Garden Valley
Inspired by the horrific Mann family murders of spring 1988, Garden Valley follows two friends lost in a haze of heavy metal, reckless parties, drugs, and turbulent romance. Set against the desolate backdrop of the Garden Valley trailer park on San Antonio’s Southside, the film captures one fateful day—April 14, 1988– where their lives spiral through chaos, compulsion, and the haunting echoes of violence.
TRAILER
Hello, I’m Manuel Navarro Jr., an award winning writer and director based in San Antonio, Texas. Born and raised on the Southside of San Antonio, I graduated from the University of Texas at San Antonio. My fascination with film began at a young age, and I started writing for film in 2010. Some of my favorite films include Lawrence of Arabia, La Bamba, and Dazed and Confused.
I currently work in higher education as an Academic Director, where I’ve contributed to high School programs and new program development, including the creation of the Digital Video & Cinema Production program. In my free time, I enjoy watching and discussing films with my sons.
Reflecting on the dreams and tales of my youth and bringing them to life on film.