POLANCO
Polanco is a deeply emotional and visually vibrant film that explores identity, self-discovery, and the transformative power of confidence. Set in the heart of Mexico City, it follows a troubled young man grappling with a sexual identity crisis. Lost and uncertain, he seeks guidance from a mysterious tarot card reader, who sets him on a journey of self-acceptance and courage.
Encouraged by the encounter, he ventures into a lively and gritty Mexican dive bar known as a “cantina.” There, he is captivated by the charismatic bartender and begins to fantasize about a connection with him. Overwhelmed by doubt, he finds solace in Polanco Tequila, which transforms the night into a surreal journey of magical realism. Emboldened, he takes the stage and delivers a heartfelt performance, pouring his emotions into a song aimed at winning the bartender’s attention.
In a tender and triumphant final scene, the two leave the cantina together, hinting at the possibility of love and acceptance. Polanco is a raw yet enchanting tale that blends realism with fantasy, celebrating the courage to embrace one’s true self.
After completing his studies at the Musical Conservatory, Santiago began an artistic exploration that led him from his native Mexico to Melbourne, Australia, where he delved into the world of Fine Arts. Upon graduation, he left for New York City, where he established his photography studio and immersed himself in the realms of fashion photography and filmmaking. His talent quickly garnered attention, attracting collaborations with renowned celebrities and brands, thus shaping his career as a director.
His portraits have a poetic grace in their simplicity. The films he directs are energetic, whilst still retaining a sense of storytelling and visual poetry. He has the ability to actualize projects across various industries and platforms, bridging the gap between fashion, beauty, branded content and entertainment.
After a decade of influential work within the fashion and creative industries in New York, Paris and Los Angeles. Santiago returned to his roots in Mexico City, where he currently resides. Here, he continues to excel as an international freelance director, photographer and artist, operating his own company dedicated to innovative media, cinema, branded content and fine art.
Celebrities:
Emma Stone, Michael B Jordan, JLo, Beyonce, Chris Hemsworth, Jacob Elordi, Charlize Theron, Lea Seydoux, Bella Hadid, Novak Djokovic, Yalitza Aparicio, Ed Skrein, Dua Lipa, Diego Calva, Daniel Jimenez Cacho, Alicia Vikander, Hailey Bieber, Khloe Kardashian & Selena Gomez.
PUBLICATIONS AND EXHIBITIONS:
Nahual, Book publication (2022)
Dioses y Máquinas, Immersive Cinema Installation, Palacio Nacional de las Bellas Artes (2023)