Two Filipino films are competing with each other and other entries from all over the world at the 34th Tokyo International Film Festival (TIFF).
“Resbak,” a story on petty thieves among the youth and the violent society they thrive and “Arisaka,” a foray into the life of a policewoman who retraces the tragic plight of Filipino and American soldiers during the Bataan Death March of the Second World War as she battles her own exploits and entered in the main competition of the annual fest slated on October 30 to November 8, 2021.
“Resbak,” directed by internationally acclaimed filmmaker Brillante Ma. Mendoza stars Vince Rillon, Bibeth Orteza, Nash Aguas, Albie Casino and Jay Manalo, has been shot even before the COVID-19 pandemic, while “Arisaka,” megged by cult director Mikhail Red features Maja Salvador and Mon Confiado started to grind its cameras during the coronavirus plague and amid typhoons but was pulled through successfully until its post-production.
Maja was Mikhail’s top choice for the role because in an interview he said he believes in the capability of the actress to rise above the star system prevailing in the business. Salvador, Red said, is a versatile actress.
Vince, after nine years of playing support and second lead, was finally given breaks by Brillante who said he waited for the maturity of his discovery and the right timing was “Resbak.”