We had the good fortune of connecting with Darwin Reina and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Darwin, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
As a filmmaker, my journey began in 2013, but my love for storytelling started long before that—I began acting at just five years old. After years in front of the camera, I decided to pivot toward directing in 2011. This shift was largely inspired by my experiences in New York, where I faced challenges while studying and auditioning. Those struggles made me realize that I wanted to be the one telling stories and leading creative projects.

By 2015, I was actively participating in film festivals, and I noticed recurring issues that filmmakers often faced, particularly a lack of human connection and effective communication. Many festivals lacked warmth, proper engagement, and even small but meaningful details, like providing badges or hosting opening ceremonies. These shortcomings drove me to create festivals that prioritized the human factor, where filmmakers felt genuinely welcomed and celebrated.

When I started my own festivals—Love & Hope International Film Festival in Barcelona and The North Film Festivals in New York City and Stockholm—I made it a mission to improve these areas. From ensuring great communication to adding personal touches like filmmaker badges as keepsakes, I wanted to create an environment that truly values and supports filmmakers.

Finally, I realized that festivals could be more than just a platform for showcasing films; they could also help bring new projects to life. While I can’t produce all the independent films I’ve seen—more than 10,000 submissions in the past six years—I’m proud to support one or two exceptional projects each year, providing a tangible boost to talented filmmakers.

What should our readers know about your business?
My business revolves around storytelling and creating opportunities for filmmakers. As a filmmaker, producer, and festival director, I run three annual international film festivals: Love & Hope International Film Festival in Barcelona and The North Film Festivals in New York City and Stockholm. What sets my festivals apart is their strong emphasis on the human factor—ensuring that every filmmaker feels valued through exceptional communication, meaningful experiences, and personal touches like badges and opening ceremonies.

Getting here wasn’t easy. Transitioning from an actor to a director in 2011 was driven by my challenges in New York, where I realized the need to lead my creative journey. Building festivals came later, inspired by attending festivals that lacked warmth and connection. Overcoming these challenges required resilience, learning from each setback, and staying true to my vision of creating supportive spaces for filmmakers.

I’m most proud of seeing independent filmmakers gain recognition at my festivals and occasionally helping to produce some of their work. These festivals are not just events; they’re platforms for creative collaboration and celebrating stories that matter.

What I want the world to know is that storytelling is at the heart of everything I do—whether through films or festivals—and I’m dedicated to empowering the next generation of creators.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
La Sagrada Família
Lunch: Head to El Nacional, a multi-restaurant venue offering authentic Catalan cuisine.

Park Güell
Drinks: Stop at La Vinya del Senyor near the Gothic Quarter for a glass of Spanish wine and tapas.

Barceloneta Beach
Lunch: Enjoy fresh seafood at Salamanca Restaurante, a local favorite.

Montjuïc Castle
Drinks: Cap off the day at Eclipse bar in the W Hotel, offering stunning city views.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Rubi Rios Rojas my mother!

Website: https://www.darwinreina.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/darwinreina/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darwin-reina-75115a100

Twitter: https://x.com/DarwinReina

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DarwinReinaActor

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@DRTVWeb

Image Credits
Rodartin S.L. (its my company so its all good)

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