Six much-coveted film grants now await participating filmmakers
in the highly anticipated Puregold CinePanalo Film Festival, which
initially promised only five slots for the full-length film category.
Following meticulous evaluation of the outstanding shortlisted
entries, the six finalists, consisting of four seasoned and two
aspiring directors, will move on to the final stage of the
competition: film production.
Vincent Co, President of Puregold, obviously thrilled about the
development, stated, "The vision for Puregold’s CinePanalo
Festival is to establish it as a platform for local filmmakers to
showcase their talent. I am especially delighted to see two up-
and-coming directors earning well-deserved spots in the roster,
highlighting the panalo spirit and inclusivity of this competition."
Making it to the prestigious list of finalists is Bacolod-based
director and “newbie” in the industry Kurt Soberano, with “Under a
Piaya Moon”. An actor, director, and writer, Soberano has so far
crafted short films such as "Golden Bells" (2022), "Sa Balay ni
Papang" (2021), and "Azucar" (2019).
Also earning a coveted slot for the grant is award-winning
filmmaker, writer, and actress Sigrid Bernardo, with “Pushcart
Tales”. Known for her outstanding work in acclaimed films such
as "Anita's Last Cha-Cha" (2013), "Kita Kita" (2017), and
"UnTrue" (2019), Bernardo has received awards and nominations
from several local and international film festivals.
Another accomplished director and actor, Raynier Brizuela,
makes it as a finalist in Puregold CinePanalo’s official full-length
film category with her entry, “Boys at the Back”. He is known for
his contributions to films like "Video City: Be Kind, Please
Rewind" (2023), "Mang Jose" (2021), and "Asuang" (2018), and
his nominations from FAMAS and Cinema One Originals Digital
Film Festival.
Puregold CinePanalo also awarded a film grant to Joel Ferrer for
his entry, “Road to Happy”. An actor, director, and writer, Ferrer
boasts an extensive portfolio of 15 films and series, including
"Hello World" (2013), "Baka Siguro Yata" (2015), and "Woke Up
Like This" (2017). He has also received accolades from local and
international film festivals.
Rounding up the initial list of five finalists is Carlo Obispo, with “A
Lab Story”. An accomplished writer, director, and producer,
Obispo has made a mark with notable films including "Purok 7"
(2013), "The Baseball Player" (2022), and "Gasping for Air"
(2016), and has likewise received awards from reputable award-
giving institutions.
In a surprising twist, Puregold CinePanalo boosted the winners’
stock with the "Producer's Choice," which was awarded to
Eugene Torres for his film "One Day League: Dead Mother, Dead
All". This expanded the final count of full-length category finalists
to six slots.
The talented Eugene Torres, an actor, producer, and director, is
noted for his short film "Yujin" (2017) and contributions to films
such as "Deleter" (2022) and "Gatilyo" (2019).
Each of the six finalists will receive a grant of P2,500,000 to aid in
the production costs of their full-length films. Likewise, finalists are
entitled to free color grading by Optima Digital, and a grocery
package from Puregold. All film entries must have a minimum
runtime of 90 minutes. The deadline for their submission is set for
March 1, 2024.
The selected films will have their premiere showing at the
Gateway Cinemas in Araneta City Cubao during the Puregold
CinePanalo Film Festival proper, which runs from March 15 to 17,
2024. Potential regional screenings may follow.
The distinguished selection committee for Puregold CinePanalo
Film Festival includes veteran film and television director Jeffrey
Jethurian; award-winning filmmaker Victor Villanueva; Puregold
senior marketing manager Ivy Hayagan-Piedad; Lyle Gonzales of
Republic Creative; and Puregold CinePanalo festival director
Chris Cahilig.
Ivy Hayagan-Piedad shares her excitement over what comes
next. "Navigating through so much talent and creativity during
deliberations was no walk in the park. The finalists’ films are very
refreshing, and I cannot wait for people to witness these cinematic
masterpieces."
Meanwhile, Puregold CinePanalo Film Festival Director Chris
Cahilig highlights Puregold’s role in this endeavor. "We will
forever be grateful to Puregold for making this possible. It's not
just about seasoned directors showcasing their works; it's also
about allowing fresh new talents a shot at their aspirations. Thank
you, Puregold, for giving space to diverse voices in the film
industry.”
Puregold CinePanalo Film Festival previously named 25
promising student filmmakers as finalists in the short film
category, underscoring the commitment of Puregold to foster
emerging talents. By providing a platform for young filmmakers to
show their creativity and vision, the festival also reaffirms
Puregold’s advocacy for the Filipino youth.