3 PH films win in int’l film fests

“Birdshot” producer Pamela L. Reyes in Bangkok

It was a double, make that a triple, whammy for the Philippines in Houston, Texas.

The country brought home three awards at the recent 50th Houston International Film Festival (or Worldfest Houston), not to mention a Special Mention citation at the 2017 Bangkok Asean Film Festival in Thailand.

Louie Ignacio’s “Area” won the Special Jury Remi, while Dexter Hemedez and Allan Ibañez’s “1st Sem” bagged the Gold Remi and best supporting actress (for Lotlot de Leon) awards in the Houston fest.

Ibañez told the Inquirer via Facebook Messenger: “Just to be included in the lineup of the Worldfest Houston was an honor in itself, so winning two awards fills us with pride and joy.”

De Leon recalled that she had fallen in love with the film’s script on first reading. “I laughed and cried while reading the script.”

Ibañez said the recognition was “meaningful” because the film had allowed them “to showcase our culture and celebrate Filipino stories” in front of an American audience.

“We dedicate these honors to mothers who strive hard to send their children to school,” Ibañez remarked.

Hemedez described the twin triumphs as “inspiring [because] … the awards encourage us to continue dreaming and writing stories that will capture the hearts of Filipinos everywhere.”

Ignacio told the Inquirer that he was ecstatic over his second win at the Worldfest Houston.

“I want to dedicate this honor to all the real-life Hillaries of Angeles, Pampanga,” Ignacio quipped.

Hillary is the veteran prostitute played by Ai-Ai delas Alas, who was nominated in the best actress category.

“‘Area’ is their story. We should try to get to know the real stories of these women before we judge them,” he said.

Meanwhile, Mikhail Red said he didn’t expect the victory of his film “Birdshot” at the recent Bangkok Asean Film Festival on May 1.

“I’m surprised [by the honor] because we were up against nine other great Southeast Asian films that have made waves in the international circuit,” Red said. “I can’t wait to share the film with local audiences.”