Latinos making strides in entertainment industry

LOS ANGELES (KABC) -- As celebrations begin for Hispanic Heritage Month, Vista L.A. proudly celebrates Latino heritage and the people that positively affect our cultural, business and social landscape all year long.

We recently caught up with some of the creatives still changing the face of Hollywood, as Latinos continue to make strides in the entertainment industry.

LATINOS GETTING THE JOB DONE IN HOLLYWOOD

The NALIP Latino Media Summit is the largest gathering of Latino producers, actors, writers, directors and content creators in the country. Vista L.A. documented the three-day summit and awards gala held at the Hollywood & Highland event center, interviewing stars Zoe Saldana and Kate del Castillo, as well as summit attendees and National Association of Latino Independent Producers' (NALIP) Executive Director Ben Lopez. (See video above)

"DO IT LIKE AN HOMBRE"

It has already broken box office records in Mexico, and now it's here in the U.S. "Do It Like An Hombre," a Spanish-language comedy that tackles homophobia, is produced by -- and stars -- real-life couple Aislinn Derbez and Mauricio Ochmann, who play brother and sister in the film. Hear how they were able to turn a tough situation into something funny and enjoyable!

Real-life couple Aislinn Derbez and Mauricio Ochmann talk about starring and producing the Mexican hit movie "Do It Like an Hombre."

WHY YOU'LL LOVE "COCO"

Adrian Molina, co-director & writer of Disney's much-anticipated film "Coco," spoke with Vista L.A. at the NALIP summit about the origins of the Day of the Dead-themed movie. He also shared his personal connection to the movie's theme and what he thinks audiences, Latinos in particular, will love about the movie. The film opens Nov. 22.

Vista L.A. catches up with the co-director of Disney's new film, "Coco," set to be released this year.

CRISTELA SAVES LIGHTNING

Disney's latest installment of "Cars" features Latina comedian Cristela Alonso. Vista L.A. chatted with Andrea Warren, Producer of Disney's "Cars 3," about why Alonzo was perfect for the starring role alongside Lighting McQueen, played by Owen Wilson.

Producer of Disney's "Cars 3," Andrea Warren, talks about Cristela Alonso being the perfect actress for the starring role in the popular franchise.

A CHAT WITH "BEATRIZ'S" PUERTO RICAN DIRECTOR

"Dinner with Beatriz," a dark comedy with a powerful message, has been called "an allegory for our turbulent political times." The movie stars Salma Hayek in a role unlike any she's taken on before. Vista L.A.'s Patricia Lopez caught up with the film's avant-garde director, Miguel Arteta, to discuss his award-winning film.

Miguel Arteta sits down with Vista L.A. to talk about his latest dark comedy, "Dinner with Beatriz," which stars Mexican and American actress Salma Hayek.

THE TRUE STORY: JENNI RIVERA

Before the recent premiere of "Mariposa de Barrio," the series based on the true story of music legend Jenni Rivera, Vista L.A. chatted with the actor selected to play the leading role, Angelica Celaya. The highly-anticipated series is based on her book, "Inquebrantable," as well as unpublished testimonies from her family, close friends and associates. It explores Rivera's life as a daughter, mother, wife, lover and artist. "Jenni Rivera: Mariposa de Barrio," highlights the most important events in Rivera's life and serves as a source of inspiration, optimism and empowerment for Latinas and the U.S. Latino community at large.

Actress Angelica Celaya, who plays the late Jenni Rivera in the series "Mariposa de Barrio," talks with Vista L.A. about playing the famed Latina singer-songwriter from Long Beach.

WHY DANNY TREJO JUST CAN'T STOP

Actor and restaurateur Danny Trejo recently opened his fourth SoCal eatery. Trejo's Cantina in Pasadena, located right next to the iconic Pasadena Playhouse, keeps many of the favorite dishes from his other restaurants but features a more upscale dinner setting with an upgraded menu. Trejo gave Vista L.A. a tour of his new eatery and a sampling of the new menu.

Danny Trejo, a Latino actor-turned-successful-entrepreneur, has chosen a hot spot in Pasadena for his latest SoCal restaurant, Trejo's Cantina.

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