Manuel Villarreal
Directing
Biography
Manuel Villarreal is a proud gay 1st generation Mexican-American writer and director based in Los Angeles. His short films, "WHAT THE WATER GAVE" and "I'M STILL HERE," were finalists at the NewFilmmakers LA Video Project and Outfest Fusion Film Festival, respectively. Prior to directing, Manuel worked as an actor and starred in various commercials, including Super Bowl ads for Carl’s Jr. and Kay Jewelers. He holds a BA in Screenwriting from California State University, Northridge, and an MFA in Directing from the AFI Conservatory. Using magical realism and the folklore of his heritage, he hopes to challenge stereotypes associated with Latinos across the U.S.
Known For
On the night of his eighth birthday, Pablito mourns the loss of his Amá. However, his spirits are lifted when his Abuela tells him a fairytale about La Bruja Del Mar, a mystical witch longing for a son.
La Bruja
A young girl repairs a treasured wooden hummingbird, her late mother's last gift, bringing hope and healing to her grieving father.
El Colibrí
When Gio, a Black trans man, calls his best friend Lazette for help burying a body, the two are pulled into an unexpected confrontation with the past. As whispers of family wounds and unresolved trauma echo through the night, Gio must face a surreal encounter with his pre-transitioned self. What begins as a desperate mission transforms into a journey of acceptance, love, and self-forgiveness, reminding us that healing comes from embracing every part of who we are.
Deep Dish Dimples
HIGH BEAM follows Genna, a 9-year-old gymnast who spends a day at work with her mother, a dedicated gymnastics coach. When it’s finally her turn to perform for her evaluation, she finds herself unable to execute the skill in front of the one person whose approval she craves most. Forcing her to question if this sport is worth pursuing anymore.