DARK ROOM:

BACKSTREET TO THE AMERICAN DREAM

AUGUST 23 - SEPTEMBER 27, 2025

Opening reception: Saturday, August 23rd, 6-9 p.m.

A raw and intimate portrait of race, labor, and class in modern-day America, Backstreet to the American Dream offers an immersive look at blue-collar entrepreneurs and Latino immigrants navigating the collision of hustle and hardship in the heart of Los Angeles. Championed by Jarritos and Executive Producer Dolores Huerta, a Presidential Medal of Freedom honoree, this award-winning documentary is set in Los Angeles at the peak of the $2 billion global food truck boom.

The 90-minute journey moves beyond culinary fads to cut deep into the gritty layers of L.A.’s less-glamorous neighborhoods. What emerges is a sobering reality check: a bilingual portrait of bootstrapping entrepreneurs with limited options, for whom survival is anything but trendy.

Directed, produced, and edited by Patricia Nazario.

Acknowledgements:

  • Executive Producer Dolores Huerta

  • Grill 'Em All co-founders Ryan Harkins & Matt Chernus

  • El Pescadito owner/operator Guillermina Villa Rodriguez & family

  • Street Food Expert Bill Esparza

  • Promotional Partner Jarritos

  • International Documentary Association (IDA) - Fiscal Sponsor

  • Eastside Arts Initiative (EAI) for its generous support.