In an era where the media often prioritizes spectacle over substance, Washington J. Calvache Durand is driven by purpose-driven storytelling. The film producer’s latest triumph, “The Weight of Bullying,” recently garnered awards at the LA Film Awards, a popular film festival for independent cinema, proves that socially conscious filmmaking is having a moment.
This documentary, which delves into the emotional and societal toll of bullying, has resonated globally, earning a Suncoast Emmy Award for Best Short Inspirational Film and honors at multiple international festivals. But for Calvache Durand, recognition is only part of the story.
A Film That Sparks Reflection: The Premise of The Weight of Bullying
At its core, “The Weight of Bullying” transcends the typical narrative of victim and perpetrator. Directed by Cisco Films’ José Francisco Malavé, the film shifts the lens to examine how bullying ripples through families and communities. “Bullying isn’t just a personal issue—it’s a cultural one,” Calvache Durand explains. “We wanted to show not only the pain of the victim but the invisible scars on parents, siblings, and even bystanders.”
This approach struck a chord with audiences. By humanizing the impact of bullying, the film exposes the fragility of emotional well-being in an increasingly disconnected world. Its stark portrayal of how isolation, rumor-mongering, and verbal harassment can lead to tragic consequences, including adolescent suicide, has sparked critical conversations. The film’s educational value, coupled with its raw emotional honesty, earned praise from educators, psychologists, and advocates. “It’s a story that society needs to confront head-on,” Calvache Durand says.
Collaboration with a Visionary: Working with José Francisco Malavé
For Calvache Durand, the partnership with Malavé was instrumental to the film’s success. “From the beginning, we shared a mission: to use storytelling as a catalyst for change,” he recounts. Together, they crafted a production that balanced artistic ambition with social responsibility. The process, Calvache Durand admits, was “demanding but deeply fulfilling.” Malavé’s directorial vision, paired with Calvache Durand’s strategic insight as a producer, created a synergy that elevated the project beyond a documentary into a movement.
Their collaboration epitomizes what Calvache Durand calls “filmmaking with purpose”—a philosophy that transforms media into a tool for awareness and action. “When the story resonates, when it stirs empathy, that’s when change begins,” he says.
Addressing a Nationwide Crisis: The Staggering Reality of Bullying
The film’s relevance is underscored by alarming statistics: 20% of U.S. students aged 12–18 experience bullying annually, with social exclusion and verbal harassment being the most common forms. For Calvache Durand, the solution lies in reimagining how society approaches the issue. “Bullying is a symptom of a larger problem: a lack of empathy and family disconnect,” he said.
He emphasizes the importance of education and community accountability. “We’re seeing more aggression and less compassion. Families and schools must take responsibility—not just for punishing bullying behavior, but for fostering the emotional intelligence to prevent it.” Platforms like The Weight of Bullying play a role in this shift by challenging viewers to reevaluate their own roles in perpetuating or challenging harmful dynamics.
A Producer with Purpose: Calvache Durand and Cisco Films
As an executive producer at Cisco Films, Calvache Durand has become a driving force in the documentary space. In 2025 alone, he produced four socially impactful projects, including “The Weight of Bullying” and “Voices of Rett,” each earning national and international acclaim. His ability to identify narratives that bridge artistry with advocacy sets him apart.
For Calvache Durand, the success of these projects is a team effort. “Our stories resonate because we care deeply about the people behind them,” he says. This ethos is reflected in Cisco Films’ commitment to amplifying underrepresented voices and tackling urgent societal issues.
The Human Face of Bullying: What the Film Shows
The Weight of Bullying avoids sensationalism, opting instead for a compassionate exploration of its subject. Through intimate interviews and real-life stories, the film reveals the long-term trauma bullying inflicts on individuals and families. “We don’t shy away from the pain,” Calvache Durand notes. “But we also highlight resilience. Recovery is possible, and so is healing.”
By framing bullying as a collective responsibility, the film challenges viewers to reflect on their own communities. “It’s a call to action,” Calvache Durand says. “Everyone has a role in prevention—whether as a student, parent, or educator.”
Looking Ahead: New Projects and a Legacy of Impact
With 2026, Calvache Durand is already turning his focus to a new slate of documentaries designed to expand the boundaries of purpose-driven storytelling. Topics include humanity’s relationship with nature, personal resilience, scientific innovation, and inspirational human journeys. While details remain under wraps, the projects are slated for submission to prestigious festivals such as the Telly Awards, Banff Film Festival, and the Emmys.
“Each story we tell is an opportunity to make a difference,” Calvache Durand says. His upcoming work continues the mission he pioneered with The Weight of Bullying: to inspire, educate, and leave a legacy beyond entertainment.
A Multifaceted Leader: A Producer’s Broader Mission
Beyond filmmaking, Calvache Durand is a trailblazer in business and accessibility. As CEO of Loyal Construction and founder of Loyal Accessible Solutions, he is a champion of ADA-compliant spaces for people with disabilities, embedding social impact into his entrepreneurial ventures. His DIAMOND Method, a seven-stage business framework, empowers professionals to align their work with purpose, reflecting his belief that “it’s not about growth—it’s about legacy.”
Calvache Durand frequently lectures on conscious leadership, business strategy, and the media’s role in societal change. His judging role in the 2024–2025 Emmy Awards Spanish-language categories underscores his versatility in the industry.
The Future of Purpose-Driven Storytelling
Calvache Durand’s philosophy of filmmaking as a tool for transformation is clear: “Stories have the power to connect us, to challenge us, and to change us.” As he continues to produce documentaries that challenge norms and advocate for equity, his work serves as a blueprint for how media can bridge divides and ignite empathy.
As he explains: “Purpose-driven storytelling isn’t just about creating content—it’s about creating contribution. When we tell stories that matter, we give voice to the voiceless and hope to those who’ve lost it.”
Watch the trailer for The Weight of Bullying here.
