The New York Latino Film Festival (NYLFF), the foremost Latino film festival in the United States, is set to inaugurate Latino Heritage Month from September 15 to 22. This eagerly anticipated event will showcase an impressive lineup of over 13 films hailing from nearly 20 countries. The festival will once again take place at the iconic Regal Union Square (850 Broadway, NYC), as announced on Thursday.

For the first time, Opening Night will be hosted at Audible’s Minetta Lane Theatre (18 Minetta Lane, NYC), a hub for live performances and creative expressions in New York.

Kicking off this year’s festival is the World Premiere of “Clemente,” a feature-length documentary directed by David Altrogge and executive-produced by basketball legend LeBron James and acclaimed filmmaker Richard Linklater. This documentary delves deep into the life, career, and enduring legacy of Roberto Clemente, a baseball icon who paved the way for future generations of Latino athletes.

Another significant premiere is PBS’ “VOCES American Historia: The Untold History of Latinos.” Co-created by actor and activist John Leguizamo and filmmaker Ben DeJesus, this three-part documentary follows Leguizamo as he journeys through Mexico and the United States, uncovering both well-known and obscure stories that have shaped Latino history.

ESPN proudly presents “Las Amazonas de Yaxunah,” a compelling documentary directed by Alfonso Algara and narrated by the talented actress Yalitzia Aparicio. This film highlights the extraordinary spirit and determination of a Mayan women’s softball team from the Yucatán region of Mexico. The team defies gender stereotypes and overcomes significant obstacles in their pursuit of excellence in softball.

NYLFF also features “Your Monster,” a unique romantic-comedy-horror film starring Melissa Barrera (“In the Heights”). The story revolves around Laura Franco, a soft-spoken actress who finds her voice and strength when she encounters a terrifying yet strangely charming monster living in her closet.

Calixto Chinchilla, Founder of the New York Latino Film Festival, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “NYLFF returns once again to honor and present the enormous richness and diversity of the Latino community through cinema. We champion diverse voices in storytelling and invite everyone to be a part of this shared experience, emerging with a deeper understanding of our realities. ¡Asi somos!”

Dennis Williams, SVP and Head of Corporate Social Responsibility at Warner Bros. Discovery, added, “As we approach Latino Heritage Month, it is crucial to recognize how our industry works to preserve and express Latino culture, identities, and experiences. WBD is honored to return to NYLFF as the presenting sponsor and to celebrate Latino filmmaking with its audiences and community.”

Pat Swinney Kaufman, Commissioner of the Mayor’s Office of Media and Entertainment, also shared her excitement: “We are thrilled to support the New York Latino Film Festival, which showcases diverse storytelling for New Yorkers to enjoy during Latino Heritage Month. From the opening night film about baseball’s Roberto Clemente to the world premiere of a film by NYC’s own John Leguizamo to the closing night block party in Washington Heights, there truly is something for everyone. Congratulations to Calixto Chinchilla and his team on what is sure to be another terrific festival.”

The festival will conclude with a free block party in Washington Heights, featuring live music, delicious food, engaging games, and more! For more information on NYLFF 2024, visit www.nylatinofilmfestival.com.