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At the Cinemalaya awards, a call for reform and the gift of a bamboo camera
(Updated 5:08 p.m.) The Cultural Center of the Philippines was packed with film enthusiasts on Sunday, August 10, the night of the 2014 Cinemalaya Awards.
The audience was on the edge of their seats even before the program officially started. There was a restlessness in the air that spoke of excitement, anticipation, and some lingering disappointment over Cinemalaya’s recent blunder, which Cinemalaya Foundation president Nestor Jardin addressed in his opening remarks.
“We wish to publicly apologize to the film-makers and producers of Batch 2012 and 2013 for the uploading of their films on YouTube,” he stated. “Again, our deep apologies.” He proceeded to thank his partners and sponsors, as well as the audiences. “Your support has kept Cinemalaya alive and vibrant.”
The winners of the different awards were presented by those who already had their names in the book. Angel Aquino (2007 Best Actress), Nathan Lopez (2005 Special Citation), LJ Lopez (2010 Best Supporting Actress), Jasmine Curtis-Smith (2013 Best Supporting Actress), Mylene Dizon (2008 Best Actress) were among those who graced the stage during the event.
Click here for a complete list of this year's winners.
The call for dialogue
Despite the light, and even comical, way the hosts led the program, there was still displeasure that sat heavy in the hearts of those directly affected by Cinemalaya’s slip-up. When Hannah Espia—director of last year’s "Transit" and producer of "Dagitab"—went up to accept the award for Best Screenplay for "Dagitab", she expressed her heartbreak over the violation of her rights as an artist. “We cannot stay silent,” she exclaimed, and stated that this incident should be Cinemalaya’s “wake-up call.”
A couple of presenters also read a statement by Cinemalaya’s first batch of directors, who wanted to share their sympathy for their fellow film-makers. “We believe in what Cinemalaya stands for. We are asking for dialogue and some reform,” the statement read in part.
Reaching the finish line
Kidlat Tahimik, the father of Philippine Independent Cinema, was the one who reminded everyone of the purpose of Cinemalaya.
He brought with him a camera made of bamboo when he climbed up the stage to receive his Gawad Balanghay Award. He told the audience the story of the film he had been working on for 23 years. He expressed his amazement at how far he reached because of his efforts.
“I don’t think I’m a film-maker… I’m just a story-teller who happens to use film,” he said.
And then he unexpectedly announced to the audience that he was giving Cinemalaya his bamboo camera. “I think Cinemalaya deserves the Bamboo Camera Award,” he stated.
His words were a contrast to the tough speeches that had been delivered throughout the night, but they had a soothing effect on the audience.
He proceeded to explain that his 23-year-old film is not yet complete. He raised his trophy. “Meron na akong balanghay. I’m going to reach the finish line.”
And if anything, he meant it as an invitation. — BM, GMA News
The audience was on the edge of their seats even before the program officially started. There was a restlessness in the air that spoke of excitement, anticipation, and some lingering disappointment over Cinemalaya’s recent blunder, which Cinemalaya Foundation president Nestor Jardin addressed in his opening remarks.
“We wish to publicly apologize to the film-makers and producers of Batch 2012 and 2013 for the uploading of their films on YouTube,” he stated. “Again, our deep apologies.” He proceeded to thank his partners and sponsors, as well as the audiences. “Your support has kept Cinemalaya alive and vibrant.”
The stage for the Cinemalaya awarding ceremony at the Cultural Center of the Philippines
Writer-director Sari Estrada is congratulated after receiving the award for Best Short for 'Asan si Lolo Mê'
Eula Valdez accepts her award for Best Acress (New Breed Films) for "Dagitab"
Singer Jonalyn Viray performs with Ballet Philippines
Nora Aunor is flanked by fellow winners.
Click here for a complete list of this year's winners.
The call for dialogue
Hannah Espia delivers a heartfelt plea to respect artists' rights
Cinemalaya president Nestor Jardin apologizes for the uploading of the films.
Reaching the finish line
Director Kidlat Tahimik presents the foundation with a bamboo camera.
He brought with him a camera made of bamboo when he climbed up the stage to receive his Gawad Balanghay Award. He told the audience the story of the film he had been working on for 23 years. He expressed his amazement at how far he reached because of his efforts.
“I don’t think I’m a film-maker… I’m just a story-teller who happens to use film,” he said.
And then he unexpectedly announced to the audience that he was giving Cinemalaya his bamboo camera. “I think Cinemalaya deserves the Bamboo Camera Award,” he stated.
Tahimik sheds his robe to reveal his traditional bahag.
He proceeded to explain that his 23-year-old film is not yet complete. He raised his trophy. “Meron na akong balanghay. I’m going to reach the finish line.”
And if anything, he meant it as an invitation. — BM, GMA News
