"To have a platform to show your film is very important, especially for filmmakers who show their films in New York City -- it's the mecca of filmmaking," Roberto Rizzo, founder and CEO of the New York City International Film Festival, told the Latin Post.

A filmmaker himself, Rizzo says that you can have the best camera or the latest in technology, but if you don't tell the story right, then you don't have a successful film -- it's what is behind the lens is the most compelling part. 

The Italian-born Rizzo, who founded the NYCIFF five years ago, noticed the surge of Latino filmmakers and actors within the mainstream market, an increase in its presence in the Hollywood industry, and most importantly the power behind Latino storytelling. Given this movement, he that it would be best to dedicate an entire day within the NYCIFF to showcase the talents of Latino filmmakers and actors from the U.S. and around the world, thus, Latino Film Day was born.

"Because of their (Latinos) outstanding presence in entertainment, we see a need to promote their talents through our film festival," Rizzo adds. "NYCIFF is the only film festival in NYC that understands the Latin market. We speak the language and have an appreciation for the films. Likewise, our staff has worked with Latino communities for over 25 years." 

Coming into its second year, NYCIFF's Latino Film Day, which will occur on May 31, 2014, will return even stronger and the festival will welcome a family-friendly street fair that will feature local vendors, Latin food and live entertainment, etc.

"I have no doubt that Latino Film Day will be successful because it's so concentrated (all of the screenings will be in one central location, Village East Cinema, as opposed to last year). And I am excited because we have the street fair that will bring more life to it," said Latino Film Day Coordinator Daniela Montalvo, who is also a Peruvian-American actress currently working on an independent film.   

The NYCIFF will also feature a compelling film that touches upon the powerful and controversial topic of illegal immigration and how it affects families in the U.S. The feature film, which will have a Q&A following the screening, is Greencard Warriors, starring Vivica A. Fox (Kill Bill Vol. 1& 2), Manny Perez (HOMELAND, Courage Under Fire), Angel Amaral (Short Term 12, Without Men) The film tells the story of a family from El Salvador who is looking for the American Dream, but they are deceived by Army officials when their son goes to war. The family is promised a green card, but does not receive one.

"'Greencard Warriors' will open up the United States' eyes," Rizzo said.  

Last year's feature film was Pancho Villa, which received a warm welcome by the community, according to Montalvo.

While it's a monumental task to go through thousands of NYCIFF film submissions, there was an exciting trend that Rizzo and his staff noticed this year -- an increase in Latina filmmakers and female filmmakers overall in all categories. For example, the NYCIFF will feature a female-directed, gay and lesbian film called "I Think I Am Beautiful," among many others. 

"This year we have more female filmmakers," added Rizzo. "We like to give female filmmakers an opportunity."

While there were always Latino films incorporated into the NYCIFF, having one day dedicated only to Latino film enables the festival to focus on more talent from such an interesting and diverse pool of people. There is a variety of themes across the board for Latino Film Day, which includes drama, comedy, including some horror films from Chile as well.

"Every year we have good movies," Rizzo explains. "There are filmmakers from Cuba, Chile, Venezuela, Colombia, Mexico, among many others.

Another interesting component to note about the NYCIFF is the international approach to filmmaking, which is often embraced and funded abroad. Rizzo points out that a lot of the governments are especially supportive of filmmaking, including Mexico, Argentina and Colombia.

While the United States still takes the cake when it comes to cinematography, international films are incredible in their own right. Like many celebrities from around the world who are drawn to the Canne Film Festival, Rizzo was equally impressed by their representation of the film industry.

"As a filmmaker, I've had the opportunity to attend the Cannes Film Festival. I was incredibly impressed with the organization, as well as quality and glamor of the festival; they had an immense respect for the film community," he said. "I created NYCIFF with the purpose of giving filmmakers a high profile platform in the states to showcase their work to a vast and diverse audience."

Also Screen Actors Guild member, Rizzo has worked on Sex and The City, as well as commercials and various films.

On a grander scale, which films and the creative geniuses behind them are worthy of an Oscar this year?

According to Rizzo, Dallas Buyers Club,  Blue Jasmine, and Philomena, are his top picks that have earned the right to take home an Academy Award this year.

With the excitement of Oscar season underway, Rizzo and his staff are gearing up for New York City International Film Day and Latino Film Day to play their part in such a wide creative arena like the film industry and help catapult the film careers of up and coming talent both nationally and internationally.

"The beauty of NYCIFF is that it's not just a place to see films. This film festival has created daily cultural events and special days to honor and celebrate the talent of filmmaking from around the world," Rizzo said. "The truth of these special events is the unity of diverse societies and ethnicities, a place where the up and coming filmmakers can connect and discuss the methods of their craft."

The New York City International Film Festival will take place from May 29 - June 5 and Latino Film Day will take place on May 31.