I was born in Lima, Peru but immigrated with my family to the U.S. when I was 2 years old.
I grew up in the Echo Park neighborhood of Los Angeles.
Masked wrestler, Mil Mascaras, was my boyhood hero.
I read Mexican comic books when I was growing up.
Collaborating with creative people inspires me.
Early filmmaking success in Japan started my directing career.
My family used to spend their summers in Mexico. Here we are in Acapulco.
I love being on set.
I was in the garage band, Adrenalin, when I was in high school. ‘Adrenalin Rocks!’
My independent production company, Echo Park Films, has produced ten films.
I grew up three miles from Dodger Stadium. I still cheer for the Dodgers.
The great Film Editor Richard Marks was one of my mentors.
My mom is Mexican.
I am passionate about working with actors.
My Sundance Directors Lab experience was unforgettable.
I am forever grateful to have worked with the immortal Chadwick Boseman.
I was Executive Producer on a groundbreaking ‘rock en español’ soundtrack album.
I enjoy talking about my work at film festivals.
I spent time on a remote ‘lost’ island.
I’ve made films with actual film in the camera.
I’ve directed monsters.
Civil Rights Leader Dolores Huerta is one of my heroes.
My wife and I honeymooned here. Summerland, California.
One of my films had a reception at the Vice President’s residence in Washington D.C.
I love black & white films.
I don’t mind getting dirty or wet when I work.
I married my best friend. I love you, Elaine.
I saw this sunset in November 2018.
I was at Little Richard’s last concert performance.
I visited fortune teller Madame Marie’s in Asbury Park, New Jersey.
I made a film (Price of Glory) that played at the theatre that I used to go to as a boy.
I love the paintings of artist Carlos Almaraz.
San Antonio, Texas feels like a second home.
I created and directed a magical-realist anthology series for television.
My work is in the Library of Congress.
A television series that I produced won awards for all these great people.
I worked with Steadi-cam legend Kirk Gardner.
My wife and I danced this close to the great Tejano legend Flaco Jimenez.
Cornfields are incredible settings for scenes.
I once dared to wear a zoot suit.