Islands

Part of our monthly series C’EST ARRIVÉ PRÈS DE CHEZ NOUS

Presented with Martin Edralin’s short film HOLE (2014)

Still living with his aging parents and docilely listing towards his 50th birthday, Joshua (Rogelio Balagtas), a Filipino immigrant, prays every night for God to rid him of his shyness. In the wake of a tragedy, the Almighty seemingly answers his petition when his beatific cousin Marisol (Sheila Lotuaco) arrives on his doorstep to offer support. Through her genuine warmth and generous spirit, she slowly transforms Joshua’s house back into a home and incrementally lures the anxious introvert out of his shell. As Balagtas, an untrained actor, reveals more aspects of Joshua’s character, he becomes a quietly commanding screen presence. – Text written for Vancouver International Film Festival

*SXSW Film Festival 2021
*Vancouver International Film Festival (VIFF) 2021