Filmmaker Statement

Headlock, is a story about love, forgiveness, and self-acceptance. As a filmmaker, I am drawn to coming-of-age stories about compelling, underrepresented characters in authentic, untold situations. Headlock follows an introverted, high school wrestler, DIEGO, as he struggles to express his true identity due to the exterior influences in his life. I believe this story will emotionally connect with a wide audience and spark conversations about masculinity and sexuality in men’s sports and the Latinx community. As proud as I am of the film, I am more proud of the fact that we made the film with a diverse cast and crew from different countries and backgrounds, many of whom are personally connected to this story as former athletes, members of the Latinx community, or part of the LGBTQIA+ community. I believe Headlock’s simplistic, honest, gritty, character-focused approach brings a unique voice to showcase.