Mexica(n)

Drama , Fantasy / Magical Realism

Mexica(n)

Directed By: Cristina Rodriguez and Savaun Stokes
Synopsis

“Mexica[n]” is a heartfelt short film that follows Querida, a devoted
daughter who discovers her father’s lifeless body in the family bodega. As she reaches out to her siblings. Teo, is emotionally distant; Lucero, fiercely loyal; and Tomas, the youngest returning from college. A portrait of generational trauma unfolds. Through raw confrontations and a surreal dreamscape, they each grapple with grief, fractured identity, and the legacy of a father who failed them. Anchored in cultural specificity and emotional realism, the film explores how memory, forgiveness, and chosen family guide us through loss.

Watch Trailer :
Directed by

Cristina Rodriguez and Savaun Stokes

I was born and raised in Chicago, IL, the epicenter of my creative, cultural identity, and the larger framework my work is positioned within. I am a multidisciplinary artist: filmmaker, composer, actor, and writer. I majored in Musical Theatre and minored in Latino Studies at Columbia College of Chicago. I am a proud member of the Actors Equity Association and Maestra Music Organization. I am drawn to using supernatural elements as a driving force for character development. Furthermore, I am committed to working with Latinos of all cultures and colors. Mexica(n), my recent artistic offering, encapsulates my objective as an artist. My aim is to present a magical realism film that counters the typical demographics often seen in these genres. Mexica(n) is a character-driven short film. The narrative focuses on a young woman who must come to terms with her feelings for her deceased father. A highlight of my visual artistic work is the I am, You are, We are enough campaign, a collaboration with the non-profit organization, The Network, that supports young people experiencing domestic violence and abusive relationships. My artistic development has been supported by mentorships with Andrew Cutler at Black Box Acting Canadian Indigenous writers Jesse Wente, January Rogers and Emmy-Award winning film director, Resita Cox, through the Impact & Indie Film school, a film incubator created at Duke University. My work also received support from Chicago’s Department of Cultural Affairs. I composed music and wrote my next project in Canada in May 2026, at BANFF Story Sharing Artist Residency.
Style & Format
Community Favorites , Debut Directors
Identity & Perspective
Latina / Afro-Latina Perspectives , Middle Eastern & North African Women
Topics
Mental Health & Healing , Spirituality & Ancestry

You do not have permission to watch this film.

BACK TO TOP ○ BACK TO TOP ○ BACK TO TOP ○
Celebrate Our Stories

Join us as we spotlight films by Black & Brown femmes—amplifying powerful voices and fresh perspectives. Catch our latest screenings, follow us on socials, and stay inspired.