New York Asian Film Festival 2018 Features Fresh Breed of Filipino Films

This year, an incredible lineup of six Filipino films will be screened competing in the 2018 edition of the New York Asian Film Festival (NYAFF) beginning on June 29, 2018. This is double the number of competing Filipino features last year. 

For years, NYAFF has brought pieces of Philippine cinema to the West, opening the minds and captivating the senses of the Western audience with our own cinematic vision.

The following six (6) Filipino films be represented in NFYAFF - BuyBust directed by Erik Matti, Neomanila directed by Mikhail Red, On the Job directed by Erik Matti, Respeto directed by Treb Monteras II, Sid & Aya (Not a Love Story) directed by Irene Villamor, and We Will Not Die Tonight by Richard Somes.

Three (3) films have already earned nominations, and received accolades from prominent award-giving bodies in the Philippines, as well as other countries, namely Neomanila, On the Job, and Respeto – all of which illustrate the Philippines in an engrossing manner that sees artistic integrity drawing power from realism and grit. 

Meanwhile, BuyBust, an action-thriller will make its world premiere at NYFF, giving the world a first look at esteemed filmmaker Erik Matti’s hotly anticipated action film alongside Richard Somes’ explosive genre piece, We Will Not Die Tonight, which will also be having its world premiere at the said event. On the other hand, Sid & Aya (Not A Love Story) has received positive reviews from film critics all over the Philippines where it was praised for its non-conformity to conventions, and a captivating allure brought about by Irene Villamor’s filmmaking.

Representatives of the Filipino films will be supported by the FDCP’s International Film Festival Assistance Program (IFFAP), including Gawad Urian Best Actor, Abra of Respeto, producer Dondon Monteverde and directors Richard Somes, Treb Monteras II and Erik Matti. 

“All around the world, Filipino films continue to compete and be recognized by the most prestigious of film festivals and we are proud that NYAFF is doing its part in introducing Filipino Films - genre Filipino films especially - to the North American audience. We hope that this is the first step for more of our films to be recognized and distributed in that side of the world. We wish our delegates the best of luck,” said Chairperson and CEO Liza Diño.

The 17th New York Asian Film Festival in New York City, USA runs from June 29, 2018 to July 15, 2018.