Few filmmakers have captured the depth and breadth of history, social justice, and personal storytelling quite like Raymond Telles. With a career spanning over 35 years, his work has documented everything from historical revolutions to deeply personal narratives, giving a voice to those often overlooked. Speaking with Film Daily, Telles offers insight into his process, his inspirations, and the ever-changing landscape of documentary filmmaking.
The Stories That Matter
“I am by nature a curious person,” Telles explains. “I also like to pursue stories that have a connection to my own life and my interest in social justice.”
That curiosity and personal connection have driven projects like American Agitators, a documentary born from a promise he made to his friend, Fred Ross Jr., to tell the story of his legendary father, Fred Ross Sr.
“At the same time, it involved my own interests—labor, activism, history—all of which are in my DNA,” he says.
Hidden truths await discovery
His career has been a testament to this commitment, starting with reporting on farmworkers’ rights at KQED, where he first met Cesar Chavez. This early work set the foundation for later films like The Fight in the Fields, which chronicled the farmworkers’ struggle.
The Challenges of Historical Storytelling
Bringing history to life is no small task, and few projects exemplify this better than The Storm that Swept Mexico.
“It was a story that developed over most of my life,” Telles reveals. “My grandfather and great-grandfather were in the Mexican Revolution. I had heard stories from my grandfather since I was a kid.”
Despite this personal connection, the production was arduous. “It took ten years once we got into production. The biggest challenge, however, related to internal administrative politics, which is why it dragged on.”
Engagement fuels creative narratives
Historical accuracy is paramount in his work, but Telles also emphasizes the importance of engagement. “The films I have done for public TV and networks are grounded in good journalism and research. Then, one uses their imagination to make the story engaging—through creative editing, music, and storytelling techniques.”
Capturing an Artist Capturing Artists
One of Telles’ most unique projects, Pedro E. Guerrero: A Photographer’s Journey, tells the story of an artist who documented other artists. That layered narrative shaped the approach to the film in an intimate way.
“I had known Pedro for thirty years before we made the film because he was my wife’s uncle. We spent a lot of time together, talking about the artists he photographed,” Telles shares. “He documented the work of other artists, and in a sense, I captured the artist-photographer. Because there was trust and he was comfortable, it shaped the approach. It was an organic process that comes from establishing trust.”
The Creative Process Across Networks
Telles has worked with major networks like PBS, ABC, and National Geographic, each with its own expectations.
“It’s completely different when making a film for networks like Nat Geo,” he says. “They have an idea of what they want, and you are expected to deliver. It’s much different when making an independent film, where you have creative control.”
Despite this challenge, Telles has always maintained his integrity as a storyteller.
Truths in motion unfold
“Filmmaking can be a form of activism, but I don’t see myself as an activist. I am a storyteller and a reporter telling the truth.”
Awards and the Impact of Storytelling
Throughout his career, Telles has received numerous accolades, including Emmy, Peabody, and Alma Awards. Yet, one recognition stands out.
“The Columbia DuPont Gold Baton award for Children of the Night meant a lot to me,” he reflects. “It was about young men in San Francisco selling their bodies at the height of the AIDS epidemic. I stayed with that project for several years and personally learned a lot about people. I stayed in touch with most of the kids until all of them died of AIDS.”
Another deeply personal project was American Agitators, which was the fulfillment of a decades-long promise. “It was a thrill for me because it showed a son’s love for his father and also a recognition that his story could act as a catalyst for change.”
Teaching the Next Generation
In addition to filmmaking, Telles has dedicated himself to teaching, serving as an Associate Adjunct Professor at UC Berkeley.
“I keep on getting older while my students stay the same age,” he jokes. “But students bring fresh perspectives to what is going on around us. They keep me on my toes. Filmmakers need to understand the way young people see the world.”
The Changing Documentary Landscape
With the rise of streaming platforms, documentaries have gained more visibility, but challenges remain.
“There are more venues for films—streaming, etc.—yet at the same time, there are fewer opportunities for independent film on mainstream TV,” Telles warns. “The corporate takeover of media is not helpful for independent filmmakers.”
Similarly, Latino representation in media remains an issue close to his heart.
Underrepresented voices matter more
“There is still very little Latino representation, particularly in narrative films. In documentaries, we have made some progress, but in narrative film, the representation is inadequate, often focusing on stereotypes.”
The Responsibility of Telling Difficult Stories
Telles has never shied away from sensitive subjects, including human trafficking in Inside the Body Trade.
“The strength that I bring to filming difficult topics is thorough research and rigorous filmmaking,” he states. “This requires plotting out the fundamental story and working with other good storytellers who are willing to devote the rigor needed to tell an honest story.”
Advice for Emerging Filmmakers
“Don’t give up,” Telles advises. “If you plan on making this a career, you have to really want it and be willing to look into the future. Persistence and the willingness to make sacrifices are essential.”
For Telles, filmmaking is not just about telling stories; it’s about capturing history, amplifying voices, and making an impact.
“I remember vividly sitting down with a woman and talking to her about her son, who was prostituting in San Francisco. She said, ‘I will sign the release if you think in some way this can help him.’ That moment stayed with me. It showed the love of a parent and the desperate hope for change.”
Voices bridge time timelessly
Raymond Telles’ films continue to serve as a powerful bridge between history, social justice, and storytelling, ensuring that voices from the past and present are never forgotten.
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