Carlos Acosta and Josefina Zúñiga dreamed of a life different from their own in the small town of Ahualulco de Mercado, Mexico.
In 1966, they left everything behind to begin anew in Chicago, Illinois. The couple, now 80 years old, recount and reflect on their lives in the United States: their careers in the culinary arts, their struggles and accomplishments as immigrants, and the family that blossomed from their wish.
This documentary will cover the couple's childhood and coming of age in rural Mexico, their first years in the United States working as dishwashers in the kitchens of Chicago, their careers as chefs and cooks, which led the pair to work in the finest restaurants of their time and drove Carlos to become the head chef at EPCOT's San Angel Inn at the Mexican Pavilion, and the growth of the Acosta-Zúñiga family.
A story of dedication, hard work, and love for a family, and the food that brought them together. "MOM Y PAPA: Cocina de mis Abuelos" is a deeply personal project that seeks to record years of memories, traditions, and lessons.
After shooting interviews with Carlos and part of Josefina's in San Diego last November, the couple have since traveled back to their home in Guadalajara. Therefore, we want to finish our interviews with Josefina and B-roll—in Mexico.
To cover travel and equipment costs for our main crew, we must fundraise up to $1000. Costs will be allocated towards:
- Transportation (Flights & Ground Transport): $556
- Equipment (G&E, Sound, Storage): $500
- Insurance Costs: $100
Your support for "MOM Y PAPA: Cocina de mis abuelos" will give a voice to Latino filmmakers, artists, and families. Donate today to become a part of Carlos and Josefina's story!
BTS Photography by Ivan Lorenzo