Directing

Santiago José García Cruz

Born 2000-11-17 · Santiago, Dominican Republic

Santiago is involved in the production of commercials, short films, and feature films at the local level. He holds a dual bachelor's degree in Audiovisual Communication and Cinematic Arts from PUCMM STGO and Tompkins Cortland Community College (TC3), where he earned an associate degree in Digital Cinema. Throughout his college career, Santiago produced, directed, wrote, and edited numerous short films, and he also works as a writer, production assistant, cinematographer, and camera assistant. Notable works include "Anfitrión" (2020), filmed during the pandemic and selected for local festivals such as "Finearts" and "Semana Más Corta" in Santo Domingo. His project "Cartas" (2022), co-directed with Ralva Álvarez, has been officially selected and recognized at various local and international festivals. His new short film, "Mérito" (2024), is making its way through various film festivals.

Acting credits

No artwork available

During an argument with her parents, Sara decides to show them a documentary about the only woman in a movie set in the country. What they don't realize is that this was done by Sara and her classmates, and the opportunities it will bring to her career as a filmmaker.

Guetos de Terciopelo

2022

Behind the camera

A stranger kidnaps a pair of brothers and does everything he can to take the older brother's place.

Mérito

2024

A stranger kidnaps a pair of brothers and does everything he can to take the older brother's place.

Mérito

2024

A teen, trapped in an unknown den. Tied down and gagged, he tries to escape while being tormented by an unknown voice that taunts and torments him. He must decide to free himself or fall in the voice's persuasion. Where is the voice coming from? Will he ever escape?

Anfitrión

2021

In the heart of a Dominican family’s home, the youngest daughter’s thirteenth birthday is being celebrated. Balloons, cake, and music cannot hide the tension that lingers in the air. Amid the party, between music and applause, Minerva receives a special gift from her father. What seems like an innocent gesture turns into a silent revelation of the fear that has long resided in her heart. Through glances, restrained gestures, and meaningful details, the short film portrays domestic violence from a child’s perspective, where joy and horror coexist in the same space.

The Celebration of the Tragic Silence of the Youngest One

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