CHARTING GLOBAL CINEMA
JRMSU creatives: instrumental to Cannes Directors’ Factory PH

In relentless devotion to cinematic artistry, Jose Rizal Memorial State University (JRMSU) constituents switched into action by showcasing epic brilliance during the Cannes Directors’ Factory Philippines 2024 premier night, November 10, 2024.

Initiated by the Cannes Directors’ Fortnight section and filmed in the historical charm and captivating landscape of Dapitan City, this initiative showcases a collection of four short films, each a collaborative effort between Filipino directors and their Southeast Asian counterparts. The featured films include “Cold Cut,” directed by Don Josephus Raphael Eblahan from the Philippines and Tan Siyou from Singapore; “Silig,” directed by Arvin Belarmino from the Philippines and Lomorpich Rithy, also known as YoKi, from Cambodia; “Nightbirds,” directed by Maria Estela Paiso from the Philippines and Ashok Vish from India; and “Walay Balay,” directed by Eve Baswel from the Philippines and Gogularaajan Rajendran from Malaysia.

Chevy Claire Recososa Guantero, who played the character of Joy, and Noriel Tome Obnimaga, who played as the mysterious butcher in the film “Cold Cut,” are local talents and both members of Teyatro Dasuliman, the Official & Resident Theatre Company of Jose Rizal Memorial State University-Main Campus.

Moreover, dedicated students and administrative personnel from JRMSU Dapitan Campus as well as members of the esteemed Teyatro Dasuliman, significantly contributed to the production teams of these exceptional films. Among them, Henji Saguin served as the casting assistant, Filamie Sami took on the role of the wardrobe assistant, and Melvin Inding, gave assistance as the Local Coordinator and Location Manager. Their involvement exemplifies the collaborative spirit and dedication to excellence that characterized the entire project.

The Directors’ Factory Philippines is an innovative project by Dominique Welinski, a director committed to discovering and nurturing promising talents in the film industry. This initiative not only focuses on highlighting hidden cinematic gems but also aims to encourage the development of new cinematographic languages and forms, fostering the emergence of fresh talents on the international stage.

Following their premiere screenings in the Philippines, these four captivating short films will embark on an international journey, showcasing their artistry in Jakarta and various other cities across Asia.

JRMSU key personalities displayed valuable support during this much anticipated Premier Homecoming including the University President, Dr. Maria Rio Abdon Naguit; Dean of the Student Affairs and Services, Dr. Paterno S. Baguinat III; Socio- Cultural Director, Dr. Venus Namoc; Dipolog Campus Socio-Cultural Unit Head, Dr. Felimon Blanco; The State Collegian Dipolog Adviser, Dr. Eduardo Mira; and Prof. Jann Dainver Maravilla, Founding Artistic Director of Teyatro Dasuliman and Director for JRMSU- Rizal Center for Culture, Peace, and Creative Works.

Truly, Jose Rizal Memorial State University, is a certified home of global creatives! Mabuhay ang mga malikhaing alagad ng sining!

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Photo credits: Prof. Jann Dainver Maravilla and Mr. Melvin Inding