Interview: Director Rafael Manuel on His Influences and the “Accessible Slow Cinema” of ‘Filipiñana’

‘Filipiñana’ proves Filipino cinema isn’t dead

After clips from Rafael Manuel's debut film went viral on X, many were quick to claim the Philippines just found its own Wes Anderson. While the synchronized style and unique framing do give off similar vibes, Rafael’s latest film is so much more than a Wes Anderson tribute of sorts. It’s a testament to how Filipino cinema is likely the next big thing foreign viewers start yearning for.Already, “Filipiñana” has gained recognition in the US after…

Filipiñana — Rafael Manuel [Review]

Rafael Manuel’s debut feature Filipiñana should go down as one of this decade’s great sweaty films. The humidity of its Philippines setting is touched with the sickly sweetness of rotting mangoes, a noxious and intoxicating overwhelm for the senses. The luxury resort outside Manila where the story unfurls is a languid oasis amidst the city’s [...] The post Filipiñana — Rafael Manuel [Review] appeared first on In Review Online.

Interview: Director Rafael Manuel on His Influences and the “Accessible Slow Cinema” of ‘Filipiñana’

In a time where billionaires and multi-millionaires control three times more wealth than the entire poorest half of the global population combined, a film like Filipiñana, Rafael Manuel’s debut feature, can strike like lightning. Manuel’s independent film, executive produced by mentor Jia Zhangke, takes place on a golf course in the Philippines where the ultra-stratification…