February 6, 2026
Statement on behalf of Brenda Victoria Castillo, President & CEO, National Hispanic Media Coalition, regarding the films that have been selected for the 2025 National Film Registry
The National Hispanic Media Coalition (NHMC) celebrates the selection of influential films for the 2025 Library of Congress National Film Registry. The Registry preserves films for future generations that have shaped the nation’s cinematic legacy and reflect its historical and cultural significance. Among the preserved films, only a few tell Latine stories - making their inclusion all the more important.
Stories that center on underrepresented communities and explore themes beyond traditional stereotypes are rarely elevated in film preservation spaces. During times like these, it is encouraging to see representation acknowledged, as films are more than visual media - they are powerful tools for communication that transcend language and offer spaces for cultural expression and connection.
I am proud that a Latine story like Frida (2002) will be preserved for future generations, and audiences will experience the powerful performances of Latine talent and will be inspired by the legacy of one of Mexico’s most celebrated artists. The director of Frida, Julie Taymor, has discussed the filmmaking process and her decision to integrate paintings into the film’s storytelling, which highlights how cinema can help shape narratives.
Other listed films, such as The Thing (1982), The Oath of the Sword (1914), Say Amen, Somebody (1982), and Glory (1989), also reflect a range of diverse narratives and perspectives that, in one way or another, have helped shape the cinematic landscape in their genre.
As a member of the National Film Preservation Board, I will remain committed to advocating for the inclusion of diverse stories on the registry list, and I look forward to celebrating each step taken towards inclusivity.
Yours in the Movement,
Brenda Victoria Castillo
President & CEO
National Hispanic Media Coalition (NHMC)
