by Karl Angelica Ocampo
New kinds of movies are slowly emerging in the Philippine cinema. They are more or less characterized by starring budding artists, most of them not well-known but are promising; bolder themes depicting scenarios of poverty and abuse among others; and are devoid of clichés running in the mainstream. This is independent cinema, the one we’re all beginning to patronize, the new breeding ground for Filipino films.
New kinds of movies are slowly emerging in the Philippine cinema. They are more or less characterized by starring budding artists, most of them not well-known but are promising; bolder themes depicting scenarios of poverty and abuse among others; and are devoid of clichés running in the mainstream. This is independent cinema, the one we’re all beginning to patronize, the new breeding ground for Filipino films.
“A Kind of Revolution”
Film critic and independent filmmaker Lav Diaz defines indie (as what it is commonly known) films as a kind of revolution for its cause to destroy feudalism and fascism in the country through creating movies that will help destroy the people’s ignorance. Profit is not their main concern, stirring the nation’s consciousness is. While we have the usual feel-good Filipino movies, independent films aims to struck the heart of viewers with a vivid depiction of Filipino society.
Despite low budget cuts (an independent film budget ranges from zero to P3.5M), the purpose of this alternative cinema remains to be buoyed by this cause. As idealistic as it may sound, indie is not lost, and so are the values it hopes to instill to the viewers.
Going Mainstream
Through the years, the indie circle has provided movies showcasing plots that are never seen in the big screens, but are now penetrating the commercial industry. Who could forget the 12-year-old gay who dutifully plays the mother to his family that starred in Ang Pagdadalaga ni Maximo Oliveros, the first indie movie that first gained a commercial release? Or the romanticized depiction of poverty in Ang Babae sa Septic Tank? featuring award-winning actress Eugene Domingo? Yes, actors that we usually see on box-office movies also opt to star on indie films despite lower pays so they can get to play more challenging roles.
Just this year, indie film by Jerrold Tarog titled Sana Dati, now released in 100 theaters nationwide, stars actress Lovi Poe along with actors Paolo Avelino and TJ Trinidad.
Defining World-class
Cinemalaya Film Festivals, which have become the home of independent films, redefine the movie industry. Now on its ninth year, its growing reputation for revealing hidden talents whether on directing or acting, has not only reached the local big screen but international as well. At present, international award-giving bodies have recognized movies like Adolf Alix’s Porno at Warsaw Film Festival and Brillante Mendoza’s Thy Womb at Venice Film Festival to name a few. While garnering acclaim overseas, the people of the movie industry hope to be appreciated in the country too especially now that commercial releases are being given to indie films more than before.
Whether it’s the new flavor and taste that independent films bring to the viewers or the viewers have finally been lured to understand our rough social issues, it’s a win-win situation for both the filmmakers and the viewers. The same storyline with different actors that is the equation of most Filipino films are slowly being replaced by the good ones, thereby creating a new atmosphere for all of us – more cultured, in-depth, daring, and real. #
Film critic and independent filmmaker Lav Diaz defines indie (as what it is commonly known) films as a kind of revolution for its cause to destroy feudalism and fascism in the country through creating movies that will help destroy the people’s ignorance. Profit is not their main concern, stirring the nation’s consciousness is. While we have the usual feel-good Filipino movies, independent films aims to struck the heart of viewers with a vivid depiction of Filipino society.
Despite low budget cuts (an independent film budget ranges from zero to P3.5M), the purpose of this alternative cinema remains to be buoyed by this cause. As idealistic as it may sound, indie is not lost, and so are the values it hopes to instill to the viewers.
Going Mainstream
Through the years, the indie circle has provided movies showcasing plots that are never seen in the big screens, but are now penetrating the commercial industry. Who could forget the 12-year-old gay who dutifully plays the mother to his family that starred in Ang Pagdadalaga ni Maximo Oliveros, the first indie movie that first gained a commercial release? Or the romanticized depiction of poverty in Ang Babae sa Septic Tank? featuring award-winning actress Eugene Domingo? Yes, actors that we usually see on box-office movies also opt to star on indie films despite lower pays so they can get to play more challenging roles.
Just this year, indie film by Jerrold Tarog titled Sana Dati, now released in 100 theaters nationwide, stars actress Lovi Poe along with actors Paolo Avelino and TJ Trinidad.
Defining World-class
Cinemalaya Film Festivals, which have become the home of independent films, redefine the movie industry. Now on its ninth year, its growing reputation for revealing hidden talents whether on directing or acting, has not only reached the local big screen but international as well. At present, international award-giving bodies have recognized movies like Adolf Alix’s Porno at Warsaw Film Festival and Brillante Mendoza’s Thy Womb at Venice Film Festival to name a few. While garnering acclaim overseas, the people of the movie industry hope to be appreciated in the country too especially now that commercial releases are being given to indie films more than before.
Whether it’s the new flavor and taste that independent films bring to the viewers or the viewers have finally been lured to understand our rough social issues, it’s a win-win situation for both the filmmakers and the viewers. The same storyline with different actors that is the equation of most Filipino films are slowly being replaced by the good ones, thereby creating a new atmosphere for all of us – more cultured, in-depth, daring, and real. #
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