For those readers living in The New York City area, there are a host of Asian/Pacific Islander films coming your way next month at the SoHo International Film Festival. The festival, celebrating its second year, was founded but Filipino-Americans Luis Pedron and Jorge Ballos and also includes the support of Filipina-American Sybil Reymundo-Santaigo who is the film festival’s Marketing Director. What is interesting in their approach to a film festival is that while it opens its doors to all kinds of films, it also saves a place to showcase Asian films, and in particular Filipino films. Co-founder Pedron, who is also the festival’s Program Director, told us that the festival “showcases issues and controversial topics” and that their goal is not just entertainment, but to “focus on artistry and social issues.” He added that “Filipino films will always be a vital part of their event.” Co-founder Ballos stated that the draw of the film festival is to show a “strong slate of domestic and international films” that will bring people to New York in support of the festival. This year the festival will have over 45 films, and as Luis says, showcase “a journey around the world in 7 days.”
This year SIFFNYC will present four Filipino films: Mountain Thief Directed by Gerry Balasta; Ganap Na Babae Directed by Rica Arevalo, Ellen Ramos and Sarah Roxas; Tarima Directed by Neal Tan; and Multo Directed by Sherwin Morada. In addition, the festival will showcase Asian films including Sister Mongsil Directed by Lee Ji-Sang, One Big Hapa Family Directed by Jeff Chiba Stearns, and Lost Harmony Directed by Takayuki Yamato as well as many Asian/Pacific Islander short films.
The SoHo International FilmFestival NYC 2011 runs from April 15 – 21,
2011 and will be held at the Quad Cinemas on 13th Street. Thanks to actor Won Lee for his support via the promo clip!
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