Sigrid Bernardo’s ‘Pushcart Tales’ to compete at Fantasporto 2025
Sigrid Bernado’s “Pushcart Tales” earns an esteemed spot in the Orient Express Official Section of the Fantasporto 2025. | Contributed photo
Filipino filmmakers Sigrid Andrea Bernardo and Chito S. Roño’s “Pushcart Tales” and “Scarecrow,” respectively, landed spots in the lineup of the Fantasporto 2025 in Portugal, one of the 25 leading film festivals globally.
Set to run from Feb. 28 to March 9, Fantasporto, also known as the Porto International Film Festival, recently unveiled the full list of the features that will compete at the festival’s 45th edition.
Bernardo’s “Pushcart Tales” was an official entry to the inaugural edition of CinePanalo film festival last year. It follows the story of five individuals stuck in a supermarket in the middle of a storm, forced to confront their trauma and grief.
“Pushcart Tales” stars Nonie and Shamaine Buencamino, Carlos Siguion-Reyna, Harvey Bautista, Elora Españo and Therese Malvar.
At the 2024 CinePanalo’s awards night, the film bagged the Best Director trophy, Best Sound Design, Best Ensemble and the Special Jury Prize. Siguion-Reyna won Best Actor, while Shamaine took home the Best Actress award.
“Pushcart Tales” official poster
In a statement, Bernardo expressed her joy at her film’s chance to compete in the international arena once again.
“This journey would not have been possible without the talented cast and crew who poured their hearts into this project,” she said. “Of course, we are especially thankful to our producers and to the Puregold CinePanalo Film Festival for believing in our film from the very beginning. Your support means the world to us. Thank you all for being part of this adventure!”
On the other hand, Roño’s “Scarecrow” will have its worldwide premiere at Fantasporto where it’s competing in the fantasy film category.
Roño has yet to share more details about his movie, including its premiere date in the Philippines.
The director’s last work, “Espantaho,” won awards at the Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) Gabi ng Parangal in December.
Aside from Bernardo and Roño’s work, Joel Lamangan’s “Lola Magdelena” and Elvert Bañares’ “They Who Will Come” are also part of the full lineup of the Fantasporto 2025.
