Rafael Manuel’s debut feature, “Filipinana,” is creating waves at the Tokyo Gap-Financing Market, moving closer to completion as an international co-production bolstered by its advanced post-production stage. This eagerly anticipated film, which expands upon Manuel’s acclaimed short of the same name, delves into the multifaceted landscape of systemic inequality in the Philippines. “Filipinana” is poised to captivate audiences with a unique narrative set against the intriguing backdrop of Manila’s elite golf clubs.
Expanding on an Award-Winning Short
“Filipinana” builds on the success of Manuel’s Silver Bear Jury Prize-winning short film from the Berlin Film Festival. The story follows Isabel, a tee-girl at the Alabang Golf & Country Club, whose encounter with the club’s president reveals the underlying structural violence of the Philippines. This chance meeting propels Isabel on a path that uncovers the deeper hierarchies within the club.
“Yes, the film is set on a golf course in the Philippines, but it could be set anywhere really,” Manuel told Variety. “What I’m trying to convey is that regardless of where we find ourselves in the hierarchy of any oppressive system, we all have our part to play in perpetuating it. And that when places are made beautiful, the violence that lays underneath becomes that much harder to see.”
Ambitious International Co-Production
The making of “Filipinana” was a six-year endeavor, underscoring the patience and intent required to find the right partners. Renowned filmmaker Jia Zhangke joined as a mentor, contributing to the project’s expansion into a four-country co-production. Backed by participants from the U.K. (Film4/Ossian), Singapore (Potocol), the Philippines (Epicmedia Productions), and France (Easy Riders), this collaboration merges national funds, rebates, investment, and presales.
Jeremy Chua, the producer, notes, “We are working on a pretty large scale for a first film. This definitely added to the complexity of legals and spending allocations.” Filming faced logistical challenges, requiring creativity in utilizing multiple golf course locations around Manila. Production designer Tatjana Honegger skillfully crafted a cohesive visual narrative from these disparate settings.
Strategic Moves at Tokyo Market
At the Tokyo Gap-Financing Market, the team is seeking opportunities for presales with Japanese and Asian distributors and potential partnerships for an Asian release. “We also hope to deepen our understanding of the Japanese market,” Chua noted, mentioning a small financing gap yet to be addressed.
Producer Bianca Balbuena Liew shared that the project benefited from development and production grants from the Film Development Council of the Philippines, highlighting the team’s cohesive belief in Rafael’s vision. “That’s why six years felt like a breeze,” she remarked.
A Vision for a New Cinema Experience
The film, with editing and VFX in progress, is on track for a world premiere, represented by sales agent Magnify. Jeremy Chua emphasized the movie’s ambitious scale, noting, “I believe the film is going to offer audiences a new sound and image of Southeast Asia cinema, made in an ambitious scale but with a handmade touch. This film was designed for the big screen.”
Looking forward, Rafael Manuel is developing several new projects, including a colonial period piece set in the Philippines, promising further exploration of complex narratives and cultural themes.
