The 2009 Cinemalaya independent film festival and competition, now on its fifth year and billed Cinemalaya Cinco, unveils 20 new digital films competing until July 26 at the Cultural Center of the Philippines. Some 25 new independent films will also be premiered during the Festival.
Ten films are competing in the full length category. These are 24K by Ana Agabin, Ang Panggagahasa kay Fe by Alvin B. Yapan; Astig by GB Sampedro; Colorum by Jon Steffan Ballesteros; Dinig Sana Kita by Mike E. Sandejas; Engkwentro by Pepe Diokno; Last Supper No. 3 by Veronica Velasco and Jinky Laurel; Mangatyanan by Jerrold Tarog, Nerseri by Vic Acedillo, Jr. and Sanglaan by Milo Sogueco.
Manok is a middle-class treasure hunter who's been digging for Japanese treasure for years. He and his companions are in the final stage of their current site in the mountains of Suyo, Ilocos Sur, an area reputed as a Japanese stronghold during World War II. All the signs at their site indicate that they are certain to find treasure. With their resources nearly depleted, Manok convinces his godfather in marriage, Freddie, to finance the rest of their operations. Manok, Freddie, and another friend, Boyet, journey back to the site hoping that, as their medium predicted, they will find gold before Manok's wife gives birth in a month's time.
Getting back to the site turns out to be more difficult than expected. Manok and his companions manage to make it back to the site but in the process stir up some trouble in the community. Soon, mysterious things happen at the site. With each of them becoming more and more paranoid, Manok struggles to keep the group intact long enough to unearth the treasure that he believes is just within their reach.
Screening Schedule:
July 19, Sunday 6:15 p.m. (CCP MKP Hall)
July 21,Tuesday 2:45 p.m. (Tanghalang Huseng Batute)
July 22, Wednesday 9:00 p.m. (CCP Main Theater)
July 23, Thursday 6:15 p.m. (Tanghalang Huseng Batute)
July 24, Friday 9:00 p.m. (CCP MKP Hall)
July 25, Saturday 2:45 p.m. (CCP Main Theater)
July 26, Sunday 3:30 p.m. (CCP Little Theatre)
