Gabby Fernandez re-emerges with ‘Mana’

FERNANDEZ. “Each family has its share of secrets.”

Recently, Megan Young was crowned Miss World, while Klarisse de Guzman placed second in “The Voice of the Philippines”—both are proud Benildeans. Young is a Digital Filmmaking student, while De Guzman is a product of the Music Production program.

The school is celebrating its 25th anniversary with a screening of its self-produced feature film, “Mana,” directed by Gabby Fernandez and starring Fides Cuyugan-Asencio, Jaime Fabregas, Cherie Gil, Mark Gil, Ricky Davao, Tetchie Agbayani and Epy Quizon. Set in Bacolod, it’s a psychological drama about a rich and influential family that comes to terms with the death of its matriarch.

Fernandez explains, “Every family has its share of secrets, and the loss of the leader of a clan is a familiar situation—a time when its members are forced to confront contentious issues and make difficult decisions!”

The 46-year-old filmmaker shares, “I spent 16 years in the mainstream industry. My first job was as an art director in ‘Magic Kingdom’ in 1996.”  He says, laughing, “I learned from TV directors what not to do!”

Fernandez is glad his patience has paid off: “If you want to be a director, take the time to learn the ropes by immersing yourself in the different aspects of production.”

“Mana” will have a gala premiere on Oct. 20, 7:30 p.m., at the SM Mall of Asia. E-mail [email protected] for details.