Building the American Dream

Across Texas an unstoppable construction boom drives urban sprawl and luxury high-rises. Its dirty secret: abuse of immigrant labor. BUILDING THE AMERICAN DREAM captures a turning point as a movement forms to fight widespread construction industry injustices. Grieving their son, a Mexican family campaigns for a life-and-death safety ordinance. A Salvadorian electrician couple owed thousands in back pay fights for their children’s future. A bereaved son battles to protect others from his family's preventable tragedy. A story of courage, resilience and community, the film reveals shocking truths about the hardworking immigrants who build the American Dream, of which they are excluded.



Programming descriptions are generated by participants and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of SXSW.

Programming descriptions are generated by participants and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of SXSW.

photo of Chelsea Hernandez

Credits

Director:

Chelsea Hernandez

Executive Producer:

Marcy Garriott

Producer:

Chelsea Hernandez, Marisol Medrano

Cinematographer:

Erik Mauck

Editor:

Sarah Garrahan, Chelsea Hernandez

Sound Designer:

Gisela Fulla-Silvestre

Music:

Gil Talmi

Principal Cast:

Claudia, Alex, Gustavo, Jasmine Granillo, Christian

Additional Credits:

Consulting Editor: Carla Gutierrez, Story Consultant & Co-Editor: Manuel Tsingaris, Assistant Editor: Jessica Saldaña, Associate Producer & Assistant Editor: Nina Vizcarrondo, Photographer: Moyo Oyelola, Co-Producer: Mario Troncoso, Co-Producer: Iliana Sosa, Additional Cinematography: Juan A. Izaguirre, Assistant Editor: Anna Ramirez

Contact

Public Film Contact:

Chelsea Hernandez
Panda Bear Films
info@pandabearfilms.com

Publicity Contact:

Tracy Nguyen-Chung
tracy@afterbruce.com
503-701-2115

Primary Access
Platinum Badge
Film Badge
Secondary Access
Music Badge
Interactive Badge
Film Festival Wristband
About
Year:
2019
Premiere Status:
Screening Section:
Screening Category:
Runtime:
75:00 mins