In commemoration of the 3rd Philippine Film Industry Month (PFIM) taking place this September, the Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP) Cinematheque Centres in Manila, Iloilo, Davao, Negros, and Nabunturan will be offering free screenings of Filipino comedy films from September 6 to 28.
Aligned with the theme of PFIM 2023, “Tuloy pa rin ang Tawanan” (The Laughter Continues), the FDCP has thoughtfully curated 17 iconic films as part of the Sine Halakhak selection. These films have played a pivotal role in shaping Filipino popular culture and have left a lasting legacy on Philippine cinema. Moreover, they have transcended mere entertainment value by incorporating elements of social and political commentary into their narratives, thus elevating Philippine comedy to a higher realm of cinematic significance.
The following titles are open to the public in Cinematheque Centres nationwide:
● Ang Babae sa Septic Tank by Marlon Rivera
● Ang Mga Kidnapper ni Ronnie Lazaro by Sigfreid Barros Sanchez
● Ang Pangarap Kong Holdap by Marius Talampas
● Ang Tanging Ina by Wenn Deramas
● Banyo Queen by Al Tantay
● Booba by Bb. Joyce Bernal
● D’ Lucky Ones! by Wenn Deramas
● Daddy O, Baby O! by Eric Quizon
● Die Beautiful by Jun Robles Lana
● Here Comes the Bride by Chris Martinez
● Isprikitik: Walastik Kung Pumitik by Efren Jarlego
● Kimmy Dora: Kambal sa Kiyeme by Bb. Joyce Bernal
● Ma’am, May We Go Out? by Mike Relon Makiling
● Mr. Suave by Bb. Joyce Bernal
● Petrang Kabayo at ang Pilyang Kuting by Luciano Carlos
● Praybeyt Benjamin by Wenn Deramas
● Yaya & Angelina: The Spoiled Brat Movie by Michael Tuviera
Filipino Blockbusters
The Sine Halakhak lineup for this year’s celebration features blockbuster hits such as “Ang Tanging Ina,” “Here Comes the Bride,” “Yaya and Angelina: The Spoiled Brat Movie,” and “Praybeyt Benjamin.” Notably, “Praybeyt Benjamin” holds the distinction of being the first Filipino film to surpass PHP 300 million in box office sales, securing its place as one of the highest-grossing Filipino films in history.
In addition to these crowd-pleasers, the Sine Halakhak showcase also includes critically acclaimed gems like “Kimmy Dora: Kambal sa Kiyeme” and “Die Beautiful.” The latter made its debut at the 2016 Tokyo International Film Festival, where it earned accolades such as the Audience Choice Award and the Best Actor award for Paolo Ballesteros.
Independent Comedy Films
The Sine Halakhak selection also includes independent films like “Ang Babae sa Septic Tank” and “Ang mga Kidnapper ni Ronnie Lazaro,” both of which venture into metafiction by portraying the production of local independent films with aspirations for recognition from critics and international award-giving bodies. Notably, “Ang Babae sa Septic Tank” was the official entry from the Philippines for the 2011 Academy Awards in the Best Foreign Film category.
Additionally, “Ang Pangarap Kong Holdap” is another comedy film within the lineup. It revolves around a group of friends who hatch a plan for their inaugural major heist, aiming to establish themselves as the town’s most infamous thieves.
Filipino Classics
“Daddy O, Baby O!”, “Ma’am, May We Go Out?”, and “Isprikitik: Walastik Kung Pumitik” stand as enduring Filipino classics that illuminate the challenges and comic mishaps faced by the working-class population in the country. These films seamlessly infuse Filipino humor into their narratives, offering both entertainment and insightful reflections on everyday life.
The first two films prominently feature Rodolfo “Dolphy” Quizon, alongside Tito, Vic, and Joey—renowned comedians who boast substantial fan followings and an extensive portfolio of work within the local industry.
2000s Comedy Films
Concluding this year’s Sine Halakhak lineup are comedy classics from the early 2000s, including “Booba,” “Mr. Suave,” “D’ Lucky Ones!” and “Banyo Queen.” These films uphold the rich tradition of Filipino humor, featuring unforgettable characters who navigate life’s setbacks in a comical and light-hearted fashion.
Sine Halakhak proudly presents films headlined by some of the most prominent and esteemed comedians in the local film industry. This esteemed roster includes Eugene Domingo, Ai-Ai Delas Alas, Vice Ganda, Michael V., TVJ (Tito, Vic, and Joey), and the late Comedy King Dolphy. In recognition of their remarkable contributions to the entertainment industry, these icons of Philippine Comedy will be honored at the PFIM’s Closing Ceremony on September 29.
The screenings of Sine Halakhak are open to the public and completely free of charge. Additionally, the FDCP will host FilmTalks and film showings at select venues throughout September as part of the celebration of Philippine comedy and its profound influence on shaping the cultural identity of Filipinos.
For the latest news and updates, stay tuned to FDCP’s Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram pages.
