vs. arrogance? What is free speech vs. hate bashing? Finally, is the YoutTube community a reflection of societies attitudes or immature posturing?

Of course we know that we will not be able to answer these questions in a twenty-minute video. We also know that it would be easier to ignore this story and not stir up heated emotions such as racism and stereotypes but when an issue settles in your gut and compels you to take action, there is nothing else to do but to see it through and make a statement. Anyhow, as we progress I’ll try to give you some insight on how we came to develop the film’s story and remain true to our artistic voice.

Stay tuned,
Paul m

Our First Video - A Humble Beginning

2006-09-17T21:23:00.000-07:00

While Angel is busy working on our video project, I thought I would sneak in a blog entry while I have the chance.

More than a few years ago I met Angel while working for a computer accessory manufacture. Angel was brought in to help us create a corporate video. As I showed Angel around the company and how much material we needed to cover, Angel seemed to be enthused to get the job done, that is, until she saw the equipment she would have to use to produce the video.

The company we were working for was not huge by Microsoft’s standard, but it was no mom and popshop either. This company had money! It was selling over 500 million dollars a year with over two thousands different products in retail stores such as Best Buy, Circuit City, and Wal-Mart. I’m sure when Angel learned all this she was expecting to work with a professional camera and full video editing bay. I’ll never forget the look on Angel’s face when I gave her a small $150 hi8 video camera and told her that our editing software was a bootleg program running on an old computer. If I remember correctly, I think Angel actually laughed. I didn’t blame her; after all, she had been on real motion picture movie set.

I’m not sure why Angel stuck around and finished the corporate video. As we worked together, I think we had a conversation about how we had nowhere to go but up with the company. We figured that if we could make a decent video with what we had then maybe, we could eventually, beg, borrow and steal better equipment. Sure enough, after a year we had worked up to a six thousand video camera and a thirty thousand video editing system. We finally had what we needed to produce quality videos but, as it turned out we didn’t have everything we wanted. After producing numerous corporate videos we found out that we wanted the FREEDOM to be more creative. Corporate work paid the bills but it didn’t fulfill our creative urges.

So here we are back at square one. As we start our project with Stevie, Angel and I laughed at ourselves, recognizing that we have no right to produce a short film with the lack of equipment we have in our possession. In fact, it’s down right insane to attempt a film with little to no equipment, no budget and no way of selling the video after it’s completed. So why do it? That’s a question we’ve been asking ourselves since we committed to the project. When I know the answer I’ll let you know. However, I do know for a fact that we will not let a lack of resources keep us from doing what we have to do. After all, we did it once we can do it again. We’ll start with almost nothing and somehow we’ll beg, borrow and steal (well, maybe we won’t steal) to get this project done. I’m sure we’ll grow from this experience, besides we have nowhere to go but up!

As we progress with this project with Stevie, I ‘ll keep you updated in this blog on how we manage to script, film and postproduce the video. Stay tuned…

Thanks
Paul M

Latina Lista: Women-led Websites are Turning Up the Volume on Today's Issues

2006-07-03T10:18:00.000-07:00

Latina Lista: Women-led Websites are Turning Up the Volume on Today's Issues

And... Action!

2006-06-07T09:23:00.000-07:00

Paul and I could've never anticipated the amazing response to Bullfighter's Cafe. I mean there we were in our little disconnected corporate world thinking..."are there any people put there like us?" In the last few months we've connected with people all across the country who are making changes in their communities through art. We will have some pretty fantastic content coming up. Thank yous are in order to:
Luis Chaluisan who produces avant garde theater in the Bronx and has challenged me to produce a documentary on my late brother Rick Aviles. He also pointed me in the direction on Youtube celeb LittleLoca who I will be interviewing this afternoon.
Luis Rodriguez- amazing author and political commentator for opening Tia Chuchas cafe cultural to raise up thinkers. I met Luis at the Pasadena Cinco De M ayo Festival and he was so positive and excited for us. In the next few months we will be working on an article about Tia Chuchas.
Eric Cartel- I started writing reviews for Musica 360 last month. I came across a band I didn't care for and wrote Eric a note to say I didn't want to send a bad review. He wrote me back to say he values integrity and wanted me to say what was on my mind. His site is commercial but he still wants to do the "write" thing!
My partne PAUL Martinez -who has stuck by me through thick and thin. We have come to the near starvation at times but he's never abandoned ship! We couldn't be two more different people and yet, the combo works. He always sends me articles to inspire me http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20060531/ap_on_re_us/graffiti_wars (Yahoo headline "NYC graffiti artists target councilman") We will be doing a feature on Graff in the next couple of months.
Of course my thanks go everyday to God, mom (RIP-I love you), Rico (my hubs- 15 years holmes and you still rock my world) and my kids (I may seem crazy now but you'll understand one day...)

Thanks to everyone who supports us and LA Causa!

It's getting Hot out there!

2006-05-16T09:42:00.000-07:00

Venezuela's President Hugo Chavez and his Bolivian ally, Evo Morales, stir things up in Europe.

Micky D's Using Latinos to Promote its Cafe

Steven Soderbergh to direct a biopic of Che Guevara

Latinos Protest Immigration Bill

We're here, we're there, we everywhere. We're HOT and we ain't going nowhere but up.
Adelante!

La Fiesta Broadway

2006-05-01T15:38:00.000-07:00

The smell of carne asada lingers in the air as Paul and I make our way down seventh street. A man with a walkie talkie motions us away. He tells us that seventh street is exit only and entrance only on sixth or eighth street. A tinge of pride runs up my spine as I think to myself "We are SO organized !" As we enter what is known as the largest scale Latino event in the country, there is barley any evidence of a crowd. We arrive on Broadway and "Holy mole! "Thousands of people, vendors everywhere and man its loud! Music, announcers with telenovela voices and laughter. Who knew that The Fiesta Broadway would still attract so many people on the day before the now famous "Uno de Mayo, Dia sin Latinos."

People are being taken off job sites and being asked to prove their citizenship. I've never really feared that I could be the target of a racial profile. "I'm too educated." To "whitewashed". Lately though...I scared. I'm brown. I like to paint. What happens, if I go to my daughter's school in my overalls and I forget my birth certificate? Remember the Japanese Americans that were forced to live on concentration camps in the 1940's? Ok, maybe I'm exagerating a bit...or maybe not.

There are two sides to a major immigration issue going on but as always, fear seems to be propelling the strongest arguements on both sides. Paul and I try really hard NOT to take publically take political sides on issues. We want bullfighterscafe.com to be a space where people feel comfortable expressing themselves freely. We are learning alot just keeping our big mouths shut and LISTENING. Amazing concept huh?

So how was the Fiesta? We had fun. It was nice walking for miles, talkng to people about what they did. People were giving away stuff like it was going out of style. With Latinos, you can always expect great food, music and beautiful people and as corporate America is finding out...you can always count on a crowd.

The Question

2006-03-11T12:52:00.000-08:00

As we often do, Paul and I spent an hour on the phone discussing art, passion and the quest for perfection. We began to ponder if as artist, we would ever be able to look back at a piece of our work and be completely satisfied. Maybe the journey of creation is the fuel for our passion and thus needs to be enjoyed more. Heck maybe we just need to be more raw, productive and unafraid to reveal our process.

In the mid 80's, I was a teenager and Jean-Michel Basquiat was hot. I didn't get it. It wasn't until recently that I came upon some of his works that I saw something amazing. In work I had previously viewed as chaotic and random, I now see FREEDOM, FEARLESSNESS and passion. From a purely cultural standpoint I finally understand how the fire burned within the artist and he let it be. Maybe he hated some elements of his work and he covered it over with layer upon layer. The end result was the revelation of a complex process he was unashamed to show.

Robert Rodriguez made El Mariachi. I adore Robert on so many levels but. Come on! Basic story... The acting left something to be desired and technically... it was a C. But he DID IT, and he is my hero. This is not a review of either Basquiat's or Rodriguez's work. It is my epiphany. I have worked so hard to be in control of my fire that I have missed many opportunities. I was afraid of imperfection, criticism, or failure so I have tweaked and edited my work to the point of nonexistence. My results are like a nightmare that leaves me screaming without sound and paralyzed with a desire to run. So the question is do I wait for perfection or do I jump in and create and allow the evolution of things learned to not only transform my work but my very self?

El Cuento

2006-03-11T12:32:00.000-08:00

Many of years ago, my mom took me to Puerto Rico and I made the mistake of asking our waiter for "el cuento." Mom explained that I’d asked the young man to "give me the story" or "spin me a tale." We laughed and I’ve been the one "telling and spinning" ever since. I wonder how you got here...

As I write this blog, I don’t know.

My partner Paul seems to think that my filmography may have something to do with it. For those of you who don’t know...
I used to be an actress. I am most recognized for my parts in Allison Anders’ film Mi Vida Loca and Robert Rodriguez’s Desperado. My most FAQ is: Why did I stop? There are so many reasons but only one lead to the creation of this site. PASSION. It exists in all humanity but for the artist, it is fuel. The very thing that wakes us in the morning and deprives us sleep at night. I was not passionate about acting. I was blessed to work and I wouldn’t trade the experience for the world BUT acting was a job. It wasn’t until I worked on Desperado and saw Robert editing on an NLE that I became fascinated with the digital world. I went back to school.

I fell in love with multimedia production. I began to compose stories in my mind. I met my friend and business partner Paul Martinez. An artist with PASSION who was stuck in a JOB. We decided to do our own thing and starve!

Today we own a small media production studio in Los Angeles. We design marketing tools. Sometimes I love what we do, sometimes it’s frustrating. This site is our baby. We have so many hopes for it. Paul and I want to share what we do. Not what we get PAID to do but what we must do to stay sane. Some will like it, some will hate it. In the end I hope it inspires you to be better at whatever you do. I would not be here if it weren’t for so many people who inspired me.

If Bullfighter’s Café thrives as a space that encourages creativity we will die happy. If you to create, I hope you will visit often and participate.