Four short films from Directors Factory Philippines, a project by Cannes Directors’ Fortnight, will open the upcoming QCinema International Film Festival 2024.
The four films are “Cold Cut” by Don Eblahan and Tan Siyo, “Nightbirds” by Maria Estela Paiso and Ashok Vish, “Silig” by Arvin Belarmino and Lomorpich Rithy, and “Walay Balay” by Eve Baswel and Gogularaajan Rajendan.
Last May, these four short films were screened at Quinzaine des Cineastes. Since 2013, the Directors Factory has partnered with different countries each year, mentoring eight upcoming filmmakers to create films in pairs. The Philippines was selected as the partner country in November 2023.
“Cold Cut” tells the story of a student who encounters a mysterious butcher before auditioning for a talent show. “Nightbirds” follows a woman who meets the mystical Tigmamanukan bird, helping her escape from her gambling husband.
In “Silig,” a woman returns to her old town to organize her funeral, ensuring that her remains will be cremated. “Walay Balay” is about a mother and daughter seeking refuge after the conflict in Marawi.
QCinema 2024 will run from Nov. 8 to 17.
