The 22nd edition of the Cinemalaya Independent Film Festival is set to screen full-length and short films at the Shangri-La Plaza mall in Mandaluyong City. The festival will bring back talkbacks, book launches, and the Philippine Premiere section, where newly made films will make their screen debut.
The festival will run from August 6 to 18, marking Cinemalaya's longest run ever as it spans two weekends. The theme "Reel Reflections" will focus on nine full-length films and 10 short features in competition.
"Traditionally, it has been opening on a Friday and ending on a Sunday," said a festival organizer. "This time, we open on August 6, a Thursday, and close 12 days later on August 18, a Tuesday." The change in schedule is designed to maximize the audience's viewing experience.
The festival's theme is an opportunity to "pause for a moment and look behind us," said a festival organizer. "What have these years revealed to us? What have our films taught us? What have we carried forward?" The theme is apt given the festival's symbol, the ancient Philippine boat, the balangay.
The festival received 278 short film submissions and 199 full-length story scripts, according to a festival committee chairman. The nine full-length films in competition are star-studded and include topics such as political dynasties, systemic and structural violence, and coming-of-age themes.
Some of the notable full-length films include "A.ni.mál," a film about a daughter who threatens to expose a powerful family friend's abuse, and "Tayo Lang Ang Nakakaalam," a queer family drama about a long-term partner who falls ill and is confined in the hospital.
The festival also includes 10 short feature films in the main competition, ranging from a reality where people have ceased to dream to a documentary about a wheelchair user and the everyday barriers she faces.
Running concurrently with Cinemalaya is the 38th Gawad CCP Para sa Alternatibong Pelikula at Video, Southeast Asia's longest-running independent film competition. Showcasing works across various genres, the competition continues to champion alternative forms of cinema and provide emerging filmmakers with a platform to push creative boundaries.
Tickets for the festival will be priced the same as last year, P350. The full screening schedules have yet to be announced.
