Who am I? Why am I doing this?
Howdy! My name is José Valle Jr and I am a senior in the filmmaking program at Woodbury University in Burbank, CA. I am a first generation Mexican immigrant originally from Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco, Mexico. I immigrated to the United States with my parents when I was just 7 years old! I grew up in Payson, Utah a double minority (ethnically and religiously) so I felt like an outsider most of my life, the only place where I ever felt I belonged was in the cinema, in the movies I loved to watch. I have spent the last 6 years learning and practicing filmmaking; getting hands on experience on sets and learning from industry professionals. My goal after graduation is to work as a writer/director in the industry bringing to life more stories about the most underrepresented group in Hollywood: Latinos.
This story is rooted in Mexican culture. It is a celebration and representation of the culture of Charro's, a culture my family has been a part of for generations! Your contribution would help celebrate this culture, and tell a story from and about an underrepresented group!
What is Marcelo Dreams of Charros?
My films centers on Marcelo, a third generation Mexican-American teen, who finds himself grappling with the struggles of adolescence. Seeking desperately to find his identity. After learning about the culture of Charros (the traditional Mexican cowboys) he becomes obsessed with this colorful and rigid definition of manhood, Despite his parents both being second generation Mexican-Americans his father is not as supportive as his mother, as he only associates his culture with the trauma of his childhood and seeks to bury his connection with his heritage in the past. Marcelo must now not only overcome the difficulty of diving into a culture wholly unknown to him but also attempt to fix an ever deteriorating relationship with his father.
Where does your money go?
As a first generation filmmaker, not from comfort or from legacy, I find my funds...limited. Which is why am turning to you all to help me fulfill my goal and cover the costs of my post production process. Funds would help cover the costs needed for pick-ups/reshoots and primarily the costs of musical scoring, art designs and some editing costs as they come up.
Other Ways You Can Help
Tell your friends, family and anybody who will listen! Share this campaign on your socials! Spread the word and help me reach my goal!
