As the country’s foremost platform for independent cinema, Cinemalaya continues its unwavering support for Filipino filmmakers by hosting an exciting series of book launches. These events will take place on October 8, 9, and 11 at the Red Carpet Cinema 2 in Shangri-La Plaza, where film enthusiasts and industry professionals alike can converge to celebrate the stories, artistry, and groundbreaking achievements of homegrown talents.
Pinilakang-Tabing book cover
For its 21st edition, Cinemalaya takes on a broader cultural role by highlighting the intersection of cinema, literature, and Filipino identity. The festival celebrates not only film screenings but also literary and scholarly works that delve into the heritage and evolving landscape of Philippine cinema. This year’s literary offerings include the much-anticipated launch of ‘Manong: The Life and Works of Gerardo de Leon,’ a comprehensive biography by Dr. Nicanor G. Tiongson that examines the legacy and artistry of National Artist Gerardo de Leon, regarded as one of the country’s greatest filmmakers.
Another highlight is the dual book launch for National Artist for Film and Broadcast Arts Ricky Lee, featuring ‘Agaw-Tingin (Stolen Glances)’—an exploration of Filipino film narratives—and ‘Pinilakang Tabing (Silver Screen),’ which gathers insights into the history and impact of Filipino movies. In addition, ‘Letters from the Future: 35 Years of the Gawad CCP para sa Alternatibong Pelikula at Video,’ published by the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) through its Film, Broadcast, and New Media Division, chronicles decades of excellence and innovation in alternative Philippine filmmaking, documenting the evolving art form and its unsung pioneers.
Cinemalaya remains deeply committed to discovering, nurturing, and showcasing new voices in Philippine cinema. This commitment extends to curating and presenting publications that reflect the country’s diverse human experiences, offer critical film scholarship, and foster vital cultural conversations. The scheduled book launches at Cinemalaya are designed to become vibrant meeting grounds not just for aspiring filmmakers but also for accomplished directors, writers, academics, and film enthusiasts. These events will provide opportunities to engage in discussions about the roots and history of Filipino cinema, analyze its social and artistic impacts, and reflect on how contemporary developments continue to shape the nation’s storytelling traditions today.
Dr. Tiongson’s book, Manong: The Life and Works of Gerardo de Leon, provides an extensive tribute to the life and career of Gerardo de Leon, a National Artist for Film in the Philippines. This scholarly work stands as the first and only comprehensive account devoted solely to de Leon’s life and contributions, meticulously examining both his personal history and artistic development. The book covers in great detail his background and influences, then methodically presents synopses and critical analyses of more than 80 films that de Leon directed. These films span various major production houses, including Parlatone Hispano-Filipino (1938–1942), the Eiga Haikyusa during the Japanese Occupation (1944), Sampaguita Pictures (1946–1947), Premiere Productions (1948–1963), as well as independent Philippine and international companies (1958–1976). Dr. Tiongson explores de Leon’s unique style and innovative techniques, assessing his impact on both Philippine and global cinema, and situating his films within their historical, social, and artistic contexts. Through film reviews, archival research, and interviews, the book solidifies Gerardo de Leon’s position as a foundational figure in Philippine cultural history, immortalizing his legacy for future generations of filmmakers and scholars.
In another significant contribution to Philippine art and letters, National Artist Bienvenido Lumbera’s Agaw-Tingin (Stolen Glances) is a curated anthology of sharply observed nonfiction essays. The collection gathers Lumbera’s writings originally published in respected media outlets such as Asia-Philippines Leader, TV Weekly, Metro Magazine, Mr. & Ms., Expressweek, Veritas, and National Midweek, reflecting the diversity of Filipino cultural discourse.
The anthology portrays the Filipino filmmaker not merely as an artist but as a perceptive observer of society, whose narrative lens captures the subtle yet profound aspects of everyday life that often escape notice. Each essay is rooted in a vivid sense of lived reality—situated in cinema halls, nestled within the solemnity of churches, or unfolding on the bustling streets and at public protest rallies.
Lumbera’s keen observations evoke powerful emotional responses, turning ordinary moments into resonant truths that invite readers to reexamine the world around them. The book ultimately demonstrates how attentive, reflective observation can elevate seemingly mundane experiences into meaningful and culturally significant commentary.
“Pinilakang Tabing (Silver Screen), another captivating novel by Ricky Lee, delves deep into the heart of Philippine cinema. Richly anchored in the everyday realities of Filipino life, Lee crafts a compelling narrative following characters whose dreams, struggles, and relationships are intricately entwined with the movie industry for over four decades. In a mesmerizing excerpt shared on the author’s Instagram, readers are introduced to Journey—a character whose fascination with screen icon Nora Aunor and her devoted fans becomes a powerful motif. Using only his hands as a frame, Journey attempts to capture the world around him, including the swirling excitement of Aunor’s followers. The scene intensifies as a motorcycle roars toward him, climaxing when he is suddenly shot—a dramatic moment punctuated by the haunting final words: “…pinatay ako ng pelikula” (the film killed me). This chilling phrase lingers, hinting at the dark, intertwining fates that cinema weaves for its characters and, perhaps, its viewers.
In recognition of the influential Gawad Alternatibo and its profound impact on Philippine cinema, the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) released ‘Letters from the Future, 35 Years of the Gawad CCP para sa Alternatibong Pelikula at Video.’ Beautifully edited by Adjani G. Arumpac, along with Janella Paris, Bane Vicente, and Tom Estrera III, this anthology gathers three and a half decades’ worth of innovative and thought-provoking films created by Gawad Alternatibo awardees.
The collection serves as a testament to the enduring spirit of independent filmmakers—visionary pioneers who reflect on the challenges and triumphs of alternative filmmaking in the Philippines, and the crucial role played by supportive institutions like the CCP’s Gawad Alternatibo in nurturing this dynamic movement.”
In this anthology, the journey of the Filipino filmmaker diverges and unfolds in remarkable ways, presenting a tapestry of multi-dimensional narratives that echo the innovative and daring spirit of contemporary times. Each film in this collection becomes a vibrant testament to the dreams, struggles, and triumphs unique to the Filipino experience, blending deeply personal tales with broader cultural undercurrents.
Through these cinematic works, the diverse experiences and pressing realities faced by Filipino filmmakers are documented and transformed into chronicles that stand the test of time, even as the ever-evolving industry adapts to new artistic and societal challenges.
Celebrating its 21st year, Cinemalaya consistently enriches Philippine cinema not just with compelling films, but also with comprehensive educational programs and dynamic interactive engagements. These initiatives aim to propel the industry forward while contributing meaningfully to the nation’s cultural development. From the written word to the immersive visual spectacle of the big screen, Cinemalaya unwaveringly invites passionate scholars and storytellers to partake in the art of film, encouraging ongoing discourse that extends beyond cinema halls to vibrant forums and exchanges within the creative community.
Catch the upcoming book launches: Dr. Tiongson’s “Manong: The Life and Works of Gerardo de Leon” on October 8, 2025, at 5:00 PM at Red Carpet Cinema 3; “Letters from the Future: 35 Years of the Gawad CCP para sa Alternatibong Pelikula at Video” on October 9, 2025, at 3:30 PM; and Net Awards winner Ricky Lee’s “Agaw-Tingin (Stolen Glances)” and “Pinilakang Tabing (Silver Screen)” on October 11, 2025, at 5:00 PM at Red Carpet Cinema 2. All launches will be held at Shangri-La Plaza.
The Cinemalaya Philippine Independent Film Festival runs from October 3 to 12, featuring screenings of full-length and short feature films in competition at Shangri-La Plaza, Ayala Malls Cinema, and Gateway Cineplex.
For more information about the 21st edition of the Cinemalaya Film Festival, visit the website (www.cinemalaya.org) or www.culturalcenter.gov.ph.
To get the latest news about CCP’s programs and events, follow the official social media accounts on Facebook, Instagram, X, and TikTok.
Manila Travel Tour Packages You Should Try
Follow and Subscribe to OutofTownBlog.com on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, and YouTube for more Travel related updates.
