Cinemalaya is here, it’s happening, and movie buffs are excited!
To mark its momentous 20th year, the beloved independent film festival Cinemalaya invites audiences to experience its new theme: “Loob, Lalim, Lakas.” This year’s lineup is a vibrant testament to the core values of Filipino artists, connecting filmmakers to their viewers.
Alipato at Muog (Directed by JL Burgos)
‘Alipato at Muog’ is a powerful documentary directed by JL Burgos that delves deep into his family’s relentless quest for justice and answers regarding the mysterious abduction of his brother, Jonas Burgos. Starring Ina Feleo, Rocco Nacino, and Lorna Tolentino, this haunting incident occurred in broad daylight in a crowded mall back in 2007, leaving an indelible scar on the Burgos family and raising critical questions about human rights and enforced disappearance.
Watch the trailer here:
An Errand (Directed by Dominic Bekaert)
‘An Errand,’ a narrative penned by acclaimed writer Sarge Lacuesta and brought to life under the directorial vision of Dominic Bekaert, features Sid Lucero in the role of Moroy. The story presents a unique journey of self-discovery and transformation as Moroy, a driver, is entrusted with a seemingly mundane yet peculiar task: to rush from the serene highlands of Baguio to the bustling metropolis of Manila to procure Viagra for his employer, SIR.
Watch the trailer here:
Balota (Directed by Kip Obiena)
The much-anticipated film ‘Balota’ has generated a whirlwind of excitement, especially with the announcement of Marian Rivera in the leading role. Directed by the talented Kip Obiena, this film plunges viewers into the tense and chaotic world of a Philippine election marred by violence and corruption. Joining Marian Rivera in Balota are Will Ashley, Royce Cabrera, Raheel Bhyria, Gardo Versoza, Mae Paner, Nico Antonio, Donna Cariaga, Joel Saracho, Sue Prado, Esnyr, and Sassa Gurl.
Watch the trailer here:
Gulay lang, Manong! (Directed by BC Amparado)
In the compelling film ‘Gulay Lang, Manong’, director BC Amparado takes audiences on an intense journey through the life of Pilo, a farmer’s grandson who becomes entangled in the world of the cannabis trade. The film, featuring Cedrick Juan, Perry Dizon, and B.J. Flores, is a an exploration of integrity, betrayal, and the corrupting influence of power.
Watch the trailer here:
Kantil (Directed by Joshua Caesar Medroso)
Joshua Caesar Medroso’s ‘Kantil’ is a film about discovery, love, and resilience in a coastal community’s survival. Featuring Edmund Telmo, Andre Miguel, Sue Prado, Raul Arellano, Ram Botero, Perry Dizon, Fe Gingging Hyde, Tads Obach, Alyssa Saliling, and Ryle Equia, the film stands out for its engaging narrative elements that intrigue viewers from start to finish.
Watch the trailer here:
Kono Basho (Directed by Jaime Paceña II)
In Jaime Paceña II’s evocative film ‘Kono Basho,’ the intricate relationship of family dynamics is portrayed through the story of half-sisters Ella and Reina. Following the death of their father, these estranged siblings are brought together, sparking a journey of reconnection and reflection. While the film delves deeply into personal and familial matters, it also powerfully addresses broader themes of the Filipino diaspora and historical trauma, with Gabby Padilla and Arisa Nakano leading the cast.
Watch the trailer here:
Love Child (Directed by Jonathan Jurilla)
‘Love Child’ is a poignant and deeply moving film by Jonathan Jurilla that explores the challenges and triumphs of young love and parenthood. The cast includes well-known actors Jane Oineza and RK Bagatsing, complemented by John Tyrron Ramos, who portrays the couple’s child. The story centers on Ayla and Paolo, two college sweethearts whose lives take an unexpected turn when they decide to drop out of school to start a family. Their journey, filled with hope, sacrifice, and unwavering love, takes on even greater depth and complexity with the diagnosis of their son with autism.
Watch the trailer here:
The Hearing (Directed by Lawrence Fajardo)
‘The Hearing,’ written by Honey Alipio and directed by Lawrence Fajardo, is about a deaf boy’s legal battle with a powerful priest. Along the way, he meets a sign language interpreter named Maya, who can’t speak up in her own home. The film explores the harrowing journey of Lucas and his family as they navigate the path toward seeking justice. This film stars Mylene Dizon and Ruby Ruiz, both of whom won Best Actress awards at Cinemalaya in 2008 and 2019, respectively.
Watch the trailer here:
The Wedding Dance (Directed by Julius Lumiqued)
‘The Wedding Dance’ is a film set against the backdrop of the Japanese invasion in the 1940s. Director Julius Lumiqued’s historical drama delves into the complexities of love, tradition, and personal sacrifice, brought to life through the deeply emotional narrative of Awiyao and Lumnay. It stars Mai Fanglayan from Baguio, who gained attention in 2018 for her role in ‘Tanabata’s Wife,’ a film about a middle-aged Japanese man and his teenage Bontoc wife in Baguio.
Watch the trailer here:
Tumandok (Directed by Richard Jeroui Salvadico and Arlie Sweet Sumagaysay)
‘Tumandok,’ directed by Richard Jeroui Salvadico and Arlie Sweet Sumagaysay, is a groundbreaking film that brings to the forefront the resilient spirit and enduring struggles of the Indigenous People in the Philippines. It centers on first-time, all-Ati actors, led by Jenaica Sangher and Felipe Ganancial– this film provides an authentic and deeply moving portrayal of the Ati community’s ongoing battle to reclaim their ancestral lands.
Watch the trailer here:
