By: Nicole Llanderal
Photo by: Maverick Rhoy De Vera /The LANCE
Cinema Knights had made a comeback with the theme Reviving Greatness, Igniting Visions last Nov. 21, 2024 at the SC Auditorium, uniting cinephiles and student filmmakers in celebrating the artistry of cinema and rekindling a sense of community.
Hosts Janna Mykaela Cruz and Kevin Macailao warmly welcomed the crowd, emphasizing the event’s dedication to both creativity and tradition. Instructor Gewerly Bautista shared that originally, Cinema Knights was known as PelikuLetran but the former dean rebranded it later on to make it seem world class, evoking globalization and creative spirit.
However, even a legacy like the Cinema Knights was not immune to the challenges of the pandemic. With classes moving online and student numbers dwindling, the annual event was put on hold, much to the dismay of Letran's film community. “Nag-pandemic kasi, syempre kumonti ‘yung estudyante natin,” Instr. Bautista explained. But now, as the world returns to face-to-face interactions, so does the Cinema Knights.
The revival of Cinema Knights is fueled by a surge in aspiring filmmakers from Letran and beyond. No longer exclusive to the Institute of Communication students, the event now welcomes participants from other departments and even the public, signaling its evolution into a more inclusive platform.
Associate Professor Eric N. Awi, PhD, Dean of the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, further inspired attendees during his opening remarks saying, “This tradition is not only about watching films but about rekindling passion and creativity while strengthening the bonds within our community. Revive Cinema Knights, revive IComm!”
For the professors and organizers, the event was a way to reclaim Letran’s reputation in the filmmaking community and remind everyone of the rich legacy of storytelling that Letranites have built over the years.
Inst. Bautista also took pride in the storytelling prowess of the Letranites, noting how their skills in narrative and presentation stood out. “Maganda ‘yung kung paano nila prinesent ‘yung gusto nila mangyari; lalo na ‘yung Sto. Entierro, special mention sa kanila kasi talagang hindi ko ineexpect. First time kong mapanood ‘yon ineexpect ko horror. Sila ang nagpauso ng BL (Boys’ Love) dito kasi s’yempre ‘di ba… catholic school.”
Beatrice Gumba, a 2nd year Communication Arts student, said that the event served as a very helpful one especially for those just starting or feeling lost in the process of filmmaking. The presence of guest speakers directors Cris Aquino, Mike Tuviera, and Carby Salvador elevated the learning experience.
The significance of this year’s theme was particularly felt by the IComm students. IComm has that legacy of producing great films every year. It’s important for students, especially the newcomers, to remember what’s been started and continue it.
Among the films shown, Unsung Heroes, a documentary about the Hukbalahap movement, stood out for its emotional depth. Despite its unpolished technical aspects, the film captured the essence of true storytelling. It’s not just history, it’s a memory that still lives on honoring the unsung heroes who fought for freedom.
Looking ahead, next year’s theme, Metamorphosis, holds symbolic weight for both IComm and Letran as a whole. This evolution reflects the faculty’s commitment to growth, adaptation, and nurturing the next generation of filmmakers who will continue to tell bold, impactful stories. But beyond the films and themes, the event left a lasting message that greatness comes from passion and persistence. If they can do it, so can you. It’s not about copying their path, it’s about improving your own skill set and aiming higher.
The Stories and Their Storytellers
From narratives of resilience to explorations of history and identity, the core essence of the event lies in its celebration of storytelling that transcends boundaries and resonates universally. Makers of the films shared the spotlight, giving the audience a deeper look into the passion and persistence behind their creation. Among the films featured, four stood out for their distinctiveness and emotional depth.
“kaLAYAWan”, directed by Carlo James Buan and Ian Prietts Erta, is a poignant short documentary that follows the life of a transwoman navigating a world that often refuses to understand her. In a generation seemingly worlds apart from her own, she perseveres, steadfast in the face of difficulties. As the audience watches her story unfold, they are reminded of the resilience required to exist boldly in a society that often discourages difference.
Set against the solemn backdrop of San Selino’s Good Friday procession, “Sto. Entierro”, directed by Marinella Datuin, delves into themes of reconciliation and unspoken feelings. The film centers on Juan Miguel, a law student, and his estranged childhood friend, Jose Luis, who reconnect after five years. Through their shared memories, the audience witnesses how unresolved emotions from the past ripple into the present. A delicate coming-of-age tale, the film captures the nuances of friendships and the lingering question of what if.
For Inst. Angela Davocol, Sto. Entierro was more than just a project, it was a challenge. She revealed that maybe the story was inspired by the producer’s own experiences. But the journey wasn’t without its challenges. The original actor for Jose Luis pulled out on the same day they were supposed to shoot. Luckily, a replacement stepped in and pulled it off perfectly.
Moving onto another highlight of the event was “Atin Cu Pung Singsing”, directed by Carlo James Buan, a cultural ode to Kapampangan identity. The film follows James, a 21 year old singer-songwriter celebrated as the next Kapampangan sensation, as he prepares for a much-anticipated performance. Beyond the glitz of his rising stardom, the film explores the pressures of living up to expectations while staying true to one’s roots. This story resonates deeply, especially in an age where authenticity often wrestles with public image.
Urie Magnipis, who co-wrote Atin Cu Pung Singsing during his second year, shared insightful advice for aspiring filmmakers. “Pwede ka gumamit ng storya ng iba, hindi kailangan storya mo muna, isang storya na hindi kailangan sayo lang, pwedeng gumamit ng iba,” he said as well as emphasizing to trust people in bringing story to life.
Earl Cruz also shared his experience with Atin Cu Pung Singsing, highlighting the importance of honoring culture while pursuing creativity. Meanwhile, Production Manager Zea Clemente, speaking through a video greeting, expressed gratitude for the chance to share kaLAYAWan, emphasizing the courage of the film’s protagonist, a transwoman, and how her resilience inspired the project.
The last film shown was “Unsung Heroes”, directed by Patrick Alog, a documentary that takes viewers back to the era of Japanese colonization in the Philippines. Through the story of Mrs. Aracelli Mallari, a member of the Hukbalahap movement, the film sheds light on a piece of history that many would rather forget. Mrs. Mallari’s resistance to delve into details due to lingering trauma only makes her story more poignant, as it highlights the quiet sacrifices of those whose bravery remains unacknowledged by history books.
Patrick Dale, the editor behind Unsung Heroes and an alumnus now working in the film industry, spoke about the power of storytelling to preserve untold narratives. He wanted to give justice to the voices that remain unheard. Like when he listened to Nanay (Mrs. Mallari) singing, he thought that it’s not enough that he just hears her story, they need to amplify it. The documentary resonates with the untapped history of the Hukbalahap movement, ensuring that even unsung heroes are remembered.
“Nagtake risk at capitalize ‘yung films kasi ito ‘yung nag-oopen ng space,” Patrick added, aptly summarizing the collective sentiment. Indeed, these films are more than just creative endeavors, they are gateways to discussions, reflections, and understanding.
Insights From The Guest Speakers
The highlight of Cinema Knights was not just the films, it was the wisdom and raw truth brought by guest speakers Direk Cris Aquino, Direk Mike Tuviera, and Direk Carby Salvador. The three acclaimed filmmakers shared their experiences and advice as they inspired the SC Auditorium full of cinephiles and aspiring filmmakers.
When asked for advice on becoming a filmmaker, all three directors emphasized resilience and passion. Direk Cris didn’t sugarcoat the realities of filmmaking: “Mahirap ang pagdadaanan mo. Kung hindi matibay ang dibdib mo at maaliwalas utak mo, bibitaw ka agad.” He stressed the importance of mental and physical health, likening one's body to a vehicle saying, “Kailangan mo alagaan, shooting pa lang, sobrang nakakapagod na.”
Direk Mike urged students to tell their own stories. “‘Wag kokopya sa iba. Put together a story na may hugot, kahit ginawa na ‘yan a million times, make it personal.” Direk Carby echoed this sentiment but added a critical element of patience. “There’s no right or wrong. Hangga’t mahal mo ang ginagawa mo, hindi ka magkakamali. But you have to be very, very patient.”
The directors also weighed in on Ricky Lee’s iconic advice to “tell the story that you know.” Direk Cris agreed, emphasizing the value of authenticity. However, Direk Mike offered a nuanced take. “That’s not literally true. Like ‘The Janitor,’ hindi naman siya janitor, pero nagawa niya. Only the brave will survive, so tell your story and be brave about it.”
When asked what makes a story unique, Direk Mike referred to Shakespeare’s 25 universal plots. “Lahat ng kwento may general plot. What makes it different is making it personal. ‘Yun ang bago.”
The rise of AI in creative fields sparked curiosity, and the directors had strong opinions. Direk Cris dismissed the idea of AI as a threat. “Tayo naman gumawa niyan, so why fear it?” Direk Mike saw AI as a tool rather than a creator. “A computer can only tell you what happened. It can’t create wonderful stories. Use it as a draft, sketch, but it will always follow your lead.” Direk Carby, on the other hand, was more blunt. “Trabahong tamad ‘yan. Puso ang wala diyan.”
Another pressing concern for students was funding and networking. Direk Mike admitted, “Funding is always difficult. The mark of a true filmmaker is you put your mouth where the money is.” However, he also noted that grants are easier to find now because of the support the industry gets from the government.
When asked why they continued making films despite the challenges, the directors shared heartfelt answers. Direk Cris said simply, “Kahit mahirap, pinipili ko pa rin.” For Direk Carby, the reason was clear. “Ito ang love ko, eh. Hahanapin mo ang formula na magpapabalik sa’yo.” Direk Mike, who candidly described himself as a “nepo baby,” said he deliberately avoided the path of TV and mainstream films to forge his own way in cinema.
The directors also shared a glimpse of their own works in the coming 50th Metro Manila Film Festival. Direk Mike highlighted The Kingdom, a film that reimagines a Philippines untouched by colonization. Meanwhile, Direk Cris mentioned his rom-com My Future You, a tricky tale involving a dating app and a 15-year timeline.
Direk Carby, despite not having an MMFF entry this year, expressed no regrets, saying the love for filmmaking was reason enough to keep going. As Direk Carby put it best, “Hanggat gusto mo at mahal mo ang ginagawa mo, hindi ka magkakamali.”