Press Releases
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
For more information, please contact:[352.718.0008 | rene@renezepeda.com]"From Home to Hope" Chronicles the Resilience of Migration in a Gripping Documentary Premiere
Winter Park, Florida - May 30, 2024 - "From Home to Hope," the latest documentary from Honduran director Rene Zepeda, is set to captivate audiences at Full Sail's Gradfest, premiering in a private screening at the esteemed Enzian Theater on June 6, 2024, at 2:30 PM.
Following the journey of Allan Gomez, a Honduran doctor compelled to flee his homeland amidst escalating gang violence, "From Home to Hope" offers a poignant exploration of the challenges faced by migrants seeking refuge in a foreign land. Through intimate interviews with Allan and his wife, viewers gain insight into the personal impact of migration, highlighting both the emotional toll and the resilience required to adapt to a new culture.
According to Zepeda “as a son of immigrants and a hispanic man, it is important to me for the world to know that most of us are just looking for a better future…just like most Americans, we want to make this country great as well.”
The documentary also features expert commentary from a psychologist, shedding light on the psychological and emotional struggles inherent in the immigrant experience. Additionally, insights from a Latino pastor underscore the role of faith and community support in providing strength and solidarity during times of transition.
"From Home to Hope" stands as a compelling testament to the universal quest for safety, security, and belonging in an ever-changing world. Directed by Rene Zepeda, this powerful film promises to leave a lasting impression on audiences worldwide.
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About Rene Zepeda:
Rene Zepeda is an acclaimed Honduran director known for his compelling storytelling and ability to shed light on pressing social issues. "From Home to Hope" marks his third directorial endeavor, following the success of his previous films.
About Full Sail's Gradfest:
Gradfest is a monthly event hosted by Full Sail University, showcasing the talents of its graduating students from the Film Production Master of Fine Arts program. The premiere of "From Home to Hope" is a highlight of this month's festivities, held at the prestigious Enzian Theater in Winter Park, Florida.
About the Enzian theater:
The Enzian Theater is a nonprofit arthouse movie theater located in Winter Park, Florida. The theater hosts the Florida Film Festival and several other local film festivals, such as Gradfest.
The name "Enzian" is the German word for gentian, a genus of mountain flower.
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Documentary Short From Home to Hope Selected for the 2025 St. Auggie Shorts Film Festival
St. Augustine, FL — The powerful documentary short From Home to Hope (2024) has been officially selected to screen at the prestigious St. Auggie Shorts Film Festival, taking place February 7-8, 2025, on the historic campus of Flagler College in downtown St. Augustine, Florida. The film is also in contention for awards at the festival.
Directed by Rene Zepeda, From Home to Hope follows the poignant journey of Allan Gomez, a Honduran doctor forced to flee his homeland amidst escalating gang violence and threats against his family. Through intimate interviews with Allan and his wife, the documentary explores the emotional toll of migration, the challenges of adapting to a new culture, and the resilience required to build a new life in a foreign land.
The film also features expert insights from a mental health professional, offering a nuanced perspective on the psychological hurdles faced by migrants. Additionally, a compassionate pastor serving a Latino congregation shares reflections on the vital role of faith and community in fostering resilience during times of profound transition.
The St. Auggie Shorts Film Festival, curated by the Cinematic Arts major at Flagler College, celebrates short films (30 minutes or less) that educate, entertain, and inspire audiences. Over two days, attendees will experience a diverse range of thematic film blocks in the elegant Lewis Auditorium, with opportunities for Q&A sessions and audience interaction.
From Home to Hope stands as a testament to the indomitable human spirit, resonating deeply with the festival's mission to spotlight stories that inspire empathy, understanding, and meaningful dialogue.
For more information about From Home to Hope, visit www.renezepeda.com. To learn more about the St. Auggie Shorts Film Festival, visit www.flagler.edu.
Media Contact:
Rene Zepeda
rene@renezepeda.com
(352) 718-0008
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
For more information, please contact: [352.718.0008 | rene@renezepeda.com]
From Home to Hope Officially Selected for the Philadelphia Latino Arts and Film Festival
Winter Park, Florida – February 18, 2025 – From Home to Hope (2024), the latest documentary from Honduran director Rene Zepeda, has been officially selected for the Philadelphia Latino Arts and Film Festival (PHLAFF), running from May 25 – July 6, 2025. This esteemed festival highlights groundbreaking works by Latine/x/a/o filmmakers, fostering cross-cultural dialogue and celebrating the richness of Latine experiences through film.
Following the journey of Allan Gomez, a Honduran doctor forced to flee his homeland due to escalating gang violence, From Home to Hope offers a deeply personal look at the migrant experience. Through candid interviews with Allan and his wife, the film sheds light on the emotional toll of displacement, the resilience required to rebuild a life in a new country, and the universal search for safety and belonging.
“As a son of immigrants, telling stories like this is deeply personal,” says Zepeda. “Migration isn’t just about movement—it’s about courage, sacrifice, and hope for a better future. I’m honored that From Home to Hope will be part of PHLAFF, a festival that uplifts our voices and our stories.”
The film also features expert insights from a psychologist, exploring the emotional and psychological struggles of migration, alongside perspectives from a Latino pastor on the role of faith and community in providing strength through transition.
About the Philadelphia Latino Arts and Film Festival
Established in 2012, the Philadelphia Latino Arts and Film Festival (PHLAFF) is the Greater Philadelphia region’s only festival dedicated to showcasing the extraordinary and innovative work of emerging and established Latine/x/a/o filmmakers. Over the years, PHLAFF has evolved into an international festival, bringing the best of Latine/x/a/o stories to audiences far beyond Philadelphia.
PHLAFF’s mission is to nurture Latine/x/a/o creatives by celebrating the richness and diversity of their cultures and experiences while fostering cross-cultural understanding and dialogue. The festival provides a platform for filmmakers, actors, producers, and creatives to meet, engage with audiences, and present and discuss innovative work.
Through screenings, conversations (both virtual and in person), workshops, and special events, PHLAFF creates critical connections between diverse communities, using the universal language of film to explore shared experiences and promote meaningful dialogue on a national and international level.
With its selection at PHLAFF, From Home to Hope joins a diverse lineup of films that push boundaries and spark important conversations. The festival will host screenings, discussions, and events that connect filmmakers, audiences, and creatives from across the globe.
From Home to Hope is a testament to the resilience of those who leave everything behind in pursuit of hope—and the communities that welcome them.
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
For more information, please contact: [352.718.0008 | rene@renezepeda.com]
“From Home to Hope” Selected for Austin International Film Festival
AUSTIN, TX – From Home to Hope, a powerful new documentary chronicling the harrowing yet hopeful journey of Honduran doctor Allan Gomez, has been officially selected to screen at the Austin International Film Festival. This prestigious event, known for its celebration of bold storytelling and global filmmaking talent, will showcase the film in its carefully curated lineup this year.
Directed with compassion and insight, From Home to Hope offers an intimate look at the immigrant experience through Allan’s flight from gang violence in Honduras and his pursuit of safety and opportunity in the United States. The documentary captures the emotional and psychological toll of migration through deeply personal interviews with Allan and his wife, as well as expert commentary from a mental health professional and a Latino pastor. Together, their voices paint a complex portrait of displacement, resilience, and the enduring quest for belonging.
"Allan’s story is both deeply personal and universally resonant," said the film’s director. "It reflects the strength of those who are forced to leave everything behind in search of safety and dignity. We are honored to share it at a festival that truly understands the power of authentic storytelling."
Founded by award-winning filmmakers Luke and Martha Van Garza, the Austin International Film Festival is celebrated for its filmmaker-first approach and vibrant, inclusive atmosphere. Held in Austin, Texas—a creative nexus for both independent and major film productions—the festival offers a dynamic platform for emerging and established filmmakers to connect, collaborate, and showcase their work on the big screen.
The inclusion of From Home to Hope in this year’s festival lineup not only recognizes the documentary’s artistic merit but also underscores its timely and urgent message. Through its evocative storytelling and expert insight, the film calls for greater empathy and understanding for those navigating the difficult path of migration.
From Home to Hope will screen in a state-of-the-art theater during the festival, allowing audiences to experience its compelling visuals and emotional depth as intended—on the big screen with immersive sound.
For screening times and ticket information, visit: [Insert Festival or Personal Website Link]
About the Austin International Film Festival
The Austin International Film Festival, sponsored by Inner Sanctum Films, is a premier celebration of global filmmaking held annually in Austin, Texas. Founded by acclaimed filmmakers Luke and Martha Van Garza, the festival is committed to fostering creativity, community, and meaningful connection within the film industry. Known for its high-quality curation, filmmaker-friendly approach, and true cinematic presentations, the festival welcomes storytellers from all backgrounds. With events ranging from casual mixers to structured networking, and an inclusive award program judged solely on talent and quality, the Austin International Film Festival is where passionate voices in film come together to be seen, heard, and celebrated.
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