The Matti experience
only room for learning.”
She was also quick to note that her naïve perception of film making in the country was quashed instantly. “I used to think that being a filmmaker in the Philippines was to live like a starving artist—I was very naïve. I don’t even know where I got that idea but mind you, I did start that way. I guess it pays to have an idol; it puts things in perspective and it helps one set a goal,” she elaborated.
“In my case, it was again my mentor, Erik Matti, who excels in both the TV Commercial world and in making movies, who made me think that one can make a career out of directing. He juggled TV Commercials and internationally acclaimed movies together, I guess it made me think that it can be done,” she added.
When asked how she is able to keep her head above water, especially in her dog eat dog industry, she answered, “It’s being with my family of Revolver Studios and Shoestring Productions. Since I’m the only female director and one of the youngest in the roster, I would sometimes feel unsure of what I do, but I always just need to ask the veteran directors in the roster and they generously give me advice aside from my mentor. It helps me stay in the business despite the long hours and crazy schedules, specifically because even if the industry is in itself cutthroat, it’s really good to be in the comfort of family.”
Kriz was also excited to share what she loved most about her job. “My passion is filmmaking. I love seeing visual stories unfold. I love being able to see how simple elements come together to form an image in a frame. I love entertaining, and getting people to react—be it laughter, tears—or even just to remember. I love working with people who are equally passionate about showing and not just telling stories—those who can’t sleep the night before a shoot.
“I love feelings—feelings after watching something for the first time or even in watching something over and over. My passion is making movies or even just short sequences that could feel like it’s a story worth showing. My passion is also watching them. I guess I’ll forever be part of that big audience,” she related.
It’s always a great feeling to see old friends succeed, but more than that, it’s refreshing to see people from our generation stand up, create, and contribute. People like Kriz who live out of their passion truly make all the difference in the world.