LFI Launches Below-The-Line Fellowship Developed By ‘Roma’s Eugenio Caballero

EXCLUSIVE: The Latino Film Institute has launched the LFI Below-the-Line Fellowship, a program designed to support production designers, cinematographers, editors, and other essential craftspeople by equipping them with the skills, resources, and access needed for successful careers in the entertainment industry. By nurturing these visionary creatives, the program emphasizes technical excellence and artistry behind the camera.

Production Design will serve as the inaugural discipline, with a program developed and led by Academy Award-winning production designer Eugenio Caballero (Pan’s Labyrinth, Roma, Bardo). The initiative aims to address critical needs in below-the-line positions within the film industry while creating meaningful pathways for emerging Latino talent.

“Production design is not just about creating beautiful sets – it’s about building authentic worlds that enhance storytelling. This fellowship represents a crucial opportunity to nurture the next generation of Latino production designers while honoring our cultural perspectives and artistic traditions. Through mentorship and hands-on experience, we can create sustainable pathways for Latino talent in this essential craft,” shared Caballero in a statement to Deadline.

According to LFI, “The Fellowship recognizes the critical role of production design in visual storytelling and world-building. This new fellowship offers a unique blend of hands-on experience, mentorship, and professional development opportunities, including workshops and a masterclass at the Los Angeles Latino International Film Festival. The inaugural program is supported by the CAA Foundation.

“The Latino Film Institute’s partnership with Eugenio Caballero represents a pivotal moment in our mission to empower the next generation of Latino filmmakers,” said Axel Caballero, CEO of Latino Film Institute. “Having an Academy Award-winning production designer lead this fellowship speaks to the transformative power of mentorship. Excellence in production design, as exemplified by Eugenio’s stunning work, will ultimately reshape the landscape of film production design with authentic Latino voices and visions.”

The Latino Film Institute is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to creating infrastructure for equity, diversity, and excellence for the Latino community in the entertainment industry. LFI houses five signature programs: The Youth Cinema Project (YCP), the Los Angeles Latino International Film Festival (LALIFF), LFI Scholar, LFI Spotlight Series, and LFI Fellowships.