PH film goes to San Sebastian

A scene from “Pailalim”

Daniel Palacio’s “Underground” has been selected to be part of the New Directors’ section of the 65th San Sebastian International Film Festival in Spain, from Sept. 22 to 30.

The New Directors’ program is considered the “biggest sidebar” of the A-list festival renowned as “the most high-profile film event in the Spanish-speaking world.”

Palacio’s film is produced by Cannes-winning director Brillante Ma. Mendoza. “Daniel was a product of my series of workshops for emerging filmmakers,” Mendoza recalled.

In the third edition of the workshop held last year, Palacio’s short film, “Idolo,” won best picture (in a tie with Vanju Alvaira’s “Ang Guro”) and best director.

Variety described “Underground” as “a family drama … grave heist thriller” reminiscent of “Luis Buñuel’s ‘Land Without Bread’ in its near surreal social squalor.” Set in a cemetery, “Underground” topbills Joem Bascon and Mara Lopez.

The Filipino film will be vying for the top award, which comes with a $57,600 cash prize.

Palacio told the Inquirer: “It’s a privilege to be part of a major festival, competing with new, bold, visionary directors from different countries. Representing the Philippines makes it more surreal … let alone to have my film produced by my mentor (Mendoza).”

He pointed out that this rare opportunity “shows how competitive Filipinos are, when it comes to artistry and creativity.” —BAYANI SAN DIEGO JR.

Mara Lopez (left) and Joem Bascon in “Pailalim”