CAO, CCP link for landmark film screening at University Theater
Date Posted: October 10, 2024 at 01:53 PM
The Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP), in collaboration with the Cultural Affairs Office (CAO), hosted a screening of the film “Anak” at the Adamson University Theater last October 8.
National Artist for Film and Broadcast Arts Ricky Lee and Ms. Moira Lang, who co-wrote the iconic film, were present during the event along with ABS-CBN Sagip Pelikula head Mr. Leo Katigbak.
Photo: Piolo Ferrer/ Komunikator
“Anak” by award-winning director Rory Quintos delves into the sacrifices made by overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) during the early 2000s, a time marked by economic hardship and labor exportation.
Despite being released in 2000, it continues to be one of the gems and cornerstones of Philippine cinema.
“Isang bagay na nagawa ng pelikula ay na-personalize niya yung kwento, kasi yung [iba] ‘di nakakaranas na magkaroon ng OFW sa pamilya […] narinig lang natin yung abstract pero hindi nagkakaroon ng mukha,” Lee shared during the talkback session, highlighting how the film personalizes the OFW experience, which was then an integral part of the country’s work culture.
“Sa pagbuo ng karakter, kailangan malalim ang nararamdaman mo sa iyong subject; you have to connect with real people and events [...] para mas maging totoo at malalim ang karakter na ginagawa mo,” he furthered.
The film tells the story of Josie – played by multi-awarded veteran actress Vilma Santos – a mother who returns home to reconnect with her children after years of working abroad, poignantly portraying the emotional distance and challenges that result from such separations.
Meanwhile, Lang revealed that “Anak” was a personal project for her as it drew on her own experiences with her two sisters who lived in Hong Kong.
“It is personal because I have two sisters; both of them lived in Hong Kong for so many years. I would visit them very often, and I met many Filipinos there. I would ride the train with them, hear their stories, and listen to their experiences,” she recalled.
This screening is part of the CCP Cine Icons series, which celebrates the enduring impact of “Anak.” It provided audiences with the opportunity to engage with both Lee and Lang, gaining insights into the film’s creation and cultural significance.
For his part, Katigbak emphasized the importance of showcasing films from different eras, as they offer a window into Filipino identity and the human condition of those times.
“Ang mga lumang pelikula ay isa pang paraan upang maintindihan kung ano ang pinagdaanan ng Pilipino bilang isang kultura, bilang isang bayan. Ito ang ating identidad, ito ang ating kaluluwa,” he said.
Also present during the event were CCP Film, Broadcast and New media Division Chief Mae Caralde, AdU Vice-President for Academic Affairs Dr. Rosula Reyes, College of Educationa and Liberal Arts Dean Dr. Gliceria Lunag, Communication Chairperson Mr. Glenn Ace Parungao and CAO Director Ms. Catherine Cequena.
CAO's partnership with CCP began in 2022, initially focusing on independent films. This year, it has evolved with the introduction of the “Cine Icons” program, which highlights the works of national artists and award-winning actors and actresses, further expanding the reach and influence of Philippine cinema within the University. Rebecca Dabalos/ Komunikator
