February 12, 2012

NALIP Celebrates 10 Years

by Nora Murphy | Published February 24, 2009

It’s not a surprise to discover that there is a lack of Latino representation in moviemaking. In order to draw more attention to this epidemic, 10 years ago a group of Latino producers, academics and media activists took it upon themselves to raise awareness that the Latino population is capable of getting involved just like everyone else. What resulted was the National Association of Latino Independent Producers (NALIP), an organization formed to bring together the Latino population in the film industry.

This April they celebrate “NALIP 10: A Decade of Influence,” a conference honoring the achievements that have been made since the organization originated. Chaired by moviemakers Frances Negrón-Muntaner (War in Guam), David Ortiz (Wanted, Hellboy) and Ligiah Villalobos (La Misma luna), the event will take place April 17-19, 2009 at the Island Hotel in Newport Beach, California.

Just weeks before the celebration kicked off, MM spoke with co-chairs Ortiz and Negrón-Muntaner to discuss their thoughts on the progress of moviemaking and the incorporation of Latinos since NALIP began.

Nora Murphy (MM): What encouraged you to create NALIP?

Frances Negrón-Muntaner (FN): Necessity. Ten years ago, Latino producers were working in isolation, lacking professional opportunities and largely ignored by all media institutions. NALIP was created to address all three issues by building community, creating opportunities for professional growth and opening up space for the production and dissemination of Latino stories.

MM: What changes have you noticed in the movie making industry in the past 10 years?

FN: There have been significant changes. Digital equipment and forms of distribution have made it possible for many more people to tell their stories. The boundaries between producers and consumers continues to blur, although this process is less democratic than assumed. There is also more openness to talent from Asia and Latin America. Yet, these changes have not made a big difference in the inclusion of U.S. Latinos into the American media industries.

MM: How do you think more Latino representation in movies can be achieved?

David Ortiz (DO): We have to remember that this is show business first and foremost and the only color people really care about is green. Urban movies don’t historically do well overseas; that is why they don’t sell them overseas. Will Smith is the biggest movie star in the world. Why? Because he is a star who is fun and people love him, even if his movies aren’t always perfect. Similarly, we need to create content and talent that is going to have a universal, commercial appeal that will generate revenue and create more of a demand for Latin talent and content. Hollywood is a reactive business, let’s give them something of quality that is a commercial success to demand more of.

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