Historically, actors or actresses of Latino ancestry often found work within certain stereotypical roles, which often reflected broader social attitudes and cultural biases.
Behind the camera, it is still difficult for a Latino film producer, director, screenwriter or cinematographer to have mainstream commercial success.
However, as the social attitudes and biases change, there has been a gradual improvement in film depictions as well as in career opportunities for Latin Americans.
These boycotts and complaints led film producers to disassociate negative Latino characters from identification with any particular country.
These actors were cast as major roles as passionate Latin lover types and became international stars in silent films.
Jennifer Lopez appeared in the Latino magazine's list of Hollywood's most powerful along with producer Nely Galán, writer–producer Josefina López, and Cameron Diaz.
She also starred in movies such as Jack alongside Robin Williams, Anaconda as a female lead, and Money Train with Wesley Snipes and Woody Harrelson.
With movies such as Mi Familia and Selena making a respectable showing at the box office, the future is looking bright for Latinos in film.