Film Works

Support the Marikina Marathon: Save the Marikina Watershed, Save the Metropolis

This post is in support of the project of the Marikina City Hall. Let us help each other to save our environment, our homes, our lives, and the lives of our loved ones and our countrymen.

A Marathon to Save Marikina Watershed

A new Marikina Marathon happens this April 2012 to stimulate awareness and intensify the campaign “Saving the Marikina Watershed.” Dubbed as DEL RUN, the event will cover 3, 5, and 16 kilometers of roads within the city. For every registration, 10 trees will be planted. The proceeds of the project will be used for more massive tree planting activities in the watershed.

Del Run is an opportunity for people who care for a green environment to converge, have fun, and support a noble cause. Ondoy’s stigma lingers, but something can be done to prevent it from happening again. The time is NOW.

Project Objective: To save the Marikina watershed from further degradation and save the metropolis from another Ondoy.

Venue and Time: Marikina Sports Center, Marikina City, April 15, 2012.

A Commitment for the Environment – The Sierra Madre Mountains

President Benigno Aquino III, declared September 26 as “Save Sierra Madre Day” the anniversary of Typhoon Ondoy, which brought heavy rains
that flooded major cities in Metro Manila and took the lives of many of our countrymen. Most of the flooding can be attributed to the continuous deforestation of the Sierra Madre mountains.

Two years after Tropical Storm “Ondoy,” the victims of its most devastating wrath, remained inundated with promises and that never again would they ever be placed at such a horrific risk.

Marikina cannot do it alone. It should be a concerted effort of all stakeholders to restore the green forest of Sierra Madre. Sec. Ramon Paje promised to plant 5 million seedlings over 10,000 hectares up to 2016, the end of President Benigno Aquino III’s term.

In a “Statement of Commitment” he signed with other stakeholders, the agency will plant five million trees to rehabilitate the Marikina watershed to enhance its water-holding capacity and reduce siltation and flash flooding.

Among the endangered wildlife species found in the Marikina watershed include the forest trees narra, red and white lauan, bagtikan, kamagong, and molave.

Another Ondoy Feared

Congressman Miro Quimbo said that to make the watershed effective in preventing floods, at least 25 million trees had to be replanted. He said that almost 80 percent of the 28,000-hectare watershed had been denuded. He also added that it would take at least 10 years to effectively replant in the area.

With global warming taking its toll, we continue to worry that more rains will be forthcoming in the next two years, and we cannot wait that long. We fear another Ondoy happening unless immediate and comprehensive flood mitigation programs are implemented along the river.”

Quimbo also explored the possibility of putting up a dam in the town of Rodriguez (formerly Montalban) as the quickest solution.

Owing to the siltation of the Marikina River, further aggravated by the upstream from Ondoy two years ago, the river’s containment capacity is down by 60 percent from eight years years ago.

Water Impounding – A New Dam Project

The watershed is also seen as a potential source of water supply for Metro Manila. This can play a vital role in regulating flooding in the low-lying areas of Rizal and the metropolis.

Quimbo also stressed out that a dam located upriver would contain the rain water for a few hours instead of immediately bringing it down to the Marikina River system.

The dam can also be a source of energy which the country needs in the next three years. Based on the reports of the Department of Energy (DOE), the country will have critical levels of power by 2014.

Other intermediate steps that need to be immediately funded are water impounding areas in Antipolo City and slope and embankment protection along the Marikina River. He called for a more comprehensive plan to address flooding in Marikina, which will also involve its surrounding cities and municipalities, especially Antipolo, Pasig, San Mateo, and Rodriguez. 90 percent of the floodwater that Marikina catches comes from Antipolo and Rodriguez.

First Line of Defense

Marikina Mayor Del de Guzman vowed to make the watershed reforestation his priority. “It is called Marikina watershed because it is ours. And the
responsibility to take care of it and protect it lie with us,” De Guzman stressed. “This is our first line of defense. When this is gone, all the floodwater will go toward Marikina. Whatever due diligence Mariqueños do in terms of waste segregation, cleanup, and rehabilatation of our drainage and creek system, if our neighbors do not cooperate, we will continue to suffer. Water now rises so fast even with minimal rain. Heavy rains lasting only two hours already swell the river. It used to take at least six to seven hours of continuous rain for that to happen.”

Film Screening Invitation: ‘Technophilia’ Screens in Las Vegas on Aug. 25, 2011

The Philippine-Korean-Iraqi 16mm short film “Technophilia” will have a screening at “RAW: Las Vegas Presents Fusion” on Aug. 25, 2011 (Thursday) at Tommy Rocker’s in Las Vegas. If you’re in the Vegas area on the said date, you’re invited to come to the event and support local artists. You can buy tickets through this link. Buying ahead of time will only cost $10 for a night of film, music performances, photography, mixed media, and performance art exhibitions, and fashion show.

“Technophilia” will start the showcase at 8:30 p.m. For more information about the film, you can check out the: trailer, film stills, behind-the-scene photos, and film blog. This film is produced by Colorwheel Media Studios through the help of the Korean Film Council, Korean Academy of Film Arts, and Korea University.

Synopsis

Inside a hangout place, the game addict boyfriend gets boxed up by his techie lifestyle, which further alters his relationship with his already fed-up girlfriend. Things become more and more mechanical as they move on.

More About RAW Artists Events

You can also check out the video of last month’s “RAW: Las Vegas Presents Illuminare” for an idea of what’s to come for the next showcase. You can also view videos of other RAW Artists events: “RAW: Los Angeles Presents Incite” and “RAW: New York Presents Artcade.”

What is RAW?

RAW: natural born artists is an independent arts organization, for artists, by artists.

Our mission is to provide independent artists of all creative genres with the tools, resources, and exposure needed to inspire and cultivate creativity. RAW educates emerging artists through seminars, workshops, and insights to further knowledge of their industries.

RAW connects them with one another so that they may grow together, while also providing them with opportunities to give back to their own local youth communities through the arts.

We encourage the creative success of the many visionaries and storytellers of our generation.

Grassroots Showcase Events

RAW handpicks and spotlights local artistic talents in film, fashion, music, visual art, hair and makeup artistry, and performance art. With artists from all genres in each showcase, RAW events come together to form an amazing circus of creativity.

What Can You Expect when Attending the RAW Showcase?

We screen an independent film (usually a short, webisode, or music video), a fashion show from an up-and-coming local designer, a musical performance, an art gallery featuring several independent visual artists, and performance art (comedy/dance/fire dancers, you name it…). You’ll get a little taste of everything. Combine all this creativity with drinks, fun, and good company! To partake in the experience, RSVP ($10/ticket) in the “Showcases” section of the event.

Top Makeup Schools in Hollywood

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It’s a No Shoe Day at Rockwell

Check out the “It’s a No Shoe Day” event at the Rockwell Center!!!

Info:

In our own group of friends, we are all for one and one for all, but TOMS Shoes are simply One for One.

TOMS Shoes was founded on a simple premise: With every pair you purchase, TOMS will give a pair of new shoes to a child in need. In this way, the purchasing power of individuals will benefit the greater good. One for one.

It all started in 2006 with an American traveler, Blake Mycoskie. He befriended children in Argentina and found they had no shoes to protect their feet. Wanting to help, he created TOMS Shoes. Blake returned to Argentina with a group of family, friends and staff later that year with 10,000 pairs of shoes made possible by caring TOMS customers.

Now TOMS shoes are available in the Philippines in Nothing But Water and Swim stores, Filipinos can start buying their own pair of TOMS Shoes to help more children.

Everyone is invited to support the One Day Without Shoes movement by walking barefoot on April 9, 2010 in the South Court of Power Plant Mall, Rockwell Center starting 10 am.

During the event, people will be asked to go the day, part of the day or even just a few minutes, barefoot, to experience a life without shoes first-hand, and to help spread awareness of the impact that a simple pair of shoes can bring to a child’s life

To register, drop by any Nothing But H20 and SWIM store, or email tomsshoesphilippines@gmail.com and  visit www.facebook.com/ilovetomsphilippines for more details. Participants will have a 5% discount and a raffle coupon for a chance to win a free pair of TOMS.

Many children in our country still grow up barefoot. Whether at play, doing chores or going to school, these children are at risk. A leading cause of disease in developing countries like ours is soil-transmitted diseases, which can penetrate the skin through bare feet. Wearing shoes can help prevent these diseases, and the long-term physical and cognitive harm they cause.

Wearing shoes prevents feet from getting cuts and sores. Not only are these injuries painful, they also are dangerous when wounds become infected.

Many times children can’t attend school barefoot because shoes are a required part of their uniform. If they don’t have shoes, they don’t go to school. If they don’t receive an education, they don’t have the opportunity to realize their potential.

Since their beginning in May 2006, TOMS has given over 400,000* pairs of shoes to children in need, through the purchases of caring customers.

After four years in business, “One for One” model is more than just a novelty project. TOMS has expanded its line, won the 2007 People’s Design Award at Cooper-Hewitt’s National Design Awards, became a member of the Clinton Global Initiative, and landed shelf space in Whole Foods.

To learn more about the TOMS Shoes visit www.toms.com and www.facebook.com/ilovetomsphilippines.

Pera-perahang Lata (Penny from the Tin Can) Screens at Titus Brandsma this December

SHOWING THIS MONTH: PINK CHRISTMAS
Free Admission
December 12, 2008/1pm onwards

Where to find us:
St. Elijah Hall
26 Acacia St. Brgy. Mariana, New Manila
Quezon City

pelikula@titusbrandsma is a free monthly film screening with dialogue that features fine samples of world cinema. It is an offering of the Titus Brandsma Center-Media Program under the auspices of the Carmelites in the Philippines. This monthly event is aimed at giving a meaningful experience for film enthusiasts.

FREE ADMISSION. For inquiries/confirmation, Cal/txt Bituin – 726-6054/09174759244
Email: pelikula_titusbrandsma-own

Technophilia at the Chicago Filipino American Film Festival 2009

Chicago Filipino American Film Festival 2009: Official Selections

To all my films near Chicago area, my film “Technophilia” is showing on Nov. 8, 2009, 4:30 pm. You may check the festival website http://cfaff.org for further details.

The Chicago Filipino American Film Festival is proud to announce the 2009 Official Selections:

CFAFF Feature-Length Category
Confessional by Jerrold Tarog and Ruel Dahis Antipuesto
Mangatyanan (The Blood Trail) by Jerrold Tarog
Dayo by Robert Quilao
Gift of Barong by Benito Bautista
100 by Chris Martinez
Inside a Change by Rick Cordero
Concerto
Boses by Ellen Ongkeko-Marfil, BOSES garnered the award for Best Director and Best Film at the Golden Screen Awards. Starring Cherry Pie Picache and Ricky Davao. With English subtitles.
CREATUR

CFAFF Documentary Program
Manilatown is in the Heart: Time Travel with Al Robles by Curtis Choy
Sounds of a New Hope by Eric Tandoc

CFAFF Shorts Program
“O” by Amber Rosario Manuguid
“No. 4″ by Benito Bautista
“Dumaguete Fragments” by Claro De Los Reyes
“The Scorpion and the Frog” by Dan Finley
“The Other Way Round” by Geoffrey Quan
“Technophilia” by Rianne Hill Soriano
“Among All Creatures” by Tyrone Acierto
“Flower Thieves” by Shawn Bernal
“One Year” by John P. Raposas

Film Article: Pinoys Shine at Pusan International Film Fest ‘09

Pinoys Shine at Pusan International Film Fest ‘09
By Rianne Hill Soriano

The film city of Busan, Korea paved way for another successful year for the prestigious Pusan International Film Festival (PIFF) from Oct. 8 to 16, 2009. And the Philippines, once again, made big waves in this year’s festival.

In its 14^th year, PIFF has truly evolved to become one of the most important film festivals that filmmakers, film professionals, cinephiles, and the general film audience look forward to every October. For this year, 355 films from 70 countries (a record number) were shown – a total of 803 screenings for the festival. 98 of the films were world premieres and 46 films were international premieres – a total of 144 world and international premieres (another record number). And more than two dozen of Filipinos attended PIFF with the country having around two dozen of films shown at the festival’s various programs.

Included in the PIFF official statistics were a number of fully-packed film events: 6 Master Classes, 2 Hand Printings, 14 Seminars, 3 Open Talks, 8 Audience Meet and Greets, 12 Meet the Guest: Talk to Talks, 7 teams of Cinema Together, 13 Press Conferences, and 188 Individual Interviews.

Filipinos at the Festival

The Philippine Night was held at the Grand Hotel in Haeundae, Busan last Oct. 12 and was attended by the Philippine delegation which included some of the filmmakers with films at the festival, the Film Development Council of the Philippines, the National Commission for Culture and the Arts, the Philippine Embassy in Korea, and other festival guests.

A partial list of Filipino attendees included: Raymond Red, filmmaker; Doy del Mundo, National Commission for Culture and the Arts, filmmaker; Ed Cabagnot, Cinemalaya Philippine Independent Film Festival; GB Sampedro, filmmaker; Jim Libiran, filmmaker; Nestor Jardin, Cinemalaya Philippine Independent Film Festival; Tikoy Aguiluz, Cinemanila International Film Festival; Borgy Torre, filmmaker; Maria Isabel Lopez, Actress; Nick De Ocampo, filmmaker; Vicky Belarmino, Cultural Center of the Philippines; Rianne Hill Soriano, filmmaker; and LA Yamsuan, filmmaker.

Philippine Films at the Festival

New Currents Section

Astig (Squalor) by GB Sampedro

Special Mention, New Currents Award

A Window on Asian Cinema

Yanggaw (Affliction) by Richard Somes

Bakal Boys (Children Metal Divers) by Ralston Jover

Lola by Brillante Mendoza

Wide Angle – Asian Short Film Competition

Bonsai by Borgy Torre

Wide Angle – Short Film Showcase 3

Blogog by Rommel Tolentino

Asian Film Academy (AFA) 2009

An Encounter in the Woods (AFA workshop film for PIFF with Rianne Hill Soriano and 12 other young Asian filmmakers)

A Girl (AFA workshop film for PIFF with LA Yamsuan and 12 other young Asian filmmakers)

Special Programs in Focus – Asian Feature Animation Special – Ani Asia!: A Leap of Asian Feature Animation 4

Dayo (The Wanderer in the Land of Elementalia) by Robert Quilao

Pusan Promotion Plan (PPP) Participating Project

Happyland by Jim Libiran

Filipino Independent Film Special – Mabuhay! Pinoy Indi-Cinema!

The festival presented a Filipino independent film special as part of the Special Programs in Focus to celebrate the 60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Korea and the Philippines. It was acknowledged as a meaningful opportunity to take a genealogical journey of Filipino indie films, including those from the 1950’s and the winner of the Best Director Award at the Cannes International Film Festival 2009. This special program offered a rich selection of 14 notable Filipino indie films including:

Criminal of Barrio Concepcion by Lav Diaz

Genghis Khan by Manuel Conde

Independencia by Raya Martin

Insiang by Lino Brocka

Itim by Mike de leon

Kinatay by Brillante Mendoza

Manila by Night by Ishmael Bernal

Oliver by Nick Deocampo

Passionate Strangers by Eddie Romero

Perfumed Nightmare by Kidlat Tahimik

Sakay by Raymond Red

Woman of Breakwater by Mario O’hara

The Blossoming of Maximo Oliveros by Aureus Solito

The Road to Kalimugtong by Mes Guzman

Seminar on Filipino Independent Filmmaking

The Filipino delegation at PIFF provided a seminar about Filipino independent filmmaking. This Filipino independent film special shared the unique ways of low-budget filmmaking in the country including the so-called ‘pito-pito film’ (referring to a film shot in seven days and goes through post-production in another seven days). It also provided a brief history of the country’s indie films and the Filipino filmmakers’ various production methods.

PIFF Fundings, Film Market, Fellowships, and Awards

Asian Film Academy (AFA)

Annually, 24 young filmmakers from 16 Asian countries are being honed to become “The Future of Asian Cinema” through short film productions, seminars, workshops, one-on-one mentoring sessions, film screenings, meetings, and master classes. This year’s program is led by the AFA Dean Kurosawa Kiyoshi (Japan), along with Deputy Dean Park Ki-yong (Korea), directing mentor Ho Yuhang (Malaysia) and cinematography mentor Mahmoud Kalari (Iran). Two Filipino filmmakers Rianne Hill Soriano and LA Yamsuan were chosen for the AFA fellowship this year.

Asian Film Market

A total of 534 companies from 42 countries participated this year. There were 45 sales offices from 75 companies of 25 countries and a total of 50 market screenings (including 40 market premieres) of 43 films.

Asian Cinema Fund: New AND Distribution Fund to support documentary filmmakers

The AND Distribution Fund was newly set up to support distribution of documentary films that have difficulty in being exhibited in theaters.

Support of acquisition (Asian documentary)

1)    Beautiful Islands by Kana Tomoko (Japan)

2)    Bilal by Sourave Sarangi (India/Finland)

Support of distribution (Korean documentary)

1)    The Border City 2 by HONG Hyungsook

Pusan Promotion Plan (PPP)

The 12th Pusan Promotion Plan shared the venue with the Asian Film Market at the Seacloud Hotel, Haeundae Beach as a convenient one-stop shop for film business professionals. Since 1998, PPP has introduced many talented Asian filmmakers and offered wide opportunities for investment and co-production by global film industry professionals. 30 projects from 21 countries, including Jim Libiran’s film project Happyland, participated this year.

PPP Awards

Pusan Award: Decadent Sisters by Aoyama Shinji (Japan)

Kodak Award: Trace by Han Jae-rim / Korea

Göteborg Film Festival Fund: Postcards from the Zoo by Edwin (Indonesia)

CJ Award: Slightly Sane by Pan Nalin (India/France)

Lotte Award: Villain and Widow by Son Jae-gon (Korea)

Wooridul Award: New Policemen Stories by Yang Jin (Hong Kong, China)

KPIF (Korean Producers In Focus) Award (Prime Choice): Good-bye Again by producer Kim Young-jin

14th Pusan International Film Festival Award Winners

New Currents Award

Jury: Jean-Jacques Beineix (Head); Kim Hyung-koo, Pen-ek Ratanaruang, Terri Kwan, Yesim Ustaoglu

Kick Off by Shawkat Amin Korki (Kurdistan/Iraq/Japan)

Naneun Konkyeonge Cheohaessda! (I’m in Trouble!) by So Sang-min (Korea)

Special Mention: Astig (Squalor), GB Sampedro (Philippines)

FIPRESCI (International Federation of Film Critics) Award

Jury: Lee Myunghee, Davide Cazzaro, Borislav Andjelic

Kick Off by Shawkat Amin Korki (Kurdistan/Iraq/Japan)

NETPAC (Network for the Promotion of Asian Cinema) Award

Jury: Aihara Hiromi, Dang Nhat Min, Kang So-won

Paju by Park Chan Ok (Korea)

KNN Movie Award (Audience Award)

Lan by Jiang Wenli (China)

Fast Forward Award

Jury: Kang Soo Yeon (Head); Marianne Slot, Alissa Simon, Frédéric Boyer

Last Cowboy Standing by Zaida Bergroth, (Finland/Germany)

Special Mention: Miss Kicki by Hakon Liu (Sweden/Taiwan)

Sonje Award for Short Films

Jury: Simojukka Ruippo; TATanN Chui Mui; You Ji-tae

Somewhere Unreached by Kim Jae-won (Korea)

Rare Fish, by Basil Vassili Mironer (Singapore/Indonesia)

PIFF Mecenant Award for Documentaries

Jury: Dorothee Wenner, Jane Yu, Ko Young-jae

Earth’s Woman by Kwon WooJung (Korea)

The Other Song by Saba Dewan (India)

Film Article: Cinemanila Celebrates Its 11th Year with Topnotch Local and International Film Picks

Cinemanila Celebrates Its 11^th Year with Topnotch Local and International Film Picks

By Rianne Hill Soriano

The annual Cinemanila International Film Festival celebrated its 11^th year last Oct. 15 to 25, 2009 at the Bonifacio Global City, Taguig. 10 days of films, master classes, seminars, parties, and even reunions for many filmmakers, artists, and cinephiles… It has considerably become a part of their daily routine throughout the duration of the festival.

“Moving Forward with Moving Images.” Young as it is and still facing a number of challenges and tough times, Cinemanila is best known for the good films it shares to the Filipino audience every festival season – a mix of both local and international picks from the freshest and most promising to the well-renowned and critically-acclaimed.

Around 100 international and local films were screened – from the current toasts of the local independent scene to the award winners and favorites at prestigious festivals such as Cannes, Berlin, Venice, Rotterdam, Sundance, and Pusan.

Apart from being known for its good programming of top films from all over the world, another good part of Cinemanila is that it tries to expand itself as much as it could – which then makes itself reaching out to more people. From the outdoor screenings to the 1^st Cinemanila Machinima Film Festival to the Sine Barangay project, these are valuable ways to expose more people, especially those who don’t usually get to watch art-house films, to such cinema experiences.

The parts still needing improvements mostly fall under the major concern of festival budget and funding. Market! Market! and Bonifacio High Street were definitely wonderful places to situate the festival in. However, there was just one major concern for the general audience – they were not very accessible to local public transport especially to those students and working cinephiles who would have to brace rush hour traffic with mostly expensive taxi rides in order to catch their film picks at the festival. And yet, on the brighter side, it’s truly interesting to note that the local government of Taguig has welcomed Cinemanila in their progressive city this year. Personally, I felt the kind of support the Taguig government provided for the festival. In fact, if not for the transportation issue that a number of people were not able to attend due to inaccessibility of direct public transport as MRT, LRT, jeepneys, and buses from major points/work places/schools, things were then developing rather smoothly for the festival. Perhaps, this could be one major concern that festival and the city government should attend to next time – maybe by utilizing The Fort buses with effective dissemination of pick-up points to the people intending to go the festival from work places and schools, and also maybe having additional cinemas and/or outdoor screenings near these places through the help of both private institutions and other local government units. It’s about making Cinemanila a part of the subculture of the Pinoys during this time of the year – with it being customary for them to see such great films from all over the world through the festival. And we can definitely do it if we work together and support one another to make our very own Cinemanila International Film Festival a part of our valuable events to look forward to every year.

As we acknowledge all these growth and learnings, with such a young but promising international film festival by the Filipinos, we should be proud of all these efforts. Every year, we get to see these esteemed films and acknowledge the filmmakers behind them, and we also meet such inspirational people from the industry both in the local and international scenes. Kudos to Cinemanila, the filmmakers, and the Cinemanila audience!

Highlighting the 11^th Cinemanila are films including:

Opening Film – Lola by Brillante Mendoza (Philippines)

Closing Film – Himpapawid (Manila Skies) by Raymond Red (Philippines)

International Competition

Jury Members – Brillante Mendoza, chair (Philippines); and Eric Sasono (Indonesia)

Cheng Du, I Love You by Fruit Chan (China)

Hunger by Steve McQueen (UK)

Independencia by Raya Martin (Philippines)

Mammoth by Lukas Moodysson (Sweden)

Machan by Uberto Pasolini, (Italy/Sri Lanka)

Milk of Sorrow by Claudia Llossa (Peru)

Pandora’s Box by Yesim Ustaoglu (Turkey/France/Germany/Belgium)

Ricky by Francois Ozon (France)

Samson and Delilah by Warwick Thornton (Australia)

Tony Manero by Pablo Larrain (Chile/Brazil)

Tulpan by Sergey Dvortsevoy (Kazakhstan)

Digital Lokal (Philippines)

Jury Members – Sonja Heinen, chair (Germany); In-Seong Yoo (Korea); Sherad Anthony Sanchez (Philippines)

Anacbanua by Christopher Gozum

Biyaheng Lupa by Armando “Bing” Lao

Ang Beerhouse by Jon Red

Dolores by Lito Casaje

69 1/2 by Ted Manotoc

Iliw by Bona Fajardo

World Cinema

Adam Resurrected by Paul Schrader (USA)

A Year Ago in Winter by Caroline Link (Germany)

Baby Doll Night by Adel Adeeb (Egypt)

Black Dynamite by Scott Sanders (USA)

Broken Embraces by Pedro Almodovar (Spain)

Inglourious Basterds by Quentin Tarantino (USA)

Let the Right One In by Tomas Alfredson (Sweden)

I Come with the Rain by Anh Hung Tran (Vietnam/USA)

My Suicide by David Lee Miller (USA)

Leonera (Lion’s Den) by Pablo Trapero (Argentina/Korea)

Asian Cinema

A Matter of Size by Sharon Maymon and Erez Tadmor (Israel)

Beautiful by Juhn Jaihong (Korea)

Call If You Need Me by James Lee (Malaysia)

Caramel by Nadine Labaki (Lebanon)

Engkwentro by Pepe Diokno (Philippines)

Jeonju Digital Project 2009: Visitors (Korea, Japan, Philippines)

Little Zizou by Sooni Taraporevala (India)

Macabre by Mo Brothers Indonesia/Singapore)

My Magic by Eric Khoo (Singapore)

Non-ko by Kazuyoshi Kumakiri (Japan)

Waltz with Bashir by Ari Folman (Israel)

Passion by Ryusuke Hamaguchi (Japan)

Young Cinema Competition (Philippines)

Jury Members – Tan Chui Mui, chair (Malaysia); Kong Rithdee (Thailand); and John Torres (Philippines)

Dalaw by Janus Victoria

Harang by Mikhail Red

Ito ang Gabing Babalikan Kita Pagkatapos ng Tatlong Taon nang Hindi Maiiyak at Masasaktan by Antoinette Jadaone

Limang Libo by Ice Idanan

Save Me!!! by Ramon del Prado

Stations by Emmanuel Quindo Palo

To Siomai Love by Remton Siega Zuasola

Young Cinema Exhibition (Philippines)

The Artist Is In by Marcus Adoro

Ang Ibig Sabihin ng ‘OK Lang’ by Ryan Nikolai Dino

Gemini by Leo Valencia

Gusto Kong Lumipad by Glenn Ituriaga

Irene F**king Jordan by Paolo Herras

Karoler by Michael Angelo Dagñalan

Technophilia by Rianne Hill Soriano

Waiting Shed by Ely Buendia

SEA (Southeast Asia) Film Competition

Jury Members – Ronnie Lazaro (chair); Joel Shepard (USA); and Bee Thiam Tan (Singapore)

Adrift by Thac Chuyen Bui (Vietnam)

Bakal Boys by Ralston Jover (Philippines)

Here by Ho Tzu Nyen (Singapore)

Jermal by Ravi Bharwani (Indonesia)

Karaoke by Chris Chong (Malaysia)

A Moment in June by O Nathapon (Thailand)

Talentime by Yasmin Ahmad (Malaysia)

Woman on Fire Looks for Water by Woo Ming Jin (Malaysia)

SEA Shorts Competition

Uwan Init Pista sa Langit (Philippines) by Remton Siega Zuasola and Keith Deligero

Focal Point (Malaysia) by Alizera Khatami & Ali Seifourri

Rat (Malaysia/Taiwan) by Lau Kek Huat

Outing (Singapore) Jow Zhi Wei

Sea Horse  (Indonesia) by Shalahuddin Siregar

SEA Shorts Exhibition

Lakad ni Sammy (Philippines) by Joel P. Ruiz

Love Suicides (Malaysia) by Edmund Yeo

It’s Not Raining Outside by Yosep Anggi Noen

The 11th Cinemanila awardees are:

Main Competition

Best Actor – Alfredo Castro in Tony Manero (Chile/Brazil)

Best Actress – Tsilla Chelton in Pandora’s Box (Peru/Spain)

Grand Jury Prize – Tulpan by Sergey Dvortsevoy (Germany/Kazakhstan/Switzerland/Russia/Poland)

Lino Brocka Grand Prize – Hunger by Steve McQueen (UK/Ireland)

SEA (Southeast Asia) Competition

Best SEA Short – Focal Point by Alizera Khatami and Ali Seiffouri (Malaysia)

Best SEA Film – Talentime by Yasmin Ahmad (Malaysia)

Special Mention – Woman on Fire Looks for Water by Woo Ming Jin (Malaysia)

Young Cinema (Philippines)

Best Short Film – To Siomai Love by Remton Siega Zuasola

Ishmael Bernal Award for Young Cinema – Remton Siega Zuasola for To Siomai Love

Digital Lokal (Philippines)

Lino Grand Prize – Anacbanua by Christopher Gozum

Lino Grand Jury Prize – Biyaheng Lupa by Armando Lao

Best Director – Christopher Gozum for Anacbanua

Lifetime Achievement Award – Paul Schrader (USA)

Indie Spirit Award – Lav Diaz

Technophilia Screens at the 11th Cinemanila International Film Festival

Technophilia is screening at the Cinemanila Young Cinema Shorts Program this October 2009! =D

Congratulations to all the filmmakers and their films! See you at the Bonifacio Global City this October!

CINEMANILA FINALISTS
September 23, 2009
Cinemanila Finalists Announced: Digital Lokal, Young Cinema, SEA Shorts

The 11th Cinemanila International Film Festival released today its finalists for the Digital Lokal Section (Philippine digital films) Young Cinema Section (Shorts in Competition and Exhibition), and SEA Shorts (Southeast Asian shorts in Competition and Exhibition). They are as follows:

The finalists for this year’s Digital Lokal are:

Christopher Gozum “Anacbanua”
Armando “Bing” Lao “Biyaheng Lupa”
Jon Red “Beerhouse”
Lito Casaje “Dolores”
Ted Manotoc “69 1/2”
Bona Fajardo “Iliw”

For Young Cinema Competition the finalists are:

Janus Victoria “Dalaw”
Mikhail Red “Harang”
Antoinette Jadaone “Ito ang Gabing Babalikan Kita Pagkatapos ng Tatatlong Taon nang Hindi Maiiyak at Masasaktan”
Ice Idanan “Limang Libo”
Ramon del Prado “Save Me!!!”
Emmanuel Quindo Palo “Stations”
Remton Siega Zuasola “To Siomai Love”

For Young Cinema Exhibition are:

Marcus Adoro “The Artist Is In”
Ryan Nikolai Dino “Ang Ibig Sabihin ng ‘OK Lang’”
Leo Valencia “Gemini”
Glenn Ituriaga “Gusto Kong Lumipad”
Paolo Herras “Irene F**king Jordan”
Michael Angelo Dagñalan “Karoler”
Rianne Hill Soriano “Technophilia”
Ely Buendia “Waiting Shed”

For the SEA Shorts Competition the finalists are:

“Uwan Init Pista sa Langit” (Philippines) by Remton Siega Zuasola and Keith Deligero
“Focal Point” (Malaysia) by Alizera Khatami & Ali Seifourri
“Rat” (Malaysia/Taiwan) by Lau Kek Huat
“Outing” (Singapore) Jow Zhi Wei
“Sea Horse” (Indonesia) by Shalahuddin Siregar

For the Sea Shorts in Exhibition are:

“Lakad ni Sammy” (Philippines) by Joel P. Ruiz
“Love Suicides” (Malaysia) by Edmund Yeo
“It’s Not Raining Outside” by Yosep Anggi Noen

###

The 11th Cinemanila International Film Festival will be held from October 15 to 25, 2009 in Bonifacio Global City in Taguig. Around 100 international and local films will be screened in a span of 10 days – from the current toasts of the local indie scene to the award-winners and favorites at prestigious festivals such as Cannes, Berlin, Rotterdam, Sundance, and Pusan. The festival will also feature workshops, seminars and master classes. For more info, or jpegs for a release, please contact cinemanila.press@gmail.com and cinemanila@gmail.com or go to www.cinemanila.org.ph.

The 2009 Cinemanila is presented by the City of Taguig and the Cinemanila International Film Festival Foundation, together with Market!Market! Cinemas and Ayala Malls, in cooperation with Cinema One, Business World, Manila Bulletin, Click the City, Philippine Star, Pep.ph, Spot.ph, Fully Booked, Web Philippines, TBWA\Mangada\Santiago\Puno, Outpost Visual Frontier, Solid Video Corporation and the World Cinema Fund.

From: http://cinemanila.org/?p=725

Film Article: Avatar and Looking Into the Current Digital Cinemas in the Philippines

The Future of Film through IMAX and Digital Cinemas

A Sneak Peek at James Cameron’s Avatar and Looking Into the Current Digital Cinemas in the Philippines

By Rianne Hill Soriano

James Cameron’s “Avatar”

Experiencing “Avatar” is seeing the future of film technology right before my very eyes.

The realms of CGI and 3D technology on this age of filmmaking are definitely starting to write their own history already. From the initial experimentations to the developing of the medium to the hype of the format, both the filming process and the theatrical playing field prove that the evolution of cinema technology is really revolutionizing our film experiences in various levels.

Gone were the days when imagination becomes a limited audio-visual fare to filmmakers. Creative exploration is now equated by technological innovation. Leveling up to a new chapter of filmmaking history has truly started… and it continues to polish itself in every new cinematic venture exploring its prowess. From educational documentaries to children’s animated entertainment to narrative film offers, CGI and 3D technology create a larger scale of sensory high at this fast-paced and competitive era of infinite information and entertainment available to more and more people.

The rare sensation delivered by the 3D look for both animation and live action projects takes on the viewers to extraordinary cinematic journeys that have already yielded results of astonishing variety. We had the likes of “Deep Sea 3D” establishing a captivatingly fresh and interesting look to documentary productions. We had Polar Express pioneering the 3D family movie funhouse. We had “Beowulf” achieving that larger-than-life treatment and absolutely high-tech makeover to a literary classic. We had “U2 3D” breaking new ground for a new form of concert experience. And we had a number of live action offers as “Harry Potter” experimenting on the crisp and sparkling 3D look in selected parts of the films. And now, we have “Avatar” with its ambitious visual texture combined with humanly emotional depth creating a 3D spectacle amazingly exploring both live action shots and computer-generated images.

“Avatar” is truly creating the hype. This James Cameron first directorial debut since “Titanic” provides such a sense of wonder with its jaw-dropping images. Being part of the select audience to get a first look on the filmmaker’s hand-picked scenes of the film in 3D at IMAX Theater SM North Edsa last Aug 24, 2009, I should say, it is definitely something to look forward to starting on Dec. 18, 2009, the schedule for its regular showing. This motion picture epic pioneers two unrelated technologies – e-motion capture which uses images from tiny cameras rigged to actors heads to replicate their expressions and digital 3D. From the said exclusive peek at the ultimate 3D technology that is yet to revolutionize our movie experience, this motion picture epic has definitely provided me much anticipation for what the future of cinema has begun to realize.

“Avatar” was conceived by Cameron 14 years ago, when the means to realize his vision did not exist yet. Now, after four years of actual production work, the film delivers a fully immersive cinematic experience of a new kind – with the revolutionary technology invented to make the film disappear into the emotion of the characters and sweep the story with unprecedented craftsmanship.

The movie takes the audience towards the spectacular new future where pulse-pounding action sets forth from a mythical planet named Pandora.  Embroiled in the new world is a reluctant hero (Sam Worthington) that embarks on a journey of redemption and discovery as he leads a heroic battle to save a civilization. It shall be distributed worldwide in the following formats: IMAX® 2D, digital 3D, digital 2D and 35mm to be available in local theaters nationwide this December through 20^th Century Fox as distributed by Warner Brothers Philippines.

It is too early to give the best distinction for this ambitious film venture as I have only seen bits and pieces of some scenes. And it will just be fair to give my true thumbs up or thumbs down once I get to watch the whole film and find out for myself if more than just the film’s mind-dropping technical prowess and fascinating audio-visual spectacle, the storytelling delivers an ultimate triumph for this project. But so far, with what I have witnessed firsthand at the IMAX Theater, this film is not just a mere technical exercise of the new technology. During the sneak preview, I have watched the 20-minute excerpt of the film three times. I’m calling the first opportunity to see the footages as level 1 watching – where I merely enjoy and immerse myself in seeing the film for the first time. Level 2 is where my filmmaker side provides a more conscious study on the kind of film language utilized in the selected scenes I have watched. I become more keen in the kind of shots chosen, the movements of the camera, the production design, the utilization of the various elements present on the screen, among other things. Level 3 provides me an opportunity to evaluate the more technical aspect of the making of the film – considering the fact that it’s a newly explored advancement on this kind of film technology.

As a director myself who is also venturing into some animation projects at the moment, I have been in total awe with what I have seen. Watching it for the third time allows me to examine how superior the filmmaking process is for the film – I have been trying to see if there are technical and aesthetic compromises, if there is something not rendered well, if there are compositing issues, if the movements of the background does not match well with the movements of the actors and actresses and if the backgrounds separate too much from the main subject/s, if the shadows are missing or not on the right parts, if the motion captured expressions of the live performances have something questionable for the needed genuine expressions, among other things. Kudos to Cameron and his team. The fast cuts and action shots don’t look like they are cheating the audience’s eyes. Of course, it could be a more in-depth evaluation if I can do like a frame-by-frame examination of it (which is something that I really am interested to do because after trying to really see if there’s something not seamless on the shots and even the sound, the only thing I am considering to check again so far is if the dinosaur scene with the main character really perfectly matches the supposed movements of the vines that the huge, monstrous animal is stepping in, plus other little things that make me curious on the process that they further went through, regardless of missing something small along the way or things were just made to be at their most effective really), but basing it from what I saw three times, the technical and emotional parts of the film definitely look so promising. The idea of losing some needed emotional punch for the sake of technological show-offs is not an issue with the scenes I have seen. And the sound quality is no less than impeccable.

Digital Cinemas in the Local Playing Field

For the Philippines, it is but a dream to explore filmmaking on this foray of big budget, ambitious 3D projects, but it is a positive thing that we are part of the audience already benefiting on the improvement of the playing field of cinema’s freshest technological breakthroughs. We have around a dozen of digital cinemas and two IMAX theaters in the country this year compared to less than five last year. We have IMAX at SM Mall of Asia and SM City North Edsa (we used to have only one at Mall of Asia for the past few good years). We have digital cinemas at Gateway Cineplex 10, SM City North EDSA, Trinoma, Greenbelt 3, SM Megamall, Robinsons Galleria, and SM Mall of Asia (we used to have only one at SM City and two at Gateway Cineplex 10 for the past few good years) – and I have heard from a reliable source that a mall in Cebu is already on the works for their own digital cinema as well.

This is a great news for the country. It reflects how Filipinos can now go a notch higher not just in watching Hollywood blockbusters but also showcasing our own films with top quality 2K resolution –which is actually within the reach of our own productions. In fact, the Filipino independent filmmaking community has been on the forefront of this. Interestingly, more independent Filipino films are pushing the boundaries of HD projection than local commercial film projects. This provides a significant sign that limited budget independent film ventures have great opportunities to level up the technical quality of their films already. And another good news is that there are commercial theaters catering to HD and 2K film projections helping out even the local independent film projects. And I’m a living testimony to this as even my short films were given the chance to be premiered in HD format courtesy of Outpost Digital Frontier who is currently at the forefront of DCP (Digital Cinema Package) release of our local films, and courtesy of Gateway Cineplex 10 and Araneta Group who have gladly provided their Dolby Super Digital Cinema (Cinema 5) for the films’ theatrical projection a few months ago. And we are yet to see Cannes Palm d’Or Winner Raymond Red’s film “Himpapawid” (Skies) which is also working on its DCP – which explores great possibilities to being catered by the growing number of digital cinemas in the country.

In a realistic sense, the utilizing of digital cinemas is very much favorable to the Philippine film industry – both commercial and art-house films. Why and how? Shooting in HD, which cuts the production cost with such a significant amount as compared to shooting on film, can go two preferable routes for cinema projection: 1) blowing up to the standard 35mm prints for nationwide release of bigger film projects; and/or 2) projecting in HD which is file-based and needs no film prints anymore which can further cut the production cost especially to those films only catering to a specific audience like film buffs and people who are into watching art films. It may be a smaller market, but it doesn’t mean that it can’t make its own decent way into the box office especially if it is shown in digital cinemas where the saturation of its audience can be found in proximity with it. And in its case right now, tapping areas like Quezon City, Ortigas, Makati, and Manila (where the recent digital cinemas in the country are situated) are truly formidable grounds to the audience of art and independent films. And in the future, it will also be wise to start investing on digital cinemas in other key cities around the country as Cebu, Bacolod, Davao, Baguio, Ilocos, Laguna, etc. to further cater to the decent market of such films all around the country. And it is really “high time” that more Filipino producers, whether for commercial or art-house projects, be more inspired by all these.

The high resolution and mostly file-based filming in HD cameras make it easier for the footages to be utilized for post-production work. The file-based showing of films becomes a real advantage to film theaters as there are no more scratches and noises due to wear and tear of a 35mm print and there are no more possibilities for human error in rewinding and queuing up prints. All these, in the long-term, entails lower cost than using film-based projections; thus, making it more feasible for the Philippines to catch up with the technology in the global perspective. And as more and more digital cinemas come into the picture, the opportunities are getting bigger and bigger for Filipino filmmakers, producers, distributors, theater owners, and cinema-goers.

We may not be on the level of using the technology that “Avatar” has already maximized for itself, and it may take some decades before we reach that status; but if filmmakers, producers, distributors, theater owners, media people, and the film audience all work together, reaching out to the future of cinema with a global mindset on the technological breakthroughs of the likes of IMAX and digital theaters will be ultimately beneficial for us… And realistically speaking, it’s not too far away for us… We can both dream and achieve more and more in our own developing country with a slowly, but surely thriving film industry – now producing a great number of films garnering awards and receiving critical acclaim all over the world…

Indeed, we are all part of this new, astounding cinematic revolution with the most brilliant efforts for “filmmaking” and “film watching” within our midst – whether in such top Hollywood film projects or in our own steps forward in very our local films. Together, let’s develop our film industry further and appreciate the technology we are also starting to see, learn, and experience through Hollywood films that are already investing on cinema’s greater options for the future.

5th Titus Brandsma Indie Short Film Festival

I’m inviting you to the 5th Titus Brandsma Indie Short Film Festival on Aug. 22, 2009. My previous films “Karsel” and “Aninag” also screened on the past installments of the festival. This time, “Technophilia” is screening. =D

Free film screenings for everyone! Screenings are from 1:00 to 8:00 PM at the Titus Brandsma Center, 24 Acacia St., New Manila, Quezon City.  And in celebration of this event, let us pay tribute to artist-writer Pablo Gomez. =D

From Titus Brandsma Media Center:

On August 22, 2009, the 5th Titus Brandsma Indie Short Film Festival will celebrate and showcase the talents of Filipino filmmakers and a special tribute dedicated to one of Philippine’s pride in popular literary world.

The pelikula@TitusBrand sma recognizes the contributions made by the seasoned, well- respected and acclaimed, and yet humble “komiks,” Radio, TV and film writer— Pablo Salonga Gomez. Mang Pablo as he is fondly called has a writing career that spanned for more than six decades now. He started his writing career when he was still in high school to supplement his allowance as the family cannot cope with the demands of school at that time.

His break came in the 1950’s when he started writing stories and screenplays for big studios like Sampaguita, Premiere, LVN, Lea, FPJ Production, Tagalog Ilang- Ilang, Emperor Films, Champion Pictures, Maharlika Pictures and the like. Some of his memorable stories that have been made into films are: Hilda, Eva Fonda, Kampanerang Kuba, Alupihang Dagat, Hindi pa Tapos ang Laban, Komiks, Kurdapya, Susanang Daldal, Apat na Taga, Pasan Ko ang Daigdig, Kampana sa Sta. Quiteria, Ang Pagbabalik ng Lawin, Hindi ka na Sisikatan ng Araw, Mga Anghel na Walang Langit, Magdusa Ka, Hiram na Mukha, Mahal Saan Ka Nanggaling Kagabi?, Mahal Ginagabi Ka Na Naman, Kahit Konting Pagtingin, Probinsyano, and many more.

As a tribute, Gomez’ Magdusa Ka (1986) will be screened.

Synopsis: Dina was the daughter of Dindo and his former maid Nida. Aware of this fact the girl constantly dreamt that one day she would be recognized by his father and would enjoy all the comforts of his moneyed lifestyle. The day finally came when she moved into the mansion amidst much objection from her irate mother. It was a life to which she found difficulty in adjusting but being young and beautiful, she was easily accepted by her new friends. The problem was, she was left pregnant by her former boyfriend from the slums. Turned away by her paternal grandmother from her new home, she was left to fend for herself since her mother also refused to take her back.

It will also feature the following films by new filmmakers:

5 Minutes (14 minutes & 38 seconds) a film by Mark Shandii Bacolod
Ang Bakasyon ni Can-Can (19 minutes & 50 seconds) a film by Jerome Zamora
Bamboo Lake (20 minutes) a film by Donnie Sacueza
Batang Pinangga (17 minutes) a film by Michael Condes
Musa (The Muse) (20 minutes & 14 seconds) a film by Dexter Cayanes
Pogi (17 minutes) a film by Eros Arbilon;
Surreal Random MMS Texts Para Ed Ina, Agui, Tan Kaamong Ya Makakailiw Ed Sika: Gurgurlis
Ed Banua (15 minutes) a film by Christopher Gozum
Technophilia (6 minutes & 37 seconds) a film by Rianne Hill Soriano

The annual Titus Brandsma Indie Short Film Festival is from 1:00 to 8:00 PM to be held at the Titus Brandsma Center, 24 Acacia St., New Manila, Quezon City.

The event will be participated in by professional and emerging filmmakers from different groups, communities and schools.

The aim of the Pinoy Indies filmfest is to offer the budding filmmakers a venue to showcase their work and the same time to promote arts and culture to the common tao as it is often perceived as “elitist.” However, the filmfest is not limited to amateur filmmakers – this is open to all.

Manila Bulletin and Sense&Style Feature Articles

Film Article: 1st Pandayang Lino Brocka Political Film and New Media Festival

Hi! If you’re free on Aug. 5 and 6, I’m inviting you to attend the 1st Pandayang Lino Brocka Political Film and New Media Festival with the films “Pera-perahang Lata” and “Karsel” showing at the UP Film Institute UP Cine Adarna.

Pera-perahan is the opening film on Aug. 5 at 1pm while Karsel is also showing on Aug. 6, 3:40 pm. It will also be screened on Aug. 10 for the Poverty and Underdevelopment Program at the Asia Pacific College on Aug. 10, 1pm.

After the school screenings, selected films will also be shown at various communities and workplaces.

Hope to cya!

- Rianne

Pandayang Lino Brocka Political Film and New Media Festival
Aug. 5 and 6 at the University of the Philippines Cine Adarna and Aug. 10 at the Asia Pacific College

Free Admission

University of the Philippines Diliman Cine Adarna
August 5, 2009, 1:00pm to 7:00pm

Poverty and underdevelopment
1:00pm to 2:35pm
Opening film: Pera-perahang Lata – Rianne Hill Soriano (narrative, 29 mins)
Esem – Ian Baluca, Ateneo de Naga (music video, 3:52 mins)
Tiangge – Ray Gibraltar, Iloilo (narrative, 6:09mins)
Limang Libo – Ice Idanan, UPFI (narrative, 10:44 mins)
Pudpod – Adrian Recci Galang, UP Baguio (narrative, 25mins)
Muntinlupa demolition (1 and 4) Tudla Productions (newsreels, 20 mins)

Migrants situation
2:35pm to 3:50pm
Rhose – Nawruz Paguidopon, UPFI (music video, 5mins)
Performing Naturalness – Dada Docot (narrative, 3mins)
Surreal Random MMS texts… – Chris Gozum (experimental, 16mins)
The Seduction – Roberto Reyes Ang (poetry in motion, 5;41mins)
Wala nang balikbayan – Ilang-ilang Quijano (documentary, 25mins)
The Brothers of Kappa Pi – Roberto Reyes Ang (documentary, 18:23mins)

Indigenous peoples
3:50pm to 4:40pm
Diagnosing poverty, building community – KODAO Productions (documentary, 33mins)
On Potok – ST Exposure (music video, 3 mins)
Ehbon – John Japhet Tubeo, UMak (documentary, 10 mins)
Oyayi sa Kanlungan ng Digma – ST Exposure (photoslide, 4 mins)

US Imperialism
4:40pm to 5:10pm
Lababo – Seymour Sanchez, University of Makati (narrative, 16:47mins)
Imperialist Puppet (Part 1, 2 amd 4) – ST Exposure (animation, 50, 47, 51 secs)

War and Peace
5:10pm to 5:45pm
Lunes ng Hapis – Nick Olanka, UPFI (narrative, 12mins)
Pagkalinga – Sine Proletaryo (documentary, 6mins)
WW III – Artist Arrest (music video, 4:08 mins)
Kaswalti – Mae Urtal Caralde, (narrative, 12mins)

Human rights, political repression
5:45pm to 6:54pm
CPR – KODAO Productions (documentary, 15mins)
Eksenang Tahimik – JL Burgos (poetry in motion, 9:57mins)
NFFM Mindoro – ST Exposure (documentary, 16mins)

Closing film: Bihag – Sierra C. Alparce, UPFI (narrative, 28 mins)

University of the Philippines Diliman Cine Adarna
August 6, 2009, 1:00pm to 7:00pm

Workers, peasants and fisherfolk situation
1:00pm to 2:35pm

Opening film: Kasama sa bawat Mayo Uno – Mayday Productions (documentary, 22:46mins)
Awit ng KMU – ST Exposure (music video, 2:49 mins)
There’s Blood in Your Coffee – ST Exposure (documentary, 23:14)
Pagulong Fort – ST Exposure (documentary, 16:40mins)
Salot – Jay Jomar Quintos, UPFI (narrative, 23:07 mins)

Children and Youth situation
2:35pm to 3:22pm
Shortcut – Rene Anselmo, UE Caloocan (documentary, 16:05 mins)
Kuya – Mary Angelica Eileen Cruz, St. Scholastica’s College Manila (documentary, 9:30mins)
Uling – University of the Assumption Pampanga (documentary, 20:58mins)

Environment
3:22pm to 3:41pm
Alamat ng Kulay – Mari Rivelle Mallari, UPFI (animation, 8:52mins)
Bunker O: Sumirib Plus – JP Carpio (documentary, 10mins)
Tone-Toneladang Basua – Sanggalaw Productions (documentary)

Gender
3:41pm to 4:21pm
Karsel – Rianne Hill Soriano, UPFI (narrative, 20 mins)
Andalusian Bitch – Sasha Palomares, UPFI (experimental, 11mins)

Graft and corruption, misrepresentation, traditional politics
4:21pm to 6:37pm
Padre de Pamilya – Cesar Buendia (full length feature, 95mins)
Upuan – Jay Pacena (music video, 4:46mins)
Pogi – Eros Arbilon, Colegio de San Juan de Letran (narrative/satire, 17mins)
Tuparin natin ang banta ng ating panahon – Artist Arrest (animation, 3:51mins)
Long Live the Fearless Man – Aissa Penafiel, UPFI (PSA, 3mins)

Closing film: De Lata – Mae Urtal Caralde (narrative, (narrative, 12mins)

Asia Pacific College Auditorium
August 10, 2009, 1:00pm to 5:30pm

Poverty and underdevelopment
1:00pm to 1:53p
Opening film: Muntinlupa demolition (1 and 4) Tudla Productions (newsreels, 20 mins)
Esem – Ian Baluca, Ateneo de Naga (music video, 3:52 mins)
Pera-perahang Lata – Rianne Hill Soriano (narrative, 29 mins)

Migrants situation
1:53pm to 2:42pm
Wala nang balikbayan – Ilang-ilang Quijano (documentary, 25mins)
Rhose – Nawruz Paguidopon, UPFI (music video, 5mins)
The Brothers of Kappa Pi – Roberto Reyes Ang (documentary, 18:23mins)

Workers, peasants and fisherfolk situation (30mins, 46secs)
2:42pm to 3:13pm
Kasama sa bawat Mayo Uno – Mayday Productions (documentary, 22:46mins)
Triumph die-in – Tudla Productions (newsreel, 8mins)

Children and Youth situation
3:13pm to 3:30pm
Shortcut – Rene Anselmo, UE Caloocan (documentary, 16:05 mins)

Human rights, political repression
3:30pm to 4:08pm
Eksenang Tahimik – JL Burgos (poetry in motion, 9:57mins)
Bihag – Sierra C. Alparce, UPFI (narrative, 28 mins)

US Imperialism
4:08pm to 4:28pm
Lababo – Seymour Sanchez, University of Makati (narrative, 16:47mins)
Imperialist Puppet (Part 1, 2 amd 4) – ST Exposure (animation, 50, 47, 51 secs)

War and Peace
4:28pm to 4:45pm
Kaswalti – Mae Urtal Caralde, (narrative, 12mins)
WW III – Artist Arrest (music video, 4:08 mins)

Graft and corruption, misrepresentation, traditional politics
4:45pm to 5:17pm
Upuan – Jay Pacena (music video, 4:46mins)
Huling Sayaw ni Gloria – Tudla Productions (documentary, 12mins)
Long Live the Fearless Man – Aissa Penafiel, UPFI (PSA, 3mins)

Closing film: De Lata – Mae Urtal Caralde (narrative, (narrative, 12mins)

That Korean On-air Experience at Arirang…

I got a call about getting on air at Arirang from Jennifer, Dorothy’s assistant around 9pm.

It was quite weird i should say… In the Philippines I was a DJ myself… (And nobody in Korea knows about it yet… maybe until now…) I went on board at 106.7 Kool and Monster Radio RX 93.1 way back my college days… And for a change, I was the one interviewed by a DJ here in Korea for their radio program Evening Groove at Arirang an hour ago… So I had the chance to experience being the interviewee for a radio show. I started sharing some of my experiences here in Korea. And Dorothy Nam and Sam Hammington are quite cool to talk to!

Thing was, there was this Korean quiz segment and I had to answer a question to see how much I knew Korea… They asked for a director since they know I’m a filmmaker and I’m in Korea for a film training program. That was tough!!! Primarily because I have a little trouble remembering Korean names… Sheeesshh!! I just thought of one of the top directors I like. And one of my favorite Korean films is Old Boy… Apparently, that’s the correct answer! Park Chan-wook!!! Lucky me!!!

And just like any other interviewee getting on air, that was a chance to say hi to some friends listening. Haha! I greeted my friends here in Korea! Fun!

Thanks so much Dorothy and Sam! It was a fun experience!!! And thanks for the coffee GC, yay!

How Koreans Treat Tourists (basing it from my experience)

Basing it from my experience, Koreans treat tourists/foreigners well. I experienced asking people around for assistance whether on directions or other things and they seem very hospitable . When I go to shops, it’s quite fun because they seem to provide much hospitality, and well, if I may call it special privilege to people like me. You can really feel that they do extra effort to provide you with what you need whether or not they understand english. Oh, I noticed most people here still don’t know how to speak english. Most who know are the younger ones and they are not that fluent still. i also experienced getting compliments almost every time. They easily appreciate many things. And like here in the Philippines, people at the restaurants and stores always greet the customers warmly with a good day (in Korean).

I went to the mall last weekend on my own and since the subways here are quite confusing for first-timers (coz I needed to ride the train and transfer to another lane number and there are like around 6 transfer trains I think), a Korean woman offered to help me since she was going to the same area as me. I was going to Dongdaemun Stadium, a former place for the World Cup and it’s a very famous area for shopping. Imagine she really exerted much effort in finding the cinema amidst the many stores and she accompanied me until the elevator while she has a meeting some hundred meters away I think. That’s very nice of her really. Dongdaemun is such a shopping zone: like one whole Megamall for shopping clothes, another one whole Megamall for shopping shoes, a department store and shopping center (Cerestar and Freya) that’s more than 10-storey high, a 24-hour cinema (Freya theaters) with 10 available theaters catering to Korean, sometimes Japanese, and Hollywood films. Aside from those, there are countless vendors along the sidewalks (think Quiapo but cleaner). And it doesn’t really go chaotic and traffic due to them so if ever BF would be here, I think he wouldn’t really have to remove the vendors then.

It’s fun here you can also bargain even at the department store. And at most times, there are freebies when you buy things. Well well well, Pinoys love freebies! I received freebies like socks, vitamins, samplers of beauty products, small swarovsky stuff, among others.

It was so fun that I went to a store reminiscent of tiangge inside malls (the series of small stores – think greenhills) and I saw these wonderful accessories that I had my eyes bigger than usual and my mouth as round as my eyes in awe… I had around 20k won then and I knew that I just had to choose one among them which I could afford. So as usual I started choosing through the process of elimination. I also asked if I could use card to buy, but unfortunately (though most stores around already accept cards), they only accept cash. And actually, it became a blessing in disguise!! I told them I only have 20k won which I showed to the lady vendor. I had 3 handmade peruvian necklaces on my hand and I plan to choose one among them as they were priced: 8k, 15k, and 15k. Then the lady got my 20k and the 3 necklaces and placed them in a plastic. Then, she gave them to me… OMG!!! I saved 18k won!!! What a real winner… weeeeee!!! Ang saya!!! I’m so grateful to them!

My Ha-sook and Other Korean Stuff

Ha-sook is a Korean-style guest house. I’m staying in a ha-sook that’s 1 room for 1 person. It’s kinda high tech here. Though I have a key to open the door of my room (which I still prefer more for reasons I dunno – OMG am I getting old that I’m not in favor of its new technology??!), I open the gate of the ha-sook by pressing something… it’s hard to describe but I think there’s something about some magnetic stuff that makes it work. Then, the major door after the gate has no keys. You need to know the code and do some pulling and pressing to open the glass door. I prefer this coz at least I don’t have to bring too much keys then, it’s very accessible. Perhaps, I’m just getting paranoid that if my room has the same kind of lock, some people may figure out the code and barge into my room then. hmmhhh…

The lights here are kinda high tech too. Along the stairs, the lights open through the sensors. So if something starts moving or passing by, the light goes on. I think it’s programmed to be lit for a certain number of seconds. And if nothing moves anymore, it closes automatically. Overall, it’s a good technology as it saves power efficiently. The only disadvantage is, if you stay put and you don’t move within the stairs (say, you’re talking to somebody or your getting hot water from the dispenser which is also outside near the stairs), the lights automatically closes. And you need to go near the sensor and move your hands perhaps just to get in lit again. Now that’s not so nice… hehe!

I live at the 3rd floor. There’s another door at the 3rd floor entrance. You use a key with it. After which, that’s the time I get to my very door… I have a bed, dresser, TV, clock cabinet, desk, hat and coat hanger (I’m not sure how it’s called), and extra sheets. I have a nice view from my window.

Korean don’t have their shoes/sandals/slippers within the house. So I don’t wear anything for my feet. Sometimes I wear socks inside. There’s an available plastic slippers at the bathroom – which is shared by each tenants within the same floor. I share the bathroom with the landlady and her family. Until here, I think I’m still followed by my slight attacks of favorable antisocial/isolation modes as the rest of the boarders areon the other floors other than me. I’m considerably isolated from the rest then… sheeesssh!!! And since we have free breakfast and dinner, the dining area is within my floor, actually, when I open my door, it’s already the dining area. The bathroom is on my left. So most things are quite accessible. I don’t need to go up and down like the others. Wehehe!

From my room, I have a nice view of the mountain and the cityscape. I’m like at the middle of a mountain… Yes, I climb/trek everyday going home. I’m losing weight because of it. But I’m not complaining coz I’m eating so much chocolates now without any guilt and I love it…

It’s either raining or it’s very sunny here in Seoul right now. It’s so much like the Philippines except the humidity here is lower. And I haven’t experienced any typhoon here yet. The heaviest rain would just be like a serious drizzle in the Philippines.

Most of the structures here like the ha-sooks and apartments look the same. They seem to use the same kind of red bricks.

I think, like the Japanese, Koreans show their being nationalistic through their products. I have never seen a Sony Ericsson here. I’ve never seen a Toyota, a Ford, a Panasonic, and other foreign brands. Most electronics would be LG or Samsung. Cars are either Hyundai or Kia. Wow… they really patronize their own…

Korean Film Council: First Two Weeks

As a part of the Asian Filmmakers Training Program of the Korean Film Council (KOFIC), I can really say that the Korean film industry is definitely thriving. Why? Because to begin with, their government loves their film industry. They support their industry so much as if it’s an integral part of Korean lives. They have much budget for films They have the right government and non-government arms working together. They provide valuable projects to filmmakers. They also target the global market. In fact, they’re even spending money for the three of us, Parul of India, Ha of Vietnam, and me just for cultural exchange, learning Korean cinema and how it works, and providing a film training for us. I wonder when will come the time that the Philippine government will start supporting arts the same way… Hay… Imagine they provided us roundtrip airfare inclusive of the travel taxes, accommodation (one room per person), free internet, provision for mobile phone, breakfast and dinner everyday, monthly allowance, medical insurance, alien registration stuff, tuition fee of almost 4 million won which is around 4,000 USD, among others. So lahat yun times 3 coz we’re 3 here. And we’re also attending PIFAN and PIFF at Pusan this year courtesy of them. I’ve always been wanting to attend those two festivals, now it’s finally becoming a reality. Thanks to this program.

I have a couple of books, readings, magazines, and some Cannes stuff with me, I’ve been reading them everytime I’m free. Nakakainspire magbasa, and yet nakakafrustrate din kasi sa Pinas salat talaga sa ganito.

Halos araw-araw may libreng snacks sa afternoon, sometimes ice cream, fruits, breads, etc. for the people at the office. Marami ring stocks ng coffee and other drinks and snacks na you can use anytime. Marami ring freebies na kung anu-ano galing sa sponsors and other sources.

Nakakatuwa na nakakalungkot. Nakakatuwa coz it’s a privilege to be here and experience all these at nakakalungkot coz sa Pilipinas, highly unlikely na mangyari ito unless a big change happens by any twist of fate.

I really don’t believe that the Philippines is a poor country. I have met lots of people from the government who knows the nooks and cranny of politics and government. Some project managers, some office workers doing clerical works, and some are cabinet members. They say the same thing… we are NOT poor. We just don’t get to feel what are supposed to be for us because of graft and corruption. And our government just puts in budget to military. The rest are given remnants of what’s left with the budget (mainly shared by the military and the bank accounts of corrupt officials. Tsk tsk tsk.

If only the government learns to value education and the arts the way it values the military, and take care of the Filipinos in many aspects, we can provide a long-term change for the better. We hone the sciences, maths, and technology, but we should also hone the arts, culture, sociology, humanities, and the like. There should be balance. We shouldn’t become robots nor we shouldn’t become merely artsy fartsy. If only the government keeps the balance, slowly but surely, the Filipino values and priorities will soon make the Pinas a better place.

If only the producers would unite and everyone makes quality films, just like if you are offered all healthy food and you have no choice for your usual high-cholesterol diet, then Filipinos will start to watch and appreciate quality films – just like eating the healthy food instead of hte bad diet. It takes a big wave to impact a pretty good change. By that time, the masses would start loving even art films, and the level of art appreciation can affect the lives of the people and make living in the country much better in terms of values and cultural development.

Yeah. Too dramatic. Nuff said.

My classmates at Korea University

I’m yet to upload the photos from my cell and my SLR. Mean time, im typing this blog entry.

My classmates are: Japanese, American, Belgian, Vietnamese, Chinese, Mongolian, and a German but he transferred to the afternoon class coz he wants the same sked as his Korean girlfriend.

So far, we’re enjoying the company. Most are always bringing in gadgets inside the class. Talk about technology. And most of them have electronic dictionaries already. Hmmhhh… Mukhang di na yata uso ang book type of dictionary. Talagang dependent na talaga tayo sa mga electronics and more convenient and faster ways to get what we need…

Manila to Incheon to Seoul

My twin Mon (not really by blood but by circumstances…) and me at the lobby of NAIA. Yes, again… this time we had the same flight schedule, though he went to Gate 7 (Cathay Pacific going to New York), I’m at Gate 6 (going to Seoul). The NAIA people thought we were going together in the same flight but got surprised when we showed our boarding passes… nyehehe! Anyway, kitakits next year Mon!! Galingan mo rin hehe!

After the NAIA:

I wasn’t able to shoot anything at Incheon International Airport because I have tons of things being carried… Man, I was carrying almost 30 lbs. of hand carry when I weigh 95 lbs. how was that… hmmmhhh…

I have some video shots and photos from my digital SLR at the airplane, none at the airport though arrgh!!!

After the Korean Film Council pips picked me up at the airport, I was able to use my cellphone to shoot some Korean highways… from Incheon to Seoul — it’s one hour away…

Going out of the Incheon parking (my SLR was left at the back of the car, so the available camera is only my mobile…)

Korean roads…
They have really wide highways!!! there may be many vehicles, but the highways are directly proportional to them… so the traffic is very much bearable… actually, they just stop for a couple of seconds or a minute or so for the pedestrians to cross within the areas with traffic lights. And the best part of it all, the city is not polluted!

It’s summer slash rainy season here. And even at 10pm, it’s like 6pm in the Philippines, the sun can still be seen hehehe! this pic was shot at past 7. pardon the overexposure, my cellphone was acting up.

My first meal in Korea:

Before finally seeing my ha-sook (my place of stay), we ate in a restaurant near my school which is also kinda near my ha-sook… they serve a lot of food… since i already had the famous bibimbap of Korean Air at the plane, we had the bulgogi this time… and lots of other food. actually even at our house, so many food are always laid on the table. most of them are vegies so no problem with me then i just notice that with the kind of food i eat i(even though i eat a lot – getting many people surprised why i eat a lot when im so skinny – even in Manila… Oh yes i look so PG haha!), and I walk like at least 1 hour everyday with some trekking moments since I live at the foot of the mountain – actually a little up at the foot of the mountain which is around half a kilometer away from a highway in Seoul, I think I will get back to the Philippines much skinnier, yikes…

Using the net at the Korean Film Council. I wish we have something like what the KOFIC has here… they love their film industry… especially their government… and so goes with the rest of them… hay…

I’ll save the more serious words to my Yehey articles and my film blog.

O di ba, I’m wearing my Philippine clothes, it’s almost the same temperature in the Philippines and in Korea now. But let me wait until November… Snow! Ski!!! Weeeee!!!

Next time I’ll post some pix of Korea University and other places.

My Trip to Seoul

Finally!!! I found the adapter I need to get my gadgets functioning!!! Now I’m using my laptop here in my room for the first time. It’s been such a busy week since my first step at Incheon and now at Seoul. I was 1 day absent to my class coz they started June 30 and I arrived June 30 6pm. Wehehe! I wish I can upload some pix here so my family and friends can check out what’s happening to me here. Well, obviously, Im not fond of blogging about my personal life… but looks like i have to open a lil bit just this time to keep people updated. I’ll see once I get enough time then. I’m still finishing 2 productions from the Philippines while I’m here in Korea for the Asian Filmmakers Training Program.

6 mos. of Seoul wouldn’t be bad I guess.. but of course I miss the Pinas and all my loved ones and friends there. even the food and the work.

i’ll be using this multiply blog and my film blog for my korean experiences.

incheon international airport is like an hour away from seoul. it’s actually a good idea to have the airport far from residencial and commercial areas. and oh, the view from the airplane while landing is so much beautiful… seeing all those small islands and seeing incheon…

after many issues with my Smart phone as they were saying I have to rent a phone in Korea because GSM is not compatible, well thank goodness for Sony Ericsson P1i, my roaming is alive and kicking! and i got a free korean mobile phone too, so i have two phones here, sosyal! in the philippines im better off having just one, hehehe!

Seoul is quite similar to Pinas, it’s like our Makati, there are so many vehicles in the streets, a little traffic, but bearable, coz the traffic is mainly caused by the traffic lights only. the highways are really wide, at least 4 lanes per direction. and above all, what i love best is that no matter how many vehicles there are in the streets, the city is not polluted. i havent had the experience of having to walk and cover my nose due to pollution – which i always do when im in Manila.

It’s summer here. i wear my clothes like i wear them in Manila. It’s almost the same temperature that i really didnt have to adjust… well not yet… come winter on december, im sure it would be freezing cold, i wish i could learn how to ski by then. hehehe!

i live at the foot of the mountain, i climb a bit like trekking for a few minutes just to get to my house. it’s cool, i have free breakfast and dinner, i have free internet… and i have my own room weeee!!!

i have a class at korea university, it’s soooooo beautiful… i wish UP can become like it in terms of facilities. it’s so high tech, it looks so good and the architectural design of this school is so amazing, and it’s such a big campus! and they have more than one campus within seoul.

good thing i have free food and accommodation. and i have some allowance… because cost of living here is quite high. imagine my books cost me almost 50,000 won. a typical lunch would cost me at least 2,000 won. and i think 1 dollar equals around 1,200 won… sheeeeshhh!!!

for the korean language program, there are many japanese in my class. they’re good with the language already, im so kindergarten compared to them. well, i speak english best though hehe! so far, i have a belgian seatmate named hannah and a japanese who talks in filipino so damn well i thought she was filipina, but she’s actually japanese. her name is yumi. she said she has lots of filipina friends in japan. and really, she’s so damn good in speaking filipino. im so impressed hehe! hopefully once im all settled here i can post some pix

Till next time when I have time… hopefully i can upload ssome pix then… anyone who has an idea on a software to be used to easily convert hi res photos to low res that is functioning when using a mac?? it’s hard converting a hi res photo to low res for internet purposes. i want my other portfolio pix kept at low res when i have it up in the net hope i get some help… thanks!

Cinemalaya at Marikina and Marikina Government Support for Artists and the Arts

Tangkilikin po natin ang mga arts and culture events ng city government of Marikina. Isa sa mga events nila na dinala sa Teatro Marikina ay ang Cinemalaya sa pakikipagtulungan ng CCP at FDCP. Please see the attached invitation, program, and location map.

Hindi po ako officially connected sa nasabing event o sa city government, pero nakausap ko ang mga authorities na in-charge sa arts, tourism, workers ‘ affairs at public information nila tungkol sa ginagawa naming pelikula at nakita ko kung gano nila sinusuportahan ang mga ganitong proyekto at talagang isa sa mga prioritites ng lungsod ay ang pagdevelop sa arts and culture and values formation ng mga tao sa Marikina. Naniniwala sila na mahalaga rin ang mga ganitong klase ng mga endeavors para sa pag-balance at complete development at fulfillment ng mga tao.

Kung may mga cultural events/projects kayo (whether as individuals, groups, institutions, associations, schools, etc.), mga performances, pelikula, tugtugan, at kung ano pa mang mga activities relating to arts, culture, and values formation, makipag-ugnayan lamang kayo sa city government through www.marikina.gov.ph at ang mga contact numbers na nanduon (mainly sa Marikina Cultural, Tourism, Trade, and Investment Promotions Office at Public Information Office) at talagang sumusuporta sila sa ganitong mga mga proyekto. Balak nilang magkaroon ng regular events at paliwigin ang mga activities sa Teatro Marikina.

Sa totoo lang, nakakatuwang isipin na meron palang mga ilang local government offices na sinserong nagpapahalaga sa mga artists at iba’t-ibang art media at binibigyan ng pagkakataon ang mga ito na magkaroon ng magandang venue ang mga nasabing mga endeavors through this new projects of the city government. Hopefully, ang Teatro Marikina at ang nasabing lungsod ay maging isang bagong ideal venue rin para sa mga artists, sa mga kabataan na maging exposed at inspired sa mga ganitong gawain, at sa lahat ng mga tao na limitado ang mga pagkakataong maipakita ang kanilang mga gawa o limitado ang kanilang mapuntahang mga venues para makakakita/ma-appreciate ang mga magagandang likhang Pinoy.

Suportahan natin ‘to!

Rianne

Film Review: Mr. Bean’s Holiday

Mr. Bean’s Filmmaking in France
By Rianne Hill Soriano

The fun and inventive script and whimsical execution makes ‘Mr. Bean’s Holiday’ laugh-worthy.

In the film, Mr. Bean’s actual holiday would probably make any struggling filmmaker, actor, or actress get, at the least, two seconds of amazement. But don’t get confused, it’s your usual Mr. Bean movie for all the trademark fun. It just becomes a little more striking for me being a filmmaker myself. Yeah, Mr. Bean is going to a beach in Cannes. And with a little help from French places and people, he gets a standing ovation with his ‘incidental film opus’ at the Cannes Film Festival! Escapist as it is, I’m sure many artists dreaming of, at the least, attending the Cannes Film Fest, or getting acknowledged with his/her work in front of one of the most coveted group of world artists assembled in one grand occasion, can relate to such possibilities.

Personally, I can’t help but say that ‘Mr. Bean’s Holiday’ is a totally fun and inspiring experience for me. I thought, ‘If I were Mr. Bean, it would be one of the most memorable time of my life being in Cannes…’ I have just watched it a few minutes ago… and now I am making this review… that’s how fresh my thoughts are at the moment. Pardon my mentioning of some personal thoughts about it. This part of my review is very personal as I can relate to it on another level compared to maybe a doctor, lawyer, or engineer watching it. Now, read on for a review with myself more detached from such personal references…

‘Mr. Bean’s Holiday’ kicks off with Mr. Bean winning a camcorder and a vacation trip to Cannes through a church raffle. In Paris, he keeps up with the usual Mr. Bean antics and comic gestures while losing his way due to the language barrier. Early on, he gets stuck with his weird French meal – an icky-looking seafood platter – in a French restaurant. In between, he uses his camcorder to document himself and the many French spots like the usual tourist. And just before catching his train, he asks a stranger, (who turns out to be a film director and a Cannes Film Fest jury member on his way to the festival) to shoot him while boarding the train. However, the said turn of events accidentally causes him to be left behind the station, while his son is stuck alone inside the moving train. The guilty Mr. Bean tries to cheer up Stepan (Max Baldry), the boy, and helps him get back to his father amidst the many mishaps on their way to Cannes (losing his bag, wallet, travel documents, winning ticket, among others). While encountering the many troubles and chases to get his ticket back, he gets a glimpse of a beautiful French woman, tries to save her from the military war, and later finds himself disrupting the flow of a commercial being shot by the egotistical director Carson Clay (Willem Dafoe). He and Stepan finally hitch a ride with the same beautiful French actress Sabine (Emma de Caunes) who is heading to Cannes to attend the premiere of Clay’s film, in which she appears. After Mr. Bean sneaks into the showing, his camcorder images are destined to perk up the dull film premiere. And as expected, Stepan gets reunited with his father and mother at the festival, and the excited Mr. Bean finally gets to his dream destination – the beach!

Don’t try to find the laptop and coffee-licking scene at a train as seen in the movie trailer. It’s not in the final cut of the movie.

With the inclusion of the Cannes Film Fest in the story, the said big-time cinematic world event is portrayed light and a little satiric. It keeps a focus on the story, Mr. Bean, and the supporting characters – without really documenting a red carpet event filled with the bright international stars and personalities – as how the festival turns out to be in reality (but the interesting locations make some entertaining moments for the international audience who is quite curious about how Cannes looks like). The humor at the expense of celluloid pretensions is a simple way to come up with some good laughs for the cinemagoer – courtesy of the comic camera shots of Mr. Bean and his new-found friends and the voiceover of Carson Clay’s conceited film.

No doubt, the man behind the character Mr. Bean, Rowan Atkinson, is such a talent. Taking on a more European sensibility, this film’s hearty sweetness and slight naughtiness make the goofy slapstick routine of Mr. Bean a generally comical joy. Not all viewers would probably appreciate every bit of the joke times and antics, but for sure, everyone would have particular moments of laughter while watching this 90 minutes of classic comedy. The audience might know what’s going to happen next, some weak jokes may be delivered, a number of discontinuities abound, but still, it makes one laugh in the right moments. And with this movie being a combination of English and French, Mr. Bean’s comedic style really overcomes the language barrier. He proves that any corny gag and any technical, thematic, and even geographical errors as seen in the movie could possibly be elevated by certain clownish antics that can really keep up to the very essence of the film – to make the audience laugh. And the classic living icon in Rowan Atkinson’s Mr. Bean really delivers here.

Each individual may have his/her own take on Mr. Bean’s very character. Some love him. Some hate him. And just like with this movie, each individual has his/her own views on it. But for sure, for most fans, it is such a welcome return to the ‘classic’ Bean the people have known since the TV series. He resembles a classic comedy with his trademark funny movements upgrading some complacent and dragging moments in the story. His established appeal overthrows such supposedly weak comic scenes with his already well-accepted goofs and his ability to emote with every facial expression and weird non-verbal suggestion.

With the many generations of fans he has now (and still counting), Mr. Bean’s comic power reiterates his being one of the best in the world of contemporary silent entertainment.

Invitation to watch my film Aninag at Penguin Bar, along with other shorts from woman filmmakers, enjoy the music of rocking moms

PR for Club O

DISH is now Club O!
By: Rianne Hill Soriano | YEHEY! Contributors
15 January 2007 | 10:59AM

DISH is wearing a new name in 2007 – Club O Resto-Bar, the newest premier entertainment bar in the Metro located at the ABS-CBN Complex, Mother Ignacia St., Quezon City, Manila.

Indeed, Club O’s successful launch last Jan. 10, 2006 proves that Club O shall soon live up to its vision to become the home of premier entertainment in the Metro. With the “O” shape bar as its centerpiece, its new name really fits well. The establishment has a lot of circles and round figures carefully crafted to draw crowd appeal suiting the diverse tastes of its customers.

According to Martin Jay Ong, Events & Marketing Head, who also dabbles as Head of NITRAM Entertainment Production, an Events and Artist Management-Booking office, Club O is complete with amenities fit for different events and functions with its new VIP rooms installed with videoke facility that can accommodate as much as 30 people. The bar also highlights its sound and lighting section complete with a band set-up that can be used by bands and artists during shows and events. It also offers free WIFI access to guests with mobile gadgets.

Club O could fit as much as 450-500 people at a time depending on seating arrangements.

“We wanted to be known not just for a different dining experience but as a venue for great shows, parties and events; thus we wanted to position the establishment as the new premier entertainment resto-bar in the Metro,” said Martin.

Gracing the launch of Club O last Jan. 10 were a number of music talents including Nyoy Volante, Freeverse, Lance Raymundo, Pinoy Dream Academy Band, and Phil. Idol finalist Reymond Sajor.

As a blast-off for 2007, Club O has lined–up big music artists and themed nights such as the gigs of MYMP on Jan. 17, Nyoy Volante (birthday show) on Jan. 24 and the Soul Siren Nina on Jan. 31. These gigs have the Freeverse band as opening act.

Club O’s Thursday Retro-Nights feature the New Circus Band and Retrospect with their classic brand of ‘60s, ‘70s and ‘80s music. Friday R&B-House Clubbing Nights feature the Wiseguys and DJ Norman. Saturday House Clubbing Nights feature DJ Melvin.

Club O is open almost 24 hours, because of its all-day breakfast and soon merienda offerings from 4 a.m. to 7 p.m., from Tuesday to Saturday. Club O primarily caters to guests from ABS-CBN and RMH (Call Center) Group, but it is definitely open to all.

Club O is available for any functions, shows and events. For inquires, call Mico, Michelle, Caroline, Edgar & Martin @ (632) 4130603/ 4130614/ telefax 4130615 or email club_o_restobar@yahoo.com.ph.

Guimaras Short Films

The Guimaras tragedy: Through the lens and beyond
By: Rianne Hill Soriano

In response to the immeasurable damage brought about by the Guimaras oil spill from the sunken MT Solar I, ABC 5, in cooperation with the Independent Filmmakers Cooperative, invited 16 filmmakers to each shoot a short film about the current situation in Guimaras. The project named ‘Guimaras: Short Films from the Oil Spill’ has recently aired at ABC 5 (last Oct. 8, 2006) and screened at the Robinsons Galleria Movieworld (last Oct. 13, 2006).

Coming from diverse backgrounds with a unified goal to address the serious concerns about the oil spill from the sunken MT Solar 1 tanker and the abhorrent dumping of the oil sludge, the 16 participating filmmakers, along with their production teams, translate the realities floating alongside the coastline of Guimaras into a series of narrative, experimental, and documentary films expressing what happened, what is happening, and what could possibly happen in Guimaras after the deadly oil spill. With the multiple perspectives coming from the filmmakers, the various films have transpired into an emotional collection of short films of different styles and forms � all exploring the massive damage of the oil spill from the lens’ eyes to the hearts and minds of the audience. This roster of shorts becomes an accessible medium to present and express the literal and figurative conditions of the Guimaras local communities and marine life all forsaken by the hazardous oil left by the sunken tanker.

‘Ang Hele ni Guima’ by Drei Boquiren, an experimental version of the old Guimaras folklore about Princess Guima finding her lost love Aras, sets the mood for the entire stretch of the program. In this film, Princess Guima continues her search for her only love � only to be caught by the deadly, slick, black poison from the sunken M/T Solar 1. She dies within the seashore � hoping that in her last breath, she would see Aras. The powerful visuals complemented by the high definition camera used and the music laid for this experimental film makes a great emotional impact in addressing the concerns of the oil spill.

‘Bunker 0: Sumirib’ by JP Carpio exposes the series of sentiments of the people of Sitio Sumirib, Barangay dela Paz in the municipality of Nueva Valencia, province of Guimaras. This is one of the most affected areas of the massive oil spill. The townspeople and the visitors of the place share their thoughts and feelings � from the funniest to the most serious ones. Through informal meetings, discussions and pep talks, they address the various actions needed. They also validate the Filipino trademark of coping up with difficult times by taking serious things lightly accordingly in order to continue living with an optimistic outlook. The humor is there, and still, they seriously think… and do something…

‘Itim’ by Jeck Cogama deals with the harmful effects of the oil spill in human life and the natural habitats of the various species within the the Guimaras Islands.

‘Spill’ by Emman dela Cruz keeps up with the statement ‘man spills over nature; nature spills over man.’ A child watches the oil-spilled mangroves of his native land Guimaras. He tries to build hope by building a small mountain of stones.

‘Toxic Mango’ by Khavn dela Cruz is a sardonic tale of fruit and worldwide genocide. A black mango becomes the ‘Adam and Eve apple’ of Guima and Aras � causing complications between them, and later on, to all the people of their town. A film In black and white, it has the touch of a silent film presented with comic wits. The tragedy in the lives of Guima, Aras, and the whole community ruminates over the irreversible effects of the oil spill tragedy.

‘Huna Huna’ by Wilfred Allen Galila is an advocacy for Mother Earth battling with the nightmarish effects of the oil spill disaster in Guimaras. It attempts to extend more conscious efforts to do something about the tragedy.

‘Oil Spill On Canvas’ by Roxlee brings the use of a canvass and brush within the dead seashore of sand and oil. Roxlee paints on the canvass using the oil seeping through the poor sand. Indeed, the oil spill has left nothing but terrible death.

‘Life Projections’ by Raya Martin is an experimental work addressing the harsh realities brought about by the Guimaras oil spill.

‘Guima’ by Oscar Nava depicts the story of a confused, frustrated and misinformed ‘balikbayan’ who reflects on the oil spill disaster in Guimaras.

‘Biyaheng Guimaras’ by Milo Paz is an experimental travelogue about the impressions and expressions of the people shooting in Guimaras one month after the oil spill tragedy.

‘Pagbugtaw’ by Seymour Barros Sanchez is about the story of a Makati-bred son who talks about his beloved father, a native of Guimaras. Touching into various political and social concerns, the character tackles the prevalent water pollution, oil-driven US wars against the middle east, oil price hikes, and the largest oil spill in Philippine history � in Guimaras. He wakes up from his apathy and decides to take action for good.

‘La Paz’ by Ann Shy exposes the Guimaras oil spill clean up efforts and its absurdity. It features a system of negligence, ignorance and apathy amdist the very pathetic reality happening in Guimaras.

‘Ramblings From the Sea’ by Paolo Villaluna uncovers the testimony of the oldest man in Guimaras as he recalls the better days of his hometown amidst the current oil spill.

‘Ephemeral’ by Victor Villanueva is a look into the Guimaras oil spill and how it affects everyone through a semi-documentary supported by some animation skits.

‘Ayos Na Ba?’ by Kidlat de Guia is an experimental documentary of the visual experiences of traveling to the oil spill in Guimaras and begs the question ‘Ayos na ba?’ while contemplating if the present clean up, merely digging up the oil just beneath the surface, is doing enough to save life and nature � actually, the true problem remains.

‘Atang sa Guimaras’ by Kidlat Tahimik is a combination of independent visuals that bind together for clear statements and figurative expressions about the Guimaras oil spill tragedy.

The 16 short films make some sense of truth out of this nightmare. Each approach expresses the very danger haunting us, that instead of transporting 2 million liters of bunker oil from Lanao, Bataan to Zamboanga City, the oil spill is now killing countless corals, mangroves and marine life, and killing the people’s source of food and living. The high health and safety risks extend to the tiniest living organism to the tallest trees. The Guimaras people’s health is greatly compromised. And in every tick of the clock, this tragedy further threatens even the surrounding islands of Iloilo, Negros, Panay, and the other parts of the Visayas � taking decades for the affected environment to recover to a passable level. Indeed, the irreversible loss shall remain a scar in the face of Mother Earth. This tragedy is not a national disaster, it is a worldwide disaster. And this film project promotes essential goals � that in using their craft as artists, the filmmakers and organizers of this project have made a significant contribution to address the situation and create awareness among the general public of the immediacy of this dilemma. And if the government, Petron, and all those who have liabilities to this tragedy (whether they admit it or not) do their parts as well, we can help save Guimaras and the nearby islands…

On that fateful day of Aug. 11, 2006 (makes us associate things: from the Sept. 11 attack at the Twin Towers to the recent Oct. 11 plane crash in Manhattan), the MT Solar I carrying the bunker oil of Petron sank in the Guimaras seas. And at this very moment that you are reading this article, would you just let this nightmare become a fateful event in our history? Like this attempt of artists to share their piece to alleviate the effects of this disaster through their craft, can you contribute in your own way as well? How can you help heal the damaged environment � endangered of death and complete desolation? Friends, we can stop this curse… we can write, blog, shoot, draw, dance, sing, play, make, finance, rally, act, clean, pray… we can all do something.