Paredes Entre Tu y Yo
Los Angeles, California | Film Short
Drama, Foreign Film
In a time when immigration policies separate families and dreams are put on hold, "Paredes Entre Tú y Yo" humanizes the struggle. It explores the divide between generations, the weight of sacrifice, and the fight for belonging—showing that love, identity, and resilience transcend borders.
Paredes Entre Tu y Yo
Los Angeles, California | Film Short
Drama, Foreign Film
1 Campaigns | California, United States
Green Light
This campaign raised $24,703 for production. Follow the filmmaker to receive future updates on this project.
234 supporters | followers
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In a time when immigration policies separate families and dreams are put on hold, "Paredes Entre Tú y Yo" humanizes the struggle. It explores the divide between generations, the weight of sacrifice, and the fight for belonging—showing that love, identity, and resilience transcend borders.
About The Project
- The Story
- Wishlist
- Updates
- The Team
- Community
Mission Statement
The Story
Paredes Entre Tú y Yo is a powerful short film that follows Miriam, a 21-year-old first-generation Mexican-American, as she returns home for her birthday, hoping to reconnect with her estranged and authoritative father, José. She dreams of reviving their family’s food truck, which has been abandoned since her mother’s passing. However, she soon discovers that her father’s true reason for inviting her back is to attend his immigration interview as his sponsor, a moment that will determine whether he can remain in the United States.
This short film is based on true events of my family. My parents immigrated to the U.S. from Mexico and Chile. Growing up, I never thought I would be able to confidently talk about my family's immigration status and experience in the U.S. I was so ashamed of it. I feel like I hid in it for so long and couldn't talk to anybody about it. It made me so anxious to loose my family and be left here alone. Writing this film has been such a therapeutic and beautiful thing for me. It comes so deep within my roots." -Catalina Garayoa
This story matters to us because it’s ours. Born from truth, grief, and hope, it sheds light on the emotional weight of immigration—the fear, the love, the unspoken walls between us. By sharing our story, we hope others feel seen, less alone, and more empowered to speak their truths.
Framing
The film’s title, Paredes (which means "Walls" in Spanish), serves as a visual metaphor that guides the framing approach. Throughout the film, there should always be an element—whether physical or implied—that separates the two main characters. As the story progresses, these barriers will gradually diminish or lose prominence in the frame.
It is crucial to visually convey the emotional and physical distance between Miriam and José. To also achieve this, they will be framed at opposite extremes when sharing a shot. In other moments, they will be filmed in separate frames, reinforcing their lack of connection. As the narrative unfolds, this visual distance will progressively shrink, subtly reflecting their growing bond.
Lighting
The lighting in Paredes Entre Tú y Yo is natural, emotional, and rooted in realism—like stepping into a living memory. Sunlight, shadows, and practical light sources guide us through the story without ever stealing focus.
The food truck glows like a forgotten time capsule, lit only by the sun, with dreamy flares and warm tones that echo lost joy. The house feels cooler and distant, reflecting tension—while the kitchen and truck glow with warmth, symbolizing love and connection.
From golden sunsets to cold, sterile offices, light helps us feel the emotional distance—and closeness—between a father and daughter trying to find their way back to each other.
Visual Aesthetics
At a time when immigration policies shape the fate of millions, Paredes Entre Tú y Yo goes beyond politics to show the human side of immigration—the love, sacrifice, and resilience that define so many families. This isn’t just about documents and borders; it’s about the emotional toll of belonging in a country that doesn’t always welcome you.
We can’t bring this story to life without YOU! Your contribution will help us create a visually stunning, emotionally gripping film that reflects the authentic immigrant experience with the respect and depth it deserves.
We’re in pre-production for Paredes Entre Tú y Yo, and we’re beyond excited to finally share this story with the world. It’s personal. It’s powerful. And with your help, it’s going to be unforgettable. We’re a team of passionate, trained filmmakers committed to creating art that moves people and makes an impact. This is a story rooted in truth, love, and resilience—and we’re calling on our community of friends, family, and fellow storytellers to help us make it a reality.
Funds will go toward:
- Cast and Crew- Paying the critical people who make this film happen.
- Locations- A house to shoot the film in, along with a food truck.
- Props and Set Pieces- to make the space authentic to the story.
- Post-Production – Editing, sound design, and color grading to make it cinematic.
- Festival Submissions – Sharing this story with the world to spark conversation.
Once completed, we’ll submit to festivals across the country—amplifying the voices behind this story and reaching communities that need to see themselves on screen.
Every dollar makes a difference. Every share helps us grow.
Thank you for believing in us—and in the power of stories that need to be told!
Wishlist
Use the WishList to Pledge cash and Loan items - or - Make a pledge by selecting an Incentive directly.
Cast
Costs $800
This is to hire the cast to bring the story to life!
Production Rentals
Costs $13,061
Camera, lighting, production sound, and location expenses
Wardrobe/ Hair and Makeup
Costs $1,993
For our costume designer and hair and makeup rentals, etc.
Production Staff and Set Operations
Costs $9,699
This is our entire crew. The village it takes to bring the story to life!
Post Production Costs
Costs $2,000
This includes editing, coloring, music, and post production sound.
Contingency
Costs $1,794
These would be additional production costs including insurance and miscellaneous costs.
Cash Pledge
Costs $0
Direct link:
Share this update!
About This Team
Catalina Garayoa: Writer/ Creator/ Actress
Catalina is a first generation American artist living in Los Angeles, CA. She grew up in Colorado with undocumented parents from Mexico and Chile who worked hard to give their family a better life. She is a storyteller, actress, and writer. “Paredes Entre Tu y Yo” is based on true events of her family. She is most known for her role of Rebecca in The Social Dilemma. Catalina continues to pursue her dreams as an actress and writer by creating her own work; from comedy skits, to short films, she aims to make her own opportunities.
Jacob Holmquist- Franco: Director
Jacob is an American filmmaker with Mexican-Indigenous roots, passionate about exploring his family’s diverse cultural history through storytelling. His award-winning Indigenous folktale horror film, Nahual—starring Paredes writer and actress Catalina Garayoa—earned him a spot on Hollywood’s list of Most Exciting New Filmmakers and topped IndieX’s list of 2024’s Best Student Horror Short Films.
“It has become a deep, heartfelt pain for me to imagine an America where my family and fellow Latinos are not appreciated as an essential part of this country’s foundation. ‘Paredes’ speaks to the unspoken divide between generations, the weight of personal sacrifice, and the search for belonging. What better way to explore the pain and beauty of the American dream than through the eyes of a first-generation American and her immigrant father?” -Jacob
Gonzalo Martin: Producer
Gonzalo Martin is a proud Argentinian immigrant that worked hard to be able to come and stay in America and become a storyteller through acting and producing his own movies bringing unique Latino stories to life. After winning his BAFTA Award for Best Performer he transitioned to produce movies that he went on to sell to Amazon Prime and HBO Max.
"I believe in the power of storytelling to transcend borders and connect us all. This film is not just a project; it's a celebration of our diverse Latino narratives that deserve to be told. I’m driven by a passion to bring these unique stories to life, to inspire others and create a space where everyone feels represented. I want to be a part of making this film a reality because it's more than entertainment; it’s a movement towards understanding and unity."
Augusto Garcia: Cinematographer
Augusto graduated with an MFA in cinematography from the American Film Institute for which he received a talent scholarship from Audi USA. He has been an associate member of the Society of Camera Operators since 2022. Augusto’s feature documentary “La Raiz de Mi Ombligo” was accepted for the mentorship program “Talent Demo” at the Camerimage Film Festival 2022 in Toruń, Poland. At the end of last year, he wrapped principal photography on his narrative feature debut. As a cinematographer, he splits his time between Mexico City and Los Angeles.
“When I first read the script, I was really moved by the story, it feels close to my own life experience. It’s not only a story about immigration and the transition to being a legal resident in a foreign country, but it’s about grief and the way each person deals with it and how relationships in your life can change after a big loss. “Paredes” means Walls in Spanish, and the walls are what our characters are breaking down to recognize, reconcile, and embrace the love that once existed in their family. In times like the one we are living in, I truly believe it’s important to give space to stories that break down the mental walls of separation."- Augusto Garcia
Current Team
Incentives
- The Story
- Wishlist
- Updates
- The Team
- Community
Mission Statement
The Story
Paredes Entre Tú y Yo is a powerful short film that follows Miriam, a 21-year-old first-generation Mexican-American, as she returns home for her birthday, hoping to reconnect with her estranged and authoritative father, José. She dreams of reviving their family’s food truck, which has been abandoned since her mother’s passing. However, she soon discovers that her father’s true reason for inviting her back is to attend his immigration interview as his sponsor, a moment that will determine whether he can remain in the United States.
This short film is based on true events of my family. My parents immigrated to the U.S. from Mexico and Chile. Growing up, I never thought I would be able to confidently talk about my family's immigration status and experience in the U.S. I was so ashamed of it. I feel like I hid in it for so long and couldn't talk to anybody about it. It made me so anxious to loose my family and be left here alone. Writing this film has been such a therapeutic and beautiful thing for me. It comes so deep within my roots." -Catalina Garayoa
This story matters to us because it’s ours. Born from truth, grief, and hope, it sheds light on the emotional weight of immigration—the fear, the love, the unspoken walls between us. By sharing our story, we hope others feel seen, less alone, and more empowered to speak their truths.
Framing
The film’s title, Paredes (which means "Walls" in Spanish), serves as a visual metaphor that guides the framing approach. Throughout the film, there should always be an element—whether physical or implied—that separates the two main characters. As the story progresses, these barriers will gradually diminish or lose prominence in the frame.
It is crucial to visually convey the emotional and physical distance between Miriam and José. To also achieve this, they will be framed at opposite extremes when sharing a shot. In other moments, they will be filmed in separate frames, reinforcing their lack of connection. As the narrative unfolds, this visual distance will progressively shrink, subtly reflecting their growing bond.
Lighting
The lighting in Paredes Entre Tú y Yo is natural, emotional, and rooted in realism—like stepping into a living memory. Sunlight, shadows, and practical light sources guide us through the story without ever stealing focus.
The food truck glows like a forgotten time capsule, lit only by the sun, with dreamy flares and warm tones that echo lost joy. The house feels cooler and distant, reflecting tension—while the kitchen and truck glow with warmth, symbolizing love and connection.
From golden sunsets to cold, sterile offices, light helps us feel the emotional distance—and closeness—between a father and daughter trying to find their way back to each other.
Visual Aesthetics
At a time when immigration policies shape the fate of millions, Paredes Entre Tú y Yo goes beyond politics to show the human side of immigration—the love, sacrifice, and resilience that define so many families. This isn’t just about documents and borders; it’s about the emotional toll of belonging in a country that doesn’t always welcome you.
We can’t bring this story to life without YOU! Your contribution will help us create a visually stunning, emotionally gripping film that reflects the authentic immigrant experience with the respect and depth it deserves.
We’re in pre-production for Paredes Entre Tú y Yo, and we’re beyond excited to finally share this story with the world. It’s personal. It’s powerful. And with your help, it’s going to be unforgettable. We’re a team of passionate, trained filmmakers committed to creating art that moves people and makes an impact. This is a story rooted in truth, love, and resilience—and we’re calling on our community of friends, family, and fellow storytellers to help us make it a reality.
Funds will go toward:
- Cast and Crew- Paying the critical people who make this film happen.
- Locations- A house to shoot the film in, along with a food truck.
- Props and Set Pieces- to make the space authentic to the story.
- Post-Production – Editing, sound design, and color grading to make it cinematic.
- Festival Submissions – Sharing this story with the world to spark conversation.
Once completed, we’ll submit to festivals across the country—amplifying the voices behind this story and reaching communities that need to see themselves on screen.
Every dollar makes a difference. Every share helps us grow.
Thank you for believing in us—and in the power of stories that need to be told!
Wishlist
Use the WishList to Pledge cash and Loan items - or - Make a pledge by selecting an Incentive directly.
Cast
Costs $800
This is to hire the cast to bring the story to life!
Production Rentals
Costs $13,061
Camera, lighting, production sound, and location expenses
Wardrobe/ Hair and Makeup
Costs $1,993
For our costume designer and hair and makeup rentals, etc.
Production Staff and Set Operations
Costs $9,699
This is our entire crew. The village it takes to bring the story to life!
Post Production Costs
Costs $2,000
This includes editing, coloring, music, and post production sound.
Contingency
Costs $1,794
These would be additional production costs including insurance and miscellaneous costs.
Cash Pledge
Costs $0
Direct link:
Share this update!
About This Team
Catalina Garayoa: Writer/ Creator/ Actress
Catalina is a first generation American artist living in Los Angeles, CA. She grew up in Colorado with undocumented parents from Mexico and Chile who worked hard to give their family a better life. She is a storyteller, actress, and writer. “Paredes Entre Tu y Yo” is based on true events of her family. She is most known for her role of Rebecca in The Social Dilemma. Catalina continues to pursue her dreams as an actress and writer by creating her own work; from comedy skits, to short films, she aims to make her own opportunities.
Jacob Holmquist- Franco: Director
Jacob is an American filmmaker with Mexican-Indigenous roots, passionate about exploring his family’s diverse cultural history through storytelling. His award-winning Indigenous folktale horror film, Nahual—starring Paredes writer and actress Catalina Garayoa—earned him a spot on Hollywood’s list of Most Exciting New Filmmakers and topped IndieX’s list of 2024’s Best Student Horror Short Films.
“It has become a deep, heartfelt pain for me to imagine an America where my family and fellow Latinos are not appreciated as an essential part of this country’s foundation. ‘Paredes’ speaks to the unspoken divide between generations, the weight of personal sacrifice, and the search for belonging. What better way to explore the pain and beauty of the American dream than through the eyes of a first-generation American and her immigrant father?” -Jacob
Gonzalo Martin: Producer
Gonzalo Martin is a proud Argentinian immigrant that worked hard to be able to come and stay in America and become a storyteller through acting and producing his own movies bringing unique Latino stories to life. After winning his BAFTA Award for Best Performer he transitioned to produce movies that he went on to sell to Amazon Prime and HBO Max.
"I believe in the power of storytelling to transcend borders and connect us all. This film is not just a project; it's a celebration of our diverse Latino narratives that deserve to be told. I’m driven by a passion to bring these unique stories to life, to inspire others and create a space where everyone feels represented. I want to be a part of making this film a reality because it's more than entertainment; it’s a movement towards understanding and unity."
Augusto Garcia: Cinematographer
Augusto graduated with an MFA in cinematography from the American Film Institute for which he received a talent scholarship from Audi USA. He has been an associate member of the Society of Camera Operators since 2022. Augusto’s feature documentary “La Raiz de Mi Ombligo” was accepted for the mentorship program “Talent Demo” at the Camerimage Film Festival 2022 in Toruń, Poland. At the end of last year, he wrapped principal photography on his narrative feature debut. As a cinematographer, he splits his time between Mexico City and Los Angeles.
“When I first read the script, I was really moved by the story, it feels close to my own life experience. It’s not only a story about immigration and the transition to being a legal resident in a foreign country, but it’s about grief and the way each person deals with it and how relationships in your life can change after a big loss. “Paredes” means Walls in Spanish, and the walls are what our characters are breaking down to recognize, reconcile, and embrace the love that once existed in their family. In times like the one we are living in, I truly believe it’s important to give space to stories that break down the mental walls of separation."- Augusto Garcia