‘Area’ goes to Cleveland, Houston, Boston

Ai-Ai delas Alas in “Area”

Apart from the Queens World Festival (where it is competing for best director and best actress) in New York, Louie Ignacio’s “Area” will be shown,
as part of the official selection, at the 41st Cleveland International Film Festival in Ohio, United States, from March 29 to April 9.

Also scheduled is a screening at the 15th Boston International Film Festival, which will be held from April 13 to 17 in Massachusetts.

According to the Cleveland fest’s website, “Area” is “a fictional tale, but its characters represent real-life archetypes. The film portrays them honestly, but never casts judgment.”

“I can’t believe it,” lead star Ai-Ai delas Alas says of the film’s international screenings. “I am so happy. I never thought I would get nominated for best actress in Queens. But I really gave my all to this film because playing an aging prostitute is my dream role.”

She recalls that her director helped her every step of the way. “I heard Brad Pitt will attend the Boston fest where our film will be shown, too. I want to be there to meet him. I’m a fan!”

Another Philippine-themed film will be shown in Cleveland, S. Leo Chiang and Johnny Symons’ documentary, “Outrun.”

Allen Dizon in “Area”

The docu goes on the campaign trail with Bemz Benedito, a transgender who eyes a seat in Congress. The fest’s site describes the docu as “sparkling … endearing.”

The fest’s site hails Benedito and her colleagues in the LGBT political party Ladlad as “the bravest and most upbeat people you could have in office … With global politicians dividing us, some political fabulousness is just what the world needs.”

According to its site, the Cleveland fest “promotes artistically and culturally significant films … to enrich the life of the community,” adding that it “presents the newest and best films from around the world.

Apart from Cleveland, Boszton and Queens, “Area” is also part of the 50th Worldfest Houston International Film Festival in Texas, from April 21 to 30.

One of the oldest cinema/video competitions in the world, the Worldfest Houston aims “to recognize and honor outstanding creative excellence in film … to validate brilliant abilities, promote cultural tourism, develop film production and add to the rich cultural fabric of the city.”