‘Hele sa Hiwagang Hapis’ goes all over the world

SUSAN Africa in “Hele”

It has been a very busy last two months for Lav Diaz’s “Hele sa Hiwagang Hapis,” which has been traveling all over the world of late. After its screenings at the San Sebastian and Vladivostok fests in September, the eight-hour historical epic will be shown in five festivals in four continents this month (October).

“Hele” is part of the lineup of the 45th Festival du Nouveau Cinema Montreal, in Canada, from Oct. 5 to 16. Then, Diaz’s film will proceed to the 21st Busan International Film Festival in South Korea, from Oct. 6 to 15.

Next stop for the Filipino film is the 40th Mostra Internacional de Cinema Sao Paulo in Brazil, from Oct. 20 to Nov 2. It will also be shown at the Viennale, now on its 54th edition, in Austria, Oct. 20 to Nov.2.

Last stop for the month is the Tokyo International Film Festival, in Japan, from Oct. 25 to Nov. 3. “Hele” will usher in the month of November at the 57th Thessaloniki International Film Festival in Greece, from Nov. 4 to 13.

With sales agent Films Boutique’s support, more festivals are in store for “Hele” next month, according to Epic Media producer Bianca Balbuena.

“Hele” won the Silver Bear Alfred Bauer Prize at the Berlinale last February. Bayani San Diego Jr.