Edwin Frank Ortiz, also known as Fuego FrankO, is a Puerto Rican and Mexican American filmmaker from Barrio Logan, San Diego. A former breakdancer and proud graduate of USC’s School of Cinematic Arts, Edwin’s journey began by learning choreography from MTV music videos recorded on VHS. He used to sneak out his father’s VHS camcorder in high school to film homemade music videos with friends—unaware that those playful moments would lay the foundation for his filmmaking career. His love of movement, performance, and storytelling eventually led him to filmmaking after acting in a friend’s high school short.

After taking the long road through community college and fighting for a second chance at his dream, Edwin was accepted into USC the same week he lost his father. That pivotal moment—of joy and grief colliding—became the emotional core of FUEGO. His work blends rhythm, character, and purpose into visually rich, emotionally grounded stories. As a teaching artist for Media Arts Center San Diego, he’s passionate about empowering others through film and creative expression.

FUEGO is a love letter to Edwin's father, to the salsa culture that lit his soul, and to everyone who’s afraid to fan the flames of something that matters most to them.

Notable / Recent Works