Maggie Magic Fingers, a narrative short directed by Jennifer Smith, has won Best Inspirational Film at the Los Angeles Film Awards (August 2026). The film's cinematography is by Austin director of photography René Salinas, and its casting is by Leah Salinas, the husband-and-wife team behind Austin video production company Creativity Lives Here.
The film follows Maggie, who chooses not to judge a man who is down on his luck and instead meets his quiet pain with warmth. LAFA's reviewers singled out its warmth and its blend of humor and South Texas mysticism.
“An authentically soulful short that blends humor and South Texas mysticism to show the transformative power of simple human kindness.”
Los Angeles Film Awards review
Behind the camera
René shot the film in April 2025 on the ARRI Alexa 35, leading a six-person crew. It marked his narrative cinematography debut, building on years of documentary filmmaking, including Unseen Connection, a Final Selection at the American Public Health Association Expo and Project Unlonely Films Season 8. Leah, a USC-trained actor and on-camera coach, cast the film.
“Maggie Magic Fingers is about seeing people beyond the surface, and that’s the spirit we bring whether we’re shooting a narrative film or a company’s story.”
René Salinas, Director of Photography
“Behind its witty, entertaining story lies an inspiring message we couldn't be prouder to champion.”
Los Angeles Film Awards review
- Film
- Maggie Magic Fingers
- Award
- Best Inspirational Film, Los Angeles Film Awards, August 2026
- Director
- Jennifer Smith
- Director of Photography
- René Salinas
- Casting Director
- Leah Salinas
About Creativity Lives Here
Creativity Lives Here is a husband-and-wife video production team based in Austin, Texas. René and Leah bring the same cinematic, story-driven approach to brand documentaries, corporate and testimonial videos, and event coverage for businesses across Austin and Central Texas.
Want this kind of storytelling for your brand? Book a free 30-minute intro call with René and Leah.
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