Calling all Filipino cinephiles! Cinemalaya recently revealed its anticipated list of full-length films and short film finalists for 2023. This year’s selection promises an exciting lineup of talented filmmakers from various another region of the Philippines, offering a refreshing perspective on the Filipino experience.
Get ready to be mesmerized by the creativity and talent of these amazing Filipino filmmakers. Here are the ten finalists for the full-length film category:
Full-length Film Finalists:
- Mária by Sheryl Rose Andes
- Dash by Jopy Arnaldo
- tethering by Gian Arre
- The Cradle of Bravery by Dustin Celestino
- Golden Deer by Kenneth De La Cruz
- recently by Samantha Lee & Aya Fernandez
- Last Show said Ryan Machado
- When It’s All Over by Kevin Mikhail Mayuga
- The Missing by Carl Joseph Pope
- As If True by John Rogers
And here are the ten competing short film finalists in Cinemalaya 2023:
Short Film Finalists:
- That Day That Snowed In The Philippines by Joshua Caesar Medroso
- HM HM MHM through Sam Villa-Real and Kim Timan
- Golden Bells by Kurt Soberano
- resentment by Arvin Belarmino
- Kokuryo: The Untold Story of Bb. Undas 2019 by Diokko Manuel Dionysius
- This Verse and Song of mine is for YOU by Kent John Helpless
- Last Dream (Last Dream) by Daniel James Magayon
- Makoko On The Beach by Mike Cabarles
- Perfecto’s Onion said January Yap
- groom said Mae Tanagon
The Cinemalaya Film Festival, now in its 19th year, aims to promote and support the production of cinematic works by Filipino independent filmmakers who boldly express and freely interpret the Filipino experience with a fresh understanding. and artistic integrity. It is a platform that discovers, encourages, supports, trains, and recognizes talented Filipino independent filmmakers while promoting Filipino indie films locally and internationally.
A striking aspect of this year’s finalists is their geographical diversity. They come from different regions of the Philippines, from the mountains of Luzon to the enchanting Visayas and Mindanao. This inclusivity ensures a more accurate representation of the Philippines and sheds light on the struggles faced by Filipinos beyond Manila.
As noted director Joey Reyes stated, “Manila is not the only Philippines.” In previous years, the spotlight was always centered on Manila-based filmmakers, but now Cinemalaya embraces the richness and diversity of voices from all corners of the country.
This year’s batch of filmmakers is hailed as the future of Filipino cinema. They represent the new generation of talent who went through the Cinemalaya Film Lab, a three-month film-laboratory mentorship program. This initiative provides aspiring filmmakers with guidance, training, and the opportunity to develop their artistic visions. The Cinemalaya Film Lab nurtures these new talents, ensuring that the future of Filipino cinema remains bright and fresh.
Due to the renovations of its annual venue, the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP), the festival will be held at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC) from August 4 to 13. As the 19th edition of the festival, Cinemalaya 2023 promises which will be a unique showcase of Filipino independent cinema. It will be a celebration of diverse narratives, fresh perspectives, and artistic excellence.
Mark your calendars and prepare to immerse yourself in the magic of Cinemalaya 2023. This is an opportunity to witness the growth and evolution of Filipino cinema while supporting talented filmmakers who push boundaries and tell stories. of stories that appeal to local and international audiences. Don’t miss this exciting event that celebrates the passion and creativity of Filipino independent cinema.
