Joey Bueno Breese Wins 2026 Deutsche Bank Frieze Los Angeles Film Award (EXCLUSIVE)

Joey Bueno Breese has been named the recipient of the $10,000 2026 Deutsche Bank Frieze Los Angeles Film Award for his film “El Rio Nuestro.” At the same time, Devin O’Guinn received the $2,500 Audience Award for his film “Julian.” Both winners were presented with their prizes during a special ceremony on Friday at Frieze Los Angeles at the Santa Monica Airport.

Now in its seventh year, the Deutsche Bank Frieze Los Angeles Film supports early-career filmmakers in Los Angeles and is produced in collaboration with Ghetto Film School.

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Jury award jurors included Emmy- and Golden Globe–nominated actor and producer Connie Britton; Claudio de Sanctis, Head of Private Bank and member of the Management Board at Deutsche Bank; Ché Chisholm, Chief Executive Officer of Ghetto Film School; Oscar–winning director Orlando von Einsiedel; and Jorge Villon, founder of Grace Lab.

“In its seventh year, the Deutsche Bank Frieze Los Angeles Film Award continues to spotlight filmmakers whose work reflects the courage and imagination of this city,” Americas, Frieze director Christine Messineo said. “This year, the films respond to the theme of Renewal and Resilience in deeply personal and socially aware ways – from confronting histories to finding new purpose. The fellows remind us that storytelling is a vital tool for transformation, both for the artist and the community.”

The shortlisted films were presented online and at the fair. Since its launch in 2019, the Deutsche Bank Frieze Los Angeles Film Award has supported more than 40 fellows, serving as an incubator for next-generation talent within the industry.

“In celebrating the 2026 Deutsche Bank Frieze LA Film Awards, I extend my warmest congratulations to Joey Bueno Breese, this year’s Jury Award recipient, and to Devin O’Guinn, honored with the Audience Award,” de Sanctis said. “Their work leaves a lasting impression on all who engage with it. At Deutsche Bank, we are proud to champion artists whose creativity challenges and enriches cinematic expression.”