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Cinemalaya 2024: Celebrating Two Decades of Filipino Independent Cinema

GOOVER DAILY REPORT August 3, 2024
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TABLE OF CONTENTS

  1. Summary
  2. Tributes to Filipino Cinema Legends
  3. Film Lineup and Themes
  4. Jury Members and Awards
  5. Significant Films of Cinemalaya 2024
  6. Impact and Influence of Cinemalaya
  7. Partnerships and Initiatives
  8. Conclusion

1. Summary

  • The 20th Cinemalaya Philippine Independent Film Festival, held from August 2 to 11, 2024, marked a milestone in celebrating Filipino independent cinema. This report elaborates on the festival's diverse film lineup, including tributes to notable Filipino cinema figures like Armando Lao, Jaclyn Jose, Fernando Poe Jr., and Teddy Co. Important films screened included 'The Gospel of the Beast,' 'Balota,' and 'Tumandok,' among others. The report also details the competition categories, jury members, special screenings, and partnerships that contributed to the festival's comprehensive celebration of Filipino cinematic excellence. GMA Network and the Cultural Center of the Philippines played significant roles in augmenting the festival's reach through collaborations and film screenings.

2. Tributes to Filipino Cinema Legends

  • 2-1. Tribute to Armando Lao

  • An awarded and revered Filipino screenwriter, Armando Lao wrote remarkable films such as 'Takaw-Tukso', 'Itanong mo sa Buwan', and 'Oras-Oras, Araw-Araw'. Beyond his screenwriting career, he founded the “found story” school of filmmaking over 40 years ago. To pay tribute to him, Cinemalaya will screen Brilliante Mendoza’s 'Ma’Rosa' on August 8 at 8:30 PM at Ayala Malls Manila Bay Cinema 2.

  • 2-2. Tribute to Jaclyn Jose

  • Jaclyn Jose was one of the most respected film actresses in the Philippines. She made a name for herself and became the first Filipino actress to win the Best Actress Award at the Cannes Film Festival for her portrayal in 'Ma’Rosa'. This film will also be screened as part of the tribute to both her and Armando Lao on August 8 at 8:30 PM at Ayala Malls Manila Bay Cinema 2.

  • 2-3. Tribute to National Artist Fernando Poe Jr.

  • Known as “Da King” in the industry, Fernando Poe Jr. was not only an actor but also a writer, director, and producer. He made approximately 300 movies in his 48-year career and was known for films such as 'Only the Brave Know Hell', 'Santiago!', and 'Asedillo'. As a tribute, Celso Ad Castillo’s 'Asedillo', a biopic first shown back in 1971, will be screened. This film, which showcases the story of Teodoro Asedillo, a revolutionary leader against the American Commonwealth government, can be seen on August 9 at 1 PM at the Metropolitan Theater.

  • 2-4. Tribute to Film Curator Teddy Co

  • Teddy Co, a curator and archivist, was instrumental in preserving the Philippines' artistic heritage through film preservation and archiving. He also founded Cinema Rehiyon, a flagship project of the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) aimed at highlighting and mainstreaming regional filmmaking. To honor him, a selection of Cinemalaya short films will be screened: 'City of Flowers' by Xeph Suarez, 'Duwa-Duwa' by Nena Jane Achacoso, 'Mga Hundas Nga Nasulat Sa Baras' by Richard Jeroui Salvadico and Arlie Sweet Sumagaysay, 'See You George' by Mark Moneda, and 'Si Oddie' by Maria Kydylee Torato. These will be shown on August 7 at 1 PM at the Metropolitan Theater. - 'City of Flowers' by Xeph Suarez and Alemberg Ang is about a couple trying to keep their flower farm business afloat while awaiting the birth of their first child. - 'Duwa-duwa' by Nena Jane Achacoso tells the story of a runaway daughter who returns home only to steal money for an operation. - 'Mga Hundas nga Nasulat sa Baras' by Arlie Sweet Sumagasaysay and Richard Jeroui Salvadico set during the COVID-19 Pandemic, is about three boys teaching their parents. - 'See You George' by Mark Moneda recounts hospital workers commemorating a colleague's life, which turns dark and haunting. - 'Si Oddie' by Maria Kydylee Torato highlights the struggles of a delivery rider trying to support his mother’s medical needs.

3. Film Lineup and Themes

  • 3-1. Opening Film: The Gospel of the Beast

  • The 20th Cinemalaya Philippine Independent Film Festival opened with Sheron Dayoc's 'The Gospel of the Beast.' This film chronicles the journey of a fifteen-year-old boy named Mateo into syndicate life, after accidentally killing a schoolmate. The film has gained international recognition, winning Best Feature Film at the 2024 Bali International Film Festival and being nominated for Best Film at the 2023 Tokyo International Film Festival.

  • 3-2. Feature Films in Competition

  • Ten feature films are in competition, showcasing a variety of themes and narratives: 1. 'Alipato at Muog' by JL Burgos is the sole documentary, focusing on the 2007 disappearance of activist Jonas Burgos. It will screen on August 6 at 5:00 p.m. 2. 'Balota' by Kip Oebanda stars Marian Rivera and highlights a teacher's struggle to protect a ballot box during a violent election. This film will screen on August 4 at 5:00 p.m. 3. 'An Errand' by Dominic Bekaert follows a driver on a mysterious errand from Baguio to Manila. Its screening is on August 3 at 8:30 p.m. 4. 'Gulay Lang, Manong' by BC Amparado revolves around a vegetable farmer and a policeman teaming up to catch a member of the Benguet Marijuana Cartel, screening on August 5 at 8:30 p.m. 5. 'The Hearing' by Lawrence Fajardo tells the story of a deaf boy sexually abused by a priest, screening on August 7 at 8:30 p.m. 6. 'Kantil' by Joshua Caesar Medroso combines romance and sci-fi, set for screening on August 7 at 5:00 p.m. 7. 'Kono Basho' by Jaime Pecana II centers on two half-sisters in Japan dealing with their father’s death, screening on August 6 at 8:30 p.m. 8. 'Love Child' by Jonathan Jurilla, starring RK Bagatsing and Jane Oineza, explores the challenges of raising an autistic son, screening on August 5 at 5:00 p.m. 9. 'Tumandok' by Richard Salvadico and Arlie Sumagaysay depicts an Ati community's struggle to reclaim their ancestral land, screening on August 4 at 8:30 p.m. 10. 'The Wedding Dance' by Julius Lumiqued adapts Amador Daguio's short story focusing on a love tested by societal norms, screening on August 3 at 5:00 p.m.

  • 3-3. Short Films in Competition

  • The festival also features a selection of short films in competition, aimed at spotlighting emerging filmmakers and unique stories. Noteworthy entries include films that tackle social issues and personal narratives, providing a diverse cinematic experience beyond feature-length films.

  • 3-4. Special Screenings: Restored Classics and Documentaries

  • The festival also includes special screenings of restored Filipino classics and impactful documentaries: 1. 'RIZAL' by National Artist Marilou Diaz-Abaya, which delves into the life of the National Hero before he inspired the revolution, screening on August 7 at 4:00 p.m. 2. 'Lost Sabungeros' by Bryan Brazil explores the impact of the pandemic on the cockfighting sport in the Philippines, with screenings on August 8 and 9. 3. 'And So It Begins' by Ramona Diaz examines a grassroots movement protecting democracy, screening on August 9 at 8:30 p.m. 4. 'Abenida' by Luisito Lagdameo Ignacio, which explores the life of an artist with mental illness, screening on August 10 at 5:00 p.m.

4. Jury Members and Awards

  • 4-1. Main Competition Jury Members

  • The Main Competition jury for the 20th Cinemalaya Philippine Independent Film Festival comprises five distinguished individuals with extensive expertise in cinema. The jurors include Nicanor Tiongson, Dolly de Leon, Nicola Marzano, Jerrold Tarog, and Ahmed Muztaba Zamal. Nicanor Tiongson, a professor emeritus at the UP Film Institute, has significantly contributed to the field of film, theater, literature, and academia. Renowned actress Dolly de Leon has received numerous awards for her performances in films, theater, and television, including international accolades. Nicola Marzano, a film curator and producer, has collaborated with notable film festivals worldwide. Jerrold Tarog, a multi-awarded director, editor, composer, and writer, is known for critically acclaimed works across various genres. Ahmed Muztaba Zamal, founder and Festival Director of the Dhaka International Film Festival, has served on juries at major international film festivals.

  • 4-2. NETPAC Jury Members

  • The NETPAC (Network for the Promotion of Asian Cinema) Award jury comprises producer Nina Kochelyaeva, filmmaker and producer Monster Jimenez, and filmmaker Jay Abello. Nina Kochelyaeva holds a Ph.D. in History and is a notable figure in film education in Russia, having authored over 150 articles on cultural policy, art, and film history. Monster Jimenez, a documentary advocate and mentor, has received awards for her documentary works and produced films such as 'Leonor Will Never Die', which won at Sundance. Jay Abello, a cinematographer-director from Negros island, has worked on numerous TV soap operas and films and has been an active participant in the Cinemalaya Independent Film Festival.

  • 4-3. Balanghai Trophy Awards and Categories

  • The Balanghai Trophy is a prestigious award given at the Cinemalaya Philippine Independent Film Festival. The trophies are awarded in various categories, determined by the Main Competition and NETPAC juries. These awards recognize excellence in numerous aspects of filmmaking, showcasing the talent and creativity of Filipino independent filmmakers. The categories for the awards have evolved over the years to reflect the diverse range of films presented at the festival.

5. Significant Films of Cinemalaya 2024

  • 5-1. Thematic Exploration in Alipato at Muog

  • The film 'Alipato at Muog,' directed by JL Burgos, delves into the poignant theme of disappearance and activism. It centers around the story of Jonas Burgos, an activist who became a victim of enforced disappearance. The narrative aims to highlight social and political struggles, emphasizing themes of justice and human rights. GMA Public Affairs supported the film by providing archival footage of Jonas Burgos, strengthening the authenticity and emotional impact of the film.

  • 5-2. Political Commentary in Balota

  • 'Balota,' directed by Kip Oebanda and produced by GMA Pictures and GMA Entertainment Group, offers a compelling political commentary set against the backdrop of the Philippine election. The story follows Emmy, a dedicated teacher portrayed by Marian Rivera, who navigates the tumultuous political landscape. This film is one of the 10 finalists in the full-length films category at Cinemalaya 2024, reflecting deep societal and political observations.

  • 5-3. Socio-Cultural Narratives in Tumandok

  • The film 'Tumandok' brings to the forefront socio-cultural narratives, focusing on indigenous communities and their struggles. This exploration is crucial in understanding the cultural heritage and contemporary issues faced by these communities. The film's narrative sheds light on the resilience and identity of the Tumandok people.

  • 5-4. Psychedelic Comedy in When This Is All Over

  • Kevin Mayuga's 'When This Is All Over' is a psychedelic comedy that doubles as a sharp social commentary on the COVID-19 lockdown in the Philippines. The film follows 'The Guy,' a young drug dealer in a swanky condo, providing a critique on class divide, privilege, and societal structures. Despite its comedic surface, the film delves into themes of inequality and survival, offering a thought-provoking narrative that resonated well at the New York Asian Film Festival and Italy’s Udine Far East Film Festival.

  • 5-5. Elderly Perspectives in Lola Magdalena

  • Dennis C. Evangelista's 'Lola Magdalena' is a powerful narrative about elderly prostitutes in Bocaue, Philippines. Directed by Joel Lamangan and starring Gloria Diaz, the film incorporates real-life stories with creative storytelling. It explores themes of love, sacrifice, resilience, and self-love, offering a blend of comedy and emotional depth. The film premiered at the New York Asian Film Festival before its exhibition at Cinemalaya 2024, showcasing the strength and hope embodied by its characters.

6. Impact and Influence of Cinemalaya

  • 6-1. Historical Evolution and Societal Themes

  • The Cinemalaya Philippine Independent Film Festival has played a significant role in the evolution of Filipino cinema over the past two decades. The theme for the 20th edition, "Loob, Lalim, Lakas," underscores the festival's focus on depth and strength in storytelling. Notable films from previous editions, such as 'Ang Babae sa Septic Tank', 'Bwakaw', and 'John Denver Trending', highlight the social and political issues that resonate with both filmmakers and audiences. Cinemalaya has become a platform for filmmakers to explore topics like labor unionism, class division, and social ostracism, giving voice to stories often overlooked in mainstream cinema.

  • 6-2. Personal Journeys of Filmmakers and Audience

  • Cinemalaya has been instrumental in the personal journeys of many filmmakers and viewers alike. It has helped launch the careers of directors like Sheron Dayoc, who debuted with 'Halaw (Ways of the Sea)' in 2010 and returned in 2024 with 'The Gospel of the Beast.' The festival has also inspired audience members, such as Julius Cervancia, a Media Arts teacher from Kidapawan, who travels over a thousand kilometers annually to attend the festival and bring its experiences back to his students. This commitment highlights Cinemalaya's role in nurturing future generations of Filipino filmmakers and cinephiles.

  • 6-3. Special Segments: Retrospective and Visions of Asia

  • The 20th Cinemalaya edition features several special segments that pay tribute to its legacy and international reach. The Retrospective segment brings back past Cinemalaya winning films, offering audiences a chance to experience iconic works once more. The Visions of Asia segment features award-winning Asian and NETPAC films, showcasing the festival's dedication to global cinematic excellence. This edition also includes the Premiere Section, dedicated to never-before-screened films from acclaimed Filipino directors like Marilou Diaz-Abaya and Ramona Diaz, further emphasizing Cinemalaya's influence on both local and international cinema.

7. Partnerships and Initiatives

  • 7-1. GMA Network’s Collaborations

  • GMA Network made a significant impact at Cinemalaya 2024 through GMA Pictures, GMA Entertainment Group, and GMA Public Affairs. They presented a diverse selection of films and documentaries, starting with the highly-anticipated 'Balota,' directed by Kip Oebanda. The film, starring Marian Rivera, is one of the 10 finalists in the full-length films category, exploring political turmoil through the eyes of a teacher named Emmy. Additionally, GMA Pictures remastered and presented the classic film 'Jose Rizal' as a tribute to Philippine cinema. GMA Public Affairs debuted its first investigative documentary, 'Lost Sabungeros,' detailing the disappearances of cockfighting enthusiasts. Other highlights included the screening of the award-winning 'Firefly' and a collection of i-Witness documentaries under Cinemalaya’s 'Gawad Programming.' GMA also supported the in-competition film 'Alipato at Muog' by providing archival footage. Overall, GMA Network's participation underscored its commitment to the growth and development of Philippine cinema.

  • 7-2. CCP’s Promotions and Extensions

  • The Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) extended its reach by partnering with De La Salle University’s Green Media Group to present Omnibus: Mise en-scène. This event featured a selection of award-winning films from Cinemalaya, CCP Art House Cinema, and CCP Cine Icons. Screenings included notable films such as 'Ang Duyan ng Magiting,' 'Maria,' and 'John Denver Trending,' among others. The event aimed to cultivate film appreciation and literacy through screenings and discussions. This partnership aligned with CCP’s mission to promote Filipino cinema and encourage a deeper understanding of visual arts among the youth and the general public.

  • 7-3. Educational Outreach Programs

  • Cinemalaya 2024 featured several educational outreach programs, highlighting its commitment to film education and audience engagement. Through various panel discussions, workshops, and talkback sessions, the festival provided platforms for filmmakers, industry professionals, and audiences to engage in meaningful dialogues about cinema. These initiatives aimed to nurture aspiring filmmakers and foster a supportive community for Philippine independent cinema.

8. Conclusion

  • The 20th Cinemalaya Philippine Independent Film Festival not only showcased a diverse array of films but also paid homenage to influential figures in Filipino cinema. Armando Lao's pioneering role in the 'found story' filmmaking approach, Jaclyn Jose's historic Cannes win, Fernando Poe Jr.'s acting legacy, and Teddy Co's efforts in film preservation were all highlighted. 'The Gospel of the Beast' set a powerful tone for the festival, reflecting Cinemalaya's commitment to addressing socio-political issues through cinema. Despite its numerous successes, the festival's limited time frame poses a challenge for wider audience reach. Future editions could benefit from extended screenings and expanded outreach programs. With strong partnerships, such as those with GMA Network and the Cultural Center of the Philippines, Cinemalaya continues to expand its impact, fostering a deeper appreciation for Filipino independent cinema. The festival remains a critical platform for promoting Filipino cinematic artistry, and its influence is likely to grow in the coming years.

9. Glossary

  • 9-1. Armando Lao [Person]

  • A renowned Filipino filmmaker celebrated for pioneering the 'found story' filmmaking approach. His tribute included screenings of his influential works, impacting many in the industry.

  • 9-2. Jaclyn Jose [Person]

  • The first Filipino actress to win at Cannes, honored by Cinemalaya for her extensive contributions to Philippine cinema.

  • 9-3. Fernando Poe Jr. [Person]

  • A National Artist known as 'Da King' with approximately 300 films, honored posthumously for his enduring legacy in Filipino cinema.

  • 9-4. Teddy Co [Person]

  • A dedicated film curator recognized for his efforts in film preservation and regional filmmaking.

  • 9-5. The Gospel of the Beast [Film]

  • The opening film of Cinemalaya 2024, directed by Sheron Dayoc, discussing universal themes of violence, justice, and hope.

  • 9-6. Cinemalaya Philippine Independent Film Festival [Event]

  • An annual festival celebrating Filipino independent films, featuring competitions, special screenings, and tributes, influential in promoting socio-political cinema.

10. Source Documents