Born in the vibrant city of Santo Domingo, a renowned Dominican writer, director, and producer embarked on a remarkable career in the film industry, initially producing captivating TV commercials and feature films for both national and international companies, before dedicating herself exclusively to the art of cinema.
Following her graduation from the prestigious London Film School in the year 2001, she took her first steps into the world of filmmaking with the release of her debut feature, "Love Child / La Hija Natural", in 2011. This critically acclaimed film went on to win a plethora of prestigious awards, including the coveted Audience Choice Award at the 27th Chicago Latino Film Festival, the Best Fiction Feature honor at the esteemed San José Film Festival, and the Audience Choice Award at the 4th Global Dominican Film Festival, solidifying her status as a talented and innovative filmmaker.
The second feature film directed by Tonos, titled Cristo Rey, was a notable achievement as it was selected as an Official Selection at the prestigious Toronto International Film Festival in the year 2013. Furthermore, both Cristo Rey and her first feature film were chosen as the Dominican Republic's Official Entries for the Academy Awards.
Tonos' third film, Juanita, also received recognition as an Official Selection at the Miami International Film Festival and the HBO NY Latino Film Festival. As a producer, Tonos explored the mystery genre with her film Jupía, which was selected for the Blood Window Screenings at Ventana Sur in the year 2020.
Tonos' fourth film, A State of Madness / Mis 500 Locos, was a significant milestone as it was chosen as the Dominican Republic's Official Entry for the Academy Awards in the year 2021, marking Tonos' third film to represent the Dominican Republic at the Oscars.
Tonos is a trailblazing figure in the realm of film co-productions within her native country, having established fruitful collaborations with Spain, France, Puerto Rico, Haiti, and a multitude of other international partners.
As a co-founder of ADOCINE, the esteemed Dominican Association of Film Industry Professionals, Tonos has played a pivotal role in fostering a vibrant and supportive community for filmmakers and industry professionals alike.
In recognition of her outstanding contributions to the world of cinema, Tonos was awarded the prestigious Medal of Cinematographic Merit in February 2020. This honor marked a historic milestone, as she became the first woman in the Dominican Republic to receive such an esteemed recognition.
Throughout the expanse of her remarkable career, Tonos has consistently demonstrated a profound fascination with the complex and multifaceted concept of Caribbean identity, carefully examining its intricate relationships with the broader Latin cultural sphere.
Through her meticulous exploration of this rich and diverse topic, Tonos has repeatedly showcased her unwavering commitment to the profound significance of these stories, emphasizing their capacity to transcend geographical boundaries and resonate with audiences worldwide, ultimately underscoring the immense potential for global impact that lies within the Caribbean narrative.
