We’re now into the second half of July, meaning it’s almost August. And for cinemaphiles that means, it’s almost that time of the year when local film enthusiasts alike flock to the Cultural Center of the Philippines for the nation’s biggest indie film fest: the annual Cinemalaya Philippine Independent Film Festival. Back for its 13th time this year, we’re giving you the rundown of the final nine films that were handpicked and granted P750,000 last year to debut at Cinemalaya this year from August 4 to 13.
Ang Pamilyang Hindi Lumuluha by Mes de Guzman
A lonely middle-aged woman played by Sharon Cuneta tries to bring back her estranged husband and kids.
Baconaua by Joseph Israel Laban
The inhabitants of a tiny fishing island in Southern Tagalog experiences a rude awakening when their sea turns red with thousands of apples afloat.
Bagahe by Zig Dulay
Protagonist female OFW and victim to workplace rape returns to the Philippines after ditching her fetus in the bathroom of an airplane.
Nabubulok by Sonny Calvento
In this drama starring JC Santos and Jameson Blake, mother Luna goes missing and her American husband is Jason the alleged killer.
Ang Guro Kong Di Marunong Magbasa by Perry Escaño
A heart-wrenching story of the reality of child warriors in the eyes of illiterate farmer Aquil, who is forced to pretend to be a teacher.
Requited by Nerissa Picadizo
Jake Cuenca plays a disease-stricken biker who on his last adventure is torn between his passion of biking and his desire for a woman.
Respeto by Treb Monteras II
A squabble between the cops and squatters spark an unlikely friendship between a veteran poet and amateur rapper in this film casting real-life rappers Loonie and Abra.
Sa Gabing Nanahimik ang mga Kuliglig by Iar Lionel Arondaing
Priest and altar boy begin to harbor troubling feelings when female protagonist confesses her sin of murder.
Kiko Boksingero by Thop Nazareno
Formerly titled Pacboy, parentless 11-year old boy looks for presumed-father champion boxer Manny Pacquiao, but instead finds has-been boxer George.
Photo from Respeto by Treb Monteras II