Last night was a first for me—attending the Los Angeles Press Club Awards dinner. The LAPC had nominated “The Cheech” for “Best Documentary” as well as for “Best Human Interest Feature” (over 5 minutes). The team at PBS SoCal was kind enough to invite me and producer Alessandra Pasquino to attend the awards event. PBS SoCal had commissioned me to write and direct “The Cheech” for their series Artbound.
It’s truly an honor to have made this documentary highlighting Cheech Marin’s passion for and advocacy of Chicano art and Chicano artists. It was pure joy making this documentary, and being nominated for awards by the LA Press Club was “icing on the cake.” There were many meaningful and accomplished projects nominated in both categories, and so I was prepared to enjoy the evening without taking home any awards. When I heard my name called from the stage, I was startled and surprised. We won the “Best Human Interest” award and came in second place for the “Best Documentary Award.” It was a marvelous surprise to be acknowledged in this way.
The making of “The Cheech” was a shared act of love in celebration of Cheech Marin, Chicano Artists, & Chicano Art. They are essential to the cultural fabric of Los Angeles. Congratulations to all involved.
Special shout-out to our unstoppable, can-do producer Alessandra Pasquino and PBS SoCal Senior Producer Nic Cha Kim for bringing this project to me and guiding our production throughout.
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