Allen Dizon
I have always known that she’s a great actress. But now, I’m even more in awe of her talent.”
Thus said Allen Dizon, when asked about his experience working with Judy Ann Santos in Brillante Ma Mendoza’s latest offering “Mindanao,” which is slated for a world premiere tomorrow, as part of the Icons category of the Busan International Film Festival (BIFF) in South Korea.
“As an artist, you want to work with the best. And I’m glad I was given the chance to do a movie with her,” Allen, an acclaimed actor himself, told reporters at a press conference organized by the Film Development Council of the Philippines.
Set in a conflict zone in Southern Philippines, the drama revolves around Malang (Allen) a deployed combat medic and his wife, Saima, who spends her days waiting for his return—all the while taking care of their cancer-stricken child in a temporary shelter.
“The story is heavy. A lot of our scenes together are dramatic and challenging. She’s affecting as a coactor and so in control of her emotions—she makes you feel like crying, as well … or hugging her,” related Allen, who recalled doing a specific sequence with Judy Ann that gave him “goosebumps.”
“There was this scene where her character said something to mine … I could just feel the pain,” he related. “I wasn’t instructed to cry, but I was on the verge of tears. Direk Dante had to remind me to hold it in and just look at her.”
Meanwhile, other films representing the Philippines at the BIFF are: Lav Diaz’s “Ang Hupa” (Icons); Raymund Ribay Gutierrez’s “Verdict” and Isabel Sandoval’s “Lingua Franca” (A Window on Asian Cinema); Eileen Cabiling’s “Basurero” (Wide Angle shorts); and Arden Rod Condez’s “John Denver Trending” (New Currents).
It will be Allen’s first time attending the BIFF and he couldn’t be more thrilled about the prospect of Filipino artists showcasing their works, yet again, for a global audience.
“Your film being seen in different countries by people of different cultures is always heartening,” Allen pointed out. “We always do our best, so it’s always inspiring to know that our efforts are being appreciated.”
After its screening at the BIFF, “Mindanao” will be submitted for consideration to this year’s Metro Manila Film Festival.
“We do hope it gets into local festivals, too,” he said. “Judy Ann and I are looking forward to walking the red carpet.”
While the trailer of the film has mostly received positive feedback, there are few critics who bemoaned the title choice, saying that it paints Mindanao with a broad brush.
“It’s not about differences about religion or beliefs. It’s about a parent’s love for his or her child,” he said. “The setting is Mindanao, but this is a story for all Filipinos.”
Allen’s acting skills has been recognized by numerous local award-giving bodies, as well as international film festivals. But collecting trophies isn’t what fuels his passion for the craft.
“I just want to continue working and landing good projects,” he stressed.