Cornucopia of theatrical and cinematic riches

SANTOS. Topbill “Ekstra”

The second half of July is turning out to be an unusually “happening” time, so we hope that you’re clearing your schedule for this very proudly Filipino fortnight: On July 26, the ninth edition of the Cinemalaya alternative film festival and competition, funded by Tonyboy Cojuangco and run by Laurice Guillen, is unveiling its latest cornucopia of cinematic riches at the CCP.

Also opening on the same weekend (and running until Aug. 4) is the repeat run of Spotlight’s hit revival of the iconic “Katy!” musical, this time at the Meralco Theater, to accommodate many more theater lovers, whose interest was piqued by the production’s popular initial run at the CCP early this year. Call 899-8089 or 0922 898-6644.

In addition, watch out for the Philpop finals for new pop songs, also at Meralco Theater, and Mitch Valdes’ certified super-duper entertaining comedy-musical series of shows at Teatrino in Greenhills.

In a field still “colonially” dominated by “western” entertainment, this fortnight’s Pinoy offerings should bring out the “closet” Filipino in us—for a much-needed airing and well-deserved reason to celebrate!

We helped conceptualize and launch the Cinemalaya festival almost a decade ago, so we have a soft spot in our heart for its worthy goals and offerings—which have had a major impact on the hitherto languishing local filmmaking scene, by way of its discovery of new writers and directors, some of whose movies have made waves not just here, but also internationally.

Vilma’s first indie

ALVAREZ. Topbill “Katy!”

This season, watch out for Vilma Santos’ first indie starrer, “Ekstra,” plus a host of potentially exceptional new films. Also a major come-on is the festival’s series of tributes to Marilou Diaz-Abaya, Eddie Romero and Celso Ad. Castillo.

Ironically, even as Cinemalaya has done a lot of good for the country’s film industry, it has also gotten occasional flak from bashers, for all sorts of reasons. Specifically, the last two years’ output did exceptionally well in festivals abroad, enhancing the country’s cinematic cachet in a big way—and yet, there was more bashing than gratitude locally for these and other key contributions!

Happily, Cinemalaya and its driving forces have weathered these and other teapot tempests, so we trust that this year’s edition will enjoy the success it fully deserves.

Of course, some films like Vilma Santos’ starrer are guaranteed a hit run, but we trust that you will patronize the other entries as well, so the film showcase will become a celebration for everyone!