Lav Diaz’s ‘Hele Sa Hiwagang Hapis’ to compete in Berlin International Film Festival 2016

The latest film from renowned director Lav Diaz “Hele Sa Hiwagang Hapis” starring John Lloyd Cruz and Piolo Pascual is set to compete in the Main Competition section of the prestigious Berlin International Film Festival this 2016.

"Hele" tackles the history of the Filipino people through interconnected narrative threads on the Philippine Revolution of 1986-1987 against the Spanish. 

Among the artists included in the big cast ensemble of the film are Cherie Gil, Angel Aquino, Bernardo Bernardo, Alessandra De Rossi, Hazel Orencio, Susan Africa, Joel Saracho, Ely Buendia, Sid Lucero, Ronnie Lazaro, Menggie Cobarrubias, Bart Guingona, Jean Judith Javier, Sheenly Gener, Paul Jake Paule, Noel Sto. Domingo, Matt Daclan, Melo Esguerra, Bianca Balbuena, Moira Lang, Bradley Liew, Kristine Kintana, Karenina Haniel, Sigrid Bernardo, Rcee Tenefrancia, and Kuya Manzano, among others.

“It is said that it is perilous to argue about historical details. It is also said that it is more perilous to correct any distortions made on historical events. But that it is most perilous of all to turn one’s back to the truth behind these events,” Diaz said in a statement released by film production company Ten17P.

He added, “Fear reigns nowadays, an enduring cowardice. But to yearn for freedom is not an illusion. There are only conquerors and the conquered, abusers and the abused. I only hope that this rebellion could mean something for the country.”

After participating in Cannes’ Un Certain Regard, Venice’s Orrizonti and the Berlinale Forum, this is the first time that the director will compete in the Main Competition section of the said international film festivals.

“Hele” will have its world premiere on February 18 in the Berlinale Palast, while the Awards Night of the said international film festival will happen on February 21 with award-winning Hollywood actress Meryl Streep as the jury's president. — Bianca Rose Dabu/AT, GMA News