FILMS
Maya, an ambitious small-town TV reporter, has her life turned upside down when the death of her husband leaves her with helping to raise her teenage stepdaughter, Isabel. In addition, things at work begin to unravel when an embarrassing video surfaces and threatens her career. Unsure of where to turn, Maya finds an unlikely bond with a children’s author whose book helped her through a lonely childhood. As her relationship with Isabel blossoms, Maya finds a way to pick herself up and move forward. With standout performances by Karen David (Fear the Walking Dead) and Gabriela Flores (Walker), Isabel’s Garden is a captivating story of loss, love, and the transformative power of chosen family.
Winner – Best Feature Film – Poppy Jasper International Film Festival
Post-Film Q&A
A filmmaker Q&A will follow the screening at the Harris Theater.
Manuel Rafael Lozano
Filmmaker — Isabel's Garden
Manuel Rafael Lozano is an actor, best known for his recurring role as Officer Tejada on "9-1-1" and appearances in shows like Casa Grande and Criminal Minds. He frequently appears in commercials and films, including Teen Wolf The Movie and Holiday in the Vineyards. Born in Puerto Rico to a Mexican father and a Cuban mother, Manuel transitioned to entertainment in his late forties after successful ventures in music education and telecom software sales. His debut as executive producer on the feature film Isabel’s Garden, which he also acted in, is a hopeful family drama that has garnered significant recognition, with selections and awards at prestigious international film festivals. Scheduled for release in January 2025, Isabel's Garden is the first of several films Manuel is currently developing as co-partner of Iris Tuesday Productions. A UC Berkeley alum, he resides in Santa Monica, CA, with his wife and their 11-year-old daughter.
Kit Rich
Filmmaker — Isabel’s Garden
Kit Rich, the writer and director of her debut feature film Isabel’s Garden, has earned numerous awards on the international film festival circuit. Renowned for her work as a celebrity fitness trainer, she has empowered high-profile clients like Jennifer Lawrence and Kesha while also fostering a vibrant online community through her inspiring message of body positivity and wellness. A multifaceted talent, Kit is also an accomplished writer and playwright, with essays featured in esteemed publications such as the LA Times and SELF Magazine. As she continues to break boundaries and inspire others, Kit is currently developing two new films as Co-Partner of Iris Tuesday Productions, marking an exciting new chapter in her flourishing career.