Joey Bueno Breeze has been named the $10,000 winner of the 2026 Deutsche Bank Freeze Los Angeles Film Awards for his film “El Rio Nuestro.” At the same time, Devin O’Guinn won the $2,500 Audience Award for the film “Julian.” Both winners were presented with their prizes Friday during a special ceremony at Frieze Los Angeles at the Santa Monica Airport.
Now in its seventh year, Deutsche Bank Freeze Los Angeles Film supports young filmmakers in Los Angeles and is produced in collaboration with the Ghetto Film School.
The jury for the Jury Award included Emmy and Golden Globe nominated actor and producer Connie Britton. Claudio De Sanctis, Head of Private Bank and Member of the Management Board of Deutsche Bank; Mr. Che Chisholm, CEO of Ghetto Film School. Oscar-winning director Orlando von Einsiedel. and Jorge Villon, founder of Grace Lab.
“In its seventh year, the Deutsche Bank Freeze Los Angeles Film Awards continues to shine a spotlight on filmmakers whose work reflects the courage and imagination of our city,” said Christine Messineo, director of America’s Freeze. “From confronting history to finding new purpose, this year’s films respond to themes of rebirth and resilience in deeply personal and socially conscious ways. The Fellows remind us that storytelling is an important tool for change, for both artists and communities.”
“Julian”
The shortlisted films were announced online and at the fair. Since its inception in 2019, the Deutsche Bank Frieze Los Angeles Film Awards has supported more than 40 winners and served as an incubator for the next generation of talent in the industry.
“We would like to congratulate this year’s Jury Prize winner Joey Bueno Breeze and our Audience Award winner Devin Oguin on winning the 2026 Deutsche Bank Freeze LA Film Awards,” said Director De Sanctis. “Their work leaves a lasting impression on everyone involved. Deutsche Bank is proud to support artists who challenge their creativity and enrich cinematic expression.”
