CinemaBravo

From the original five slots for the full-length category of the first-ever Puregold CinePanalo Film Festival, six deserving directors are receiving 2.5 million pesos each as grants for their production.

The competition, originally designed to spotlight local filmmakers, has carefully selected a diverse group of finalists, comprising four seasoned directors and two emerging talents, set to advance to the production phase.

RELATED: Puregold CinePanalo Film Festival awards grant to 25 student filmmakers

Vincent Co, Puregold’s President, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “Puregold’s CinePanalo Festival aims to be a platform for local filmmakers to showcase their talent. I am especially delighted to see two up-and-coming directors earning well-deserved spots in the roster, highlighting the panalo spirit and inclusivity of this competition.”

Among the finalists is newcomer Kurt Soberano from Bacolod, presenting “Under a Piaya Moon.” Soberano, an actor, director, and writer, has previously crafted short films like “Golden Bells” (2022), “Sa Balay ni Papang” (2021), and “Azucar” (2019).

Renowned filmmaker Sigrid Bernardo secured a coveted slot with her entry, “Pushcart Tales.” Known for acclaimed works such as “Anita’s Last Cha-Cha” (2013) and “Kita Kita” (2017), Bernardo adds another accolade to her impressive portfolio.

Director and actor Raynier Brizuela, recognized for contributions to films like “Video City: Be Kind, Please Rewind” (2023), is a finalist with “Boys at the Back,” showcasing his diverse talent.

Joel Ferrer, an actor, director, and writer with an extensive portfolio of 15 films, including “Hello World” (2013) and “Woke Up Like This” (2017), receives a film grant for his entry, “Road to Happy.”

Carlo Obispo, a notable writer, director, and producer, completes the list with “A Lab Story,” adding another achievement to his collection that includes “Purok 7” (2013) and “The Baseball Player” (2022).

In a surprise move, Puregold CinePanalo introduced the “Producer’s Choice” award, boosting the winners’ stock with Eugene Torres receiving the honor for “One Day League: Dead Mother, Dead All.”

Each of the six finalists will receive a generous grant of P2,500,000 to support the production costs of their full-length films. Additionally, they are entitled to free color grading by Optima Digital and a grocery package from Puregold. The deadline for submission is set for March 1, 2024.

Catch the premiere showing of these cinematic masterpieces at the Gateway Cinemas in Araneta City Cubao during the Puregold CinePanalo Film Festival from March 15 to 17, 2024, with potential regional screenings to follow.

The distinguished selection committee, including veteran film and television director Jeffrey Jethurian, award-winning filmmaker Victor Villanueva, and Puregold senior marketing manager Ivy Hayagan-Piedad, among others, carefully curated the finalists. Ivy Hayagan-Piedad shares her excitement, stating, “The finalists’ films are very refreshing, and I cannot wait for people to witness these cinematic masterpieces.”

Puregold CinePanalo Film Festival Director Chris Cahilig acknowledges Puregold’s role in fostering both seasoned and fresh talents. “It’s not just about seasoned directors showcasing their works; it’s also about allowing fresh new talents a shot at their aspirations. Thank you, Puregold, for giving space to diverse voices in the film industry.”

The festival, extending its commitment to nurturing emerging talents, previously named 25 promising student filmmakers as finalists in the short film category. This underscores Puregold’s dedication to providing a platform for young filmmakers and reaffirms its advocacy for the Filipino youth.