Filipino filmmaker Brillante Mendoza brought his films “Foster Child” and “Tirador” to the 58 th Berlin International Film Festival (also known as the “Berlinale”, ongoing until February 17) fully aware that his films were scheduled for exhibition–but not part of the competition.
However, the positive responses from audiences and critics alike were enough to thrill the Filipino director.
“Hindi lang isa o dalawa ang screening sa isang araw. Nagdodoble-doble pa. Hanggang ngayon, ipinalalabas pa sa Berlin ang ‘Foster Child’ at ‘Tirador.’ I am very happy about the turnout,” he said.
(‘Foster Child’ and ‘Tirador’ are being screened twice, sometimes even thrice, a day. Until now, they are still being shown.)
“Foster Child” tells the story between a foster child and a foster mother who must face their imminent separation after the boy is formally adopted by an American couple.
“Tirador” is an urban saga about small-time crooks living in the tough, gritty underbelly of the City of Manila.
Mendoza returned to the Philippines before the end of the Berlinale to honor commitments to several projects.
“Pero may mga representatives ako ro’n. Sila ang nakikipag-negotiate sa commercial run ng mga pelikula. Marami ang nanghihinayang sa Germany na hindi nakasama sa competition ang mga pelikula. Pero okey lang. The mere fact that we were invited was meritorious enough,” said Mendoza.
(I have my representatives there. They are the ones tasked to negotiate regarding the commercial run of the films. There are many people in Germany who regret that my films in the competition section but it’s okay)
According to Mendoza, he did a lot of interviews for the press and his films received positive reviews in international newspapers that covered the Berlinale
“A lot of critics and buyers were saying so many good words about the films. Nakakataba talaga ng puso. (It’s heartwarming),” he said.
“Tirador” won in the Marrakech International Film Festival in Morocco late last year.
Mendoza said that after a break, he’ll continue going around the festival circuit.
“Sa March, aalis ulit ako for international film festivals. (I am scheduled to attend other international film festivals in March).”
Mendoza is in the country for the pre-production of “Servando,” a film about a male prostitute. The movie stars Kristofer King, Coco Martin, Cherry Pie Picache, Gina Pareño, Mercedes Cabral and other respected actors.
The production of “Servando” is being funded by the Pusan International Film Festival and the Film Development Council of the Philippines.