Head of Cinema Evaluation & Coordination – Text and Photos by Jude Bautista

PUPPYLOVE’s Emotional Consequences

jude bautista — Thu, 10 Sep 2015 13:06:16 +0000

Audrey Bastien (Julia) asks Solène Rigot (Diane) to lie beside her while she has sex w Thomas Coumans (bartender). Watch PUPPYLOVE and many European films for free in Cine Europa 18 at Shang Cineplex, Shangri La Plaza Mall from September 10-20, 2015.

Written by

Jude Bautista

Diane (Solène Rigot) knocked on the hotel room. Door opens, the bartender (Thomas Coumans) they met downstairs is now half naked. He goes back to bed and gives his full attention to Julia (Audrey Bastien). He kisses her. Diane sits down not sure what to do. Julia tells her, “Come over here.” Diane lies beside the two while they have sex. Julia in between moans of pleasure tells Diane, “Get undressed.” Diane hesitates, freezes doesn’t respond. Not long after the bartender orgasms. Julia grabs a cigarette asks Diane, “Do you like to watch?” Diane replies, “Yes its beautiful. You’re both beautiful.”

from left Solène Rigot (Diane) watches Audrey Bastien (Julia) have sex with Thomas Coumans (bartender). Watch PUPPYLOVE and many European films for free in Cine Europa 18 at Shang Cineplex, Shangri La Plaza Mall from September 10-20, 2015.

Julia goes to the bathroom and puts on a robe. The bartender asks Diane, “You want to kiss me?” Diane says, “Yes.” When Julia comes back she asks the bartender to leave. Shocked he asks why. Julia responds, “My parents are in the next room do you want me to scream so they’ll know you’re here?” He wears his pants and runs out, both girls laugh.

from left: FDCP Teddy Granados, Shangri La Plaza GM & EVP Lala Fojas and EU Delegation First Sec Jerome Riviere. Watch PUPPYLOVE and many European films for free in Cine Europa 18 at Shang Cineplex, Shangri La Plaza Mall from September 10-20, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

from left: FDCP Exec Dir Teddy Granados, Shangri La Plaza GM & EVP Lala Fojas and EU Delegation First Sec Jerome Riviere. Watch PUPPYLOVE and many European films for free in Cine Europa 18 at Shang Cineplex, Shangri La Plaza Mall from September 10-20, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

Regardless of the title PUPPY LOVE is a film that takes out all the sugary sweetness of young romance and shows all the raw, awkward, humiliating, exhilarating and real portrayal of teen’s exploration of love and sex. Like other great films it shows true human nature and weaves a compelling story with it. That’s how and why people can relate with and understand characters, they’re very real, no matter what your age.

Watch European films for free in Cine Europa 18 at Shang Cineplex, Shangri La Plaza Mall from September 10-20, 2015 and move on to other cities in later dates.

Watch European films for free in Cine Europa 18 at Shang Cineplex, Shangri La Plaza Mall from September 10-20, 2015 and move on to other cities in later dates.

PUPPY LOVE from Belgium is just one of 23 titles you can watch for free at the Cine Eropa 18 film festival at Shang Cineplex, Shang Rila Plaza Mall from September 10-20, 2015. Check schedules and get there early as seats are available on a first come first served basis. Because of the subject matter and nudity this is an adults only film. There are however, a lot of child friendly titles in Cine Europa such as TOTALLY TRUE LOVE from Norway, FINN from Netherlands, ANTBOY from Denmark and many more.

from left: Solène Rigot (Diane) & Writer and director Delphine Lehericey. Watch PUPPYLOVE and many European films for free in Cine Europa 18 at Shang Cineplex, Shangri La Plaza Mall from September 10-20, 2015.

Written and directed by Delphine Lehericey, the sensitivity and even insights of the female touch is evident in this piece. PUPPY LOVE is a co production between 4 countries: Belgium, France, Luxembourg and Switzerland. French is the predominant language with English subtitles.

Solène Rigot (Diane); Watch PUPPYLOVE and many European films for free in Cine Europa 18 at Shang Cineplex, Shangri La Plaza Mall from September 10-20, 2015.

Solène Rigot (Diane); Watch PUPPYLOVE and many European films for free in Cine Europa 18 at Shang Cineplex, Shangri La Plaza Mall from September 10-20, 2015.

Diane played by Solène Rigot is just like any teen, a little bit awkward, very much insecure with her looks. Although she’s curious about sex she’s unsure of how to go about it. Rigot at 14 has the innocence of a young Drew Barrymore with the unpredictability and edginess of Hillary Swank especially in their teen years. Rigot has done such a convincing and touching portrayal that she will definitely be a face to watch out for.

Audrey Bastien (Julia) takes her panties off to seduce an older guy. Watch PUPPYLOVE and many European films for free in Cine Europa 18 at Shang Cineplex, Shangri La Plaza Mall from September 10-20, 2015.

Julia is played by Audrey Bastien, she is new to the neighborhood and is everything that Diane aspires to be. She’s extremely attractive, confident and very much experienced in sex. There is magnetism to Julia that Diane could not ignore or get away from. Audrey Bastien uses her youthful, dark haired, soft, pale skin to its fullest potential playing the seductress, Julia. Audrey was first cast and then recommended Solène Rigot who she worked with in French TV show Xanadu.

from left: Audrey Bastien (Julia) & Solène Rigot (Diane). Watch PUPPYLOVE and many European films for free in Cine Europa 18 at Shang Cineplex, Shangri La Plaza Mall from September 10-20, 2015.

from left: Audrey Bastien (Julia) & Solène Rigot (Diane). Watch PUPPYLOVE and many European films for free in Cine Europa 18 at Shang Cineplex, Shangri La Plaza Mall from September 10-20, 2015.

Audrey Bastien has experience in playing troubled, dark teens and has received critical acclaim. She was discovered in LIGHTS OUT from France, which debuted at the Cannes Film fest in 2010. Bastien was also cast as Katia in 2 AUTUMNS, 3 WINTERS, which was also screened in Cannes in 2013.

Audrey Bastien (Julia) just walks into their house and unknowingly changes their lives. Watch PUPPYLOVE and many European films for free in Cine Europa 18 at Shang Cineplex, Shangri La Plaza Mall from September 10-20, 2015.

from right: Shangri La Plaza GM & EVP Lala Fojas, EU Delegation First Sec Jerome Riviere, French Counselor for Political Affairs Christine Carole and Swiss Counselor and Deputy Head of Mission Raoul Imbach. Watch PUPPYLOVE and many European films for free in Cine Europa 18 at Shang Cineplex, Shangri La Plaza Mall from September 10-20, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

The production design by Audrey Hernu is not particularly obvious or distinctive in a contemporary film such as this. Except for a few key points and may have dated the story’s time to the 90s. Diane’s little brother Marc (Vadim Goldberg) was playing an old version of Mortal Kombat in an old game console. Her dad Christian (Vincent Perez) was on a pay phone while on vacation in Belgium’s lakeside cabin. Because of the time frame, its possible the writers Martin Coiffier and Delphine Lehericey have been inspired by people and events they knew in real life.

from left: Audrey Bastien (Julia) teaches Solène Rigot (Diane) how to drink vodka. Watch PUPPYLOVE and many European films for free in Cine Europa 18 at Shang Cineplex, Shangri La Plaza Mall from September 10-20, 2015.

In PUPPY LOVE Julia brought Diane (pronounced Deeyan in French) to double dates and exuded confidence in sex. She’d just meet men anywhere, everywhere and have sex with them, ‘for fun’. Julia would teach her how to get drunk, smoke cigarettes.

Solène Rigot (Diane) kisses Audrey Bastien (Julia). Watch PUPPYLOVE and many European films for free in Cine Europa 18 at Shang Cineplex, Shangri La Plaza Mall from September 10-20, 2015.

Solène Rigot (Diane) kisses Audrey Bastien (Julia). Watch PUPPYLOVE and many European films for free in Cine Europa 18 at Shang Cineplex, Shangri La Plaza Mall from September 10-20, 2015.

Julia seemed SO free. She could DO whatever she wanted, literally and not be confined by morals or conventions. There didn’t seem to be a moral line that Julia could not cross or overcome. There were even scenes, hints where Diane was falling for her. Julia became the mentor of Diane and eventually losing her virginity. As soon as the guy achieved orgasm, Julia would send them out. She was more like a man than most men. There was this desensitization from the emotional consequences of sex. That was where conflict would arise.

Audrey Bastien (Julia) and Joel Basman (Paul). Watch PUPPYLOVE and many European films for free in Cine Europa 18 at Shang Cineplex, Shangri La Plaza Mall from September 10-20, 2015.

Audrey Bastien (Julia) and Joel Basman (Paul). Watch PUPPYLOVE and many European films for free in Cine Europa 18 at Shang Cineplex, Shangri La Plaza Mall from September 10-20, 2015.

This is also the genius of the story where it’s not really a moral treatise or judgment of anyone. It just recognizes that some people act, think or feel differently than others especially in sexual attitude. The film doesn’t even deal with the possible problems from promiscuity like STDs or unwanted pregnancies. What it illustrates are the emotional consequences. No matter how much we think we can divorce or separate our feelings, our way of thinking from sex, we’re only human to get affected on an emotional level.

Diane’s classmate brags about having sex. Watch PUPPYLOVE and many European films for free in Cine Europa 18 at Shang Cineplex, Shangri La Plaza Mall from September 10-20, 2015.

Diane’s classmate brags about having sex. Watch PUPPYLOVE and many European films for free in Cine Europa 18 at Shang Cineplex, Shangri La Plaza Mall from September 10-20, 2015.

With Diane, this shy, young, impressionable adolescent there can be a lot more damage done than just venereal disease. Diane gets easily lost in what she sees and experiences with Julia without realizing how badly she can get hurt. Sometimes all we get is a broken heart and worse there can be disastrously tragic effects.

Solène Rigot (Diane); Watch PUPPYLOVE and many European films for free in Cine Europa 18 at Shang Cineplex, Shangri La Plaza Mall from September 10-20, 2015.

Solène Rigot (Diane); Watch PUPPYLOVE and many European films for free in Cine Europa 18 at Shang Cineplex, Shangri La Plaza Mall from September 10-20, 2015.

Solène Rigot (Diane) and Vincent Perez (Christian). Watch PUPPYLOVE and many European films for free in Cine Europa 18 at Shang Cineplex, Shangri La Plaza Mall from September 10-20, 2015.

Solène Rigot (Diane) and Vincent Perez (Christian). Watch PUPPYLOVE and many European films for free in Cine Europa 18 at Shang Cineplex, Shangri La Plaza Mall from September 10-20, 2015.

Diane doesn’t see and appreciate that she has a loving, caring father and brother that Julia with all her sophistication and worldliness does not have. In a way, that’s why Julia has to desensitize herself because she’s looking for affirmation from different men. Delphine Lehericey’s point of view allows us not to judge either young women but to see them as they are. Lehericey is neither vilifying nor praising promiscuous behavior but merely shows women as they are. The real crime occurs when we don’t care how or why we hurt people, especially the ones we love.

from left: Vincent Perez (Christian), Vadim Goldberg (Marc), Solène Rigot (Diane) and Audrey Bastien (Julia). Watch PUPPYLOVE and many European films for free in Cine Europa 18 at Shang Cineplex, Shangri La Plaza Mall from September 10-20, 2015.

Vincent Perez (Christian) hugs Solène Rigot (Diane). Watch PUPPYLOVE and many European films for free in Cine Europa 18 at Shang Cineplex, Shangri La Plaza Mall from September 10-20, 2015.

Vincent Perez (Christian) hugs Solène Rigot (Diane). Watch PUPPYLOVE and many European films for free in Cine Europa 18 at Shang Cineplex, Shangri La Plaza Mall from September 10-20, 2015.

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Fresh from silver medal finish at Jones Cup Moala D. Tautuaa Jr. (center) goes malling at the Shang Plaza East Wing with Justin Melton of Star Hotshots (left). Watch PUPPYLOVE and many European films for free in Cine Europa 18 at Shang Cineplex, Shangri La Plaza Mall from September 10-20, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

Writer and director Delphine Lehericey; Watch PUPPYLOVE and many European films for free in Cine Europa 18 at Shang Cineplex, Shangri La Plaza Mall from September 10-20, 2015.

Writer and director Delphine Lehericey; Watch PUPPYLOVE and many European films for free in Cine Europa 18 at Shang Cineplex, Shangri La Plaza Mall from September 10-20, 2015.

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center: Czech Amb. Jaroslav Olsa Jr w Exec Asst Charlene Balaan (left) & Fe Amor Tiosen of Net 25. Watch PUPPYLOVE and many European films for free in Cine Europa 18 at Shang Cineplex, Shangri La Plaza Mall from September 10-20, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

right: Theo Gladsteen (Antoine) and Solène Rigot (Diane); Watch PUPPYLOVE and many European films for free in Cine Europa 18 at Shang Cineplex, Shangri La Plaza Mall from September 10-20, 2015.

right: Theo Gladsteen (Antoine) and Solène Rigot (Diane); Watch PUPPYLOVE and many European films for free in Cine Europa 18 at Shang Cineplex, Shangri La Plaza Mall from September 10-20, 2015.

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The awkwardness and difficulty stops Solène Rigot (Diane) and Theo Gladsteen (Antoine) from losing their virginity. Watch PUPPYLOVE and many European films for free in Cine Europa 18 at Shang Cineplex, Shangri La Plaza Mall from September 10-20, 2015.

Diane’s classmate brags about having sex. Watch PUPPYLOVE and many European films for free in Cine Europa 18 at Shang Cineplex, Shangri La Plaza Mall from September 10-20, 2015.

Diane’s classmate brags about having sex. Watch PUPPYLOVE and many European films for free in Cine Europa 18 at Shang Cineplex, Shangri La Plaza Mall from September 10-20, 2015.

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Solène Rigot (Diane) loses her virginity with Joel Basman (Paul). Watch PUPPYLOVE and many European films for free in Cine Europa 18 at Shang Cineplex, Shangri La Plaza Mall from September 10-20, 2015.

Solène Rigot (Diane), Audrey Bastien (Julia) and Joel Basman (Paul). Watch PUPPYLOVE and many European films for free in Cine Europa 18 at Shang Cineplex, Shangri La Plaza Mall from September 10-20, 2015.

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Teens go to a rave party. Watch PUPPYLOVE and many European films for free in Cine Europa 18 at Shang Cineplex, Shangri La Plaza Mall from September 10-20, 2015.

Teens go to a rave party. Watch PUPPYLOVE and many European films for free in Cine Europa 18 at Shang Cineplex, Shangri La Plaza Mall from September 10-20, 2015.

from left: Harald Tomintz, Italian Emb First Sec Fabio Schina and PIA Proj Dev officer Cristina Moricca. Watch PUPPYLOVE and many European films for free in Cine Europa 18 at Shang Cineplex, Shangri La Plaza Mall from September 10-20, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

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Audrey Bastien (Julia) dances to music Diane blares off her speakers. Watch PUPPYLOVE and many European films for free in Cine Europa 18 at Shang Cineplex, Shangri La Plaza Mall from September 10-20, 2015.

from left: Shang Mktg officer MJ Mendoza, FDCP Proj Dev Officer Ina Avellana Cosio and FDCP Head of Cinema Evaluation & Coordination Wilma Isleta. Watch PUPPYLOVE and many European films for free in Cine Europa 18 at Shang Cineplex, Shangri La Plaza Mall from September 10-20, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

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Solène Rigot (Diane) tries to pick up a guy Julia pointed out to her. Watch PUPPYLOVE and many European films for free in Cine Europa 18 at Shang Cineplex, Shangri La Plaza Mall from September 10-20, 2015.

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Audrey Bastien (Julia) plays prank on Vincent Perez (Christian). Watch PUPPYLOVE and many European films for free in Cine Europa 18 at Shang Cineplex, Shangri La Plaza Mall from September 10-20, 2015.

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from left: Audrey Bastien (Julia) and Solène Rigot (Diane). Watch PUPPYLOVE and many European films for free in Cine Europa 18 at Shang Cineplex, Shangri La Plaza Mall from September 10-20, 2015.

from left: Audrey Bastien (Julia) and Solène Rigot (Diane). Watch PUPPYLOVE and many European films for free in Cine Europa 18 at Shang Cineplex, Shangri La Plaza Mall from September 10-20, 2015.

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Imelda’s Genuine Love for MARIQUINA Shoes

jude bautista — Sat, 09 May 2015 08:00:56 +0000

Cong. Imelda Marcos has a cameo appearance in MARIQUINA. ASIA ON SCREEN 2015 film fest will run at the Shang Cineplex, Shangri-La Plaza Mall from May 8-12, 2015.

Cong. Imelda Marcos has a cameo appearance in MARIQUINA. ASIA ON SCREEN 2015 film fest will run at the Shang Cineplex, Shangri-La Plaza Mall from May 8-12, 2015.

Written and photographed

By Jude Bautista

There’s no easier way to convince an audience than a celebrity endorsement. No less than Imelda Marcos herself, possibly the world’s leading shoe connoisseur, gave her endorsement of fictional character Romeo Guevara. The role played by Ricky Davao is supposed to be one of the most respected shoemakers in Marikina. The former first Lady made a cameo appearance in the Marikina Shoe Museum some of which features her vast collection.

MARIQUINA cast from left: Ricky Davao (Romeo), Director Milo Socueco, Barbie Forteza (teen Imelda), Mylene Dizon (Imelda), Bing Pimentel (Tess) & NIÑO director Loy Arcenas. ASIA ON SCREEN 2015 film fest will run at the Shang Cineplex, Shangri-La Plaza Mall from May 8-12, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

The movie MARIQUINA starring Mylene Dizon, Ricky Davao and Cinemalaya Best Supporting actress Barbie Forteza is the opening film for the ASIA ON SCREEN 2015 film fest. Quality films from around Asia will be screened at the Shang Cineplex, Shangri-La Plaza Mall from May 8-12, 2015. The fest is presented by Asia Society Philippines, Security Bank in partnership with the FDCP (Film Development Council of the Philippines) and Shangri-La Plaza.

One of the portraits of Imelda Marcos posing in front of Pres. Ferdinand Marcos’ portrait that can be seen in the Marikina Shoe Museum. ASIA ON SCREEN 2015 film fest will run at the Shang Cineplex, Shangri-La Plaza Mall from May 8-12, 2015. Photo from Official MARIQUINA fb page https://www.facebook.com/mariquinathemovie/timeline

13 films from across Asia are set to delight film enthusiasts this year with works from Australia, Indonesia, India, Thailand, Malaysia, South Korea, China and the Philippines. The other Filipino title in the fest is NIÑO directed by Loy Arcenas and has won Cinemalaya Best Supporting Actress (Shamaine Buencamino), Best Supporting Actor (Art Acuña) and Special Jury Prize.

from left: MARIQUINA Director Milo Sogueco, Shang Plaza GM & EVP Lala Fojas and Cinemalaya Best Supporting Actress Barbie Forteza. ASIA ON SCREEN 2015 film fest will run at the Shang Cineplex, Shangri-La Plaza Mall from May 8-12, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

As one of the successful Cinemalaya entries last year MARIQUINA has recently been screened in Busan Intl Film Festival, Osaka Asian Film Festival, 65^th Berlin Intl Film Festival, San Diego Asian Film Festival (SDAFF), Hawaii Intl Film Festival. After the Asia On screen 2015 by Asia Society Phil MARIQUINA will also be screened in Yerba Buena Center for the Arts: New Filipino Cinema 2015 in June.

Congressman Imelda Marcos visits her collection at the opening of the Marikina Shoe Museum February 16, 2001. Photo from
http://www.news.com.au/world/years-of-neglect-have-destroyed-imelda-marcos-legendary-shoe-collection/story-fndir2ev-1226479773574

Casting the former first lady was not difficult for director Milo Sogueco. She has a true soft spot for shoes and Marikina, “You mention shoes, you mention Marikina, which is very close to her, when they were in power. If you talk to the old sapateros they would readily admit they used to gift her with shoes. That one is a fact. If you talk to the original old, sapateros, talagang binibigay nila sa Malacañang ang mga sapatos. It doesn’t amount to all her shoes, meron ding imported, meron mga local na galing sa Marikina.”

Ricky Davao plays master shoemaker Romeo Guevara. ASIA ON SCREEN 2015 film fest will run at the Shang Cineplex, Shangri-La Plaza Mall from May 8-12, 2015. Photo from Official MARIQUINA fb page https://www.facebook.com/mariquinathemovie/timeline

from right: Shang Rila Plaza Mktg. Div. Head Marline Dualan, Asia Society Philippines Executive Dir. Suyin Liu Lee, Shang Plaza Mktg officers Mimi Tecson and Nicole Villamor. ASIA ON SCREEN 2015 film fest will run at the Shang Cineplex, Shangri-La Plaza Mall from May 8-12, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

The shoes made in Marikina have long been held in high regard. Director Milo’s research proved this started way back. His main character’s last name was also based on true historical figures. “There came a time when the Spanish era then, the family of Kapitan Moy, the first settlers of Marikina were shoe makers. They belong to that family to that clan. Guevara ang apelyido ng isa sa pamilya na gumagawa sa Marikina.”

Che Ramos-Cosio is Leonor Guevara. ASIA ON SCREEN 2015 film fest will run at the Shang Cineplex, Shangri-La Plaza Mall from May 8-12, 2015.

Che Ramos-Cosio is Leonor Guevara. ASIA ON SCREEN 2015 film fest will run at the Shang Cineplex, Shangri-La Plaza Mall from May 8-12, 2015.

Asked why he made the film Sogueco explained, “It was more of a personal thing. I just wanted to make a movie I could connect to. Years and years before I was trying to reconcile a personal affliction. I was having an identity crisis of how it is being a Filipino. Bakit may mali sa Pilipino? I was asking myself during those years. Maybe we have a problem with our own identity? Maybe we don’t know who we really are, our past and we haven’t reconciled with it also. That’s where it came from.”

from left: Milo Sogueco & Mylene Dizon. ASIA ON SCREEN 2015 film fest will run at the Shang Cineplex, Shangri-La Plaza Mall from May 8-12, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

from left: Milo Sogueco & Mylene Dizon. ASIA ON SCREEN 2015 film fest will run at the Shang Cineplex, Shangri-La Plaza Mall from May 8-12, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

The journey of the main character is a metaphor of the whole country, “In our movie, our heroine Imelda Guevara is played by Mylene Dizon and Barbie Forteza. Their character is like a lost soul trying to find itself. Yon yung philosophy ko behind it. Parang Pinoy rin (Like Filipinos) we need to find ourselves first before we can move on and be a better country.”

Mylene Dizon (Imelda Guevara). ASIA ON SCREEN 2015 film fest will run at the Shang Cineplex, Shangri-La Plaza Mall from May 8-12, 2015.

Mylene Dizon (Imelda Guevara). ASIA ON SCREEN 2015 film fest will run at the Shang Cineplex, Shangri-La Plaza Mall from May 8-12, 2015.

The Marikina Shoe Museum houses 700 pairs from Imelda Marcos personal collection. They also have shoes from celebrities, political figures on display. They even have what they call a Running Heel, a motorcycle made into a shape of a stiletto. Imelda admits to having over a thousand instead of the much-publicized 5,000 pairs. She’s also quoted as saying, “They went into my closets looking for skeletons, but thank God, all they found were shoes, beautiful shoes.”

Cong. Imelda Marcos’ shoe collection on display at the Marikina Shoe Mueseum. ASIA ON SCREEN 2015 film fest will run at the Shang Cineplex, Shangri-La Plaza Mall from May 8-12, 2015. Photo from Official MARIQUINA fb page https://www.facebook.com/mariquinathemovie/timeline

Cong. Imelda Marcos with Ricky Davao who plays master shoemaker Romeo Guevara. Photo was taken during MARIQUINA Cinemalaya gala night last August 2014 at the CCP. Photo by Jude Bautista

Cong. Imelda Marcos with Ricky Davao who plays master shoemaker Romeo Guevara. Photo was taken during MARIQUINA Cinemalaya gala night last August 2014 at the CCP. Photo by Jude Bautista

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Barbie Forteza tweets in front of BRIC’S Milano Italian Travel Bags in East Atrium of Shang Mall. ASIA ON SCREEN 2015 film fest will run at the Shang Cineplex, Shangri-La Plaza Mall from May 8-12, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

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from right: Mylene Dizon and Bing Pimentel check out BRIC’S Milano Italian Travel Bags in Shang Plaza East Atrium. ASIA ON SCREEN 2015 film fest will run at the Shang Cineplex, Shangri-La Plaza Mall from May 8-12, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

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from left: Expat Phil writer Javelyn Ramos, Japan Foundation Prog. Coordinator Roland Samson, Shang Rila Plaza Mktg Nicole Villamor and Instituto Cervantes Deputy for Cultural Affairs Jose Fons. ASIA ON SCREEN 2015 film fest will run at the Shang Cineplex, Shangri-La Plaza Mall from May 8-12, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

Mylene Dizon (Imelda Guevara). ASIA ON SCREEN 2015 film fest will run at the Shang Cineplex, Shangri-La Plaza Mall from May 8-12, 2015. Photo from Official MARIQUINA fb page https://www.facebook.com/mariquinathemovie/timeline

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CNN Phil Reporter Patricia Fernandez & Actor/director Ricky Davao. ASIA ON SCREEN 2015 film fest will run at the Shang Cineplex, Shangri-La Plaza Mall from May 8-12, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

CNN Phil Reporter Patricia Fernandez & Actor/director Ricky Davao. ASIA ON SCREEN 2015 film fest will run at the Shang Cineplex, Shangri-La Plaza Mall from May 8-12, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

Barbie Forteza won a Cinemalaya Best Supporting Actress nod for her performance as teen Imelda Guevara. ASIA ON SCREEN 2015 film fest will run at the Shang Cineplex, Shangri-La Plaza Mall from May 8-12, 2015.

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from left: Asia Society Phil Executive Dir. Suyin Liu Lee, Pete Dela Fuente, Filmmaker Lino S. Cayetano and Asia Society Phil. Prog. Coordinator Jenny Rocket. ASIA ON SCREEN 2015 film fest will run at the Shang Cineplex, Shangri-La Plaza Mall from May 8-12, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

left: Sofia Pablo (Grade school Imelda) chats with Erlinda Villalobos (Cora). ASIA ON SCREEN 2015 film fest will run at the Shang Cineplex, Shangri-La Plaza Mall from May 8-12, 2015.

left: Sofia Pablo (Grade school Imelda) chats with Erlinda Villalobos (Cora). ASIA ON SCREEN 2015 film fest will run at the Shang Cineplex, Shangri-La Plaza Mall from May 8-12, 2015.

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MARIQUINA cast from left: Director Milo Socueco, Mylene Dizon (Imelda), Bing Pimentel (Tess), Barbie Forteza (teen Imelda) & Ricky Davao (Romeo). ASIA ON SCREEN 2015 film fest will run at the Shang Cineplex, Shangri-La Plaza Mall from May 8-12, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

Ricky Davao plays master shoemaker Romeo Guevara. ASIA ON SCREEN 2015 film fest will run at the Shang Cineplex, Shangri-La Plaza Mall from May 8-12, 2015.

Ricky Davao plays master shoemaker Romeo Guevara. ASIA ON SCREEN 2015 film fest will run at the Shang Cineplex, Shangri-La Plaza Mall from May 8-12, 2015.

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Cong. Imelda Marcos has a cameo appearance in MARIQUINA. ASIA ON SCREEN 2015 film fest will run at the Shang Cineplex, Shangri-La Plaza Mall from May 8-12, 2015.

Cong. Imelda Marcos has a cameo appearance in MARIQUINA. ASIA ON SCREEN 2015 film fest will run at the Shang Cineplex, Shangri-La Plaza Mall from May 8-12, 2015.

Eiga Sai’s Familial & Culinary Bonds

jude bautista — Thu, 10 Jul 2014 12:08:23 +0000

Japan Amb H.E. Toshinao Urabe. The Eiga Sai Japanese Film Festival will screen films for free from July 4 to 13, 2014 at the Shang Cineplex, Shang Rila Plaza Mall. Photo by Jude Bautista

Japan Amb H.E. Toshinao Urabe. The Eiga Sai Japanese Film Festival will screen films for free from July 4 to 13, 2014 at the Shang Cineplex, Shang Rila Plaza Mall. Photo by Jude Bautista

Written and photographed

By Jude Bautista

The futuristic design of the new East Wing in Shangri La Plaza Mall played host to the successful opening of Eiga Sai. The annual fest organized by the Japan Foundation, which allows audiences to watch the best contemporary Japanese films for free has garnered a lot of fans over the years. It will run from July 3-13 at the Shang Cineplex.

3rd from left: Japan Amb H.E. Toshinao Urabe, from left: AKIRA Co Owner & Managing Director Ricky Laudico, Japan Foundation Managing Dir Shuji Takatori, Shang Rila Plaza Mktg. Div. Head Marline Dualan, FDCP Head of Cinema Evaluation & Coordination Wilma Isleta, Shu Uemura Mktg Head Dyan Warren and JICA Sr. Representative Kunihiro Nakasone. Photo was taken at the Shang East Wing where the opening of Eiga Sai fest was held. The Eiga Sai Japanese Film Festival will screen films for free from July 4 to 13, 2014 at the Shang Cineplex, Shang Rila Plaza Mall. Photo by Jude Bautista

AKIRA-Shang East wing and SUMOSAM provided authentic & sumptuous sushi during The Eiga Sai Opening. The Eiga Sai Japanese Film Festival will screen films for free from July 4 to 13, 2014 at the Shang Cineplex, Shang Rila Plaza Mall. Photo by Jude Bautista

This year’s opening was made extra special by the participation of AKIRA and SUMOSAM. Both restaurants in Shang Mall are from celebrity restaurateur Marvin Agustin who is now also a concert producer. They created a truly Japanese atmosphere by serving authentic sushi, with master chefs assembling them fresh on site. Although the dashing Marvin Agustin the actor was not in the opening, Co owner Ricky Laudico ably represented the latest brand in Japanese dining in the new East Wing.

Eiga Sai literally meaning film festival, features 16 titles. Among them is Cannes Jury Prize winner LIKE FATHER LIKE SON directed by Karee da Hirozaku. HOMELAND is likewise one of the celebrated films in the Berlin Film festival.

(center) Japan Amb H.E. Toshinao Urabe was interviewed from left by GMA News’ Cata Inocencio and TV5 Aksyon Anne Cabral. Photo was taken at the Shang East Wing where the opening of Eiga Sai fest was held. The Eiga Sai Japanese Film Festival will screen films for free run from July 4 to 13, 2014 at the Shang Cineplex, Shang Rila Plaza Mall. Photo by Jude Bautista

Japanese Ambassador Toshinao Urabe emphasized the importance of family as the theme of the fest, “Movies are universal everyone enjoys it. There’s no better way to start the Philippines Japan Friendship month than Eiga Sai. Last year almost 20,000 people attended this festival. This year’s movie line up will focus on family. The modern society’s abundant amenities allow people to live alone. However no one can live in solitude. People need relationships to be human. Among such relationships family ties are most important. The American writer Richard Bach, author of Jonathan Livingston Seagull wrote ‘the bond that links true family is not of blood but of respect and joy for each other’s life”

Newly Wed Karylle was shopping at East Wing during the Eiga Sai Japanese Film Festival, which will screen films for free, from July 4 to 13, 2014 at the Shang Cineplex, Shang Rila Plaza Mall. Photo by Jude Bautista

Urabe linked familial bonds of the two countries from bilateral relations of governments to food, “The relationship which is building up between Japan and the Philippines in recent years are linked with such things. Renewed respect to the Philippine economy by Japanese investors, the frequent summit meetings between our leaders, the surge of Filipino tourists to Japan and the Filipino fad for Japanese Ramen, Tonkatsu and other Japanese food.” No wonder, this year organizers tapped two of the best Japanese restaurants AKIRA and SUMOSAM as food sponsors.

3rd from right: Japan Amb H.E. Toshinao Urabe from left: Japan Foundation Managing Dir Shuji Takatori, Shang Rila Plaza Mktg. Div. Head Marline Dualan, Etsuko Urabe, FDCP Head of Cinema Evaluation & Coordination Wilma Isleta and JICA Sr. Representative Kunihiro Nakasone. The Eiga Sai Japanese Film Festival will screen films for free run from July 4 to 13, 2014 at the Shang Cineplex, Shang Rila Plaza Mall. Photo by Jude Bautista

Marline Dualan, Division Manager for Marketing Shangri La plaza Corp. encapsulated what can be seen among the many titles of the fest, “This year’s edition of Eiga Sai features 16 carefully selected films that span the last 5 years of contemporary Japanese cinema. Starting tonight with the screening of HOMELAND until the next ten days, the Shang Cineplex will play host to an excellent line up of well-chosen films that center around the theme of family. From coming of age dramas to real life accounts depicting the aftermath of the Great East Japan earthquake that shook Fukushima on March 2011 to award winning Anime films.”

There were long queues for the opening film HOMELAND. The Eiga Sai Japanese Film Festival will screen films for free from July 4 to 13, 2014 at the Shang Cineplex, Shang Rila Plaza Mall. Photo by Jude Bautista

from right: AKIRA Mktg Dir Sheryl Laudico, AKIRA Co-Owner & Mng Dir Ricky Laudico, Japan Foundation Prog Coordinator Roland Samson and Japan Foundation Managing Dir Shuji Takatori. Photo was taken at the Shang East Wing where the opening of Eiga Sai fest was held. The Eiga Sai Japanese Film Festival will screen films for free from July 4 to 13, 2014 at the Shang Cineplex, Shang Rila Plaza Mall. Photo by Jude Bautista

According to her the relationship between Shang Plaza and the Japan foundation has been a long and fruitful one, “We would like to thank the Japan Foundation of Manila, for entrusting to us this wonderful partnership that showcases Japanese filmmaking at its best. We congratulate you for another successful undertaking of this event. We look forward to many more years of partnership and friendship. We would also like to thank the invaluable support of the Japanese Embassy and the FILM DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL OF THE PHILIPPINES for making this project a reality. We would like to thank our retail partners AKIRA, SUMOSAM and SHUEMURA for generously supporting Japan Foundation as one of the sponsors of this event.”

Japan Foundation Managing Dir Shuji Takatori and FDCP Head of Cinema Evaluation & Coordination Wilma Isleta. Photo was taken at the Shang East Wing where the opening of Eiga Sai fest was held. The Eiga Sai Japanese Film Festival will screen films for free from July 4 to 13, 2014 at the Shang Cineplex, Shang Rila Plaza Mall. Photo by Jude Bautista

The role of cinema is more than just entertainment. FDCP Head of Cinema Evaluation & Coordination Wilma Isleta explained, “As you know both the Philippines and Japan have suffered devastating disasters in the past few years that have resulted in the loss of many lives. And cinema has the capability to unite us by respecting the value of the family in putting up with disasters and heightening efforts to rebuild lives and communities.” These inspiring stories can be gleaned in films like REUNION, HOMELAND and many more in this year’s Eiga Sai line up all for free.

CORO TOMASINO performed Hana Wa Saku (Flowers Will Bloom) a Japanese song composed to raise funds for the Great East Earthquake. Photo was taken at the Shang East Wing where the opening of Eiga Sai fest was held. The Eiga Sai Japanese Film Festival will screen films for free from July 4 to 13, 2014 at the Shang Cineplex, Shang Rila Plaza Mall. Photo by Jude Bautista

from right: Instituto Cervantes Manila Managing Dir Carlos Madrid and Instituto Cervantes Deputy for Cultural Affairs Jose Fons at the Shang East Wing where the opening of Eiga Sai fest was held. The Eiga Sai Japanese Film Festival will screen films for free from July 4 to 13, 2014 at the Shang Cineplex, Shang Rila Plaza Mall. Photo by Jude Bautista

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from left: Vietnam Emb 2nd Secretary Le Thi Thu Thuy, Laos Emb 2nd Secretary Phoungern Soukvilai, JICA Sr. Representative Kunihiro Nakasone and Japan Foundation Managing Dir Shuji Takatori at the Shang East Wing where the opening of Eiga Sai fest was held. The Eiga Sai Japanese Film Festival will screen films for free from July 4 to 13, 2014 at the Shang Cineplex, Shang Rila Plaza Mall. Photo by Jude Bautista

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It was a full house for the opening film HOMELAND. The Eiga Sai Japanese Film Festival will screen films for free from July 4 to 13, 2014 at the Shang Cineplex, Shang Rila Plaza Mall. Photo by Jude Bautista

Shu Uemura Mktg Head Dyan Warren and Shu Uemura Mktg officer Jam Soriano
The Eiga Sai Japanese Film Festival will screen films for free from July 4 to 13, 2014 at the Shang Cineplex, Shang Rila Plaza Mall. Photo by Jude Bautista

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from right: JICA Sr. Advisor Juro Chikaraishi, JICA Sr. Representative Kunihiro Nakasone and JICA Prog Officer Tracy Decena. Photo was taken at the Shang East Wing where the opening of Eiga Sai fest was held. The Eiga Sai Japanese Film Festival will screen films for free from July 4 to 13, 2014 at the Shang Cineplex, Shang Rila Plaza Mall. Photo by Jude Bautista

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from right: AKIRA Co Owner & Managing Director Ricky Laudico and Japan Foundation Managing Dir Shuji Takatori at the Shang East Wing where the opening of Eiga Sai fest was held. The Eiga Sai Japanese Film Festival will screen films for free from July 4 to 13, 2014 at the Shang Cineplex, Shang Rila Plaza Mall. Photo by Jude Bautista

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ADMU Ricardo Leong Center Dir. Sidney Christopher Bata with wife Gyeong-min Bae. The Eiga Sai Japanese Film Festival will screen films for free from July 4 to 13, 2014 at the Shang Cineplex, Shang Rila Plaza Mall. Photo by Jude Bautista

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Japan Amb H.E. Toshinao Urabe with Chevalier Virginia Moreno at the Shang East Wing where the opening of Eiga Sai fest was held. The Eiga Sai Japanese Film Festival will screen films for free from July 4 to 13, 2014 at the Shang Cineplex, Shang Rila Plaza Mall. Photo by Jude Bautista

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