The popular indie documentary AMERICAN HOMEBOY is making waves as it prepares to debut on Apple TV and Amazon Prime on October 15th. After selling out theaters across the country and becoming a viral sensation earlier this year—without the backing of an agent or studio—this film has garnered multiple distribution offers and a growing national fanbase.
A Deep Dive into Chicano Culture
Filmed over three years and edited in just 90 days by first-time writer-director Brandon Loran Maxwell, AMERICAN HOMEBOY leverages AI technology to restore 20 terabytes of rare archival footage, exploring the rich and often overlooked origins of Mexican American pachuco and cholo culture.
An Innovative Approach to Distribution
In a departure from traditional methods, Maxwell founded Chela Media in 2022, aiming to create visual, audio, and editorial content for Mexican American audiences—who comprise 60 percent of the Latino population. He took the initiative to approach independent theaters directly, negotiating individual deals to showcase AMERICAN HOMEBOY. His efforts paid off, with each screening selling out and demonstrating a solid audience for his film.
To recoup his investment, Maxwell also developed his own app, where the documentary was initially streamed before being re-licensed to a major distributor.
Celebrated Screenings and Community Engagement
Since its debut in indie theaters, AMERICAN HOMEBOY has captivated audiences from California to Maine, often drawing crowds of 400-500 moviegoers along with dozens of vendors and classic lowrider clubs, primarily from the Mexican American community. Each screening has become a celebration of culture and history.
A Landmark Documentary
AMERICAN HOMEBOY traces the turbulent journey of pachuco and cholo culture over the past century, featuring interviews with prominent figures such as:
- Estevan Oriol
- Charley Trujillo
- Luis Rodriguez
- David Oropeza
- Eduardo Pagán
- Chuco Moreno
- Sandy Avila
Don’t Miss Out on American Homeboy!
With its unique perspective and engaging storytelling, AMERICAN HOMEBOY is not just a documentary; it’s a cultural movement. Be sure to catch this landmark film streaming on Apple TV and Amazon Prime starting October 15th.
