NYILFF Red Carpet Action: Wilmer, America & More At 'Dry Land' Premiere

By Elis T. Ortiz
Photo Credit: Bashira Webb

Calixto Chinchilla was a mixture of nerves and excitement last night (July 27) for the 11th year of his brainchild event, the NY International Latino Film Festival. Making his way down the press line after "The Dry Land" co-star America Ferrera in a body sculpting purple dress, he expressed his pride in continuing to provide a platform for wider exposure to Latino actors and filmmakers.

Ryan Piers and America Ferrera at the "Dry Land" premiere in NYC

"The Dry Land," the feature film directorial debut of America’s fiancé Ryan Piers Williams, has been drawing a lot of positive buzz.

Ryan Piers and America Ferrera

This year’s fest opener features America Ferrera, newcomer Ryan O’Nan, and a face MTV viewers are very familiar with, "Yo Momma"’s Wilmer Valderrama.

Wilmer Valderrama at the 2010 NYILFF

"Dry Land" is the story of an American war veteran, played by O’Nan, afflicted with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, trying to find his way back to a “normal” life.

Though not a specifically Latino story, the film’s Latino cast members (Ferrera as O’Nan’s wife and Valderrama as his friend and comrade) do play their roles from this particular perspective, making it a perfect start to the festival’s celebration of Latinos in film.

Ana Ortiz at the 2010 NYILFF

Among supporters was "Ugly Betty" co-star Ana Ortiz, who made her way down the red carpet and embraced Ferrera in a sisterly hug. Also showing love for the festival were film & music video directors, brothers Ulysses & Jessy Terrero.

Celines Toribio, Latina television anchor, producer, sports caster, model, and actress, was also in attendance to support her fellow filmmakers. Toribio will also be part of the NYILFF feature on Thursday, where her film alongside Avatar star Michelle Rodriguez, entitled "Trópico de Sangre," will debut.

The night’s closing celebration took place at NYC’s Kiss & Fly nightclub, where both Ryans (the writer/director and the lead actor) partied with Wilmer Valderrama. Ferrera opted out of the party scene, but the boys surely had fun on her behalf!

"Dry Land" opens in theaters nationwide on July 30.

For a complete list of this year’s films, you can visit http://nylatino.bside.com/2010/films.

Can't get enough red carpet action? We've got you covered! Blogamole will be following up with the big stars of this year’s NYILFF to keep you in the know! Hasta la próxima!

Tags America Ferrera, new york international latino film festival, NYILFF, photo, Photos, Red Carpet, Wilmer Valderrama