Hudson County Filmmaker Is Telling the Stories Hollywood Often Ignores

Aileen Pujols didn’t set out to write Niña Linda to make a statement. She wrote it because she had to. After being told she was “hard to cast” due to her “strong ethnic look,” the young, West New York–based actor, writer, and producer decided to create the roles the industry wasn’t offering her.

“I wanted to write a coming-of-age story—a genre typically dominated by white women—about a Dominican-American girl and her journey into womanhood, based on my relationship with my mother and my faith,” Pujols told HudPost.

Niña Linda, which premiered in December 2024, follows Carolina, a college student balancing her relationship with God, her mother, and a new love. Pujols not only wrote the script but also played the lead and produced the film. Managing all three roles was intense. “Some days, ‘Writer’ Aileen, ‘Actor’ Aileen, and ‘Producer’ Aileen were all at war,” she said. “I had to learn how to take care of myself, too.”

The film’s emotional core is strengthened by a cast with real-life ties. Yanelba Ferreira, who plays Carolina’s mother, became a mentor. “She’s my movie mami,” Pujols said. “She brought so much heart to the role.” Brock Warren, playing Carter, helped portray an interracial relationship rooted in softness and care. Genesis Diaz, who plays Carolina’s supportive tía, is one of Pujols’ longtime friends.

Pujols also prioritized safety behind the scenes. With intimacy coordinator Olivia Brennan on set, she ensured a respectful space for cast and crew alike.

Born in Washington Heights and raised in West New York, Pujols says her stories reflect the people she knows and loves. “They’re not trends. They belong here.”

Her advice to fellow creatives: “Do it scared. Your story matters. It doesn’t have to be perfect; it just has to get done.”

Though the film premiered last year, it’s still making its way through the festival circuit and isn’t available for public viewing just yet.