Weeklong French Film Festival kicks off

Senator Loren Legarda, through whose effort along with those of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources and the Presidential Communications Operations Office-Philippine Information Agency the film got government funding, also graced the event. She echoed the ambassador’s sentiments, saying that the film’s main goal was to highlight disaster preparedness.

“When Yolanda happened so unfortunately in 2013, director Mendoza and I talked about how we can help the people to understand of risk reduction and climate change adaptation,” she said, adding that her initial idea was to create a documentary, but Mendoza proposed a feature film instead.

While praising the efficiency of Nora Aunor in conveying the film’s message, Legarda shared she did not expect “Taklub” to make it to Cannes, as she only envisioned it to be shown in schools and local cinemas.

Despite not winning in the Un Certain Regard category where it was nominated for, filmmaker Mendoza said a special citation for “Taklub” was more than enough, considering its limited budget.

“We’re very happy na yung maliit na pelikula natin ay nakarating sa Cannes,” he said. “Ang pinakaimportante dito ay naipakita natin sa mundo yung totoong sitwasyon, lalo na kung para kanino natin ginawa ito.”

Mendoza said he has always been grateful for the recognitions, no matter how big or small, his films have received.

“Karangalan para sa Pilipino ang dala-dala ko every time lumalabas ako ng bansa,” he added.

The director also shrugged off rumors of a rift with Aunor: “As we far as we are concerned wala namang issue. We have been working very harmoniously from the very start.”

The French Film Festival, which features 19 films featuring the different facets of French society, will run from June 3 to 9.

“This is the age of reason and this is also the age of craziness. And I hope we shall keep this craziness alive, and most of all, our love for cinema,” Garachon said.

Source: Inquirer