Adapted by début writer-director Montiel from his published memoirs, A GUIDE TO RECOGNIZING YOUR SAINTS is descended from MEAN STREETS in its coming-of-age story of a guy who dreams of escaping 1986 Astoria, Queens for California to become a writer. The film is framed by the adult Dito’s return home to visit his ill father, prompting encounters with old friends and memories of others who didn’t survive.
Winner of Best Director (Drama) and Special Jury Prize for Best Ensemble Cast (Drama) at the 2006 Sundance Film Festival.