Newsletter

9TH EDITION

February 28, 2022

The Cinemata newsletter is now out twice a month! Expect regular updates on our curated videos, new playlists, and featured filmmakers in the Asia-Pacific in your inbox.

In this edition, we highlight a curated playlist on human rights abuses and courageous opposition in Myanmar, together with featured films about Filipino fisherfolk threatened by an airport construction project and diverse films by young Sabahan filmmakers.

 

Featured Playlist

A Year of Resistance: Films on human rights abuses and courageous opposition in Myanmar

One year since the coup in Myanmar, blatant human rights abuses continue to burden the people. To raise awareness on the worsening human rights situation in the country, EngageMedia has curated a film playlist that turns the spotlight on the Myanmar people’s long-standing struggle for democracy.

The eight films in “A Year of Resistance” show the extent of rights abuses in Myanmar, as well as courageous forms of resistance against the continuing infringement on people’s rights.

ACCESS THE FULL PLAYLIST

 

Featured Films

‘PAMARAWAN: Airport in Exchange for Fisheries (Paliparan Kapalit ng Pangisdaan)’

For over three decades, Felipe has been fishing along the shoreline of Pamarawan in Bulacan, Philippines. His community has weathered several challenges, from a poor catch to lean months. But with commercial interests in the area looming, they now face an even greater threat.

This short film by Film Weekly questions whether the promise of prosperity from a new airport will benefit fisherfolk like Felipe.

Director: Gabo Pancho

WATCH THE FILM

‘Pace’

Growing up on the outskirts of Kota Marudu, Malaysia, nine-year-old Yaya and her friends have an idyllic childhood. But being the only girl among her group of friends prompts questions on her own sense of self and belonging.

A coming-of-age film directed by Ekin Kee Charles. Pace won Best Editing and was the Grand Prize Winner at the 13th BMW Shorties, a prestigious short film competition in Kuala Lumpur. The film was also included in Cinebah, a selection of films highlighting the diversity and creativity of young filmmakers from Sabah, curated by Telan Bulan films.

Director: Ekin Kee Charles

WATCH THE FILM

‘Legend of Ancient Borneo’

In ancient Borneo, one village is home to an ancient relic: a magical dragon skull that gave peace and hope to the village. When the relic is stolen, four courageous warriors with mystical powers set out on a journey to Mount Kinabalu to retrieve it.

Inspired by Sabahan folklore, the award-winning Legend of Ancient Borneo is the first-ever fully-Kadazan language animation film. The film was also included in the Cinebah lineup.

Director: Geoffrey Sinn

WATCH THE FILM