August 26, 2011
7:00 PM Brides of Sulu (Philippines)
9:00 PM Nosferatu (Germany)
August 27, 2011
5:00 PM Akeyuku Sora (Japan)
7:00 PM L’inferno (Italy)
August 28, 2011
5:00 PM The Greek Miracle (Greece)
Pilar Guerra (Spain)
Shang Cineplex (Cinema 2), Shangri-La Plaza
Mandaluyong
For some people, silent films are old movies that are not as interesting compared to the latest special effects laden films that dominate the cinemas in here. But the films to be screened at the 5th International Silent Film Festival Manila running this August 26-28, 2011 at the Shang Cineplex (Cinema 2) at the Shangri-La Plaza provide something else that the latest films can’t offer: live music performance by various music acts during the actual screening.
I’ve never been into any previous editions of this festival so I am eagerly anticipating experiencing this unique setup. My interested in old films was just recently roused when I was able to watch a tribute to Philippine cinema some time ago. And then I found out some time after that that the Philippines will be having an entry for the first time in this festival with the film Brides of Sulu which will actually open the festival this August 26, 2011 at 7:00 PM.
The screening of the Brides of Sulu will be accompanied by Armor Rapista and the Panday Pandikal Cultural Troupe. During the recent press conference held at the Shangri-La Plaza Premiere Theatre, Teddy Co of SOFIA provided a bit of historical information regarding the origin of the film. And this origin may prove to be as interesting as the actual film itself. Screening next on the same night at 9:00 PM is Nosferatu - A Symphony of Horror from Germany. The Far Eastern University, performing the music of Stephan von Bothmer will be accompanying this film, released in which is said to be the precursor for vampire films.
On the following day, August 27, 2011 at 5:00 PM, Japan’s Akeyuku Sora (The Dawning Sky) will be screened to be accompanied by contemporary group Bandang Malaya. The film, a melodrama is a change of pace from Torajiro Saito whose slapstick comedy film was shown in last year’s edition. Then, Italy’s L’Inferno accompanied by legendary rock band Razorback will be shown at 7:00 PM. This film is Italy’s first ever full-length feature film and is loosely based on Dante Alighieri’s literary masterpiece.
On the last day August 28, 2011 at 5:00 PM, Greece, a first time participant in the festival as well, will present its only silent film, The Greek Miracle. Providing the music for this short film is pianist Heliodoro “Dingdong” Fiel who also happens to be a friend of mine. This film about an Athenian family who wants to participate in the war is a combination of acted parts and documentary footage featuring real locations and actual soldiers. Dingdong will immediately join his fellow musicians from the HDC Trio as they will accompany the screening of Spain’s entry, Pilar Guerra which is a love story.
As I’ve said, I haven’t been into any previous editions of this festival and I’m really looking forward to this unique viewing experience. I’ve been to quite a number of film festivals for the past few months and I always welcome the opportunity for me to see more films that offer something different from the usual mainstream fare.
 |
| 5th International Silent Film Festival Manila press conference |
This event is presented by National Commission for Cultura and Arts (NCCA), the Goethe-Institut Philippinen, the Japan Foundation, Manila
For tickets:
Tickets for the screenings will be distributed by the respective embassies and cultural agencies
Brides of Sulu
NCCA 527-2209
Nosferatu
Goethe Institut 811-0978
Akeyuku Sora
The Japan Foundation, Manila 811-6155 to 58
L’inferno
Embassy of Italy 892-4531 loc 143
The Greek Miracle
gremb.man@gmail.com
Pilar Guerra
Instituto Cervantes, Manila 526-1482
For other inquiries:
633-7851 loc.113
www.shangrila-plaza.com
No comments:
Post a Comment