Gabriela Ortega, a budding filmmaker, recalls the special moment she first encountered Sandra Condito, a film producer and a top executive at UnbeliEVAble Entertainment. The memorable introduction occurred in September 2020 during the InFocus: Latinx and Hispanic Cinema Film Festival, a joint event by NewFilmmakers Los Angeles and the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences.
Ortega reminisces about presenting “Papi,” her inaugural short film about her father’s life in the Dominican Republic, at the festival. Ortega’s talents had already been recognized as she was a fellow with Lena Waithe’s Hillman Grad Productions and the Rising Voices Fellowship by Indeed job site. Waithe backed Ortega’s recent work, ‘Huella,’ which explores the journey of a flamenco dancer confronting a rekindled family curse following her grandmother’s passing.
NewFilmmakers Los Angeles (NFMLA), an LA-based organization promoting global emerging storytellers for over a decade, organized the festival. Its varied programs, which range from the NFMLA Monthly Film Festival to the DocuSlate Documentary Film Festival, aim to nurture burgeoning filmmakers by linking them with industry professionals.
Ortega appreciated NFMLA’s personalized approach. She was taken aback when one of her scheduled meetings was with Condito. “Before understanding her full profile, I was already thrilled to meet her,” she said. At that juncture, Condito served as the senior vice president at Sony, focusing on international production and development. She has since climbed the ladder to become the president of film and television at Eva Longoria’s UnbeliEVAble Entertainment. Her portfolio includes celebrated films like Robert Rodriquez’s Spy Kids series and The Adventures of Shark Boy and Lava Girl in 3-D.
Condito was deeply moved by Ortega’s “Papi”. Not only was the film’s theme resonant with her own personal experiences, but their shared Dominican heritage further deepened their connection.
Their bond was cemented when Condito extended an invitation to Ortega to discuss an animated film script. Ortega was one of the select few chosen to pitch her interpretation, and she secured the opportunity. Even though the project took a different turn after Condito’s departure from Sony, the foundation for a lasting professional camaraderie had been laid.
Ortega is profuse in her gratitude, referring to Condito as her “fairy godmother” in the film industry. The young director’s expertise did not go unnoticed, as Condito intends to introduce her to more ventures at UnbeliEVAble. “I’ve emphasized to Eva Longoria the need to experience ‘Huella’ and to recognize Gabriela’s brilliance,” Condito remarked.
With such support, Ortega is enthusiastic about her prospects. She emphasized the importance of creators recognizing their worth and ability to shape their careers. She noted, “The goal is not just about creating short films for festivals but understanding how to be sustainable filmmakers.”
Larry Laboe, the co-founder and executive director of NFMLA, emphasizes that festivals are a medium to showcase fresh talents. He believes festivals should offer substantial resources and opportunities for participants. Celebrating Ortega’s dedication, Laboe said, “She’s a testament to the need for both creativity and an entrepreneurial mindset.” He believes festivals should foster enduring connections and collaborations, a philosophy embodied in Ortega and Condito’s professional relationship.
This tale was originally featured in the Spring 2022 edition of MovieMaker Magazine.