London, UK — The London Latino Film Festival (LoLaFF) is proud to announce the internationally acclaimed figures who will serve as Patrons – bringing together some of the most respected voices from Latin American cinema and global television. Their support marks a significant milestone for LoLaFF as it continues to build cultural bridges between the UK and Latin America, celebrating the richness, diversity, and innovation of Latin American filmmaking.
The Patrons of London Latino Film Festival are:
Jacqueline Arenal – Patron
Renowned Cuban actress Jacqueline Arenal brings to LoLaFF a career distinguished by versatility, power, and a deep commitment to Latin American artistic expression. Arenal has collaborated with iconic directors such as Humberto Solás, Gerardo Chijona, Fernando Pérez, Lars Von Trier/Jørgen Leth, and Paolo Consorti.
Her filmography includes notable titles such as El siglo de las luces (1992), Un paraíso bajo las estrellas (2000), Miradas(2001), Havana Kyrie (with Franco Nero), El mundo de Nelsito, and The Five Obstructions.
She earned global recognition for her acclaimed role as Leonor Moscote in the Netflix series One Hundred Years of Solitude and continues to expand her international presence with roles such as Esperanza Mebarak in Netflix’s Medusa.
Her artistic trajectory and connection to Cuban culture make her an invaluable voice within LoLaFF’s mission.
Óscar Martínez – Patron
Argentine-Spanish actor, author, and theatre director Óscar Martínez stands as one of the most celebrated performers in Ibero-American cinema. Based in Madrid since 2020 and granted honorary Spanish nationality in 2021, Martínez has received the highest honours across theatre, film, and television.
His accolades include:
- Four Sur Awards (Argentine Film Academy)
- Four Silver Condor Awards
- Silver Shell, San Sebastián Film Festival (Empty Nest, 2008)
- Volpi Cup, Venice Film Festival (The Distinguished Citizen, 2016)
- Platino Award, Fénix Award, and multiple distinctions from the Málaga Film Festival
With more than 30 films to his credit—including Wild Tales, Empty Nest, The Distinguished Citizen, Official Competition, and Carlos Saura’s The South—Martínez is widely recognised for his depth, intelligence, and artistic mastery.
He is also a member of the Argentine Academy of Letters and a corresponding member of the Royal Spanish Academy, as well as the author of Ensayo General – Notes on the Actor’s Craft. His presence brings an extraordinary level of prestige to LoLaFF.
Jorge Perugorría – Patron
One of Cuba’s most iconic actors and filmmakers, Jorge Perugorría achieved global acclaim for his unforgettable performance in Strawberry and Chocolate, the first Cuban film to receive an Academy Award nomination for Best Foreign Language Film.
With over 60 film credits across Latin America and Europe, Perugorría has also made his mark as a director with films such as Amor Crónico and Se Vende.
Founder of the Isla Verde International Film and Environment Festival, he is an influential cultural advocate whose work spans cinema, environmental awareness, and artistic development.
His involvement as a Patron strengthens LoLaFF’s dedication to social issues, cultural identity, and artistic collaboration.
Charles McDougall – Patron
British Emmy- and BAFTA-winning director Charles McDougall brings a global television perspective to the Patron circle.
Known for his direction and production of acclaimed series such as:
- House of Cards
- The Office (U.S.)
- Desperate Housewives
- The Good Wife
- Parks and Recreation
- Sex and the City
- Three Little Birds
- Julia (HBO Max)
McDougall has also served as a long-standing educator at Cuba’s renowned Escuela Internacional de Cine y Televisión (EICTV), where he teaches visual storytelling and directing to emerging filmmakers.
His unique connection to both British and Latin American film communities enriches the festival’s intercultural mission.
A Milestone for LoLaFF
The appointment of these four Patrons marks an exciting chapter for the London Latino Film Festival as it prepares for its 2026 edition, taking place 2-6 October 2026. Their artistic influence, global recognition, and commitment to cultural exchange reinforce LoLaFF’s vision of becoming a major platform for Latin American cinema in Europe.
More announcements, including programming highlights, special events, and community initiatives, will follow in the coming months.
