The highly anticipated Visions of Asia segment, a cornerstone of the Cinemalaya Philippine Independent Film Festival, is making a triumphant return with a compelling selection of five critically acclaimed Asian independent films hailing from Azerbaijan, Iran, India, Tajikistan, and Bangladesh.
Last year, due to limited venue capacity caused by renovations at the CCP Little Theatre, the Visions of Asia section was temporarily suspended. This year, however, the section reclaims its spotlight, presenting an assortment of award-winning Asian films thoughtfully curated by the Network for the Promotion of Asian Cinema (NETPAC) as part of the 19th edition of Cinemalaya. The festival is scheduled to take place from August 4 to 13 at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC) and Tanghalang Ignacio Gimenez (CCP Black Box Theatre).
The showcased films include:
- “Cold as Marble” by Asif Rustamov: The film delves into the complex tale of a father’s unexpected release from prison, upending his son’s mundane existence. The son’s life becomes perilously intricate as he navigates the return of his father, a convicted murderer. Rustamov’s creation has garnered acclaim, securing accolades such as Best Director at the 2022 Eurasia International Film Festival in Almaty and Best Actor at the 2022 Tallinn Black Nights Film Festival. More recently, “Cold as Marble” was honored with the Grand Jury Prize, the Marc Haaz Award, and the NETPAC Jury Prize at the 2023 Vesoul International Film Festival of Asian Cinema.
- “Bone Marrow” by Hamid Reza Ghorbani: The film follows Bahar, who faces an agonizing decision as she grapples with the prospect of saving her terminally ill son through cord blood. Her choices become even more convoluted when her first husband, who is condemned to death for murder, reenters the picture. “Bone Marrow” has gained recognition at notable film festivals including the 2021 Vancouver International Film Festival and the 2022 Asian Film Festival Barcelona. At the 2022 Hanoi International Film Festival, Ghorbani received the Best Director award and the NETPAC Prize for the film.
- “Declaration” by Mahesh Narayanan: This film centers on the lives of South Indian immigrants Hareesh and Reshmi, whose world is upended by an old video resurfacing during Covid-19 lockdowns. The revelation sets off a chain of events that threatens their marriage and livelihoods. “Declaration” earned the NETPAC award for the Best Malayalam Film at the 27th International Film Festival of Kerala (IFFK).
- “Fortune” by Muhiddin Muzaffar: Set against the backdrop of Tajikistan’s Declaration of Independence, the film explores the dynamics between two longtime friends, Kahhor and Mannon, who face an unexpected twist when one of them wins the lottery. Muzaffar’s work has been featured at various national and international film festivals, showcasing a talented cast of Tajikistan actors.
- “The Instinct” by Juboraj Shamim: The film portrays the life of Langra, a disabled man whose interactions often lead to new relationships. His involvement with Kala’s wife, Sohagi, results in a complex web of complications. “The Instinct” premiered at the 44th Moscow International Film Festival, securing two awards—the Silver Saint George Award (Special Jury Award) and the NETPAC Jury Award. The film also made waves at international festivals, including the 25th Religion Today Film Festival in Italy and the 12th Queens World Film Festival in New York.
Juboraj Shahim Bhuyan, director of “The Instinct,” is set to engage in a thought-provoking talkback session in Manila on August 6 at 6:15 PM in Cinema Felipe (Meeting Room 4) at the PICC.
The Network for the Promotion of Asian Cinema (NETPAC), founded in 1990 by Aruna Vasudev, is a voluntary organization spanning 29 member countries. NETPAC plays a pivotal role in promoting Asian cinema through its awards bestowed at select international film festivals, including the Cinemalaya Philippine Independent Film Festival. The NETPAC Award highlights exceptional films and introduces emerging talents.
Cinemalaya, since its inception in 2005, continues to be a platform that nurtures and supports the creative endeavors of both aspiring and seasoned Filipino filmmakers. These filmmakers fearlessly explore and vividly interpret the Philippine experience, infusing it with fresh perspectives and artistic integrity.
For more information, please visit the CCP website (www.culturalcenter.gov.ph) and the Cinemalaya website (www.cinemalaya.org). Stay updated by following the official CCP and Cinemalaya Facebook pages, as well as their other social media accounts on Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok.
