Cinemalaya 19 announces short film finalists

THE Cultural Center of the Philippines and the Cinemalaya Foundation Inc. reveal the 10 competing films that will vie for the Best Short Film in this year’s Cinemalaya Philippine Independent Film Festival.

From 192 submissions, the 10 finalists are: Tong Adlaw Nga Nagsnow Sa Pinas by Joshua Caesar Medroso; HM HM MHM by Sam Villa-Real and Kim Timan; Golden Bells by Kurt Soberano; Hinakdal by Arvin Belarmino; Kokuryo: The Untold Story of Bb. Undas 2019 by Diokko Manuel Dionisio; Ang Kining Binalaybay kag Ambahanon Ko para sa Imo by

Kent John Desamparado; Maudi Nga Arapaap (Last Dream) by Daniel James Magayon; Makoko Sa Baybay by Mike Cabarles; Sibuyas Ni Perfecto (Perfecto’s Onion) by Januar Yap; and Sota by Mae Tanagon.

The competing short films tackle a myriad of human stories, including a zombie tale, family adventure, comingof-age chronicles, LGBT narrative, and a documentary on horse caretakers, showcasing different techniques and approaches. The 10 competing short films will be screened during the Cinemalaya Philippine Independent Film Festival, slated from August 4 to

13, 2023, at the Philippine International Convention Center located inside the CCP Complex in Pasay City. The best short feature film will be awarded a cash prize amounting to P150,000 and a Balanghai trophy during the Cinemalaya Awards Night on August 13.

Now in its 19th year, the Cinemalaya is an all-digital film competition that aims to discover, encourage and support the cinematic works of Filipino filmmakers that boldly articulate and freely interpret the Filipino experience with fresh insight and artistic integrity.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Redirect your energy to avoid a falling out with someone of consequence. Take a closer look at yourself and concentrate on being your best rather than trying to change others. Getting along and knowing when to say no will solve a pending problem. ★★

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Adapt and keep moving forward. Refuse to get into a standoff with someone who challenges you. Consider what makes you happy, and strive to reach the goals you set for yourself. A change of plans will present an unexpected opportunity and an entertaining pastime.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Handling important matters with finesse will positively impact your lifestyle. Make changes at home that lower your overhead. An educational pursuit will give you something to think about, but don’t buy into someone else’s dream; model your future after your needs. ★★★

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Use your imagination and discipline to bring about opportunity and the ability to adjust to the demands you encounter. Embrace challenges with optimism and use your skills to uncover what makes you feel passionate. ★★★

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Go the distance and see what you discover. You’ll gravitate toward people from different walks of life. Before you let someone mesmerize you, research the validity of the suggestions you receive. Pay attention to physical fitness, eating habits, and overall health and well-being. ★★★

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): You’ve got wiggle room regarding your assets and liabilities. A positive adjustment to your living arrangements will encourage better profits. Don’t trust a colleague who fishes for information that might incriminate you. ★★★★★

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Think before you act. You’ll be left out if you try to challenge or change others. Communication will be the key to getting along and coming to terms with what’s possible. Love is in the stars, but demands are likely to unfold. ★★

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Invest in your skills, experience and ideas. Don’t let anyone stifle your dreams; trust and believe in what you want out of life. A positive attitude will garner insight into what others can contribute and what you’ll have to do in return. ★★★★

BIRTHDAY BABY:

You are charismatic, energetic and generous. You are engaging and exuberant.

FREE AmIGURUmI wORkSHOP OPENS TO THE PUBLIc

TURNING Over New Leaves,” a free crochet art workshop for ages 16 and up, is slated for Saturday, June 17, 2023. The hybrid activity aims to introduce young creatives and professionals into amigurumi, the Japanese art of crocheting small stuffed creatures.

A portmanteau of ami, which means knitted or crocheted, and nuigurumi, a tiny plush doll, the craft has become a significant part of the Japanese kawaii movement since ‘80s. With the growing fascination on all things cute, it has likewise gained popularity in the West in the 2000s.

Ideal for those who wish to elevate their love for the flora, as well as hobbyists who want to explore a new recreational project, Turning Over New Leaves is a walk-through into the fundamentals of amigurumi.

The session will equip learners with the skills and techniques in creating their very own dolls. They will work with simple patterns, which they can likewise use to kickstart their very own plush plant collection or business.

The workshop is organized by the Museum of Contemporary Art and Design (MCAD) of the De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde.

Turning Over New Leaves will be facilitated by crochet artist Sharon See. A former film and TV production designer, she started crocheting when she was 11 years old and has not stopped since. Her works have graced group shows.

The worshop is free and open to the public. It will be conducted onsite and online on Saturday, June 17, 2 pm. Interested participants may register through bit. ly/TurningOverNewLeaves.

MCAD is located at the De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde Design + Arts Campus, Dominga Street, Malate, Manila. More information is available via mcad@benilde.edu.ph.