ABOUT
The Rooted Film Festival is a celebration of the stories that shape us — the cultures, memories, and communities that define who we are and where we come from. Founded and produced by high school filmmaker Julian Maya, Rooted was inspired by the family stories he grew up hearing. Those narratives, passed down across generations, sparked the idea of creating a space where young filmmakers could explore their own stories.
Rooted brings the Southern California film community together through the shared language of cinema. We invite high school filmmakers to showcase authentic, personal, and meaningful work that explores family, culture, immigration, heritage, or any moment connected to where their story began. By uplifting emerging voices, Rooted celebrates the power of storytelling and the families—chosen or inherited—that shape each filmmaker’s journey.
For more information on the Rooted Film Festival Founder/Producer, Julian Maya-
