In a packed Shang Rila Cineplex, Caliph8 provides a live sound track in front from left: Khavn Dela Cruz, Paolo Garcia, Arvin Nogueras and Kakoy Legaspi

Written and photographed

By Jude Thaddeus L. Bautista

“Assunta Spina” is an Italian film screened in the 4^th Silent Film fest held at the Shang Rila Cineplex last August 28. The story is about jealousy that destroys the genuine love of a couple. The band Caliph8 was able to interpret the varied emotions and pain through their soundtrack. What makes this unique is that the soundtrack was performed live during the screening. Through the direction of Arvin Nogueras, they were able to bring together a group of talented musicians that help create the mood for this Italian classic. On September 9 to 19 also at the Shang Cinelpex, film fans can catch the biggest movies from Europe in the now famous Cine Europa film festival.

His Excellency, Amb. Luca Fornari of Italy before the screening thanked

His Excellency Ambassador Luca Fornari of Italy

Shang Rila Plaza for their support of the Silent film fest. He also invited the public to the upcoming Italian film fest in October that will happen also in the same venue.

“Assunta Spina” was directed in 1914 by Francesca Bertini, Gustavo Serena based on the play by Salvatore Di Giacomo. Assunta played by Francesca Bertini is the most captivating beauty in Naples. She is much sought after by several suitors.  She falls in love with Michele and marries him. Throughout their courtship and engagement she is pursued by Rafael who plots to tear their marriage apart.

Assunta spina suffers the jealousy of Michele

The plot is similar to the modern masterpiece “Malena” by Giuseppe Tornatore. Although, “Assunta” is not any less moving than the modern “Malena”. “Assunta” may be seen as even more tragic. She sacrifices herself many times in order to save her beloved husband Michele, in spite of the physical abuse that she suffers because of his jealousy. The most touching declarations of love come from her, “Have no bad thoughts, Michele: I love only you.”

from left : Khavn Dela Cruz, Rossana Benassi, Michelangelo Nerini, Nino Quartana, Cristina Moricca, Arvin Nogueras, Malec Lopez, Mark Young, Paolo Garcia, Kakoy Legaspi and Emanuela Adesini.

The acting, camera techniques, even the make up from the silent film era may seem alien to the modern contemporary viewer. That is why the role of music in linking audiences emotionally is even more important. In this case Caliph8 led by Arvin Nogueras was able to assemble a talented crew using the most high tech means at its disposal.

Arvin Nogueras of Caliph8 and Madame Fornari

Nogueras was at the turntables laying different audio tracks and effects. Malec Lopez was in front of the laptop while Mark Young and Paolo Garcia handled the traditional and electronic percussions respectively. Two important musicians were added to enhance their capability. Kakoy Legaspi is a top guitarist who has worked for the Silent film fest the past few years jamming with Noli Aurillo. Last year Kakoy was with Corporate Lo-Fi for the fest. Film maker Khavn Dela Cruz is behind the key boards.

The 4^th Silent Film fest had free entrance with tickets distributed by the following sponsor agencies: Instituto Cervantes, Italian Embassy, Japan Foundation and the Goethe Institut. Four films were screened in one weekend from August 28 to 29 and had live music accompanied by Caliph8, Radio Active Sago Project, Tanglaw and the Out of Body Special.

From left, Alex Smith, Cristina Moricca, Emanuela Adesini, Michelangelo Nerini , Rossana Benassiand Nino Quartana.