Learn About the San Diego Latino Film Festival With Saul “Timba” Silva
For over three decades, the San Diego Latino Film Festival (SDLFF) has been a powerful platform for Latino filmmakers, artists, and storytellers, celebrating diverse voices and compelling narratives. As the festival enters its 32nd year, we had the chance to sit down with Saul “Timba” Silva, Music Director and Special Events Coordinator, to talk about his journey with SDLFF, what makes this festival so special, and why this year’s lineup is not to be missed.
Can you tell us a little about your background and how you became involved with the San Diego Latino Film Festival?
First off, my name is Saul Silva but I go by Saul Timba. I'm from San Diego, CA but specifically from Chula Vista. Born and raised. I'm a musician, a DJ, a community organizer, a promoter, and sometimes other things. I serve as Music Director and Special Events Coordinator at the San Diego Latino Film Festival.
Tell us about yourself and your role with the San Diego Latino Film Festival. How did you first get involved?
I can remember, as far back as the early 2000s, going to the festival with my cousins, checking out films, and going to the after parties. That's where I met a few folks initially, most importantly Andy Gonzalez. Andy is a local art curator and festival organizer, specializing in the art, music, and vendor portion of the festival. After a few years of attending and becoming familiar with the core festival organizers I became closer with Andy and not only did we become friends but he also became a mentor to me. He showed me the ins and outs of the festival and allowed me to express ideas and provide input.
My first involvement was as a performer. I had a small latin jazz band back then and, through Andy Gonzalez, he booked me and my band and we played in the theater lobby at the Mission Valley Hazard Center. From there, due to my knowledge of the music scene in San Diego and having some technical savvy, Andy asked me to take over the duties of Music Director and I hit the ground running.
What has been your most memorable experience working on this festival?
I've had many memorable moments and met many amazing people throughout the years. From meeting celebrities, musicians, and filmmakers to experiencing wonderful moments with friends and family.
For instance, I've had the pleasure to meet and work with artists such as: Lou Diamond Philips, Gina Rodriguez, Joaquin Cosio, Tommy "Zeus” Lister, Cheech Marin, Kuno Becker, Dayanara Torres, and many others.
In your opinion, what makes the San Diego Latino Film Festival such a special event?
I believe it's special to San Diego and to Southern California due to the fact that it has been running for 32 years.
It started as a student film project and has become a voice to not only film students, but also a place to showcase local and international filmmakers and screen programs such as Frontera Filmmakers, Somos Cine LGBTQIA+, and Latino Shorts, Documentaries, and Feature Films.
It has also been made important by the caliber of filmmakers and actors that have screened their projects during its history, including Diego Luna and Gael Garcia Bernal, Alfonso Cuaron, Alejadron Gonzalez Iñarritu, Kate del Castillo, and many others.
Besides the film aspect, it has also grown to showcase talent across disciplines such as exhibiting local and international visual artists throughArte Latino, providing a stage for local, international, and upcoming and established musicians throughSonido Latino, and for a few years now we have also given a platform for local and international chefs at our popular Sabor Latino Food, Wine, and Beer Festival, among other things.
For first-time attendees, what should they know before coming to the festival? Any must-see events or tips for making the most of the experience?
Actually yes! Navigating the complexity of a festival such as this can be tricky, due to all its facets. I recommend:
First: Follow all social media pages such as @sdlatinofilmfestival on Instagram and San Diego Latino Film Festival on Facebook. That is where you’ll find all the day-to-day news, stories, announcements, gossip, etc.
Second: Check the festival website at Sdlatinofilm.com for all official news, film schedules, special event details, and for all your ticket needs.
Third: As soon as possible, pick up a copy or two of the festival program when it becomes available. This serves as a great guide during the festival and provides all the details on screenings and special events. It also serves as a personal notebook for any ideas you might have.
Lastly: Sign up for the SDLFF email blasts to receive important announcements and anything you might have missed, plus next day announcements and what to look for during the festival.
It is a lot, but as you get more engaged as an SDLFF attendee, your experience will be an even greater one and you will enjoy it much more. It might even take a year or two to learn all the ins and outs of the festival!
I would recommend an All Access VIP Pass, which includes access to all festival screenings, panels, networking and special events; membership to the Media Arts Center; free food and drinks, and a whole lot more.
Must-see events include:
Opening Day at AMC Mission Valley featuring a press conference and multiple major screenings on Wednesday March 19th at Mission Valley Mall, San Diego, CA.
Opening Night SDLFF presents Sonido Latino Wednesday March 19th at 8 p.m. hosted by el After Social Club, Downtown San Diego! This event features Linda Owlen, Gaby y la Buena Onda, Nicole McFly and DJ Niayuku!
Closing Night Gala Taste of Sabor Celebration Saturday March 22nd at 8 p.m.hosted by UC San Diego Park and Market, Downtown San Diego. THis event features the fabulous Sabrosas Latin Orchestra and DJ UKEIM!
What’s new or different about this year’s festival that returning attendees should be excited about?
We try to be consistent every year, so that festival goers know what to expect. That being said, we always strive to bring new and critically acclaimed films and movies, new and promising musical performers, and relevant and compelling visual artists.
The Closing Night Party is always a highlight—what can attendees expect this year? Why is this a must-attend event?
The Closing Night Party is always a good time. I remember, just as an attendee, thinking that it was the place to be as a Latino professional, artist, and entrepreneur. It is a great place to meet like-minded people, mingle, network, and dance. It's easily one, if not the best, Latino professional party of the year.
For those who have been to past Closing Night Parties, what’s special about this year’s celebration?
This year we are featuring a special treat we are calling a Taste of Sabor! A culinary experience that showcases four local and international chefs who will delight our guests with a taste of their unique styles. All this and more is included in the general price of admission.
Featured chefs are:
Chef Leticia Gonzalez “Chef Lety” (Brujas Cocina/Huerta Taco Stand)
Chef Daniel Betancourt “Chef Danny” (Cafezzito, Tijuana)
Chef Alejandro Aguayo “Chef Alex” (Jaguar Paw, Barrio Logan)
Chef Nikolaus de la Riva “Chef Niko” (Torreyana, Hilton, La Jolla)
Are there any films or special screenings this year that you’re particularly excited about? Any hidden gems or must-watch selections?
There are always gems and crowd pleasers during the festival. Usually those are the ones with big name actors and or directors. Those tend to sell out quickly so you gotta act fast.
Go to sdlatinofilm.com for the full schedule.
This year we are featuring a special screening of El Norte, a film by Gregory Nava. It's a 40th anniversary screening followed by a Q&A with the filmmaker Gregory Nava and legendary Mexican American activist Dolores Huerta!
How does the festival curate its film lineup? What kind of themes or stories are you hoping to highlight this year?
The festival is submission based. There is a film selection committee composed of film experts, festival staff, board members etc. Films have to meet certain criteria and are carefully curated for our specific audience.
This year's theme is #CineSinFronteras (Film Without Borders). It is an important theme now as ever before!
What does the San Diego Latino Film Festival mean for the Latino community and San Diego as a whole?
I believe that the SDLFF is a place where San Diego Latino art, culture, and identity meet with Latino professionals and business creatives. It's a place where you can expect to see familiar faces and meet new people making a name for themselves. It has also fostered and inspired young filmmakers to showcase their talents and see the fruits of their labor on the big screen.
For me personally it has been a cultural hub where I have been able to meet very talented folks and develop my talents as a Latino professional. It has also launched the career of folks that were looking for an opportunity and waiting for the next stage of their lives in the industry.
How can people get more involved—whether as attendees, volunteers, or supporters?
The SDLFF is a grassroots movement that has grown to international acclaim. Even still, it is community powered and relies on donors, sponsors, and volunteers. To be part of this cultural family, follow this link to fill out our volunteer form.
To support the festival, please follow SDLFF, the Media Arts Center, and Digital Gym Cinema on IG and FB and check our website for festival announcements and to purchase film and special event tickets.
Become a member of the Media Arts Center! Very important.
What folks may not realize is that the film festival is a fundraiser to fund and support the Media Arts Center San Diego. All proceeds benefit Media Arts Center San Diego, a 501(c)3 non-profit, and its youth media arts education programs throughout San Diego County.
Thanks for your support of the 32nd Annual San Diego Latino Film Festival 2025!
The San Diego Latino Film Festival is more than just a film showcase—it’s a cultural hub where cinema, music, art, and community come together. Whether you're attending for the first time or returning as a longtime supporter, there’s always something new to experience.
We can't wait to see you at the Closing Night Gala Taste of Sabor Celebration, where you can enjoy an incredible culinary experience and dance the night away with us! Get your tickets now (use code “Sabrosas2025” to save 50%!) and join us for an unforgettable night of music, flavor, and celebration!
