Seriina Covarrubias
his mixed-race Mexican-American chick grew up in deserts—from Arizona to the Alaskan Arctic Circle—always drawn to storytelling in every form. At 13, she was writing fantasy trilogies in junior high, performing on stage. But it was post-divorce movie nights with her dad that shaped her love for visual storytelling. Every Friday, they'd rent a film and fall into its world together, deepening their bond and her passion for cinema.
Her father, a Latin Jazz musician, passed on a love for rhythm and performance, so stepping into acting felt natural. After decades in front of the camera, she was ready to take a more active role in shaping stories. Now a filmmaker, Seriina has written and directed several short films and recently completed her first feature, In-Between the Mountains and the Ocean.
Regardless of genre, she regularly frames her trademark punchy and thought-provoking dialogue in adult coming-of-age stories. Diagnosed with a rare disease in 2020, she also strives to highlight unique perspectives from underrepresented groups—stories that are rarely centered but deeply needed.
In-Between the Mountains and the Ocean—a bold, visually distinct anthology—swept the Idyllwild International Festival of Cinema, taking home eight awards, including Best Feature, and is set for release in 2025.
