The fifth iteration of “Life Within the Lens” will celebrate the Latino film community across Chicago, showcasing short films which explore familial ties. Filmmakers in person for post-film Q&A.

SHORTS FEATURED IN THIS PROGRAM

TONITA RUNS AWAY (Dir. Teri Carson) - 6 min

After being scolded one too many times, mischievous Toñita runs away from home. While on the road, she meets another little girl and together they embark on a frolic through the Mexican countryside.

PAPER FLOWER (Dir. Joseph Anthony Miñoso)

A 10-year-old Latino “DREAMer” takes care of his seven-year-old sister through their family’s immigration struggle by using the power of his imagination.

DON CHINGÓN (Dir. Carlos Lerma) – 9 min

After moving to the United States, a young Mexican immigrant is faced with a deadly challenge: finding good Mexican food. Armed with attitude, imagination, and a whole lot of hunger, he sets out to prove that being Mexican is an amazing gift.

THE WINDOW (Dir. Miguel Lepe, Jr.) – 8 min

Caught sneaking in late, a father and daughter navigate a tense, whispered conversation, careful not to wake the house’s matriarch as they tiptoe around deeper issues.

BAJO EL MISMO SOL (Dir. Lorena De León) - 14 min

Inspired by the lullabies the filmmakers parents sung to her as a child. What begins as a young woman's return to her home of Puerto Rico to make a final wish at the same fountain she visited before leaving. Becomes an evening with a musical stranger who incites a conversation on the hidden griefs we often conceal for our own survival.

ASK A PUNK (Dir. Brian Herrera and Kevin Contento)

A queer teen cultivates community, individuality, and resilience through the subculture of the DIY punk scene in Little Village while reconciling their relationship with their Grandmother.

HEY HUGO (Dir. Annie Xia & Ysa Quiballo)

A film about a son who loves his mom, and the family who wants him to come home.