Oscar-nominated filmmaker becomes first Fil-Am to receive AFI award
BEVERLY HILLS, CALIFORNIA – FEBRUARY 12: Matthew Libatique attends the 96th Oscars Nominees Luncheon at The Beverly Hilton on February 12, 2024 in Beverly Hills, California. JC Olivera/Getty Images/AFP (Photo by JC Olivera / GETTY IMAGES NORTH AMERICA / Getty Images via AFP)
Oscar-nominated cinematographer Matthew Libatique has become the first Filipino American recipient of the American Film Institute’s prestigious Schaffner Alumni Medal.
The Schaffner Alumni Medal, named after esteemed filmmaker Franklin J. Schaffner, is an award to honor Libatique’s exceptional talent and dedication to quality storytelling in the realm of cinema.
Only 31 individuals have been bestowed with this honor, recognizing alumni who exemplify the creative essence of Schaffner.
Libatique’s growing career has seen him collaborate with renowned directors and contribute his unparalleled vision to cinematic masterpieces. Notably, the Fil-Am filmmaker received Oscar nominations for his outstanding cinematography in the critically acclaimed films “A Star Is Born,” his first project with Bradley Cooper and “Black Swan,” for which he won his second Independent Spirit award.
Recently, at the 96th Oscars, the member of the AFI Class of 1992 received his third Best Cinematography nomination for “Maestro.”
Moreover, Libatique’s accolades extend beyond the Oscars, with wins for Best Cinematography from esteemed organizations like the LA Film Critics Association, NY Film Critics Online and SF Film Critics.
As told by Deadline, Bob Gazzale, President and CEO of AFI, lauded Libatique as “one of our generation’s defining voices in the art of visual storytelling.”
“Now, AFI is honored to shine the light upon him – celebrating his impact on the art form and the pride he brings us as a graduate of the AFI Conservatory,” he added.
Libatique joins an esteemed roster of Schaffner Alumni Medal recipients, including his longtime collaborator and fellow AFI alum Darren Aronofsky, as well as luminaries such as Patty Jenkins, David Lynch and Rachel Morrison.
The awarding ceremony of the said award took place on April 27 at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood, during the 49th AFI Life Achievement Award Tribute Gala honoring Nicole Kidman.
Libatique hails from Elmhurst, Queens, New York City, born to immigrant parents Georgina and Justiniáno Libatique, who originated from Dagupan and Lucena in the Philippines, respectively.
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