Six pinoy films enter first Subic International Film Festival
The first ever Subic International Film Festival was launched at the Harborpoint Ayala Mall Activity Center at the Subic Bay Freeport Zone in Olongapo City last June 8.
The event was graced by SBMA Chair and Administrator Wilma Eisma, Harbor Point Ayala Mall General Manager Derrick Manuel and other city officers who pledged full support to the project.
A brainchild of veteran journalist and acclaimed filmmaker Arlyn de la Cruz and publisher of Subic Bay News and former Olongapo Head of Public Affairs Vic Vizcocho, the festival aims to offer not only a platform of excellence but also create waves of possibilities and opportunities for filmmakers all over the world.
Truly a piece in of history unfolding in the ecotourism hub of the North, SBIFF’s first coincides with SBMA’s welcoming of the biggest cruise liner in the world.
With the launch of SBIFF, Subic Bay, Olongapo City and the whole of Central Luzon are sure to make their mark as the choice destination for global filmmakers.
One of the highlights of the festival is the “One Big Pitch” wherein filmmakers can present storylines that will be financed through SBIFF’s initiative.
For its maiden edition, six Pinoy films of universal appeal were chosen as finalists.
They are Joel Lamangan’s Bhoy Intsik, Neal Tan’s Balatkayo, Cia Hermosa-Jorge’s Old Skool, Dominic Nuesa’s Ang Araw sa Likod Mo, Mike Magat’s Isang Hakbang and CC Woodruff Jr’s Rolyo.
The entries will be screened at the Harborpoint Cinemas from June 22-24. Admission is free to the public.
The six films in competition will vie for awards in the following categories: Best Picture, Best Director, Best Actor, Best Actress, Best in Screenplay, Best in Cinematography, Best in Production Design, and Best in Music.
The awards night will take place on June 24 at the mall’s activity center.
Also to be conferred special awards are Cannes best actress Jaclyn Jose with the Filipino International Artist Award, multi-awarded actor-director Eddie Garcia with the Philippine Cinema Legacy Award and prolific director Elwood Perez with Master in Cinema award.
All three will receive trophies to honor their contribution and legacy in bringing Philippine cinema to the world.
