Raindance Film Festival Executive Director David Martinez Departs, Launches New PR Agency
David Martinez, a pivotal figure in the Raindance Film Festival's recent history, has concluded his tenure as Executive Director. Over the past decade, his leadership has been instrumental in broadening the festival's international scope and enhancing its support for independent cinema. His departure marks a new chapter as he embarks on a fresh endeavor, Casa Leo PR, dedicated to championing the voices of independent filmmakers on a global stage.
Raindance Film Festival Leadership Transition and New Ventures
On October 9, 2026, David Martinez, the long-standing Executive Director of the Raindance Film Festival, announced his decision to step down from his role. Martinez initially joined Raindance in 2012 as a producer and programmer, specifically focusing on Latin American territories, before ascending to the executive director position five years ago. Under his guidance, the festival witnessed a remarkable expansion of its global footprint, forging new collaborations with filmmakers and industry partners across diverse regions including Mexico, Chile, Catalonia, Cyprus, and Germany, leading to a significant increase in audience attendance. He was also responsible for introducing several key initiatives, such as the House of Raindance, Raindance XR, the Raindance Script Competition, and an LGBTQ+ programming strand, alongside bolstering strategic sponsorships and partnerships. Elliot Grove, the founder of Raindance, acknowledged Martinez's profound impact, highlighting his unwavering passion for independent cinema and his collaborative approach, which have left the festival in a robust position for its future trajectory.
Looking ahead, Martinez revealed his plans to continue advocating for independent filmmakers through his recently established agency, Casa Leo PR. This new venture aims to provide filmmakers with essential expertise to navigate the complexities of the film festival circuit and awards season. Launched earlier this year with former Raindance producer Jacky Orozco, Casa Leo PR has already undertaken notable campaigns, including a collaboration with Netflix for the London screening of Maite Alberdi's “A Child of My Own” and supporting Humberto Busto's “Tijuana todavía.” The agency is currently representing Santiago Maza’s documentary short “Black Shine” (“El brillo negro”), which delves into the poignant struggle of families seeking to recover loved ones lost in the 2006 Pasta de Conchos mining disaster. This film is set to premiere at the 24th Morelia Film Festival, scheduled from October 16 to 25, in Mexico.
Martinez's transition from a prominent festival leadership role to establishing his own PR agency underscores a continuing commitment to fostering independent cinematic talent. His journey highlights the dynamic landscape of the film industry, where seasoned professionals often leverage their institutional experience to create new platforms for artists. It serves as an inspiring example of how dedication to a cause can evolve into diverse forms of support, ensuring that compelling stories from around the world continue to find their audience and recognition.
