CONTEMPORARY

PHILIPPINE
FILM AND CINEMA
CONTEMPORARY PHILIPPINE
FILM AND CINEMA 2
• Contemporary Philippine cinema refers to the current
state of the film industry in the Philippines, which has
undergone significant changes and developments over
the years.

• One of the most significant developments in

contemporary Philippine cinema is the rise of
independent films.
• Many independent filmmakers emerged, creating movies that
explore diverse themes and styles. These films have won
international acclaim and brought new attention to Philippine
cinema.

• Philippine cinema has also seen a growing interest in genre

films, particularly horror and romantic comedies.

• This has led to the emergence of new directors and actors who
have revitalized these genres with fresh ideas and approaches.
• The film industry has also embraced digital technology, with
many filmmakers using digital cameras and post-production
tools to create high-quality films.

• The Philippine government has provided support for the film

industry by offering tax incentives and funding for
filmmakers.

• Film festivals such as the Metro Manila Film Festival and

the Cinemalaya Independent Film Festival have also played
a significant role in promoting Philippine cinema.
HISTORY OF CONTEMPORARY PHILIPPINE
FILM AND CINEMA 6
• Philippine cinema dates back to the early 1900s. The first Philippine movie
was produced in 1919, and the industry grew rapidly in the following
decades.

• During the Golden Age of Philippine cinema in the 1950s and 1960s,
Philippine films were known for their quality and innovation, and many
films won awards at international film festivals.

• In the 1970s and 1980s, the industry experienced a decline due to the
imposition of martial law and censorship by the government.

• However, the 1990s saw a resurgence of Philippine cinema with the

emergence of independent filmmakers who explored new styles, themes,
and techniques.
CONTEMPORARY FILIP INO FILMMAKERS

8
 Lav Diaz is a Filipino writer and director known
for his films that depict the sorrow and resilience of
the Filipino people, who have been betrayed by their
postcolonial nation-state.

Some of his most notable works include:

• "The Woman Who Left" (2016)
• "Season of the Devil" (2018),
• "From What Is Before" (2014).

Diaz's films are characterized by their quiet

storytelling, as he explores themes of abandonment,
LAV DIAZ
poverty, and political corruption in the Philippines.

Despite the bleak subject matter, Diaz's films also

highlight the resilience and strength of his
characters in the face of adversity.
 Brillante Mendoza is a highly regarded Filipino
independent filmmaker who is well-known for his gritty and
realistic style of filmmaking.

He received international acclaim when he became the first

Filipino director to win the Best Director award at Cannes for
his film Kinatay in 2009.

Some of his other notable works include:

• “The Masseur” (2005)
• “Slingshot” (2007)
• “Service” (2008)
• “Kinatay” (2009)
• “Thy Womb” (2012)
BRILLANTE MENDOZA

His upcoming films are Resbak, and the Philippine-Japanese

co-produced sports biopic Gensan Punch (2020).

He produced successful festival films like Kintsugi (2020),

Verdict (2019) Pailalim (2016), and Imbisibol (2015).
 Erik Matti is a Filipino director and writer.

Some of his works include:

• “ABCs of Death” (2012)
• “On the Job” (2013)
• “Honor Thy Father” (2015)
• “Seklusyon” (2016)
• “BuyBust” (2018)
• “On the Job 2: The Missing 8” (2021)

Erik Matti has played a significant role in the

ERIK MATTI
Filipino cinema industry.

He co-founded Reality Entertainment, and

Independent Filmmakers Cooperative, which helped
promote independent filmmaking in the Philippines.
 Cathy Garcia-Molina is a highly acclaimed film and
television director from the Philippines. She is widely
recognized for her work in directing romantic
comedy and family films, which have become popular
among Filipino audiences.

Some of her notable works include:

• "Hello, Love, Goodbye" (2019)
• "The Hows of Us" (2018)
• "One More Chance" (2007).

Her films are often produced and distributed by Star CATHY GARCIA
Cinema, a leading Filipino film production company. MOLINA

With her impressive filmography and distinct style,

Cathy Garcia-Molina has become one of the most
respected directors in the Philippine film industry.
 Antoinette Jadaone is a well-known Filipina
filmmaker who has directed several notable films.

Some of her most popular works include:

• "Six Degrees of Separation from Lilia Cuntapay"
(2011) "That Thing Called Tadhana" (2014).
• “Love You to the Stars and Back” (2017)
• “Never Not Love You” (2018)
• “Alone/Together” (2019)
• "Fan Girl" (2020)

Her films often tackle themes of love, relationships,

ANTOINETTE
and personal growth, and are known for their realistic
JADAONE
and relatable portrayal of these topics.

Overall, she is known for her unique storytelling

style and ability to capture the nuances of human
relationships in her films.
 Joyce E. Bernal best known for being one of the most
successful female directors in the Philippines.

She started as a film editor for Viva Films in 1994 and has
directed a handful of films, television shows, and even directed a
music videos.

She was nominated multiple times for Best Director at the

FAMAS Award, the highest award given by the Filipino Academy
of Movie Arts and Sciences.

Her films have earned numerous awards and nominations at

the Metro Manila Film Festival, the Gawad Urian Awards, the
Young Critics Circle Film Desk, and the Luna Awards.
JOYCE E. BERNAL
She is not only a blockbuster director but also a producer,
having founded Spring Films with long-time friend/actor Piolo
Pascual and Cornerstone Entertainment President Erickson
Raymundo.
Some of her works (Films) include:

• “Silly Red Shoes” (2019)

• “Ulan” (2019)
• “Meet Me In Saint Gallen” (2018)
• “Sid & Aya: Not A Love Story” (2018)
• “Gandarrapiddo: The Revenger Squad” (2017)
• “Last Night” (2017)
• “Everything About Her” (2016)
• “The Achy Breaky Hearts” (2016)
• “Beauty and the Bestie” (2015)
• “English Only, Please” (2014)
• “10,000 Hours” (2013) JOYCE E. BERNAL
• “Kimmy Dora and the Temple of Kiyeme” (2012)
• “Segunda Mano” (2011)
• “Kimmy Dora: Kambal sa Kiyeme” (2009)
• “Shake, Rattle & Roll X” (2008)
• “Don't Give Up on Us” (2006)
INCLINATIONS OF CONTEMPORARY
PHILIPPINE FILM AND CINEMA?
Cultural Awareness
• Filipino films provide an insight into the
culture, values, and traditions of the
Philippines. By watching contemporary
Filipino films, people can gain a better
understanding of the country and its
people.

National Identity
• Contemporary Philippine cinema
reflects the social, political, and cultural
issues that affect the country, and it
provides a platform for Filipinos to
showcase their unique perspective and
voice.

Artistic Expression
• Contemporary Philippine films showcase the
creative and artistic talents of Filipino
filmmakers, actors, and writers. By
supporting and promoting these films, it
encourages the development of the Philippine
film industry and contribute to the growth of
the country's artistic community.
 Economic Growth
• The Philippine film industry is an
important contributor to the country's
economy. By supporting local filmmakers
and studios, we can help generate
employment opportunities and contribute
to the growth of the industry.

Global Impact
• Contemporary Philippine films are not only
relevant in the Philippines but are also
making an impact globally. They have been
recognized and awarded in various
international film festivals, which helps to
promote the country's culture and creative
talents on a global scale.
EXAMPLE OF FILMS AND
CINEMATOGRAPHY
"Heneral Luna" (2015) - a historical biopic that tells
the story of General Antonio Luna during the
Philippine-American War. It received several awards
and nominations, including Best Picture at the Metro
Manila Film Festival.

"Birdshot" (2016) - a thriller film about a young girl

who accidentally kills an endangered Philippine eagle.
It won the Best Film award at the Asian Future section
of the 2016 Tokyo International Film Festival.

"Smaller and Smaller Circles" (2017) - a crime thriller

about two Jesuit priests who investigate a series of
murders in Manila. It won Best Picture at the 2017
Philippine Cinema Originals Film Festival.
"BuyBust" (2018) - an action-thriller about an anti-
narcotics squad that gets trapped in a drug den in
Manila. It premiered at the 2018 New York Asian Film
Festival and received positive reviews.

"Eerie" (2019) - a horror film about a guidance

counselor who investigates a series of supernatural
occurrences at a Catholic school for girls. It was
released on Netflix and received critical acclaim.

"Hello, Love, Goodbye" (2019) - a romantic drama

about a Filipina domestic worker in Hong Kong who
falls in love with a Chinese bartender. It became the
highest-grossing Filipino film of all time and was
released in several countries worldwide.
 COMMON GENRES IN
CONTEMPORARY PHILIPPINE FILM
AND CINEMA
Drama - This genre covers a broad range of themes and
subject matter, including family relationships, societal
issues, and personal struggles.

Comedy - Philippine comedies often feature a mix of

humor, romance, and drama. The genre is known for its
witty one-liners, slapstick humor, and colorful
characters.

Action - Action films are popular in the Philippines,

featuring intense fight scenes, car chases, and
explosions. They often showcase the skills of local
martial artists and stunt performers.

Horror - The horror genre is also popular in the

Philippines, with films featuring supernatural
creatures, ghosts, and other eerie phenomena.
 Romance - Philippine romance films often revolve around
the themes of love, sacrifice, and family. They often depict
the struggles of young couples who come from different
backgrounds or who face societal pressures.

Thriller - Thriller films in the Philippines often feature

crime, suspense, and mystery. They are known for their
fast-paced action and unexpected plot twists.

Historical - Historical films in the Philippines often depict

events and figures from Philippine history. They aim to
educate audiences about the country's past and celebrate
its cultural heritage.

Independent - The independent film industry in the

Philippines is growing, with many young filmmakers
producing films that tackle a wide range of social issues
and challenges.
 SIGNIFICANCE OF CONTEMPORARY
PHILIPPINE FILM AND CINEMA TO THE
FILIPINO PEOPLE
Cultural Representation - Contemporary Philippine cinema plays an
important role in representing and showcasing Filipino culture and
identity to both local and international audiences. It gives voice to the
country's diverse perspectives and experiences, promoting cultural
understanding and appreciation.

Economic Development - The film industry contributes significantly

to the country's economy by creating job opportunities, generating
revenue, and attracting tourism. As the industry continues to grow, it
has the potential to drive further economic growth and development.
Social Commentary - Many contemporary Philippine films explore
relevant social issues and challenges faced by the country, such as
poverty, corruption, and social inequality. They provide a platform for
critical reflection and discussion on these issues, raising awareness and
promoting positive social change.

National Pride - The success of contemporary Philippine films and

filmmakers in international film festivals and competitions has sparked
national pride and confidence in the country's creative and artistic talents.

Entertainment - Contemporary Philippine cinema provides

entertainment to millions of Filipinos, offering a source of escape and
enjoyment from the stresses of everyday life.
END