The breakthrough Filipino film which had a deaf lead star has brought home two awards from the 36th International Independent Film Festival in Brussels. {{more}}
“Dinig Sana Kita”, a movie about the dynamics of internal and external relationships of deaf people, earned the Grand Prix in the Special Competition – International Deaf Cinema Section held last November 8 at the Central Culturel Jacques Franck.
“It came as a surprise to me because my goal of coming here in Brussels is to learn how deaf films look like and explore the opportunities of bringing Filipino films into the international scene,” said director Mr. Mike Sandejas in his acceptance speech.
The audience which saw the film last November 7 also reacted positively to the film when it was shown in Brussels.
Sandejas brought home the award at the very best possible time—during the Deaf Awareness Week in the Philippines. His presence during the festival was made possible through the efforts of the National Commission for Culture and Arts and the Philippine Embassy in Brussels.
“Dinig Sana Kita” was the Philippines official entry also to the Toronto International Film Festival, Hawaii International and Mumbai Film Festival. It was well-received in the Philippines especially since its lead star, Romalito Mallari, gave a heartfelt performance despite (and because) of his deafness.
The lead star of “Colorum”, Lou Veloso, also won the Best Actor in International Competition of the Brussels film fest.
The movie is helmed by Jon Steffan Ballesteros. It is a realistic story about two men trapped between necessity and morality as they embark on a road trip that leads them to a string of crimes.
The Brussels International Independent Film Festival was first held in 1974. This year, it featured films more than a hundred films from 60 countries.
