While there was a GREAT choice of full films in the Puregold Cinepanalo Film Festival this year, they got the short films into a package so you could watch several of it in one go. I got to see SHORTS A, and it was so good because the choices were awesome, from horror, sci Fi, documentary type, family, regional, they got the best ones in every story!
Here's a Quick Review:
Starfish - Man named Boyet does adult work in the city, but went home to the province after getting fired. His life is hard, even his sister, both brought up in an abusive home.It also talks about politics, boys love, gore, and pain. Much of it is symbolic, mirrors society.
Kung Hain Bisan Din - Main character is about to get married, story is about severed relationships with family. It is also deeply rooted in Waraynon dialect, She gets showcased in different camera angles, and wanting to become part of one of the most important events in her life. Felt bittersweet.
KANIBAL - This talks about politics, the family, set in a busy market. I like how they did it in Ilonggo/Hiligaynon. A bit weird. Character was for progress, until she personally gets affected. This is more on societal and political problems, and the hardships that most middle class go through.I liked the super unusual ending.
Sa mga Nagdaan at Lumipas - The film talks about LGBT struggles, the leftist groups, poor and underprivileged. It also talks about youth, music, and women. It has lengthy dialogue, needed to establish their view and a sense of being activists. It's also about Lesbians, and their colorful world. Sensible talk about love and relationships. Actress did so good on slow subtle scenes.
LIMLIM - The movie talks about child abuse and early pregnancy. Scary to discuss something like it in cinema.so that alone is brave. It's a slow burn, and very quietly told. Actors were also good. Child should get recognition. My personal favorite.
Shorts would be hard to reach especially because of their length and production value. Puregold took a RISK and chose a lot and have them be seen in a theater, it as worth it. Congratulations to Sir Chris Cahilig, the Festival Director who took these wonderfully made short films and have them connected to the audience. I hope this becomes a great start for these young creators, production, who wants to be seen. They did their job and I'm so happy to have seen all their work, I felt the future looks bright for Philippine cinema.
They're still showing in theaters and they are being filled to the brim as we speak, make sure you do your part by seeing them in Gateway Mall or Ayala Malls, you would be impressed and I'm not joking.
