Presented in partnership with the University of Arizona School of Theatre, Film & Television (TFTV), Film Independent Members and a guest are invited to join us for a theatrical screening of Desert Angel, followed by an in-person conversation with editor and TFTV alum Jillian Corsie.

Forty years ago, Rafael Larraenza risked everything to cross from Mexico into the US. After building a successful career, a twist of fate drew him back to the border. For 25 years, Rafael has tirelessly searched deserts and mountains to rescue lost immigrants and recover remains, becoming a hero in Latin American communities. Despite needing a double hip replacement, Rafael continues his mission, knowing every moment counts for those lost at the border. When Indira, a mother from El Salvador, asks for help finding her son Rodrigo, Rafael risks his life again, driven by sheer determination, even as the years and terrain take their toll.

From Java Films, Desert Angel had its world premiere at the Austin Film Festival, where it won the Best Feature Documentary prize. The film will be released in theaters on October 13.

Desert Angel associate producer Skinner Myers is a Film Independent Fellow and recipient of the 2025 Amplifier Fellowship.

 
2026, 87 minutes, color | Written by Jillian Corsie, Daniela I. Quiroz | Directed by Vincent DeLuca | Featuring Rafael Larraenza, Mónica Larraenza, Indira Renderos | Produced by Janek Ambros, David Bennett, Dolores Delgado, Vincent DeLuca, Jillian Corsie, Séverine Tibi | Executive Produced by Demián Bichir, Danny Ramirez, Martina Basenger, Douglas Choi
 

Registration Information

Film Lover Members receive priority entry at this event. Arts Circle Members are guaranteed access, and receive both priority entry and reserved seating. Email [email protected] for more.

All Film Independent Members can register for this event starting at 4:00 pm PT on Thursday, August 27. | Registration is free; one registration per Membership. | Proof of Member status is required to complete registration.
 

Tickets/Parking

On the day of the event, registered Members may pick up tickets as early as 30 minutes prior to the scheduled start time – look for Film Independent signage. Tickets are nontransferable and for general, unreserved theater seating only (except for Arts Circle Members). Attendees must be in their seat(s) at least 15 minutes prior to the advertised start time or seat(s) may be released. Entry/seating will be handled on a first-come, first-served basis. Guests may not enter the venue without the Member who registered them present. Registration does not guarantee entry, even with a ticket in hand.

Landmark Sunset offers three hours of free parking with validation; $2.00 every 15 minutes thereafter, with a daily maximum of $24.00. The garage is open 24 hours – enter from Laurel Ave. or Crescent Heights Blvd.
 

Accessibility

Film Independent is committed to hosting events that are accessible. For inquiries regarding accessibility, or to request an accommodation, please contact us at [email protected] or 323 556 9305.
 

Screening Policies

Availability window and registration capacity may vary; always register as early as possible. Limit one registration per individual, per event.

Attendees are required to follow all rules and guidelines as laid out by Film Independent and/or its partners. If a guest has been registered for an event by a Member, these policies shall apply to that guest. Violation of policies may result in suspension or termination of Membership/access to future events.

Event details and guest participation are subject to change or cancellation without prior notice.