Fil-Am cinematographer contributes to Oscar-winning ‘War Is Over!’

NEW YORK CITY—Unknown to many, a Filipino was a key member of the talented cinematography team behind the 11-minute animated short “War Is Over! Inspired by the Music of John & Yoko,” which won an Oscar a few weeks ago. Filipino American cinematographer Chris Ungco (a.k.a. Chris Ube) played a crucial role in shaping the film’s evocative visual narrative with his valuable input.

“It’s a nice recognition, but the work will always be emotional for me for its own sake,” Ungco expressed when asked about the film’s Academy Award victory. “Our generation seems to be embracing a period of redemption, journey, and forgiveness. Contrary to what some may believe, we appreciate taking a moment to reflect on our media and the messages that sustain us. I sense a renaissance on the horizon.”

Chris Ube, who holds a master’s degree in film from the School of Visual Arts in New York, began his cinematography career in the Big Apple. He gained valuable experience working for notable entities such as Sesame Street, Comedy Central, Google, Spotify and NBC, and adopted their progressive ideals in forming his company, Ube Films.

His involvement in “War Is Over!” stemmed from an invitation by Seamus George of Shay Media, the assistant director and consulting producer on the film. “Seamus reached out and shared the script with me, expressing that it would be an impactful project. I immediately agreed to join, knowing his excellent taste and background in social justice filmmaking,” Ungco recalled. His collaboration with Shay Media allowed him to bring on board a talented camera team, including esteemed Filipina filmmakers in Los Angeles, Melissa Martine and Bettina Campomanes.

Filipino-American cinematographer Chris Ungco (right) with Sean Ono Lennon, executive producer of the Oscar-winning film “War Is Over! Inspired by the Music of John and Yoko.” Ungco and his team transformed John Lennon and Yoko Ono’s moving music into a visual story based on “(Happy Xmas) War is Over.” The film aimed to show the reality and sacrifices of war by depicting various sounds and aspects of a soldier’s life, from everyday moments to intense experiences. CONTRIBUTED

Ungco and his team were tasked with translating the powerful themes of John Lennon and Yoko Ono’s music into a visual format. They utilized the hauntingly hopeful melody of “(Happy Xmas) War is Over” to craft a timeless story that delves into the harsh realities of war and the sacrifices it demands. “We aimed to create a film that presented a universal experience of war, incorporating sounds from various eras and aspects of a soldier’s life—from the mundane to the intense,” he explained.

The creative process involved a delicate interplay between art and technology. The cinematography team likened their experience to performing in theater, where timing and improvisation are essential. Motion capture technology was employed to capture a wide range of emotions, requiring the actors to perform with minimal sets and props—an approach that ensured their genuine interactions were translated into the animated realm.

Chris Ungco with Bert (left) and Ernie during his tenure as the producer and director of photography for Sesame Street in 2019. CONTRIBUTED

Reflecting on his journey, Ungco highlighted the influence of his mentor, fellow Filipino cinematographer Rommel Genciana. “Rommel was more than a mentor; he was a brother. He taught me the value of collaboration and the joy of collective creativity,” Ungco shared. This mentorship solidified his commitment to fostering a community and nurturing the next generation of filmmakers through teaching workshops.

Chris Ungco: “Pursuing your dreams will inevitably involve collaborating with strangers. To prepare for that, you’ll need community, discipline and ambition. Remember, a film may not change your life, but a community certainly can—and always will.” CONTRIBUTED

Ungco’s Oscar win for “War Is Over!” represents a collective validation for the film’s introspective message—a testament to the importance of cultural diversity and relentless creative pursuit in today’s media landscape. His approach to cinematography, blending cutting-edge technology with the essence of storytelling, has resonated with audiences worldwide.

From filming music concerts in Brooklyn to achieving Oscar success, Chris Ube’s career exemplifies the transformative potential of film. His work not only honors the legacy of John and Yoko but also serves as an inspiration to the Fil-Am community and creatives everywhere. It’s a reminder that film is more than entertainment; it’s a medium capable of fostering empathy, sparking reflection and uniting us through our shared humanity.

When asked for advice for aspiring cinematographers, especially those interested in animation, Ungco’s response was heartfelt: “Be kind. Eat breakfast, whether you’re working or not. Pursuing your dreams will inevitably involve collaborating with strangers. To prepare for that, you’ll need community, discipline and ambition. Remember, a film may not change your life, but a community certainly can—and always will.”

Ungco is currently compiling “A Film Book,” a resource to provide practical and technical knowledge for those entering the film industry, aiming to enhance their skills and uplift their communities. Visit chrisungco.com to learn more about his work.

Elton Lugay is a veteran correspondent and columnist for the USA bureau of Inquirer.net. He is a longtime community advocate and organizer based in New York. He can be reached at [email protected].