In celebration of Philippine Film Industry Month, the Center for Campus Art (CCA) proudly unveils “The Lasallian Film Director,” a permanent exhibit and tribute to the Lasallian directors whose works have graced the silver screen.
The exhibit, located on the Design + Arts (D+A) Campus’ 12th floor, officially opened on Sept. 12 and was followed by a screening of “Brocka x Bernal,” a documentary directed by Clodualdo “Doy” del Mundo Jr. and Ida Anita del Mundo on the life and legacy of two National Artists for Film–Lino Brocka and Ishmael Bernal.
Curated by CCA director, Ar. Gerry Torres, the exhibit features the works of 20 Lasallian directors. In an interview with The Benildean, Ar. Torres recalls how he first got the inspiration for this exhibit back in 2018 when he was curating an exhibit on Brocka and Bernal.
“At that time I was aware of the works of other directors because I knew some of them, I worked with them. I wanted to honor these directors who were also my friends [...] So I thought of the common denominator—La Salle!”
Unveiling the wonder of Philippine cinema
The event opening officially began with Ar. Torres’ welcome remarks and acknowledgment of the efforts of the various Lasallian directors whose works have made it to the exhibit, eight of which are Benildeans. He also expressed how even though the exhibit will be permanently installed on the 12th floor hall, it would have the space to accommodate any future additions of works made by aspiring Benildean filmmakers.
Following this, Filipino screenwriter, director, and author “Doy” del Mundo Jr. made his way onstage and highlighted the importance of producing and directing local films stressing the importance of films that were “Not merely a copy of Western films, but something local.” Furthermore, he hoped that “The inspired desire to make film uniquely Pinoy moves us to make more films and tell more stories.”
The ribbon cutting commenced shortly after and guests were treated to complimentary food and drinks while they browsed through the exhibit.
Celebrating the legacy of Lino Brocka and Ishmael Bernal through “Brocka x Bernal”
After the exhibit’s opening, event goers were able to attend the first-ever Benilde screening of the documentary “Brocka x Bernal.” Through a series of interviews, the film tackled the legacy that both National Artists left behind, especially in revolutionizing the local film industry.
A Q&A session followed the screening of the film, allowing Benildeans to take the open mic and ask the directors and Ar. Torres questions. During this session, they answered questions about the film industry, the continuing influence of Brocka and Bernal, and even gave their insights on the current landscape of the local film industry.
In a separate interview, Ar. Torres emphasized the relevance of film in contemporary society, “Film is a mirror of society, and film is about stories that we tell ourselves and we tell each other. For me, cinema is the art that will never grow old.”
With regard to the documentary, he had this to say on the continuing influence of Brocka and Bernal: “The way that they told stories was, for me, a deep reflection of what it is to be a Filipino in the face of the challenges of living in the country. They mirrored on screen the social issues of their time, so I hope that this kind of reflection and using the platform of cinema to present the stories will be continued by our newer batch of filmmakers, the ones who came after Brocka and Bernal.”
“I really believe that [...] We have so many stories to tell. They’re just waiting for the right directors,” he shared.
Curious viewers can immerse themselves in the exhibit located at the 12th floor of the D+A Campus. For updates on any future exhibits, as well as screenings of the “Brocka x Bernal” documentary, check out CCA’s Facebook (BenildeCampusArt) and Instagram (benilde.campusart) pages.
