Andrew Gonzales: American Sons Film

Andrew Gonzales: American Sons Film Sonny Melendrez 42:05

Filmmaker – director, Andrew Gonzales shares his inspiring story with Sonny, telling what it took to become an award-winning filmmaking professional.

Andrew also talks about his exciting new project, “American Sons,” slated to air on PBS in 2024.

About Producer / Director – Andrew Gonzales

Andrew Gonzales is a documentary filmmaker, director and commercial cinematographer. Andrew’s lens is usually focused on stories of underdogs on their journey to fight for their survival. This theme is strong in his recent projects: Standing Rock: A New Nation, a vignette about The Dakota Access Pipeline Protests, HERE: The Garrett Scott Story, which follows MMA Fighter Garrett Scott in his climb to compete in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu regardless of the handicap and Right In Front of Us, which highlights the current US-Mexico Border Crisis and its impact on the communities affected by it. Commercially, Andrew produces content for agencies working primarily with corporate responsibility, promotion of green technology, progressive political movements and social change organizations.

In 2019 he traveled the country producing content for Julian Cástro’s Democratic Presidential Campaign. In 2018, he took home several honors from film festivals including Brooklyn’s Latino Short Film Festival, The Hollywood International Moving Pictures Film Festival, The Festigious International Film Festival, The Top Shorts Online Film Festival, and The IndieFest Film Awards. In 2015, he and producer Laura Varela took top prize in the City on The Rise Film Competition at The San Antonio Film Festival.

Sonny Melendrez Inspirational Speaker | Radio/TV Host | Author

Sonny Melendrez, an award-winning TEDx motivational speaker, media consultant, and inspirational figure, has dedicated over 20 years to uplifting individuals and organizations.

Renowned for his energetic keynote speeches and workshops, Melendrez focuses on empowering associations, educational institutions, and businesses to achieve their fullest potential. His engaging presentations are known for their humor and interactive elements, aiming to inspire transformative changes in careers and lives.

Melendrez's accolades include being twice named Billboard Magazine's "National Radio Personality of the Year" and induction into the Texas Radio Hall Of Fame and the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame as one of the top 100 radio personalities. His broadcasting career spanned leading radio stations across Los Angeles and San Antonio, where he not only hosted popular shows but also significantly contributed to public service.

Beyond radio, Melendrez has excelled as a TV host, actor, motivational speaker, and voice artist, endorsing brands like Disney and Pepsi, and engaging audiences at high-profile events, including the White House Hispanic Heritage Awards. He's passionately contributed to social causes, leading initiatives like The Children of the World Project and actively supporting numerous charities, raising over $100 million for non-profits.

Melendrez's efforts have earned him commendations from President Reagan, a Grammy nomination, and recognition as a socially responsible entrepreneur.

His book, "The Art of Living with Enthusiasm!", encapsulates his philosophy on the transformative power of positivity and enthusiasm in personal and professional realms.