LA Latino film fest honors Santaolalla

LOS ANGELES, Sept. 14 (UPI) -- Los Angeles Latino International Film Festival officials have honored Argentinian musician Gustavo Santaolalla with one of their top prizes.

The Latin Grammy winner received the festival's GABI Lifetime Achievement Award at the 12th annual event Friday, the festival group said in a news release Saturday.

The creator of the documentary "Cafe de los Maestros" was presented with the award by Hollywood star Antonio Banderas, who previously was recognized with the same honor.

"Maestros" follows the final performances of several of the finest Tango performers in history. It follows Santaolalla's 2006 Tango album of the same name that earned the producer a Best Tango Album Grammy award.

The awards ceremony by the non-profit group is part of the week-long festival that will include several movie screenings from the global community.

The cinematic festival's goal is promote awareness of Latino-inspired movies and educate people about Latin cultures worldwide.

Copyright 2008 by United Press International.

All rights reserved.