Eugenia is an award-winning filmmaker and educator. Born and raised in a rural community in Zacatecas, Mexico, she brings a unique perspective to her work. After relocating to the California Central Coast, Eugenia has written and directed several impactful films, including “Amor en Cuarentena,” “Strawberry Picker,” “13 Años, 9 Kilómetros,” and “Tierra Fértil.” Her film “Tierra Fértil” premiered at Mexico City’s prestigious Cineteca Nacional and later aired on Mexico’s Canal 22.
Eugenia’s films have been showcased at the Mill Valley Film Festival, the New York Latino Film Festival, the San Diego Latino Film Festival, the Cine Festival San Antonio, ShortsMexico, and numerous others. She is a proud alumna of Cal State Monterey Bay, where she earned her B.A. in Cinematic Arts & Technology.
Eugenia was selected as the inaugural fellow for the Watsonville Film Festival’s Cine Se Puede Fellowship and participates in the PBS Ignite Mentorship for Diverse Voices program as a mentee. As the co-founder and owner of Inspira Studios, Eugenia shares her passion for storytelling into producing narratives that resonate with diverse audiences.
Hey Eugenia, thanks for chatting with us! Could you give us a little background on yourself?
I was born and raised in a rural community in Zacatecas, Mexico. My life then was quite different; I spent my days playing with my cousins at my grandpa’s carpentry and climbing guava trees. I am the middle child and have four brothers, so I also spent much of my time chasing after them, wanting to do whatever they were doing.
When I moved to California, the first years were very lonely and challenging. I spent my high school years observing my surroundings in the back of the classroom. I didn’t feel comfortable speaking in my broken English, which also allowed me to be creative and start writing stories.
What did you do before you did filmmaking and teaching?
The first few years after I graduated from Cal State Monterey Bay were challenging. I had multiple jobs outside the industry, including a night shift as a caregiver. But on the evenings and weekends, I always had a camera near me, trying to learn as much as possible about filmmaking.
What does your day to day look like as a filmmaker?
I don’t have a set routine; some days, I can start at 5 am, loading equipment for a shoot, and others, I can be in front of a computer all day editing. But this gives me the flexibility to be creative in different ways.
What inspired you to start Inspira Studios?
Inspira Studios was founded almost eight years ago. At the time, I didn’t quite understand what I was trying to accomplish or this new adventure’s potential; I just knew I wanted to make films. Little by little, I started transitioning to more complex productions, and as of almost two years ago, this is now my full-time job.
What about the film industry has been amazing? Are there any bad things about it that you would change?
I love the collaboration filmmaking creates. I get to work with my friends on set a lot, which is a fun learning experience. I hope access to funding was more accessible, but most of the time, it is time-consuming and a constant struggle to get films funded.
What is it like working for a large media company like PBS? How did you get connected with them and what did you work on with them?
As a mentee for PBS Ignite Mentorship for Diverse Voices, I have access to workshops and different opportunities. One of those opportunities that came with the mentorship was to produce an episode for PBS Digital Studios, and I had the opportunity to work with Sound Field PBS, a music education series that explores the music theory and history behind musical styles. The episode I produced is on Sierreño music, and we filmed it in Watsonville. Most of my producing experience is with Inspira Studios, so seeing how other productions work was great. I learned a lot and am proud of how the episode turned out. (The video will will be linked at the bottom)
Is there anything you can tell us about the upcoming production you are working on, Too Little Too Late?
Too Little Too Late is a documentary in the works about two families who have been displaced due to environmental injustice in Pajaro Valley. So far, we have filmed most of the story and are currently seeking funding to start post-production. The team is composed of talented local filmmakers who care deeply about this community, and I am excited to see how this film will turn out.
You moved to California at the age of 12 from Zacatecas, and are currently living in the Santa Cruz area. How have the places you have been influenced your style?
I grew up in a small community where everyone knew each other. All the kids would gather around this place and play for hours every day. My mom would watch novelas with her comadres, and when someone needed help, the community would show up. Years later, I find myself in Watsonville, where we share the same energy. I’m lucky to have two communities in two countries that inspire me to create stories about their resilience, struggles, and joy in life.
How do you find interesting and compelling stories?
I see stories everywhere I look in this community. Ironically, those stories don’t tend to be celebrated in the mainstream. So, I enjoy shining a light on those stories, especially about resilience, environmental injustice, and the transformative power of the arts.
Is there anything you would like to say to people aspiring to break into the film industry?
With dedication and consistency, dreams can come true. Surround yourself with creative individuals with the same passion and collaborate with them; that brings a lot of learning and fun experiences.
What hobbies or interests do you have that help you fuel yourself or your creativity?
My whole life revolves around filmmaking. I make a living by producing videos for clients, and my hobbies are creating the stories I am most passionate about. I have no complaint; I love being around creative people who love to tell stories.
What aspirations do you have for yourself or your production company?
I hope to keep growing with Inspira Studios. I want to take more risks with the stories I produce. I would like to experiment with different styles and keep learning new techniques.
I am excited about a few work travel trips. I also hope to wrap up some documentaries I have been working on and hopefully attend some good film festivals.
Are there any films or other forms of media that you want to shout out?
There are so many local films being produced in the area. Attend the local film festivals and experience the stories we are sharing.
Is there anything else you would like to share?
Shout-out to my family, friends, team, and community. Thank you for your continued support.
Thanks Eugenia, thats all the questions we have for you! Get your ticket to the NEXTies to come say hi to Eugenia and other movers and shakers being highlighted at this years’ May 17th NEXTies awards! See you there!
