Twenty Years of Cinemalaya: The Journey of Pioneer Filmmakers

By Crispina M. Belen on September 12, 2024

Since its inception in 2005, Cinemalaya has become the Philippines' leading independent film festival, nurturing over 200 Filipino filmmakers and showcasing more than 1,000 films, including full-length features, shorts, documentaries, Filipino film classics, and art films. For nearly two decades, Cinemalaya has been a powerful force in championing independent Filipino cinema, offering a platform for new narratives that capture the ever-evolving landscape of Philippine culture.

Marking its 20th year, Cinemalaya continues to welcome new filmmakers who bring fresh perspectives and artistic integrity to the Filipino experience. To honor this milestone, we look back at some of the pioneering filmmakers who have shaped the festival's tradition.

Michael Angelo Dagñalan: Breaking Barriers

Michael Angelo Dagñalan, one of the inaugural filmmakers of Cinemalaya in 2005, never imagined he would become a director. "I never thought I would become a director," he said. "Cinemalaya opened so many doors and windows for me."

Dagñalan, a writer, director, and lead vocalist of the alternative rock band KontraLuz, founded Kuwentista Productions, a creative studio for film, television, and advertising. His debut feature film, Isnats, is a crime-comedy about a snatcher who steals a drug dealer's phone. The film's script had been rejected for two years before finding a home at Cinemalaya. "It was a big deal because it gave me credibility. Completing a feature film is difficult, even today. It was even more challenging when the DVD of Isnats froze during the premiere night," Dagñalan humorously recalled.

Isnats went on to win First Prize in the Dulang Pampelikula category at the 52nd Don Carlos Palanca Memorial Awards for Literature. It was also featured at the 7th Cinemanila International Film Festival and the New York Filipino Film Festival.

Rica Arevalo: A Personal Journey

Rica Arevalo, who became the first recipient of the Balangay trophy for Best Director, found Cinemalaya to be an invaluable experience that trained her to be a professional filmmaker. "Awards were secondary for me," Arevalo said. "I made the film because I wanted to create something and say something meaningful."

Arevalo, a writer, director, and educator, currently heads the Education Division of the Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP). Her debut film, ICU Bed #7, is a poignant family drama about two daughters grappling with the decision to end or prolong their ailing father's life. Arevalo revealed that she had envisioned Eddie Garcia in the lead role while writing the script in 2003. With the help of Raymond Red, she cast Garcia as the father, praising his professionalism and dedication to the craft.

ICU Bed #7 earned multiple nominations, including Digital Movie of the Year and Digital Movie Director of the Year at the 2006 Star Awards for Movies. Arevalo also won second place at the 53rd Don Carlos Palanca Memorial Awards for Literature for the film.

Aloy Adlawan: From TV to Film

Aloy Adlawan, a seasoned writer, director, producer, and creative executive, joined Cinemalaya's roster of pioneer directors to make his first full-length film. "I had been working in TV since 1994, and by 2002, I felt it was time to venture into filmmaking," he explained. Adlawan, a chemical engineer by profession, debuted with Room Boy, a drama about a motel room attendant who falls in love with a prostitute while searching for a new place to live. The story was inspired by an episode he wrote for Star Drama Presents, a popular ABS-CBN Saturday program.

"I gave it a twist, made it more dramatic, and added a love story," Adlawan shared. "It was character-driven, which brought it to life." Adlawan credited his industry connections for helping him with casting, often writing roles with specific actors in mind: "Some actors seek out edgy, dramatic, or offbeat roles to deeply explore their craft."

The Freedom to Create

Michael Angelo Dagñalan celebrates the newfound accessibility of tools and resources for aspiring artists to pursue their passions, emphasizing the timelessness of art. "There is no age limit in art—it is immortal. Regardless of your social status or background, anyone can become a storyteller," he said.

Rica Arevalo echoes this sentiment, expressing excitement for the thriving community of young filmmakers. "New talents are bolder and more daring. Their storytelling methods are unique and refreshing."

Meanwhile, Aloy Adlawan encourages aspiring filmmakers to find their voice and stay true to their craft: "If you are passionate and know who you are as a storyteller, you will always find your place."

As Cinemalaya moves forward, these pioneering filmmakers continue to inspire new generations, proving that with passion and determination, the art of filmmaking remains boundless and ever-evolving.

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