CCP’s Lakbay Sine ushers new gen artists through timeless Filipino films
IN a nation that centers its social foundation on family, it is not surprising to see numerous films centered on family stories. Whether it is about complicated familial situations, the sacrifices that parents make for their children, and heartwarming moments among siblings, among others, one can find Filipino films that encapsulate shared social experiences and realities that enlighten, inspire, and transform generations of viewers.
One of the most iconic familycentered films in the Philippines is “Anak,” directed by Rory Quintos and written by National Artist for Film and Broadcast Arts Ricky Lee.
The Cultural Center of the Philippines recently held a special screening of this classic cinematic gem at St. Paul University, Quezon City as part of its CCP Lakbay Sine, an outreach program of the Film, Broadcast, and New Media Division-Production and Exhibition Department (FBNMD-PED). The program brings different film projects to different regions, partner communities, organizations, and campuses primarily to popularize the works of Filipino filmmakers and encourage film appreciation among the youth and the general public.
For this CCP Lakbay Sine iteration, the CCP presented the Cine Icons, a special film project that aims to promote the cinematic works and lives of the National Artists.
Starring award-winning actresses Vilma Santos and Claudine Barretto, Anak is a moving story about a mother who became an overseas contract worker dreaming of a better life for her children. Upon her return to the Philippines after the death of her husband, she has to endure the resentment and hatred of her children for leaving them.
“We did a lot of interviews with mothers and children. My co-writer and director Rory and I made sure that we wouldn’t blame anyone — whether it’s the parents or the children. It’s not their fault that they live in a society where they need to separate to survive. We made sure that we would be true to the voice of the mother and the child. And we won’t take sides,” said the National Artist on their portrayal of the characters Josie and Carla.
When asked about the process behind shooting the emotional scenes during the talkback session, actress Santos-Recto shared, “When we do a scene, we don’t intentionally try to make people cry. I think it’s the story itself. As much as possible, we’ll make sure it comes from the heart, not just mere acting.”
The Star for All Seasons — who has initiated several programs in Batangas to help OFW families — also shared how being close to her family in real life helped her get into Josie’s character better. In her confrontation scene with her co-star Barretto, which was shot in one take, her dialogue also reflected her personal struggles as a mother.
As a screenwriter, Lee considers characters as the most important elements to consider when starting new projects. For him, characters are real people — the same people who watch his films and read his stories, “We appreciate movies because we see fellow humans on the screen.”
With hundreds of budding artists watching the special screening, both Lee and Santos-Recto were more than happy to provide insights and encouragement to the young hopefuls who also dream of making it into the industry.
“Pursue your dreams. Try and try if you have the passion. Love what you do and it will love you back,” enthused the veteran actress.
When asked for advice on how to deal with parents who discourage their children to pursue arts, the National Artist said, “You need to persist. Don’t let go, hold on to your dreams.”
For its next screening, CCP Cine Icons will be premiering Joel Lamangan’s “The Flor Contemplacion Story,” written by Lee and starring National Artist for Film and Broadcast Arts Nora Aunor, on March 15.