First Santa Maria Music and Film Festival happening on December 2

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Experience a whole new level of outdoor Music and Movie Festival in one, a first ever outdoor event with Mother Nature on top of the Mountain sa Bayan ng Santa Maria, which is the Northernmost town of Laguna. The venue will take place on top of a 360-degree scenic view of Mount Banahaw, Mount Cristobal and Mount Sembrano overlooking Laguna de Bay and the windmills of Pililia, Rizal. It's really a breathtaking view with an ambiance like no other.

First Santa Maria Music and Film Festival happening on December 2

Let's start with the formal opening of the event by the Santa Maria Academy Dance Troupe, the town's pride. The high school teens will welcome all moviegoers, there will be local performers who will do the front act.

First Santa Maria Music and Film Festival happening on December 2

Acoustic guitarist and singers Miro Valera and Jeff Bolivar will be doing their sets in between the Film showing.

Santa Maria Music and Film Festival

The Santa Maria Music and Film Festival (SMMFF) which is set on December 2, will showcase 7 short films is a 3 hour event from 3pm to 6pm with different categories from freelance movie writers and directors.

First Santa Maria Music and Film Festival happening on December 2

There were about 20 short film entries that submitted online via FilmFreeway.com that came from various parts of the World, from different from walks of life namely students, directors, short film makers, commercials and creators for inspirational content.

From the 20 entries, there were about 13 that were selected based on the selection criteria. So what were the criteria for judging the entries and how did they make it into the shortlist?

Judging Guidelines:

● Viewing Window: October 5-20, 2023.

● Rating Criteria: As detailed below.

● Feedback: Encouraged for filmmakers' growth. (Not mandatory)

● Winners: Based on cumulative scores post-judging.

Platform Details:

We're utilizing FilmFreeway for this year's festival. Once confirmed, you'll gain exclusive access to the submitted films. Access to your Judge dashboard has been granted.

Assigned Films:

For multiple films in a category, please use the Rating Criteria. For single-entry categories, employ Merit-Based Evaluation.

Rating Criteria (Multiple Films):

● 10 stars for top choice.

● 9 stars for the next, descending accordingly.

Merit-Based Evaluation (Single Entries):

● Films will be judged on their merits against SMMFF's criteria.

● A score of 85 is required for award consideration.

● Score guide

While optional, we encourage providing constructive feedback to filmmakers.

Here are the Top 7 from the 13 pre-selected films:

1. The Vibe Operator (part 1) - is a student film by Michael Moore from USA. Mike presents "The Vibe Operator," a modern sci-fi rock opera about a disillusioned rockstar leaving Earth for deep space to live out his ego-driven dream.In a future where most have evolved into a collective hive, Android Andrew is inspired by ancient Earth music and rebels against The Collective's oppressive ways.Mike Moore wrote, directed, and performed in the prototype for his master's thesis at Berklee College of Music NYC in 2022, with an album set to release this year.

2. Bitter Brownies by James Carman from USA. In this dark comedy, a devious thief pilfers lunches from the company refrigerator. Staff employees are out for blood. Where will the food bandit strike next?!!!

3. Life Savers by Lukasz Wdowicz, Poland. This is a short commercial about a Granddaughter is up to no good to get out of a family gathering around an ill grandfather at the hospital.

4. Searching for Chunk by Samuel Haft, USA. It's a short documentary about two friends discover an old novelty record on youtube, and in trying to track down the story behind it, accidentally launch themselves into an increasingly surreal investigation.

5. Till the music stop by Emilie De Monsabert from France. A directorial about a witness at her best friend’s wedding, Pauline hopes to enjoy this extraordinary day and to get closer to the handsome Raphael. But it will be hard for her to take her eyes off her disabled daughter Emma, whom she could not bring herself to let keep.

6. Dream On - an inspiration short film by Dale Metz, Sarah - Lee Dobbs, United States. The story goes when Kylie dreams of a career in the performing arts. When her audition letter finally arrives, she struggles to find the confidence to make it happen

7. I Can Do Anything: A Letter to Burning Man - an inspirational film by Alba Roland Mejia, United States. This experimental short film is an intimate, character-focused exploration of the unique black experience at Burning Man. It was not my priority to capture Burning Man itself, but the energy exchange that it has with the present black bodies. My goal is this piece inspires curiosity.

For the attendees, there will be free wine from Barefoot Wine & Arbor Mist. It would be best if you can bring and use your tumbler for mineral water at refilling stations. There will also be samples to be given from Conzace, Nafarin, Immunpro.

First Santa Maria Music and Film Festival happening on December 2

The location

The event will take place at the summit of Sierra Madre. Please note that accessing the location may involve hiking or using designated transportation services. Be ready for the cold winds and possible rains although the place will have tent-like structure. The area is a private property owned by the Maliwanag family.

How to get there

Plan for an effortless journey by checking out the easiest ways to get to the Santa Maria Music & Film Festival, whether by commute or driving. Download the PDF guide from their website https://www.santamariafestival.com/planyourvisit to navigate directions and explore available accommodations, ensuring a seamless and unforgettable festival experience. Kilometer markers and signages are available in the final stretch!

Explore the Unseen: An Exclusive Music and Film Festival in the Heart of Sierra Madre. Tickets are Free, but Seats are Limited! Secure Your Spot at https://www.santamariafestival.com/events/santa-maria-music-film-festival-2

Safety Precautions

Your safety is our utmost priority. We will have trained staff and security personnel on-site to ensure a secure environment. Please follow their instructions and be aware of any safety guidelines provided. There is proper coordination from the local government and you may also ask for assistance for directions on how to get to the event proper.

Weather Considerations

The Sierra Madre region can experience varying weather conditions. It is essential to dress appropriately and come prepared for potential changes in temperature, wind, or precipitation. Bringing layers of clothing, hats, and waterproof gear is recommended.

Wildlife - animals, insects, plants and trees

Sierra Madre is home to diverse wildlife. There might be some animals that may roam around the area. Please give them ample space and we discourage feeding them. Let us respect and preserve life as we appreciate the beauty of nature. Please refrain from picking flowers and insects as they might be harmful to some people.

The whole province of Laguna has a "NO USE OF PLASTIC" ordinance

Please help us reduce plastic waste by refraining from bringing any plastic bottles to the event. Instead, we encourage you to bring your own reusable water bottles or containers.

Water Station for Tumblers

We are happy to inform you that we will have a water station available for refilling your own tumblers or reusable water bottles. Stay hydrated throughout the event while reducing single- use plastic consumption. We also encourage you to bring your own drinking glass if possible.

Designated Smoking and Vaping Area

If you are a smoker or vaper, we have set up a designated area for you to smoke or vape. We request that you use this area before or after the event, rather than during the event. The designated area will be situated away from the cinema and other gathering areas to make sure that everyone can enjoy the event comfortably. Please make sure to extinguish your smoking or vaping materials properly and dispose of them in the ashtrays or containers provided

Medical Team

We have a medical team available at the event to ensure everyone's safety and well-being.If you need medical assistance, please inform a staff member who will quickly contact the medical team. Your health and safety are our top priorities, and we are dedicated to providing a secure environment for all attendees.

No Picnic

Please note that picnicking will not be allowed during the movie screening. We encourage you to enjoy your meals before or after the event at designated areas outside the cinema area.

No Overnight Stay

The event is scheduled for the movie screening only, and overnight stay on the mountain will not be permitted. We kindly ask that you plan your travel accordingly and make arrangements to leave the venue after the movie concludes.

Photography and Enjoyment

Capture the memories of this extraordinary experience through photography, but remember to be considerate of fellow attendees. Avoid obstructing views or causing distractions during the movie screening.

Art installations

Embark on an Art Odyssey: Discover the Hidden Narratives in Our 10 Captivating Installations!

Be on the lookout for the extraordinary as you explore our venue! SMMFF curated 10 thought-provoking art installations, each with a unique story to tell and a deeper meaning to uncover.

Santa Maria Music and Film Festival Art Installation

● See What Others Can't Neon Light: At Santa Maria Open Air Cinema, our mantra "See What Others Can't" merges music, film, and nature for a profound experience beyond typical cinema. Dive into deeper meanings and appreciate life's rich tapestry.

● Midnight Nostalgia Installation: showcasing an aged TV set, a radiant lamp, and an artfully designed chair. This exhibit beautifully captures the sentimentality of late-night movie watching, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in a journey through the cinematic past.

● Reflecting the Unseen Mirror: Experience "Reflecting the Unseen" —a big mirror on the ground echoing our mantra. Look into the mirror to enter a world where perspectives shift, and hidden dimensions come to light. Step into the extraordinary with us!

● Orange Umbrella Tree - Life's Resilience: Amidst vibrant festival energy, behold the Orange Umbrella Tree—a dead tree adorned with orange umbrellas, symbolizing life's resilience. It embodies the festival's theme, urging us to 'See what others can't' and find vitality in unexpected places.

● Summit Bear - Festival Guardian: Meet Summit Bear, the festival guardian, sponsored by 'Stories We Tell.' This enchanting bear uses unique outfits to narrate captivating stories in alignment with our vibrant event themes.

● Hay Smiley - Grooving Festival Mascot: Hay Smiley, a vibrant mascot grooving to the festival's rhythm, pays homage to Santa Maria's agricultural heritage. Just as fields yield golden grains, our festival offers musical and cinematic treasures.

● Heritage of Cow and Horse Hangings: Uncover the legacy of cow and horse cloth hangings, bridging past and present at our festival. Sponsored by WearZitee Traveling Clothing Line, these hangings celebrate our rich history.

● Explore the Unseen: Unique Perspective Filters: Unlock your unique perspective at our festival. Explore the unseen with different eyes, using unique filters to capture the vibrant atmosphere in your way.

● Pompon Flower Art - Burst of Color and Creativity: In the dynamic atmosphere of the festival, 'Pompon Flower Art' bursts with color and creativity, mirroring our ethos of 'See what others can't.'

● Skeleton's Corner: A Thought-Provoking Space: Step into 'The Skeleton's Corner,' a designated space for reflection on vaping and smoking choices. Amidst a chilling ambiance, a coffin symbolizes the risks, urging us to prioritize well-being.

● Unconventional Restroom Views: Even our restrooms at Santa Maria Music & Film Festival let you 'See What Others Can't.' Experience unforgettable views in every corner.

Leave only memories behind (Clean As You Go)

As responsible stewards of the environment, we kindly request that you adhere to the principles of "Leave No Trace." Please bring down all your trash, dispose of it properly in designated bins, and avoid any activities that may harm the natural surroundings.

Organized by Zero-In Concept & Production, Stories We Tell in cooperation with Trees for the Future, Tourism Department of Santa Maria Laguna, Turismo Marilag, the local government of Barangay Pao-o, the Philippine National Police of Santa Maria Laguna.

This event would not have been possible without the support of Wearzitee, have a sip of the soon-to-rise World Cup Cafe atop Sierra Madre.

Santa Maria Music and Film Festival organizing committee

Meet the crew of the organizing committee

Headed by Jennifer Maliwanag, who is a multi-awarded director and writer for short films, this is a passion project for her as a film student in Harvard University. Jennifer made it a point that this endeavor will push through with all her team's effort.

She wanted her small voice to be heard that is why the passion driven to see what others can't and a desire to provide a platform for discovering the unseen, exploring the unexplored, championing every voice, and celebrating every story. The first Santa Maria Music and Film Festival here in the Philippines, showcasing the talent of other short film makers is her burning passion to also help other voices be heard, and to inspire fellow Filipinos that perseverance and determination can bring you to International Markets. This is one out of four tracks and she wishes to have this SMMFF every year. Kudos and a salute to you Jen!

In her team, Rex Lopez, cinematic storyteller extraordinaire. Alexander Jude Gotinga, aural connoiseur. Jerico Maliwanag, cousin and a cinema visionary craftsman and Mohammed Abedi, Globetrotting Literary Maestro.

GCash shares how we can make Christmas more magical for our Lolos and Lolas this season

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Directed by Tonet Jadaone, heart-tugging film featuring Joshua Garcia inspires sharing the gift of magic to the elderly

There are many ways to bring back the magic this holiday season – from honoring traditions in new ways, spending quality time with the people we hold dear to us, and even extending the Christmas cheer to the ones who need it most.

This year, GCash brings back the magic to Christmas for the Lolos, Lolas and the whole family we missed through the short film ‘Akap’, reuniting the start tandem of Writer-Director Antoinette Jadaone, better known as Direk Tonet, and leading man, and new GCash member, Joshua Garcia.

Dedicated to all the elderly who have no family left, confined in homes or living very far away from their loved ones, the film hopes to remind us that while we celebrate the gift of togetherness with our very own family, we could also share the magic of Christmas with every Lolo and Lola who don’t have families to celebrate Christmas with.

As GCash shares in its short film, bringing magic back to the holiday doesn’t end with shopping for or sending gifts to our loved ones.

Through its Scan to Donate initiative, GCash encourages Filipinos to extend their Christmas celebration to the elderly beneficiaries of three non-profit and non-government organizations in the country so they could also feel love and magic this holiday season.

● Caritas Manila

Established in 1953 by Manila Archbishop Rufino Cardinal Santo, Caritas Manila was first known as the social welfare program Catholic Charities. With its four core programs, the non-profit organization now serves as the lead social service and development ministry of the Catholic Church in the Philippines.

Caritas Manila leads programs for the elderly in different parishes in Metro Manila such as the Damayan Feeding Program, and the donation of Caritas LIGTAS COVID-19 kit and Caritas Manna food bag.

● Coalition of Services of the Elderly

The Coalition of Services of the Elderly (COSE) works with older persons to strengthen their organizations, partnership building, and advocacy. Since its founding in 1989, COSE has organized 850 Older Persons Organizations in 21 provinces and cities across the country.

Aside from community organizing, COSE leads advocacies to protect the older people as one of the most at-risk and vulnerable sector, makes studies and advocates for new policies on healthy aging, implements an inclusive community-based Disaster Risk Reduction program for the elderly, and operates a residential care facility for abandoned older women located in San Jose, Del Monte, Bulacan.

● Anawim Lay Missions

Starting as a small facility for poor and abandoned elderly people founded by Catholic lay preacher Bo Sanchez in 1996, Anawim Lay Missions has provided a home and sanctuary to the poor and abandoned elderly who have nowhere else to go.

Anawim provides services for the care and rehabilitation, home life, spiritual life and counseling of rejected and abandoned elders.

To support the programs and advocacies of these organizations for their elderly residents, 

GCash users may donate to them directly by scanning the QR code below:

By spreading cheer to your loved ones and to those in need, having a meaningful and magical Christmas celebration is possible with GCash. No GCash yet? Download the GCash App on the Apple App Store, Google Play Store, or Huawei App Gallery! Register and get verified today, and discover how you can have a Merry GCash celebration!

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About GCash

GCash (G-Xchange, Inc.) is the #1 Finance App in the Philippines. Through the GCash App, 71M registered users can easily purchase prepaid airtime; pay bills at over 1,600 partner billers nationwide; send and receive money anywhere in the Philippines, even to other bank accounts; purchase from over 5.2M partner merchants and social sellers; and get access to savings, credit, loans, insurance and invest money, and so much more, all at the convenience of their smartphones. GCash is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Mynt (Globe Fintech Innovations, Inc.), the first and only double unicorn in the Philippines.

GCash was recognized by The Asian Banker (TAB) and by the IDC in 2021 for its outstanding digital financial inclusion programs.

5th Ortigas Arts Festival paints broader stroke of Philippine art with film, dance, and visual arts

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Ortigas Art Festival returns for its 5th year with a month-long celebration of Filipino art in forms.

“This year’s festival paints a broader stroke of Philippine art where we encompass more art forms from visual art, film, dance, and even pottery,” said Renato “Mang Ato” R. Habulan, head curator of Ortigas Art Festival. “We want to show the diversity of talents across many disciplines Filipino artists have and we are honored to present all of those–and more–through this year’s exhibit and festivities.”

Launched in 2018, the Ortigas Art Festival was created with the goal of making art accessible to everyone. From featuring over 60 local artists during its first run, the number of artists who participated in the festival reached more than 200 and even included artists from Southeast Asia, America, and Europe in 2020.

Running from July 7, 2022 (Thursday) until August 7, 2022 (Sunday), the festival will showcase a wider variety of Filipino arts and culture across five pillars: Painting & Sculpture, Film and Photography, Dance and Fashion, ArtisTree, and Workshops.

“We believe that art has the power to connect people and uplift their spirits especially at trying times. We’ve proven that when we ran the festival during the two years under a pandemic. Now that we’re slowly recovering and embracing the new normal, we believe that there is no better time to show that Philippine art is alive and well and is for everyone to enjoy,” said Arch. Renee Bacani, Vice President of Ortigas Malls. “Through the Ortigas Art Festival, we reiterate our mission in bringing art to a wider audience and supporting the local art scene and community by including art in all its forms in this year’s celebrations.”

Painting and Sculpture will feature works from local galleries–Agos Studios, Bastedor Art Project, Vmeme Contemporary Art Gallery, Linangan Art Residency, Red Lab Gallery, Thombayan Art Space, and Makiling Art Studio; and celebrated visual artists Rita Bustamante and Rico Lascano.

Film and Photography will be led by The Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP) and Born in Film who will be hosting retrospectives and late-night screenings of restored Philippine films, and from National Artists for film during the festival. FDCP will also be holding its 2nd Vertical Cinema Contest during the festival.

Performing Arts and Fashion will see Ballet Works Manila hold special performances during the Vernissage on July 7 and on July 31 while the Fashion Designers Association of the Philippines will be presenting some of its best designs and creations throughout the month-long event.

ArtisTree will have the Learning Tree Child Growth Center that will showcase some of the masterpieces of its alumni, teachers, and students from Preschool, Grade School, and High School. They will also be holding several workshops such as painting, 3D art, paper cutting, paper sculptures, pottery, and oil pastel drawing for children and adults alike.

FDCP and Born in Film will conduct workshops such as Cinematography, Storytelling, and Film Editing while Born in Film will be conducting Creative Visual Storyline and Mobile Photography workshops, perfect for Film buffs and photography enthusiasts. They will also feature 2,000 inspiring photos from around the world. Meanwhile, those interested in getting their hands into pottery can also join the pottery sessions led by Big Mac for both adults and children as part of its Workshops, which will be exclusive to Ortigas Community Card members.

Ramon Santos, pride of Pasig City for being a National Artist for Music, will be holding a special exhibit on the second floor, showcasing a wide variety of art forms and artistry to foster appreciation for Filipino art and artists.

Mr. Santos is a composer, conductor, musicologist, and is currently the country’s foremost exponent of contemporary Filipino music.

“What we want in this year’s iteration is to introduce Filipinos to the works of some of the country’s best while stoking their interest and appreciation for Philippine art,” said Helen Mirasol, art patron and one of the co-founders of Ortigas Art Festival. “This is a month-long celebration of our art and artists where everyone is invited–no matter if you’re an art connoisseur or a regular person who wants to find the art form that will speak to their soul. Everyone is welcome at Ortigas Art Festival.”

The Ortigas Art Festival runs from July 7 to August 7 at the Estancia East Wing, Capitol Commons, Pasig City. Admission is free. To get the full festival schedule, follow Ortigas Art Festival on Facebook and visit ortigasmalls.com for the latest info on upcoming events and activities. Sign up for the Ortigas Malls Community Card by downloading the Ortigas Malls Mobile App and unlock your access to the amazing perks, privileges, and workshops during the festival.

The Adam Project hits Netflix this March 11

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The Adam Project Teaser Trailer & Teaser Key Art Debut 

Netflix has finally revealed the official teaser trailer for Shawn Levy’s forthcoming sci-fi action-adventure film The Adam Project. Watch the teaser here.

How can you save the future without facing your past?

Get ready for a time travel adventure when The Adam Project hits Netflix this March 11.

The film is directed by Shawn Levy; written by Jonathan Tropper and T.S. Nowlin & Jennifer Flackett and Mark Levin. Produced by David Ellison, Dana Goldberg, Don Granger, Shawn Levy, Ryan Reynolds.

The Adam Project stars Ryan Reynolds, Mark Ruffalo, Jennifer Garner, Walker Scobell, Catherine Keener, and Zoe Saldaña.

#TheAdamProject

UFC Reel Life short film competition names finalists

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UFC’s first-ever Reel Life: Nagsasama-samang Sarap Short Film Competition has officially selected thirty (30) finalists from the vast field of submitted entries.

Launched as part of UFC’s 50^th anniversary celebration, the competition seeks to provide a platform for gifted Filipino artists to showcase their filmmaking potentials and tell their stories.

The Filipino creative spirit was on full display by the entrants for this contest, making it incredibly difficult to narrow down the entries to only 30 finalists.

The finalists are as follows: “Almusal” by John Renz Cahilig, “Anana” by Quentin Tolentino, “Ang Pagsibol” by Ramil Lantican, “Asam-asam” by Michael Angelo Hernandez Valencia, “Bato-Bato Pik” by Alejandro "Bong" Ramos, “Budjoy” by Marco Paolo Castro, “Byahe Natin” by Rusty Palacio Guarin, “Cancelled” by Crismel Gida, “Crush” and “New Normal” by Niokz Arcega, “Gift Box” by John Kenneth Paclibar, “How's My Driving?” by Ken Leviste, “Ina'Ko” by Michael John Tuclaud, “Kambal” by Yves Publico, “Ma,” by Dexter De Jesus, “Mabote Na Lang” by John Verlin Santos, “Magpadayon” by Jose Carlo Gloria, “Module Legends: Papa Sir” by Renel Ian Gacayan, and “Modules (Info Sheet)” by Marienel Calma.

Completing the list are: “Panahon” by Lawrence Lagdameo, “Pasko sa Pandemya” by Armilane Jarin, “Prank” by James Edward Golla, “Project Blessy” by Norman Mark Boquiren, “Reges (The River)” by Jamal Baulo, “Rico” by Ronald John Mendenilla-Teodosio, “Spaghetti ni Mamu” by Raymark Estael, “Stick” by FJ Cancino, “Tatalon” by Don Ralph Diaz, “Uli” by Lexter Taganas, and “Unexpected” by Ron Garcia.

“Asam-asam” by Michael Angelo Hernandez Valencia is an arresting  family drama

“Bato Bato” Pik by Alejandro Ramos tells a touching survival story of a senior couple
at onset of the lockdown

“Budjoy” by Marco Paulo Castro is a funny narrative about a forgetful boy with an openly gay dad

“Cancelled” by Crismel Gida is depicts the stories of survival amidst the economic challenges
 of the lockdown

“How's My Driving” by Ken Leviste is a short about how a senior jeepney is coping with the pandemic

“Ina'Ko” by Michael John Tuclaud is about a medical frontliner missing his mom

“Modules” by Marienel Calma tackles the difficulty of online learning

 

Kambal” by Yves Publico recounts the story of a twin who were miles apart during the lockdown

 

Rusty Palacio Guarin's “Byahe Natin” is a compelling story about how a taxi driver found his missing brother

The short film "Tatalon" by Ron Ralph Diaz is a story about how two strangers met in an unusual situation

In partnership with CinemaBravo and Mobile Filmmakers Philippines, all entries incorporated one of the following UFC products as an organic part of the narrative: UFC Tamis Anghang Banana Catsup, UFC Sweet Chili Sauce, UFC Tomato Sauce, UFC Gravy, UFC Hot and Spicy Banana Catsup, UFC Hot Sauce, UFC Spaghetti Sauce, UFC Ready Recipes, and UFC Fresh Selections. The entries came in a variety of genres and mediums, proving yet again that there is an enormous reserve of local talents out there waiting to be tapped.

The 30 listed finalists have automatically won a gift pack from UFC. All are eligible to win the following prizes: 1st Prize (P100,000); 2nd Prize (P50,000); 3rd Prize (P20,000); Best Actor (P5,000); Best Actress (P5,000); Best Cinematography (P5,000); Best Screenplay (P5,000); Best Editing (P5,000); Best Director (P15,000); and People’s Choice Award (P15,000).

Members of the public are encouraged to vote for the People’s Choice Award by watching their favorite short film online on YouTube.

A panel of judges will choose winners from the finalists through a deliberation. Results will be announced on December 14.

Ten-years-in-the-making MMFF 2016 entry “Saving Sally” gets A rating from Cinema Evaluation Board

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A movie about love, comic books, and the monsters in our heads, “Saving Sally” is one of the eight entries in this year’s December film festival.

The Metro Manila Film Festival Screening Committee describes “Saving Sally” “a typical youthful love story replete with child-like elements as applied through 2D animation.” 

It took over ten years to make but the Cinema Evaluation Board gave an A rating to the directorial debut of Avid Liongoren, a motion picture that weaves a young romantic story set in wonderful 2D animation hues.

"Saving Sally" has long been in the drawing board, and began shooting as early as 2005. That's how long the film's lead, Enzo Marcos, waited for a chance for the film to be shown in theaters.

“Saving Sally” was mounted by a small team of young animators led by its director Avid Liongoren who has directed for television and TV commercials. 

After initial filming in 2005, the project came to a halt due to lack of funding. French film producer Alain de la Mata, who was impressed with the work of film director Avid, decided to come in and help with production.

How the film was put together is also anything but typical. You might as well call it “epic.”

Production came into full swing in 2010 on a blue screen, which was later replaced with a stylized Manila and 2D animated monsters created by Liongoren and his team of artists at Rocketsheep. Every frame, every background, every piece of art was painstakingly made. 

“What we lacked in manpower, we made up for with love in every single frame. We spent countless hours checking and rechecking every detail,” shares Direk Avid.

The result is ready to be served come December 25. "Saving Sally" as director Liongoren puts it is "a familiar coming-of-age story told with super- stylized visuals. The project blends live action, 2d animation and an abundance of warm, fuzzy feelings to create a totally unique and lovable little film."

Get ready to be dazzled and mesmerized, children, millennials, and the young-at-heart. “Saving Sally” will make you believe in love, comic books, and the monsters in our heads all over again.

Cheer on as Marty (Enzo Marcos), an aspiring comic book artist pines for his best friend Sally (played by Rhian Ramos), a gadget inventor. Sally, however, has monsters for parents and an inconsiderate boyfriend (TJ Trinidad). In Marty’s fantasies, he conjures up ways of defending the love of his life from the big bad world.

At its very heart, “Saving Sally” is a simple story about love and never, ever giving up told in a unique way that combines live action & vivid kaleidoscope-colored animation.

Rhian Ramos

TJ Trinidad

Enzo Marcos

“Saving Sally” stars Rhian Ramos, Enzo Marcos, TJ Trinidad, Bodjie Pascua, Carme Sanchez, Sharmaine Centenera Buencamino, Archie Adamos.

Rated Parental Guidance by the MTRCB.

Bringing you a tale of young love, monsters and how dreams really can come true, "Saving Sally" opens this Christmas in cinemas nationwide.