The Undying Dream of Pangarap music video

   I did not expect that I would shoot another music video last year. After Chillax, I promised myself not to shoot another one if my collaborators are imbecile. But I broke my promise for some unexplained reason. I also cannot refuse Marlon (Licko’One) since he is my friend and for my advocacy of helping independent artists. Pangarap (Dream) is somehow a reminder of my dreams in life. It is like a wakeup call to continue pursuing my dreams.

   It was timely knowing the fact that I felt down last December. I did not have the drive to do creative things last year. After the activities during the previous months, I dedicated the month of December for a good rest and contemplation. It was also a detoxification of toxic people that I have socialized.

   I undoubtedly said yes when Marlon asked me to direct his music video. It was fast. I did not pause and think of what was the implication of my decision. As I expected, I had difficulty working with them (except for Marlon since it was our second collaboration). Since they do not have background in shooting a music video, I adjusted myself to get along with them. It was pain in the ass especially Cynille Kaye (co-singer) and Michael Pagco (the videographer). They did not have the sense of professionalism that I imagined.

   Again, we did not have the hi-tech equipment to fully materialize my concept. I just did the same old trick of improvisation. I was expecting that Michael would provide the necessary equipment because he volunteered himself and made a promise during our meeting. But he broke his promise and I end up being the main Cinematographer. Thanks to Dado’s initiative that he became my instant Production Manager during the shoot.

   I did the magic trick to compensate the lapses. I would not let the music video to be a wreck. I stick to the original concept in which I incorporated ordinary people to give hope that dreams do come true. I want to give the audience the feeling of encouragement to continue pursuing their dreams no matter what status they are in life. I also put some element of Marlon’s dreams and my interpretation of it.

   Making the music video was a therapy. It was like finding myself in the midst of uncertainty. I am still thankful even though the shoot did not have the spectacular equipment or the ideal crew. The limited resources are not hindrance for creativity. Just like what I said in my previous blog posts, making a music video is my experimentation of concepts. It is a perfect moment to play ideas.

   The experience of making it served as hope to continue dreaming and take concrete actions out of it. It is epiphany as the poet claims. It is deus ex machina as a Greek tragedy proclaim. Whatever would it be I am fortunate I to have it. I am thankful to the Supreme Being for giving the experience of dreaming again.

Please watch the music video below:

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Chillax and the irony of its title

   Chillax - a colloquial term for relax. It’s a combination of the words – chill and relax, which has the same meaning. This term is the new song of AXL GRICO and Licko’One. As you listen to the song, it has this relax, sexy, hypnotic and stoned vibe. It best played especially in the summer season. 

   AXL asked my help to direct their music video. It’s our second collaboration and I want it to be different. I want to take this video into the next level. Just like before, we had a series of meetings to discuss the concept and to prepare for the production requirements. John the owner of Pigshot clothing became the producer of the video. It is also our first meeting with Licko’One and I interviewed him in order for me to know his qualities as a rap artist. Fortunately, he was cooperative and contributed his share in the video. Since I came up with the sexy-hypnotic concept, I casted models to be featured in it. The two rappers liked the idea and they recommended models to be featured in the video. Then we started to prepare its production requirements.

   It’s ironic how I am not chillax before the shoot. I am a bit stress in finding the right models, the location and the preparation for the right production requirements. Since they do not have exposure in film/music video production, I made adjustment in order to relate to them. I modified its concept due to budgetary constraint and the “limited time of preparing it”. It’s a bit hard for me in the sense that they do not know what they were doing. I guided them so that it would not be disastrous during the shooting day. Moreover, I adjusted my hectic schedule and canceled my other appointments just to be sure the video will be shot in the planned schedule. 

   Despite all the challenges that we encountered, the music video was still shot in the intended dates. Although the concept that I have envisioned was not 100% materialized, I am still thankful that it went well. I shared to AXL my sentiments about the music video. I said to him that next time you want me to direct your music video you should prepare enough time and budget for it. He should not make rush decisions about it. 

   I hope they learned something from our shoot. I hope they realize that it’s not enough to have many followers or views in Youtube. I hope they realize that producing a quality artwork is not as easy as counting 1, 2, 3. I hope that the “fame” they experience would not consume them and forget other important things in life. 

   Through this music video I appreciate the essence of time. The value of right timing is really important if I want to be successful. That’s why I decided to shoot my third short film next year. I would not rush it and make the same mistakes just what my second film experienced. I will prepare enough budgets, collaborate with the right artists and make the right plan for the production requirements.

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VJ E supports local artists in SOCSKSARGEN

“I support the local artists here in SOCSKSARGEN,” says Elaine

   “I support the local artists here in SOCSKSARGEN,” says Elaine. She is one of the few people in Region XII who has genuine support for local artists. Her vision to uplift the music scene in SOCSKSARGEN is making slowly but surely progress. She is a superwoman who likes to multi-tasks for the love of her show and for the talented musicians that mostly benefited from it.

   I conducted an informal interview in their small yet very productive studio in Brigada News Station. While I’m in the studio, I got the chance to witness the workflow of their daily show. As an observer, I was really amazed on how she handles the demand of her work. It’s like she’s working in a busy fast food restaurant that serves news and entertainment. She does multi-tasking to run their show (except the technical side). Can you imagine if you are in her shoes? 

   It was Saturday when I interviewed her. She hosts for her Saturday Music countdown and if there’s a chance to have a break, she answers my questions. When the moment came to have a chat, I saw in her the burning passion. This kind of trait is rare nowadays. Since many have become busy finding security rather than their purpose in life. I admire her honesty and upbeat personality. She never hesitates to answer my questions. I’m thankful that she bestows her trust to me knowing the fact that we only just met (in person) in this interview. 

   Cherry Elaine Ong Sormillo or popularly known as VJ E was a graduate of AB Mass Communication major in Broadcasting at the Notre Dame of Marbel University (NDMU). She started as a DJ for Love radio (both in GenSan and Koronadal city) before she landed in Brigada station. 

   She experienced all kinds of work in the station. She became radio DJ/host, she experience being an anchorwoman; she also work in the marketing department and she even endorse some of the products of the station. She describes her career in the station as on and off status. But later on she finally committed herself to be the VJ of one of the top rated show of the station – The Brigada Music Videos (BMV). She was contacted to be the replacement of VJ Melody in the show. Because that time, VJ Melody focuses in her law school. This opportunity cemented her career as a promising VJ. 

   “When I accepted this job, I totally changed the programming of the show,” recounts Elaine. She changed the format of show to have a fresh look for the viewers. She acquired inspiration from MTV and MYX with a localized twist. She emphasizes the importance of the local artists. She includes their songs and music videos in the show. 

“It’s an easy for me to host in this kind of show because I’m into music,” says Elaine.

   “It’s an easy for me to host in this kind of show because I’m into music,” says Elaine. Her natural love for it makes her memorable in the minds of her viewers. That’s why she makes sure that all demographics could relate to the songs/videos in their playlists.

   She is a “one man army” of her show. “I’m the Director, Writer, Host, and Production Staff of my own show,” Elaine says. “Brigada station is not ABS-CBN that has resources to hire for additional personnel. We only just starting and I’m thankful that I have total creative control of my show.”

   In this kind of job, stress is normal. That’s why her stress reliever would be going out to see the beach or food to ease her (not in a depressing way). In her busy schedule, she finds time for her family and closest friends. 

   Elaine somehow becomes a local celebrity because of the influence of her show. “For me it’s a bit weird when someone recognizes you as VJ E,” says Elaine. “For example, when I was walking in the area of St. Elizabeth Hospital, someone shouted ‘VJ E!’.” 

   Most of the bashers/haters that she encounters in her show are criticizing her looks than her hosting skill. “Since we do not have avid sponsors, I only wear simple outfits. But I do not mind it because I more into my hosting responsibility than taking time wearing flamboyant dress.” 

“In this industry, it is not surprising that the people you encounter or work with shows different façade. I learn to be tough and to be not affected in them. I just do my job well and never let my guard down.”

   When she becomes a VJ, she has learned so many things. “Before I don’t have patience,” tells Ellaine. “Because of my show, I learn to have it. I also learn to balance things when I become a VJ.” She also learns to assess people in her field. “In this industry, it is not surprising that the people you encounter or work with shows different façade. I learn to be tough and to be not affected in them. I just do my job well and never let my guard down.”

   “I want the local artists to be known. I want them to have the chance or the opportunity to show their talent,” Elaine asserts.

   “It’s unfortunate that there’s no enough support for our local artist. It’s hard to be alone in this kind of advocacy. But I have still hope and that’s why I exert more effort to promote them thru Brigada Music Video and Tunog Local.” She wants Tunog Local to be more localized. She wants to promote it in the barangays and municipalities. “I want the local artists to be known. I want them to have the chance or the opportunity to show their talent,” Elaine asserts. Thru her show many artists are inspired to make their songs and music videos. Her show becomes an avenue to showcase it. 

"But the most important thing is that I am paid for my passion.” 

   “What’s the good thing about being a VJ is the free stuff,” says Elaine. “I love the free gifts, the free food and many people would like to befriend me. But the most important thing is that I am paid for my passion.” She doesn’t settle for less. She really pushes the limit and always thinks outside the box. Time will tell that her vision will become reality; that all her efforts will have awesome returns. 

“Aim high, shoot low,” as she declares.

   “Aim high, shoot low,” as she declares. “I want to uplift the local music scene thru my show,” Elaine confesses. “I want to promote the “tulungan system” where everybody collaborates for the same goal.”

originally posted in Yadu Karu's Blog

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The turning point

'Jamir' – was the title of my second short film. So far, it was the turning point of my career as a filmmaker. Why I say so? Because making this short film taught me a memorable lesson that is useful in my future projects. 

The film is about a boy who is torn between his familial obligations and his education. ‘Jamir’ is somewhat my statement about the peace agreement between MNLF/MILF and the Philippine Government. This short film was supposed to be premiered in foreign film festivals. Unfortunately, it did not make it nor should I say I did not submit it because of the “disastrous” outcome of it. 

I felt disappointed because of many reasons. One of the main reasons was I collaborated with the wrong people. That time, I was so overwhelmed by the idea of collaborating with Andrei Karoly Hernandez (a.k.a. Amaya Han) and my batch mate in GenSan Summer Film Camp 2013, Meika Vieve Catog (a.k.a. Lady M Chua). I thought they were good as a team in the film project. It turned out to be the opposite. 

My instinct told me not to pursue it because it shown signs like they did not read the script before we shoot the film. But I did not mind it because I was too stupid in clinging in such idea. I’m expecting that they’re good because Amaya Han is a film student in San Carlos University (in Cebu City) and Meika is a Mass Communication student in New Era University (Manila). 

That stupid mistake led to a domino effect type of disaster. I don’t mean to be a whiner here or to play the blaming game but after our shoot I was a bit depressed because of its outcome. I contacted them for several times. All they have were excuses implying they’re not interested anymore. I contacted them due to the fact that the film is problematic in terms of its technical aspects. I don’t know why they acting that they are not part of the film project. 

Instead of stressing myself of contacting them, I made a plan B to fix it. Instead of reshooting the film (as suggested by Teng Mangansakan), I only reedited it. My sister (who is the Producer of the film) and I decided to move on with it. If someone asks about the project, we never say any remarks on it. 

We are thankful that Teng Mangansakan considers ‘Jamir’ for the 2014 SalaMindanaw International Film Festival. And because of this, I submitted the film to the 10th Mindanao Film Festival and it was nominated for Best Film (in short film category). 

Even though they are spreading bad rumors about us, my sister and I don’t give a damn on it. We already moved on and looking forward to make the next film project. Because of this experience, we now assess our collaborators before a project begins. We really learn our lesson. 

I write this blog because it’s part of (my) history. It serves as a reminder that I should be smart, strategic and faithful to my vision as Director. It serves as proof that I should collaborate with people with the same wavelength as mine. This is not the sign of bitterness but enlightenment. I write this piece because I moved on.

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Inspiration goes astray

   December – a month that seems lack of drive to do my various activities. I do not know why I am not motivated to do the things I usually do. Am I am too exhausted in this year’s demand?

   The year 2014 offers lots of opportunities that are too overwhelming to refuse. From being a delegate of the 6th Cinema Rehiyon held in Cagayan de Oro City to being an Executive Director in a consulting firm. With these opportunities I am able to learn new experiences and meet new people. 

   In this month, I cannot think of a good concept for a project. My brain is not functioning well. It cannot formulate a viable idea. It seems that I am tired and only wanted to lie down in my bed. The only thing that I want to do is to read and watch movies or observe people passing in front of me. 

   I pause for a while. I do not have income for this month. I have bills to pay. But I do not care. I think I just wanted to rest for a while and gather inspiration. I write this blog to express my condition. To express how desperate I am to be inspired again. I am not complaining about this year. In fact, I am thankful of it. It’s just that I am become stagnant this month. I feel lethargic to move. 

   To avoid the bitterness, I look into the bright side of this condition. I use this case to reflect and analyze the year 2014. As I review the year, I get amaze because I did things that I really wanted to do. For example I made my second short film, two music videos and interview influential personalities in SOCSKSARGEN. I feel blessed, honored and lucky that I did all of those things. 

   How am I going to solve this predicament? Well, I guess I just have to go with flow and discover the answer along the way of this endless journey. I think it’s just the part of what they called the artists process. Maybe it’s just a typical case for a human being. Nevertheless, I just need a break.

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Sekreto: The Secret Behind the Music Video

The concept 

   Making music video helps widen my horizon as a filmmaker. ‘Sekreto’, the second music video that I directed aids me in experimentation of different techniques. My passion and their enthusiasm push me to be more creative in conceptualizing it. 

   ‘Sekreto’ is quite different from ‘Pegasus’ music video in many ways. The first one which is ‘Pegasus’ shows more symbolism compare to ‘Sekreto’. Besides the lyrics, genre and its message is not the same. ‘Pegasus’ is more into social commentary while ‘Sekreto’ deals with the internal struggle of a person. Moreover, the first one has a dark humor element embedded on its lyrics while the latter has this melodramic atmosphere that can be easily comprehend by a typical audience. 

   The second music video helps me experiment of the “masa” taste in terms of entertainment. If you notice, ‘Sekreto’ has a simple storyline that can be easily grasped by the broad audience. ‘Sekreto’ is more of a teenage buffer kind of music video that many youngsters today can relate to. 

   Of course, I based its concept to the story of Jamcelle Alorro (the actor) and Jodi Anne Gaquit (the actress) and their unusual relationship as friends. The song was written primarily for Jodi on her 18th birthday (November 5). Jamcelle asked Axl Grico to write a song that is based on their story. The song is intended to be a surprise to Jodi. But since I want the two of them to be the actors for the music video, Jamcelle was forced to admit his plan to Jodi.

Meeting Axl Grico and the gang 

   Axl Grico is quite famous in his own right. ‘Sekreto’ is his third song that has a music video. The first two music videos (and the other video that he acted on it) were all directed by Ariel Lalisan. Ariel was supposed to be directing ‘Sekreto’. Since he is busy on his work and other related activities, Axl asked me thru Facebook if I am willing to direct it. At first, I was hesitant because I did not know him well and I want him to tell Ariel that he wants me to direct the music video. I am thankful that Ariel is supportive to Axl and look forward to see it. 

   When Axl and I got the chance to meet in person, I admit to him that I am different to Ariel. I shared to him that I do not easily make a music video especially if I do not know the artist or if the song is not “cool” for me. I also said to him that it takes days to shoot a music video (case to case basis). I explained to him that there is Pre-production, Production and Post-production stage. Furthermore, I explained to him that I screened actors and rehearse them so that it could not be a burden during the shoot. I also asked him if his lyrics and its music/beat are original. In short, I told him that my background is in filmmaking, and not the typical videography shooting. When he absorbed all of this information and experienced shooting with me, he was shocked because he did not expect that I would be that meticulous in terms of output. Thanks to his interest in music that he still pursue it. 

   Axl collaborated with Joycel Tubao, a young model and singer whom he met in Brigada (TV) Station. Though Joycel has some attitude problem (in terms of professionalism), I am still thankful that the video was finished. On the other hand, I incorporate the talent of Tatz because I can see his potential as a Rap artist. I discovered him when I was a judge in their class presentation. While Raev Yap, the Cinematographer for ‘Sekreto’, is not really into videography. He is the son of Steven Rae Banares (a.k.a Batang Polomolok) and a photographer. He devoted his self to this project because he wants to try and experiment with it. 

The shooting 

   I simplify the production requirement needed for the video. Since it has a limited budget and resources, I try to be more resourceful and creative. We shot it for only two days in their neighborhood. As I have expected, not all of the sequences I conceptualized put into reality. That’s why I device a plan to cover up its lapses. 

The learning experience 

   “Learning is a continuous process”, as the popular adage says. In every film or music video project that I made, I learn new things that can be used in the upcoming project(s). Collaborating with different artists help me grow as an artist. Furthermore, making a music video is a liberating experience because I got the opportunity to experiment and express my ideas freely. I look forward for the next one.


check the music video (below)

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Kanulo: A conversation with Joel Aquino

photo by Joel Aquino 

   I first met Joel Aquino last year at the GenSan Summer Film Camp. If I describe him, he is silent but when you got the chance to talk to him, he speaks sensible and sometimes philosophical topics. This guy is a “sleeping giant”, waiting for the right moment to strike with his unique vision as a filmmaker. In an interview, Joel shares about his film Kanulo (Betrayal) and how he overcomes the challenges in making his first (short) film.

What’s your history as a filmmaker? 

First, let me thank you for this chance to speak about my first ever venture in filmmaking. I will say Titanic is the film that let me aspire to become a great director. I was in high school then and my classmates fell in love with it. I saw that several times already but I fell in love with the film as a whole and became interested in making one. I hope I will also have the chance to make big impact on many people as possible. 

My first exposure on how to make a film was when I joined DV8 (Deviate) filmmaking workshop. It was a project sponsored by the National Youth Commission (NYC) which aimed to promote the millennium goals. Unfortunately, I was not able to finish it. But I continued dreaming. 

It took several years before I got the chance to attend a directing workshop. I was in my late 20s already, the time that I already had the financial resource to support this dream. I attended IIFA’s (International Institute for Film and Arts now known as International Institute for Film, Broadcast and Arts) directing, basic cinematography and production management workshops as facilitated by international commercial director Crispo Mojica. Then, I was still perplexed in the process and still quite intimidated. 

Then through Facebook I discovered Film Gym and met the people who supported me on my first attempt. We were taught by commercial and legendary director Serafin Reyes (he founded Mowelfund Film Institute) whom we fondly call Surf. He taught us about visual language. There, we explored creativity and the importance of basics in filmmaking. 

While attending Film Gym, a classmate told me about GenSan Summer Film Workshop which was headed by director Teng Mangansakan. I got excited. Then, there I met you guys and I found you all to be awesome. Salamindanaw was running in my mind. The agreement that we will do a short film was exciting and at the same time, frightening. What marked in my mind was the creation of story. That was developed in me in that workshop. 

A film exercise during the GenSan Summer Film Camp last year 

After Gensan, I also attended TGT (Talento Galing Tondo) Filmmaking Workshop. It was director Tony Reyes (director of many films that made us laugh), who headed this workshop. I joined in teacher/director Gerry Jumawan’s “Luha ng Kahapon” as an Assistant Director (AD). I also supported a friend’s mini-projects as supporting actor, gaffer and producer. 

Right now, I am attending director Armando Bing Lao’s Found Writing Workshop. 

Where did your idea for Kanulo’s plot come from? 

It was sir Borgy who suggested me to do a horror film project. He said that it’s not common in film festivals. I related that to my past experience of a friend getting possessed. While developing the story I picked up a lot of cues from online resources. Pretty much it is a real life story with spices. 

A scene from Kanulo (Betrayal) 

Can you tell me the challenges that you and your crew encountered during the shooting of the film. 

This is hard to tell but I will be honest that we had encountered a great one. During the shoot we encountered heavy rains, a typhoon was ravaging Luzon. Financial constraint was also a big hindrance. I thought that it will just be a breeze filming Kanulo but it was not the case. We had to re-shoot everything because we’re changing locations. Our budget was just for 2 days but the shoot extended to 5 days and we ran out of cash. Luckily, our Production Designer Icx lent his house so we can complete the said project. Thanks Icx. 

What did you learn from this project? 

As the director of the project I had learned a lot especially dealing with people. There were personal concerns that are until now not yet resolved but I am hoping for the wounds to heal in due time. 

Kanulo is supposed to be screened last year in the 1st Salamindanaw International Film festival. Can you tell me what happened? 

It was an unfortunate situation that Kanulo did not make it for the Salamindanaw International Film Festival. I felt devastated. We had a hard time getting that edited. I just had that project edited early this year. I studied editing for the sake of getting that done but eventually I outsourced the service. Perhaps, it is really not meant to be. 

The suicide scene (photo by Joel Aquino)

I notice your film has good make up and prosthetic. How did you prepare for it? 

I would like to give the credit to Icx Icay, this guy is really talented. He was our Production Designer and special effects master in that project. He’s also part of Lav Diaz’s Norte. It surprised me that he is into Philippine mythology. It helped me channel the feel of Kanulo. Also, my Director of Photography Oliver Cruz, he contributed a lot to the Kanulo project visually. 

Describe Kanulo in one word. 

Choice. 

What’s your dream film project? 

I love to make a film as lavish as Game of Thrones and the likes of Cameron and Bay’s films. l look forward to creating an Asian film similar to Avatar. That’s my visual preference. I understand Filipinos delve more into real life stories, I think I will veer away from that. For now, I can’t really tell and I am about to discover more. 

After Kanulo, what’s next? 

I am looking forward to getting into Cinemalaya and Cannes but much more I love my works to be seen by as many people as possible around the world. I love my name to ring in the ears of many people. I dream to capture the heart of the people through film and the like. That will be my dream. I plan to go mainstream but I am still building my portfolio. 

What advice would give to those who want to pursue filmmaking? 

It is never too late to achieve your dreams. At the age of 30, I am just getting started. Just do it. Rock on!

-KANULO (BETRAYAL)-

Synopsis: 

In life we are always posed with two choices: to gain or to lose. The story revolves around the lives of two friends who were left with a choice that matters a life and death. 

This started when a group of friends dared to call a spirit. They didn’t know that what they called was a fallen angel. This incident caused a breakup in their friendship and family. Jonas was sent to province and got renewed while Job had a hell-like life. Those who cared for him during his struggle died. This forced him to revenge on his birthday.

CAST & CREW 

Director

Joel Aquino

Producers 

Joel Aquino

Henry Iporac

Writers

Joel Aquino

Jane Mariel Andes

Asst. Director

Jennifer Dabu

Cinematographer

Oliver Cruz

1st Asst. Camera

Julienne Rei Sabiniano

Gaffer 

Eugene Adalia

Production Design

Jose Francis “Icx” Icay

Special Effects

Jose Francis “Icx” Icay

Audio

Henry Iporac

Editors 

Jillene Martin Baniqued

Regina Navarrete

Direk Teng Mangansakan

Script Consultant

Storyboard Artists 

Eugene Adalia

Jason Daño

Production Manager 

Jennifer Dabu

Location Manager 

Jose Francis “Icx” Icay

Leo Dilay

Jennifer Dabu

Behind the scenes 

Francis Lumahan

Henry Iporac

Eugene Adalia

Yul Roque

Leo Dilay

Support Staff 

Sherwin Ferrer

-Cast of Characters-

Jonas - Danilo V. Hernandez Jr. 

Job - Leonard Tabigue 

Luna - Julienne Rei Sabiniano 

Bal/Devil - Arthur P. Padillo 

Flagellant #1 - Joseph O. Moslares Jr. 

Flagellant #2 - Manny ‘Macky’ Peñaredondo 

Nona - Roan Kate Villalon 

Grandma - Rosalina Royo 

Dark entity - Jose Francis “Icx” Icay 

Pastor - Joel Aquino 

Friends - Jennifer Dabu & Rex ‘Noy’ Villadares 

-Special Thanks to: 

Jeffrey Sonora & Roxanne Roman 

FPJ Studios 

Icay Family 

Royo Family 

Dilay Family 

Meika Catog 

Chairman and Barangay Council, Barangay Onse, San Juan City 

Natividad Subd. Homeowners Association, Deparo, Caloocan City

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Pegasus: The Behind the Scenes Interview

The behind the scene interview 

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Pegasus: The Behind the Scenes

   Making a music video is a dream come true. Collaborating with smart and talented artist like Making Bianca inspires me in many ways. Our busy schedules are not a hindrance to shoot the music video. I am thankful that I collaborated with smart and cool artists who prefer to spend their time creatively for the love of art. 

   I do not expect that my first music video would be as spectacular as what we have seen in MTV. As the resources dictates, I need to be resourceful and creative to have desired output. Luckily, the cast and crew was really good to work with despite some problems arise during the shoot. 

   During the shoot of the video, it is expected that problems may rise. So the challenge is how you will solve it in a creative way. For example, the lead actress was not present during the second day of the shooting. We did not know what motivates her to act that way. Before we separate ways in the first day of shoot, it was clear to all of us that we still have second day shoot and we should come early. With that incident, I prepared my Plan B to cover up the “damage”. 

-Behind the scenes photos of PEGASUS-

   Given that I do not have equipment like DSLR camera, I have concepts and ideas that are worth sharing. As of now, equipment is not my priority. I am more concern on finding the right team to collaborate with. If you have solid, smart, creative, fun and easy to work teammates, for me it’s like winning in a lottery. Camera and other equipment are easy to find if you have money, but a great team is not.

   I am really blessed that J.Leonida was there and lend not only her camera but also her time and skills to be my Cinematographer in the music video. “It is my first time to make a music video”, as she said. She does not have an experience for shooting a video. Throughout the process of making a music video, we are all learning from each other. No overlapping of tasks. We work harmoniously for the anticipated outcome. I am also thankful that the Political Science students of MSU-GenSan were really supportive of Making Bianca. To show their support, most of them starred in the music video. 

Meeting the Band

   I first met Andrew Yatar and Arjay Lim (of Making Bianca) at the Mindanao State University (GenSan) campus. Harlem Jude Ferolino (The Voice of the Youth-GenSan) and Ronnie Barrientos (GenSan Youth Network) introduced me to them. I get interested of primarily because I am motivated to do a music video and finding the right artist to be featured in it. It is a good thing that the band has original compositions that have great lyrics. Since they are Political Science students, some of their songs reflect the social flaws of the Philippine society. Their themes and subjects really inspire me to pursue directing their video. 

   Before we shoot the video, I first consulted them about the concept. I interviewed them and asked some questions related to their band and their songs. As a director, I make a point that I consulted the artist what he/she would like to incorporate in the video. After that, I conceptualize and interpret it visually to the have desired output. I am honored that they loved the concept. 

The Lesson

   I have learned a lot from shooting this video. I do not spend my time and energy to those wannabes whose job is to pretend that they are passionate about their craft. Whether photography, modeling or any other art medium, a true artist transcends despite all the odds. He/she is not concerned whether he/she gets paid or become famous after the shoot. In short, passion speaks for itself.

The Video

   Here's the music video that we have created. I hope that you will enjoy it and reflect on its message. 

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Pegasus by Making Bianca

Iguoi Films, LS Media Productions and in partnership with J. Leonida present – the PEGASUS music video. Song by Making Bianca – an independent band from Mindanao State University-GenSan. Enjoy! 

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Ina-Tay: Q & A with Chloe Veloso

photo by Samantha Fe Monet Solidum

   Chloe Veloso is a female filmmaker who has powerful vision. Her films truly stand out amongst the many. When I first met her in the 6th Cinema Rehiyon last February, I easily notice her badass, tough looking style. Born in Taclabon City and now base in Cebu City, she is one of the emerging filmmakers that have this unique style and technique in filmmaking. 

   She took up BS Computer Science at the University of the Philippines in Cebu City. She is the founder of Amateur Creative Thespians of UP (ACT-UP), an avant-garde theater and film organization in UP Cebu. She is now currently taking her Masters in Cinema Studies at the University of San Carlos. Her films were screened in various film festivals in the country. Her recent film Ina-Tay is one of the finalists in the 2014 Cinemalaya Short Film Category.

   In an interview, she shares her thoughts about being a filmmaker and the concept behind her recent film Ina-Tay.

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IGUOI FILMS: What’s your history as a filmmaker?

CHLOE: I already had acting and directing experience in theater back in elementary and high school. The first video project I was part of was when our film/theater organization in UP called the Amateur Creative Thespians of UP (ACT-UP) was tasked to make the opening AVP (Audio Visual Presentation) for the Cookout last 2004. Originally, ACT-UP was supposed to focus only in theater but after that AVP project, we found the experience fun and exciting so we decided to do both film and theater. And the rest is history.


IGUOI FILMS: Where did your idea for Ina-Tay’s plot come from?

CHLOE: “Ina-Tay” was written by Badidi Labra, one of the lead actors in the film. I also contributed in the development of the story. It’s actually inspired by Dolphy’s film “Ang Tatay Kong Nanay”, “Anak” and other famous family dramas.


IGUOI FILMS: Can you tell me the challenges that you and your crew encountered during the shooting of the film.

CHLOE: Our main challenge was the budget. We had to work with a large cast and crew and it was challenging to feed them in our 4 days of shooting. But thankfully the cast members were good friends of ACT-UP so we didn’t have to worry about talent fees because they offered to act for free.


IGUOI FILMS: Any interesting remarks from the audience members during the film screening?

CHLOE:The audience would unanimously comment on how entertaining our film is and how professional the film looked. But the biggest reward we would usually get is when the audience would laugh at the right moments where we’d expect them to laugh.


IGUOI FILMS: What did you learn from this project?

CHLOE: We learned a lot of things during this production. We made some mistakes and we vowed never to commit those mistakes again.

IGUOI FILMS: Most of your films that I have seen have this gay element. What’s your view about homosexuality? What motivates you to include this subject in your films?

CHLOE: First of all, not all of my films have gay elements (laughs). I also do other film genres. But LGBT Rights is one of my main advocacies which is why I made several films with LGBT themes. The reason is because I noticed that the LGBT community has limited representation or fall under a negative stereotype in films and we want to change that. It is our way of educating the masses about the diversity of the LGBT community and help stop homophobia.


IGUOI FILMS: Ina-Tay is one of the finalists in the 2014 Cinemalaya Film Festival-Short Film Category. What’s your feeling after you’ve known this good news?

CHLOE: Ecstatic! We didn’t expect our film to be one of the finalists considering the high standards of Cinemalaya. We’re also honored to be one of the two entries to represent Cebu.


IGUOI FILMS: Is being a female filmmaker an advantageous or disadvantageous? What’s your outlook on this matter?

CHLOE: The disadvantage is that since filmmaking is a male dominated industry, people tend to underestimate you. But the advantage is that if you actually accomplish something worthwhile people respect you more for reaching that level.


IGUOI FILMS: You are the founder of ACT-UP, a filmmakers group in U.P Cebu. Can you please tell more about this organization?

CHLOE: The Amateur Creative Thespians of the University of the Philippines (ACT-UP) is an avant-garde theater and film organization based and founded in Cebu.

ACT-UP is a cultural organization which promotes artistic self-expression among amateur film and theater enthusiasts in UP Cebu.

Through creative and resourceful means, the organization endeavors to use the performance arts as a medium for social awareness.

From the seemingly mundane, to the intensely serious, to the outrageous and wacky, the organization explores a multiplicity of views and concepts...all of which are bound by the group’s single principle of thinking "out of the box".


IGUOI FILMS: What’s your dream film project?

CHLOE: My dream project would have to be a period fantasy film with epic proportions!


IGUOI FILMS: What’s your favorite camera for shooting?

CHLOE: I’m not too keen on the type or brand of camera being used for shooting. I always focus first on the story. Technicalities like camera and software used are just secondary for me. But if you want to know the camera I have presently, unlike most filmmakers who are Canonites or Nikonites, I’m a Sonyan with my trusty Sony A77.


IGUOI FILMS: What’s your advice for those who want to make their own films?

CHLOE: First, don’t be discouraged if you don’t own a high-end camera. It’s not the camera that makes a good movie, it’s the story. The camera is just a tool in your storytelling. You can make a masterpiece in one minute with a camera phone as long as you have a powerful narrative. Second, expand your film literacy and watch a lot of films from different eras and genres. Learn from the master directors then develop your own style. Lastly, practice and shoot like there’s no tomorrow!

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SYNOPSIS: 

A beautician named Elvis (also known as Elvira) finds out one day that he has fathered a bouncing baby boy and is left with the challenge of single parenthood. A lighthearted take on the Cebuano LGBT culture that fuses comedy and melodrama, to show that an independently-produced gay film doesn’t always have to be about discrimination and oppression.

CAST: 

Albert Chan Paran as Elvis/Elvira

Badidi Labra as Angelo/Angela

Peewee Senining as Pepsi

Van Oscar as Strawberry

Carl Balderama and Vienna Fortalejo as The Immortal Gays 

Peter Romanillos as Adonis

Jonna Mahinay as Shirley

Josh Karol Abiera as Melissa

Cham2x Sobrevilla as Young Angelo

Zeev Corpin as Baby Angelo

PRODUCTION STAFF:

Director: Chloe Veloso

Writer: Badidi Labra

Production Company: Amateur Creative Thespians of UP (ACT-UP)

Producers: Robert and Marilou Solidum / Diego and Yonkie Veloso / Erlinda Tan

Cinematographers: Chloe Veloso and Samantha Solidum

Editor: Samantha Solidum

Sound: John Diño

Creative Consultant: Diem Judilla

Script Continuity: Bin Espina, Pia Aguilos / Threyna Diaz / Dane Figuracion

Costume Designer: Peewee Senining 

Make-up Artist: Rocelle Cadavos

CREW: Rapi Sescon, Bugz Saavedra, Regil Cadavos, Tom Jopson, Ivo Monterde, Thomas Solidum, Wessui Bacareza, Mia Bultron, John Mark Maglana, Jassy Tomol, Grace Orejudo, Joshua Aquino, Feonna Tejada, Bianca Macapagal, Shaira Escuzar, Bayani Acebedo, Oyo dela Paz

like Ina-Tay's facebook fan page

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with Tony Esteban Jr.

Mindanao State University-GenSan in partnership with the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) organized a two-day workshop called Stage Lighting: The Basic and Beyond last May 20-21, 2014 at MSU-AVR Graduate School. In this photo, Tony Esteban Jr. discussed the basic principle of Stage lighting to the aspiring Lighting Directors in GenSan. 

 

 

 

 

more on Iguoi Photography 

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