Cinemalaya Debuts at the Philippine International Convention Center with 10 New Feature Films!

In its 19th edition, the country’s distinguished independent film festival marks a milestone with the inclusion of its first-ever documentary and animated entries.

Here’s some great news for our fellow cinephiles out there: Cinemalaya is back with full-length films that are scheduled for screening at the Philippine International Convention Center. From August 4 to 13, Filipinos can already watch all competing feature films.

Quark Henares’ true-to-life dark comedy-thriller film Marupok AF (Where is the Lie?), featuring Maris Racal—premiered at the Udine Far East Film Festival in Italy and won a Special Jury Recognition at the Los Angeles Asian Pacific Film Festival 2023—is set to open the 19th Cinemalaya Philippine Independent Film Festival and will be closed with Dwein Ruedas Baltazar’s Third World Romance, starred by Chalie Dizon and Carlo Aquino.

Here Are the Competing Full-Length Features for 2023 Cinemalaya Film Festival

Centered around the theme “ilumiNasyon,” this year’s film festival aims to not only entertain but also profoundly impact the perspectives and beliefs of both filmmakers and audiences. The goal is to provide a platform that goes beyond mere cinematic enjoyment, delving into the realm of thought-provoking content that has the power to inform, reshape, and ultimately challenge established notions and mindsets.

Through a carefully curated selection of films and thoughtfully designed discussions, Cinemalaya endeavors to create an environment where creativity meets intellectual stimulation, fostering a space for meaningful dialogue and personal growth. This thematic approach reflects the festival’s commitment to pushing boundaries, fostering critical thinking, and encouraging the exploration of new ideas and narratives within the world of independent cinema.

While the primary structure of the Cultural Center of the Philippines undergoes renovations, Cinemalaya 2023 is set to transpire within the premises of the Philippine International Convention Center. In addition to this cultural venue, the films participating in the competition will also be showcased at various other locations, including the CCP’s Black Box Theater, TriNoMa, Ayala Malls Manila Bay, Glorietta, and UP Town Center.

Here’s the complete list of the competing films for the 2023 Cinemalaya Film Festival:

• Maria by Sherul Rose Andes
• Gitling by Jopy Arnaldo
• Tether by Gian Arre
• Ang Duyan ng Magiting by Dustin Celestino
• Bulawan Nga Usa (Golden Deer) by Kenneth De La Cruz
• Rookie by Samantha Lee
• Huling Palabas by Ryan Machado
• When This is All Over by Kevin Mikhail Mayuga
• Iti Mapupukaw (The Missing) by Carl Joseph Papa
• As If It’s True by John Rogers

Also competing are the short film entries, which include:

• Tong Adlaw Nga Nag-Snow sa Pinas by Joshua Caesar Medroso
• HM HM MHM by Sam Villa-real and Kim Timan
• Golden Bells by Kurt Soberano
• Hinakdal by Arvn Belarmino
• Kokuryo: The Untold Story of Bb. Undas 2019 by Diokko Manuel Dionisio
• Ang Kining Binalaybay Kag Ambahanon Ko Para Sa Imo by Kent John Desamparado
• Maudi Nga Arapaap (Last Dream) by Daniel James Magayon
• Makoko sa Baybay by Mike Cabales
• Sibuyas ni Perfector (Perfecto’s Onion) by Janura Yap
• Sota by Mae Tanagon

The aforementioned selections encompass the initial group of filmmakers who have completed the Cinemalaya Film Lab—a comprehensive three-month film mentorship program. Over the years, this initiative has earned a reputation for yielding films that are undeniably compelling, all available for viewing for only P300.Who will be bringing home the Balanghai trophies on August 13 at the Cinemalaya Awards Night? Don’t forget to secure your tickets from Ticketworld and the CCP Box Office. For the complete schedule of screenings, see details here. Enjoy!