12th QCinema International Film Festival – Opening Films

By Asian Film Festival on November 7, 2024 • ( Leave a comment )

Four short films will open the QCinema International Film Festival (Philippines), which will take place from November 8 – 17, 2024 across Gateway Cineplex 18, Ayala Malls Cinema at Trinoma, Red Carpet at Shangri-la Plaza, and Powerplant Mall.

Since 2013, the Cannes Directors’ Fortnight has played host to the Directors’ Factory, a program that surfaces new talents and gives them an opportunity to be showcased on the International scene. Every year, they select eight filmmakers, four from a partner country, and another four from other emerging cinemas from around the world, all of whom have ambitious first or second feature projects. They are paired up, and they produce four short films, which are then premiered at the Directors’ Fortnight.

This year, Directors’ Factory selected the Philippines as its partner country – the first Southeast Asian nation to be chosen for the honor. These films were supported by the Quezon City Film Commision, and the QCinema International Film Festival is proud to premiere these films on local soil at their opening night.

Opening Night
November 8, 2025 | Thursday | Gateway Cinema 11 | 6:00 pm [By Invitation Only]

Cold Cut by Don Josephus Raphael Eblahan, Tan Siyou – Philippines | France | 2024 – 13 minutes

Nineteen year-old Joy (Chevy Claire Recososa Guanter) is practicing to perform in a local talent show. But things change when she meets a mysterious butcher (Noriel Tome Obnimaga), who takes her on another trajectory. (QCinema 2024)

Nightbirds by Maria Estela Paiso, Ashok Vish – Philippines, France | 13 minutes

The Tigmamanukan is a bird spirit created by the gods to give aid to wingless birds who seek freedom. One of these spirits (Bob Jbeili) comes down to earth to help Ivy (Pokwang), a woman trapped in an abusive situation. (QCinema 2024)

Silig by Alvin Belarmino, Lomorpich Rithy – Philippines, France | 2024 – 14 minutes

Mamang (Sylvia Sanchez) returns to her hometown after a long time away, bringing with her a terminal disease. She reunites with her friend Sabina (Angel Aquino), who helps her try to fulfill her wish of being cremated. (QCinema 2024)

Walay Balay by Eve Baswel, Gogularaajan Rajendran – Philippines, France | 2024 – 14 minutes

War has broken out, forcing Norayda (Ruby Ruiz) and her daughter Yahaira (Shaina Magdayao) to flee their home. They relocate to a quiet house by the sea, and they are made to reimagine what it means to be home. (QCinema 2024)

For more information, please visit: https://qcinema.ph/