In a world with endless sequels, reboots, and multiverses, Maria makes original, heartfelt films. She directs movies that speak to the Salvadoran experience yet connect to a global audience. We speak about her creative process, her leadership philosophy, easter eggs, and the art of storytelling.

Maria Servellón is an award-winning filmmaker, multimedia artist, educator, and arts advocate from Boston, MA. She was named one of 2018's "Latinos 30 Under 30" by El Mundo Boston. Her most lauded work to date is the magic-realist short film, Hyphen (2018).

• Getting a camera from her father at her quinceañera
• What dreams did our parents have for themselves?
• Coming from a family of campesinos
• Immigrating to a racially segregated Boston
• Humble parents with big dreams for their daughter
• Growing up in diverse latino environment
• Growing without positive representation of latinos in media
• Salvadoran stories are unique but can still appeal to humanity
• Salvadoran stories have to come from the mind of Salvadorans
• Hyphen short film! Exploring identity and belonging
• How can your story have universal appeal beyond culture and language?
• How fun are easter eggs in movies!?
• Making film magic be a collective experience
• Being a servant leader
• Paying people in the industry fair wages
• For original content, look to indie filmmakers!
• Check out indie film festivals!
• Phantasma - upcoming project
• All stories are valid - tell yours!

Show Resources:

• Maria Servellón Website
• Maria’s Instagram
• Maria’s films Instagram
• Watch Hyphen

Music:

“La Culebra (Remix)” by Primal Pulse