Unveiling all the must-see films at the San Diego Filipino Film Festival

Photos from San Diego Filipino Cinema/Facebook

The San Diego Filipino Film Festival (SDFFF) is back, and it’s promising a cinematic journey like no other. From Oct. 3 to 8, the festival will celebrate the richness of Filipino cinema and culture. So get ready for a week of captivating stories, personal journeys, and thought-provoking films that promise to leave a lasting impact.

Here’s a day-by-day breakdown of what you can expect from this year’s festival lineup:

October 3, Tuesday

“Nurse Unseen”

Directed by Michele Rae Josue

“Nurse Unseen” is an eye-opening documentary that sheds light on the little-known history and humanity of Filipino nurses on the frontlines. Discover their resilience and contributions while facing a resurgence of anti-Asian hate.

October 4, Wednesday

“Shorts Program I: Divergent Tales”

“Shorts Program I: Divergent Tales” invites viewers on an exploration of grief, rebellion, healing, and the ultimate power of forgiveness. These narratives delve into the journey of self-discovery, each with its own unique story to tell.

“Shorts Program II: Outside the Box”

“Shorts Program II: Outside the Box” explores narratives that dive deep into the intricate realm of personal identity, pushing boundaries and reshaping societal norms and expectations.

“Delia & Sammy”

Directed by Therese Anne Cayaba

In the face of Delia’s terminal illness and Sammy’s deteriorating health, the couple seeks a caregiver for Sammy. Delia’s efforts to reunite him with his estranged family fail, leading her to reconnect with Carmen, Sammy’s longest-standing mistress. Despite their complicated history, Delia makes the tough choice for Sammy’s well-being.

October 5, Thursday

“Shorts Program III: Finding Elsewhere”

“Shorts Program III: Finding Elsewhere” is a compilation of stories that will allow you to escape into a world of fantasy and the unknown. These films will transport you to places you never thought possible.

“Shorts Program IV: Connect the Dots”

“Shorts Program IV: Connect the Dots” are stories that challenge societal norms and expectations, inviting you to reflect on self-identity in today’s world.

“Shorts Program V: Larger Than Life”

“Shorts Program V: Larger Than Life” illuminates films that delve into a wide array of stories that address global issues from diverse perspectives.

“Nanahimik Ang Gabi (A Silent Night)”

Directed by Shugo Praico

https://vimeo.com/793967970

In a gripping tale, a young woman fights for survival after a harrowing night of illicit passion takes a sinister turn. As she unravels a web of dark secrets and hidden violent crimes, possibly connected to political and extrajudicial killings involving her lover, she faces a life-changing decision: revealing the truth at great risk or remaining silent for her own survival.

October 6, Friday

“Shorts Program VI: Scenes from Home”

“Shorts Program VI: Scenes from Home” explores the intricate and sometimes challenging dynamics within our own homes and homelands, offering a glimpse into the familiar yet complex aspects of everyday life.

“Shorts Program VII: Diaspora”

“Shorts Program VII: Diaspora” examines the lives of individuals navigating territories far from their ancestral homelands, weaving together complex and compelling stories of adaptation and discovery.

“My Partner”

Directed by Keliʻi Grace 

“My Partner,” a BL set in rural West Maui, follows the journey of Pili and Edmar, two seemingly different high school seniors caught up in a rivalry between their friend groups. Forced to collaborate on a school project, they gradually discover shared cultural ties and a friendship that transcends their initial differences. As they learn more about each other’s backgrounds, “My Partner” highlights the contemporary issues facing their rural Maui community.

October 7, Saturday

“Visions and Voices”

(Details and program lineup to be announced)

“Honoring Gloria Sevilla: Pagbalik (The Return)”

Directed by Maria S. Ranillo

Rica, in her 50s, returns home from working abroad to care for her elderly mother Choleng. She’s disappointed by the lack of progress on their home despite years of financial support. As she becomes Choleng’s caregiver, their relationship strains due to Choleng’s hearing impairment. Tensions escalate, which leads to Rica considering working abroad again. A health crisis changes everything, unveiling a poignant twist in their story, echoing the historic mother-daughter duo Gloria and Nadia Veloso.

“Centerpiece Feature: Searching for Kapwa”

Directed by Larry Daguino Lariosa and Terrence Marcotte

Inspired by the Filipino value of “kapwa” or “shared identity,” “Centerpiece Feature: Searching for Kapwa” traces the filmmaker’s journey to reconnect with his ancestral roots and find his place in history. As a child of immigrants and a queer person in a divided America, Larry’s exploration unravels the complex history of the Philippines and its influence on the Filipino diaspora. Ultimately, the film reflects on the essence of being American and the enduring legacy of past generations.

October 8, Sunday

“Closing Night Film: Asian Persuasion”

Directed by Jhett Tolentino

Mickey, facing financial strain, devises a plan with his friend Caspian to get his ex-wife Avery to remarry by creating a fake online dating profile for her. They find a potential match in Lee and coach him to win Avery’s heart. However, Mickey’s scheme takes an unexpected turn, leading him to scramble to make amends and win back Avery’s affection before it’s too late.

You can find ticket details and purchase options on the festival’s official website.