from left: Asian Society Exec. Dir Harvey Keh, Indonesian Emb Social and Cultural Counselor Ahimsa Soekartono and FDCP Exec. Dir. Teodoro Granados. Photo was taken at Shang Cineplex, Shang Rila Plaza mall by Jude Bautista

Written by

Jude Bautista

Free screenings of critically acclaimed Asian films can be seen at Shangri-La Plaza, from May 17 to 21 at the Shang Cineplex. “The Asia as Our Society Film Festival” is organized by the Asia Society Philippine Foundation and the Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP). Film entries from China, Indonesia, Japan, Korea, Laos, Sri Lanka, Vietnam, and of course, the Philippines, will be screened during the festival.

The festival opens with a film from the Philippines, Dinig Sana Kita, which screens on May 17, 7:30pm. Witness the unfolding of a one-of-a-kind love story between a deaf boy and a troubled rocker girl. The film Halaw, screens on May 21, 8pm

For John Arcilla’s speech during the Cinemalaya Awards night click on poster

Asian Society Exec. Dir Harvey Keh said, “Hopefully this Asian film festival will help Filipinos better understand our neighbors in the ASEAN  (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) region and other members of the Asian continent as well. Aside from this more importantly film can be used not only to educate but to unite and hopefully create bonds of cooperation towards peace and development in this region.”

According to Keh this can lead to financial growth, “The challenge is that not one or a few countries in the region that continues to grow economically and in terms of solving poverty. Through cooperation and understanding the whole region will continue to grow. And no one will be left behind.”

This is part of their organization’s mission, “We hope that in our own small way we are able to promote love for Asian culture. And we would be able to help Filipinos to understand our neighbors.”

The Asian Festival aims to duplicate the success of Cine Europa in being able to collate films from a big group of countries. It has become a yearly tradition for film auteurs and fans to go to Shang Cineplex for the free screenings every August. Shang Cineplex has earned the reputation of hosting the most prestigious international film fests including the upcoming French Film fest this June.

Shangri La Plaza Mktg Div Head Marline Concio-Dualan explained, “Like an angel from heaven last year we received a call from the Asia Society of the Phil. wanting to tie up with us to make this long time dream of ours a reality. After several months we are very happy with the help of other embassies with our friends from the FDCP to fulfill this dream.”

FDCP Exec. Dir. Teodoro Granados echoed the sentiment, “For the past few months the FDCP has been partnering with various embassies, consulates and international cultural organizations to show films on, unfortunately, western cultures. Today we are witness to a film festival where the focus will be on Asian life and culture. This festival aims to promote and increase the public’s awareness understanding the many facets of Asian culture and identity through the medium of film.”

Japan Foundation Program Coordinator Roland Samson talked about their involvement, “We have 2 films, ‘WANKO’ and ‘Éclair.’ It’s a way for the Japanese people to show their gratitude for the worlds support after the quake. There are documentaries produced but we will be showing 2 full-length films here. All of these stories are about overcoming the disasters. I’ve seen the films and they are really touching. They teach people to have a positive outlook in life in spite of the tragedies.”

The Founding of a Republic screens on May 20, 8pm, revisiting the story of post-World War II China, when the unification of the Communist Party of China and other Chinese democratic parties resulted in a major historical milestone.

Capping off the Chinese line-up is Glittering Day, showing on May 21, 12:30pm, chronicles the lives of relocated residents of Jinyuchi (Golden Fish Pond), who were forcibly moved out due to government efforts to improve the place. Every spring, they return to the renovated area and reminisce about their former lives.

Catch “Only Love” from Laos and many other Asian films showing for free at the Shang Cineplex during the The Asia as Our Society Film Festival from May 17-22, 2012.

From Laos  is Only Love, to be screened on May 18 at 5:30pm. Souvanh, a recent university graduate, returns to his village determined to help provide better living conditions for its residents. However, Namphet is set to sabotage Souvanh’s efforts to help the village, as well as destroy Souvanh’s relationship with his childhood sweetheart, Duongchai.

Catch “Laskar Pelangi” (Rainbow Warriors) from Indonesia and many other Asian films showing for free at the Shang Cineplex during the The Asia as Our Society Film Festival from May 17-22, 2012.

Indonesia takes the spotlight as Laskar Pelangi (The Rainbow Troops) premieres on May 19 at 3pm. Adapted from Andrea Hirata’s popular literary work, Laskar Pelangi chronicles the author’s memories of his hardworking teachers, brilliantly capturing the struggles of marginalized people hoping to achieve their dreams.

Six different but interconnected stories are retold in Jakarta Maghrib (Jakarta Sunset), which screens on May 21, 5:30pm. Comprised of six short films, the overall story poignantly portrays the Jakarta sunset as the key element that weaves all tales and relationships together. (See review below)

Catch “Nostalgia for the Countryside” from Vietnam and many other Asian films showing for free at the Shang Cineplex during the The Asia as Our Society Film Festival from May 17-22, 2012.

Also not to be missed is Vietnam’s film line-up.  Thoung Nho Dong Que (Nostalgia for Countryside), which screens on May 20, 12:30pm, chronicles the story of several characters who either leave or return to their home and realize that their place of origin will always have a special spot in their hearts.

Catch “Wanko” from Japan and many other Asian films showing for free at the Shang Cineplex during the The Asia as Our Society Film Festival from May 17-22, 2012.

Japan likewise showcases the best of its film creations in the series. Wanko: The Story of Me, My Family and My Dog on May 19, 5:30pm, takes on the story of the Noyama family, who lives in the small island of Miyakejima, as they are forcibly evacuated from their home when Mount Oyama violently erupts. Éclair on May 20, 3pm, follows the story of orphan Akio, as he goes through life without parents at the onset of the war.

Catch “Hwang Jin Yi” The Divine Courtesan from Korea and many other Asian films showing for free at the Shang Cineplex during the The Asia as Our Society Film Festival from May 17-22, 2012.

Experience rich stories of Korean culture with Hwang Jin Yi, showing on May 19, 8pm, as its namesake main character becomes a gisaeng to gain favor with the noble classes; and Speedy Scandal on May 20, 5:30pm, as former teen star Nam Hyun-soo undergoes a PR crisis as a radio listener on his show unleashes claims that he is her biological father.

Catch “Dheevari” from Sri Lanka and many other Asian films showing for free at the Shang Cineplex during the The Asia as Our Society Film Festival from May 17-22, 2012.

Finally, to complete the festival’s roster is Sri-Lanka— Dheewari May 19, 12:30pm,  on which portrays the harsh realities of life in a Sri Lankan fishing village through the journey of orphan Valli. Following suit is Agni Dahaya, screening on May 21, 3pm, traces the lives of an exorcist, his assistant, a woman called Kirimenike and her partner Herath, as their stories unfold amidst the backdrop of political turmoil.

For inquiries, contact 633-7851 loc.113 or log on to http://shangrila-plaza.com./ Add Shangri-La Plaza on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/shangrilaplazaofficialfanpage

Catch “Agni Daya” from Sri Lanka and many other Asian films showing for free at the Shang Cineplex during the The Asia as Our Society Film Festival from May 17-22, 2012.

Jude Bautista

Abam (Indra Birowo) a security guard goes to his cramped home after a tiring night shift. In their humble bedroom are LPG tanks. He sees his wife Nur (Widi Mulia) breastfeeding their infant son and could not control himself, “Let’s make love… it’s been a week.” Nur has been trying to pacify their baby who has been crying non-stop. She responds, “Do you think it’s only you who need it? Help me calm your child.” Abam carries the baby and sings a lullaby which miraculously works. After a few minutes he lays the baby on the crib carefully making sure not to wake him.

Abam (Indra Birowo) tries to get it on with his wife Nur (Widi Mulia) in the Indonesian film Jakarta Maghrib showing for free at the Shang Cineplex during the The Asia as Our Society Film Festival from May 17-22, 2012.

As he climbs on to bed he accidentally bumps LPG tanks surrounding them making-clanging noises. They panic looking at the baby who somehow still sleeps. Abam positions himself carefully and finally kisses Nur. Just then from their window they hear the Maghrib call for prayer. Abam’s mother in law barges into their bedroom pulling the couple and infant for the prayer.

Abam (Indra Birowo) tries to get it on with his wife Nur (Widi Mulia) in the Indonesian film Jakarta Maghrib showing for free at the Shang Cineplex during the The Asia as Our Society Film Festival from May 17-22, 2012.

“Jakarta Maghrib” (Jakarta Twilight) is part of the free screenings of critically acclaimed Asian films at Shangri-La Plaza, from May 17 to 21 at the Shang Cineplex. It is one of 2 Indonesian films at the “The Asia as Our Society Film Festival” organized by the Asia Society Philippine Foundation and the Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP). Film entries from China, Indonesia, Japan, Korea, Laos, Sri Lanka, Vietnam, and of course, the Philippines, will be screened during the festival.

from left: Asian Society Exec. Dir Harvey Keh, Shangri La Plaza Mktg Div Head Marline Concio-Dualan, Indonesian Emb Social and Cultural Counselor Ahimsa Soekartono, FDCP Exec. Dir. Teodoro Granados and FDCP Festival Programmer Wilma Isleta. Catch the Indonesian film “Jakarta Maghrib” and many other Asian films showing for free at the Shang Cineplex during the The Asia as Our Society Film Festival from May 17-22, 2012. Photo by Jude Bautista

The festival opens with a film from the Philippines, Dinig Sana Kita, by Mike Sandejas which screens on May 17, 7:30pm. Witness the unfolding of a one-of-a-kind love story between a deaf boy and a troubled rocker girl. The film Halaw, by Sheron Dayoc screens on May 21, 8pm.

“Maghrib” is the debut film of screenwriter Salma Aristo. “Laskar Pelangi” (Rainbow Warriors) a film that he wrote is one of the biggest Indonesian Box office and critical successes in recent years. “Laskar Pelangi” is the other Indonesian film that can be seen also for free at the “The Asia as Our Society Film Festival” in Shang Cineplex.

Sjafrial Arifin plays Mr. Armen an old man who passes his devotion to a younger generation. Catch the Indonesian film “Jakarta Maghrib” and many other Asian films showing for free at the Shang Cineplex during the The Asia as Our Society Film Festival from May 17-22, 2012.

From the outside, Indonesia seems like a traditional Muslim state. But in the film ‘Jakarta Maghrib’ we see the hustle and bustle of modern life that is slowly pushing out traditions and religiosity. The film is divided into five chapters of seemingly disparate characters. In the end these characters somehow meet at a crossroads of their lives.

Maghrib is the Muslim prayer immediately after sunset.  According to Indonesian Emb. Social and Cultural Counsellor Ahimsa Soekartono, tradition has it that during this time they either go home or to the mosques to pray. Increasingly the activities in the lives of Jakarta residents take them away from this important religious tradition.

Reza Rahadian plays a filmmaker arguing with his fiancé. Catch the Indonesian film “Jakarta Maghrib” and many other Asian films showing for free at the Shang Cineplex during the The Asia as Our Society Film Festival from May 17-22, 2012.

Filipinos will see a lot of similarities with their Indonesian brothers whether in the pace in life or the food and activities that now take higher priority.  The Angelus here was also an early evening prayer that used to be a habit of many Catholic families. It has long given way to the stressful lives of Pinoys who are now obsessed with facebook, Twitter, American Idol and many other modern distractions.

Sony Play Station rental shops are just as ubiquitous in Manila as it is in Jakarta. Catch the Indonesian film “Jakarta Maghrib” and many other Asian films showing for free at the Shang Cineplex during the The Asia as Our Society Film Festival from May 17-22, 2012.

In the chapter ‘Story of Ivan’ takes place in a video game rental shop. Ivan (Aldo Tansani) skips school to play there only to find each unit occupied. He gives other kids a scare for not attending Maghrib. He tells them that the Kuntilanak will get them. It is a ghost like creature that is similar to the ‘White Lady’ stories here. The Sony Play Station rental shops are just as ubiquitous in Manila as it is in Jakarta.

Ence Bagus the Play Station Rental guy lights up in a place for kids. Catch the Indonesian film “Jakarta Maghrib” and many other Asian films showing for free at the Shang Cineplex during the The Asia as Our Society Film Festival from May 17-22, 2012.

From left: in the chapter (Waiting for Aki) Dedi Mahendra Desta, Lukman Sardi, Ringgo Agus Rahman , Yurike Prastica and Fanny Fabriana. Catch the Indonesian film “Jakarta Maghrib” and many other Asian films showing for free at the Shang Cineplex during the The Asia as Our Society Film Festival from May 17-22, 2012.

In the Waiting for Aki chapter, neighborhood customers unintentionally converge in their village park. In spite of having lived there for years, they only meet when the man they rely on for cooked food doesn’t show up. It also reveals the apathy of the residents and refusal to solve the problems of their community.

Nasi Goreng or fried rice is served street side in the Indonesian film Jakarta Maghrib showing for free at the Shang Cineplex during The Asia as Our Society Film Festival from May 17-22, 2012.

Aki (Kidaus) is a nasi goreng or fried rice vendor who delivers and sells his food via a cart.  Filipinos also have a number of fried rice dishes but is usually sold at 24hour places that sell tapsilog an acronym for tapa (dried beef), sinangag (fried rice) and itlog (egg).

Nasi Goreng or fried rice is served street side in the Indonesian film Jakarta Maghrib showing for free at the Shang Cineplex during The Asia as Our Society Film Festival from May 17-22, 2012.

The more we watch films from Indonesia, the more we see similarities and bonds with our close neighbors. This is the goal of the “The Asia as Our Society Film Festival” which also features rare gems from Vietnam, Laos and Sri Lanka. To quote FDCP chairman Briccio Santos we find a vibrant “window to these cultures” we don’t often see. Or the more popular Korean, Japanese and even Chinese films not only entertain us but also educate us about their history. The free screenings is almost like traveling abroad for free only quicker and with less hassle.

Adinia Wirasti gets fed up with her fiancé. Catch the Indonesian film “Jakarta Maghrib” and many other Asian films showing for free at the Shang Cineplex during the The Asia as Our Society Film Festival from May 17-22, 2012.