Welcome to our Real Talk series, where we’re talking with artists, filmmakers, and educators we work with at Austin School of Film. We’re asking a cross-section of multimedia creators what inspires their work, how COVID-19 has affected their craft, and what we can hope to look forward to with them in the future.

This afternoon’s highlight is Nico Treviño—Austin-based artist, filmmaker, and curator. Nico is the lead bartender behind tonight’s RADICAL CINEMA INTERNATIONAL SHOWCASE —where Austin School of Film has curated an evening featuring four filmmakers & their work from around the globe.

We chatted with Nico about his involvement in the arts and film worlds and how in October, he’s curated an entire series with our favs (Hyperreal Film Club) centering Mexican cinema.

Nico Treviño (he/him)

Location: Austin, Texas

Industry/Craft: Arts and service industry: Photography, illustrations, machine-free tattoos, pouring cocktails and smoothies.

THE INTERVIEW

Tell us a little bit about yourself!

Howdy y'all! I was born in Dallas and moved to Central Texas about twelve years ago. I studied at Texas State University and had my mind set on becoming a teacher, so after graduating I taught English in France but decided that teaching wasn't for me. I returned to Texas and started getting more involved with filmmaking and programming. In my free time I stay busy playing basketball and being outdoors.

How did you first get introduced to film?

When I was growing up in Dallas my uncle was studying to be a journalist. Amongst the music, books, and art that he exposed me to, we watched a lot of movies. Around the time YouTube started catching on, my neighborhood friends and I started making videos to our favorite music. I have no idea where these films are, but it makes me smile to know that they exist somewhere on the internet.

What do you love about filmmaking?

There is so much to say but I suppose above all, I love the aspects of photography and storytelling. I love that no matter what your background is, there is a movie for you. Film can easily be so niche and specific, and in that way it is a universal medium.

You are curating a virtual screening series with one of our favorite local organizations —Hyperrreal Film Club! Can you tell us a bit about it and your role at HFC?

Yes! Shout out to Hyperreal!! Right now we are in the middle of Cinema LatinXperience: Mexico. I was asked to curate a series about Latin films and I started working on this project. I really wanted to explore the idea of a nation being inseparably tied to the films that it creates. Mexico is so colorful and I think a lot of people, especially in the USA, underestimate how rich stories coming from Mexico can be; Mexico and Mexicans cannot be so easily defined, and I wanted to dive into that through contemporary films.

In July of 2019 I met the Hyperreal team. I started as a bartender / volunteer with their summer Family Movie Nights and Drive-In series. My role then sort of morphed into a partnership; I started to program a couple of films here and there, I drew some event posters, and recently, in addition to the virtual film series, I am working on selling VHS tapes through their online store. Collaborating with such beautiful and creative people brings me so much fulfillment.

You curated the cocktail/mocktail for this evening’s Radical Cinema Showcase! What can you tell us about why you choose this particular drink to make and enjoy with our guests?

We're changing seasons, but in Texas some days are still hot. I wanted to make a Paloma, the national drink of Mexico, as an exit to the summer. And the tamarind and ginger beverage is a flavorful introduction into fall. It's got refreshing and soothing notes, perfect for the cooler days.

What does self-care mean to you during the time of COVID-19?

During these unique times, self-care is disconnecting and I have found refuge in listening to Cumbia music and working in my backyard. I enjoy working with my hands and organizing things and I get to do that for maybe an hour everyday. For me, tuning out the noise of politics and social media has been so helpful.

Anything else you would like to share?

I hope y'all enjoy the movies and drinks! Cheers!

“I really wanted to explore the idea of a nation being inseparably tied to the films that it creates. Mexico is so colorful and I think a lot of people, especially in the USA, underestimate how rich stories coming from Mexico can be; Mexico and Mexicans cannot be so easily defined, and I wanted to dive into that through contemporary films.”

An Interview with Austin Filmmaker Nico Treviño