Chicano Film Icon Luis Valdez Honors El Paso at Plaza Classic Film Festival

A Celebration of Culture and Legacy

Luis Valdez, a revered figure in Chicano cinema, recently made a special appearance in El Paso to share his experiences and insights during the Plaza Classic Film Festival. The event took place on Friday, July 18, at the Plaza Theatre, where Valdez reflected on his journey as a writer and director, particularly his work on the iconic film "La Bamba."

Valdez described the Plaza Theatre as a "glorious temple of art and culture" during an engaging stage interview with Stephanie Valle, the host of the Plaza Classic Podcast. He emphasized the deep historical significance of El Paso, highlighting its role as a crossroads for human migration over thousands of years. From ancient mound builders to modern-day residents, Valdez felt a profound connection to the city, which he called "El Paso del Norte."

The Plaza Classic Film Festival, now in its 18th year, is organized by the El Paso Community Foundation and will run through July 27. This year's festival will showcase 98 films, including documentaries and works from local filmmakers, offering a diverse range of cinematic experiences.

The Inspiration Behind "La Bamba"

Valdez shared how his journey into storytelling began during his time as a freshman at San José State University, where he was initially studying math and physics. His life changed when Ritchie Valens, a young musician, died in a plane crash in 1959. At the time, Valdez was captivated by Valens' rock 'n' roll version of the Mexican folk song "La Bamba," which became a party anthem among his friends.

Valdez initially thought Valens' name was Italian, but later learned that his real name was Richard Steven Valenzuela, and he hailed from Pacoima, a neighborhood in Los Angeles. This revelation sparked a shift in Valdez's academic path, leading him to switch majors to English with an emphasis on playwriting. He began searching for stories to tell, and "La Bamba" remained at the forefront of his mind for decades.

From Stage to Screen

After the success of his groundbreaking play "Zoot Suit," which became the first Chicano play to reach Broadway in 1979, Valdez sought his next project. During a walk on Broadway, he heard mariachis playing "La Bamba," which inspired him to pursue the story of Ritchie Valens. His brother took on the task of tracking down Valens' family and securing the rights to tell his story.

Valdez recounted the emotional process of connecting with Valens' family, especially his mother, Connie, who suffered from heart issues. Despite her health challenges, she played a significant role in Valens' career and was present during the filming of the movie. Her presence on set was seen as a source of strength and inspiration.

The Emotional Impact of the Film

Valdez shared poignant memories of the airport scene in "La Bamba," where Lou Diamond Phillips portrays Ritchie Valens. The scene was particularly emotional for Valens' youngest sisters, who were very young when he died. They hugged Phillips and struggled to let him go, their tears reflecting the deep emotional impact of the film.

Valdez also spoke about the casting process, describing how he found Lou Diamond Phillips in Dallas. Despite initial concerns about his ethnicity, Valdez was convinced by Phillips' talent and passion. He humorously noted that Filipinos are often considered the Hispanics of Asia, a remark that drew laughter from the audience.

A Lasting Tribute

Valdez made a second appearance on Saturday, July 19, before the screening of "Zoot Suit," a film that marked a significant milestone in Chicano theater history. His visit to El Paso highlighted not only his contributions to cinema but also his deep respect for the cultural heritage of the region.

Through his work, Valdez continues to honor the stories of those who have shaped the American experience, ensuring that their legacies live on through the power of film and storytelling.