The Denver Film Society would like to thank the Academy, their fans and their families, probably.
For the first time in its 41-year history, the organization received a $10,000 FilmWatch grant from the Motion Picture Arts and Sciences — the people who correctly chose "Moonlight" over "La La Land."
The money will be used for the Film Society's CineLatino program, "which showcases Latino cinema and celebrates the culture with premieres, interactive projects, receptions and special events," a press release said.
CineLatino will put the funds toward paying for film rights, hosting and accommodating filmmakers and free events.
"In just a few years, CineLatino has become one of our most popular programs," Denver Film Society Artistic Director Brit Withey said in a statement. "Created several years ago to celebrate the importance of Hispanic Heritage Month, CineLatino seeks to bring diverse ideas and cultures together through their mutual appreciation of film."
Denver Film Society is the only Colorado institution to receive one of the FilmWatch grants, which total $500,000 distributed to 51 film organizations for 2018-19.
CineLatino will hold its fourth annual festival Sept. 6-9 at the Sie Film Center and will again offer programming at the Denver Film Festival, this year held Oct. 31-Nov. 11. Here's a look at last year's CineLatino Festival.
