CINEMALAYA: ‘Amok’ director returns to Cinemalaya

ANTONIO. Portrays a snatcher in “Posas.” Photo from abs-cbn.com

One film season ago, director Lawrence Fajardo’s “Amok” became one of Cinemalaya’s most-talked about entries—and his most important film to date. Will lightning strike again with “Posas”?

“Mahirap tapatan ang ‘Amok,’ but I’m positive that ‘Posas’ will be received as warmly. It has a familiar story that viewers can easily relate to.”

Fajardo’s latest film documents the harrowing experience of a Quiapo snatcher (Nico Antonio) in the hands of the cops who arrest him. It’s also a commentary on the country’s justice system.

Lawrence doesn’t want to be boxed into only one film genre: “Iba ang directorial treatment ko for each film that I do. From this movie’s title itself, one would expect all-out action at overkill sa police brutality—pero binali ko, kasi it’s more effective—and scarier—when it’s simpler. Matapang na kasi ang material, and I wanted a documentary feel.”

Another take

He is happy with his lead actor’s performance. He explains, “On his own, nag-research si Nico tungkol sa kanyang character. So, each time we shot, handa na siya.”

Law handpicked most of his actors in “Posas”: “I didn’t hold auditions. I did my own search for the actors to portray the characters in the film. I have no problem working with actors, whether they’re big stars or not—kasi, kung tama ang casting, 70 percent of the film is done!”

“Posas” also stars Wendy Valdes and Bangs Garcia.