In recent years, Filipino filmmakers have been making waves on the international stage. One notable example is the film “Renoir,” which recently premiered at the 78th Cannes Film Festival, marking a significant milestone for Philippine cinema. The film’s journey from concept to global recognition highlights the power of collaboration and the potential of Filipino talents in the international film industry.
The Partnership
The story begins with trust and shared dreams. Actress and producer Sylvia Sanchez recounts how her collaboration with Alemberg Ang began: “Siya ‘yung lumapit sa akin para sa movie na ito. Siya ‘yung naging dahilan kaya nakapasok ako sa ‘Renoir.’ Nung nalaman niya na kailangan ng funding, nilapitan niya ako.” Their partnership was rooted in their common goal—to bring Filipino involvement into a film that could make a mark globally.
For Alemberg Ang, the initial attraction was the opportunity to make a meaningful contribution to the Cannes journey. “Tsaka ‘yung unang bati mo sa akin, sinabi mo na, ‘hanapan mo ako ng pelikulang pupunta sa Cannes,’” he recalls, emphasizing how their first meeting was simple yet full of potential. Both recognized that Cannes is the biggest film festival in the world, a platform where filmmakers dream of showcasing their work.
The Dream of Cannes
Sylvia Sanchez shared her experience: “All dream kasi ang Cannes Film Festival ang pinakamalaking Film Festival sa buong mundo. So siyempre, Hollywood o artista, dun nangangarap din na mapunta, magka-award, magka-red carpet. Ako red carpet lang, okay na ako.” Her desire was to attend and be part of the festival, and securing a spot with “Renoir” became a tangible goal.
“Last year, during my birthday, ang sabi niya may dadalhin ako, ang Plan 75 production. Nung pagkasabi niya na meron introduce sa akin, siyempre nung sinabing Plan 75, maganda ‘yun eh, tsaka matino ‘yung production, maayos,” she added, highlighting her confidence in the project. Her participation in Cannes opened new doors for her as a producer and allowed Philippine cinema to gain recognition in one of the world’s most prestigious film festivals.
A Film That Bridges Cultures
“Renoir” is a collaborative effort involving five countries—Japan, France, Singapore, Indonesia, and the Philippines. It features a Japanese cast and crew, with Filipino professionals involved in various aspects of production. Sylvia Sanchez emphasizes: “Hindi ito Pinoy na movie, hindi Filipino ang cast dito. Pero hindi kami ‘yung producer na nagbigay lang ng pera dun. Nagbigay kami ng pera for collaboration as co-producers but pumunta kaming dalawa ng one week sa Japan para mag-shooting dun.”
The filmmaking process itself was a learning journey for Sylvia, who observed Japanese methods firsthand. “Nag-observe ako hindi lang as producer pati as artista, kung pwede ba ‘yung proseso nila, ‘yung ginagawa nila, kung pwede ba i-apply as producers sa Pilipinas,” she said. Their involvement went beyond financing—they worked closely on location management, logistics, and even participated in creative decisions.
Filipino Talent Behind the Scenes and On Screen
Despite the film not having Filipino actors as leads, Filipino professionals contributed significantly to its production. Sylvia mentioned that Filipino filmmakers worked behind the scenes, including a Filipino production designer and assistant director. “Hindi man ito Pinoy movie na bida ang Pinoy pero nag-trabaho ang mga Pinoy dito sa Renoir,” she noted.
The Philippine shooting locations, particularly in Batangas, were chosen to resemble scenes from Greece, supporting the film’s visual narrative without the need to shoot in Europe. “The scene is supposed to show an unknown location na open sea tapos may yacht. Ang peg niya lang dapat kasing ganda ng Greece at dapat hindi mukhang Japan,” Alemberg shared. Their work involved handling the logistics, production design, and ensuring the film’s international standards were met.
Looking Ahead
The success of “Renoir” at Cannes is just the beginning. The film is set to premiere in Japan on June 20 and is expected to be released in France soon. Additionally, it will hit Philippine cinemas later this year, bringing Filipino talent and collaboration into the spotlight.
Sylvia Sanchez expressed her hopes for more opportunities: “Hoping kami na next year, meron na naman kami.” Her experience with “Renoir” exemplifies how Filipino professionals are capable of competing on the world stage, not only as producers but also as active contributors to international film projects.
A New Era for Philippine Filmmaking
The story of “Renoir” proves that with trust, collaboration, and passion, Filipino talents can participate in projects that gain international acclaim. It also demonstrates that Filipinos have the capacity to work alongside renowned filmmakers from Japan, Europe, and other parts of Asia, showing their skills in every aspect of film production. This film’s journey underscores that Filipino professionals are capable of producing work that meets the highest international standards.
Sylvia Sanchez and Alemberg Ang both believe that this is just the start of more such opportunities. “We saw that we can do it,” Sylvia affirmed. “It’s proof that Filipino talents are competitive, and we have what it takes to be part of bigger projects.” Both are optimistic about future collaborations and more Filipino involvement in global cinema.
The global recognition of “Renoir” opens a new chapter for Philippine filmmaking. With films like this, Filipino talents can demonstrate their potential on the world stage, forging stronger connections with international filmmakers and expanding opportunities for their craft.
As “Renoir” prepares for its screenings in Japan, France, and the Philippines, it symbolizes not just the story of a film, but the story of Philippine cinema’s growing influence and the talented individuals behind it. The film’s success is a reminder that with dedication and collaboration, Filipino filmmakers can reach new heights and be part of the world’s most acclaimed film festivals.
