Manuel Villarreal
Directing
Manuel Villarreal is a proud gay 1st generation Mexican-American writer and director based in Los Angeles. His short films, "WHAT THE WATER GAVE" and "I'M STILL HERE," were finalists at the NewFilmmakers LA Video Project and Outfest Fusion Film Festival, respectively. Prior to directing, Manuel worked as an actor and starred in various commercials, including Super Bowl ads for Carl’s Jr. and Kay Jewelers. He holds a BA in Screenwriting from California State University, Northridge, and an MFA in Directing from the AFI Conservatory. Using magical realism and the folklore of his heritage, he hopes to challenge stereotypes associated with Latinos across the U.S.
Known for
Behind the camera4
- 2025Deep Dish Dimples Director
- 2024El Colibrí Director
- 2023La Bruja Director
- TBAMe Miras Director, Writer
Acting1
- 2025High Beam as Dad