Proud to be different

Filmmaker Will Fredo, whose debut independent movie Compound has received an overwhelming response from critics, advertisers and moviegoers not only in the Philippines but also abroad, is now back in Manila for the post-production of the soon to be released full-length independent film Sa Pagdapo ng Mariposa.

Fredo is deeply serious on helping the current status of Philippine cinema by making a difference through the values and realities that his movies impart than thinking about economics and commercialism.

Let’s get to know more about Fredo through the  interview below:

What is it about Compound that made it stand out?

“I’m not even sure it stands out. I think the film is different enough that the Filipino audience recognized it. The critics gave favorable reviews. Some even say that the twist at the end is what kept them on their seats. A moviegoer even approached Liza Diño (one of the stars in Compound) that he couldn’t go to the rest room because he might miss what’s going to happen next. He even went to see the movie twice.” 

Do you believe that there’s hope in Philippine cinema?

“The Philippine cinema is alive and well, especially now. Three years ago, there was already a resurgence of independent filmmaking. If you notice, GMA 7 just recently created Sindie, ABS-CBN 2 has its Cinema One, and of course, Cinemalaya, Cinemanila and IFC IndieSine. Even major studios, Regal, Viva and Seiko, use the ‘independent’ tag to market their films. But personally, what I’m hoping for, is that their intentions are pure. It’s great that the major studios have recognized this “trend” (which of course, I believe, is not).  My hope is that the independent filmmakers stay true to their vision.”

Are you working on a new project?

“I’m currently in post-production for my next movie, Sa Pagdapo ng Mariposa starring Joshua Deocareza, the lead star of the movie, Baliw, which will be shown in the Montreal World Film Festival, and GMA Artist Center talent Marco Madrigal, an underrated young actor whom I believe should get more projects. I’m honored to also be working with well-respected stage and TV director, Leo Rialp. Sa Pagdapo ng Mariposa is a unique love story combining my ’80s influences on growing up. Imagine a John Hughes (Pretty in Pink, Sixteen Candles) type of movie with a tinge of Experimental Cinema of the Philippines.”

What are the similarities between Compound and Sa Pagdapo ng Mariposa?

“The only thing that is similar is that I make my films as personal as possible. I put together my first-hand reference from my life and immediate surroundings.

“Other than that, I’m inspired by film directors like Pedro Aldomovar, Zhang Yimou and Lino Brocka who collaborate with people whom they have previously worked with.

“It takes a great chemistry between a director and an actor to make a great film. That’s why I also collaborated with people from Compound, like Jake Macapagal who has five films screening in this year’s Cinemalaya. I’m so personally proud of him.  There’s also Lily Chu, Marq Dollentes, and a host of others.”

What makes Sa Pagdapo ng Mariposa unique?

“It’s a technically challenging film because of the mood and the feel.  I like the audience to experience. I used a different approach in creating the film. There will be a collision of independent artists from various music genres, familiar and unfamiliar, which uplifts the dramatic elements of the film. You’ll be surprised when you experience the film.”

What is your intention in getting into filmmaking in the Philippines?

“Even before Compound, my intention of coming back here in the Philippines is stated in the vision and mission of HUBO Productions which states:

“HUBO aims to expose the complexity of the individual, in particular of Filipinos. As a nation, Filipinos are more than what is portrayed commercially by the current Philippine media. HUBO hopes to reinvigorate Filipinos’ self-perspective through the arts, thus the use of the slogan ‘Raw Artistry Exposed.

“HUBO also explores artistry through practical yet creative means with the spirit of independent production. HUBO dedicates its art to stimulate the mind, however, unconventional and unfamiliar.

“My partners and I are at an age where making a difference is more important than economics.”

How do you feel about the success of Compound?

“I really appreciate the recognition people have given to Compound, especially the Young Filmmakers of the Philippines which lists Compound as one of 20 Best Filipino Independent Films in the last three years.

“It’s a group of young filmmakers from different colleges and universities which names the 20 Best Filipino Independent Films for the past three years (2004, 2005 and 2006). Their criteria for selecting the best films are the quality of the screenplay and the subject matter.

“Just the fact that this group of young filmmakers and enthusiasts recognize it is a reaffirmation of my commitment to uplift the mindset of Filipino audience of themselves. Kasi, habang bata pa sila, if the person is willing, in my own way, I hope to help them develop tolerance to diversity and new ideas. I think this country will be a better place, if that’s the case. It’s a lofty idea pero kahit na isa o dalawang tao lang that I affect, masaya na ako.”

Check out Compound in this year’s Cinemalaya today at 3:30 p.m. and on July 27, 9 p.m. at the Cultural Center of the Philippines.