Filipino Film 'Ria' Fights Injustice on Global Stage

Filipino filmmaker Arvin Belarmino's debut feature, 'Ria,' has garnered international attention following its world premiere at the Busan International Film Festival. The film, centered on a young woman from the folk-punk scene fighting to protect her home from a property developer, has been picked up by international sales company Lights On.

'Ria' not only premiered but also received the Heart of Eurasia Award, highlighting its compelling narrative. The story depicts Ria, her foster mother, and their fellow punks uniting to resist a developer determined to demolish their building, which stands as the last structure in a neighborhood already reduced to rubble.

This co-production between the Philippines, the Netherlands, Saudi Arabia, Japan, and Norway is described by Lights On as 'an ode to rebellion and a fierce cry against injustice.' The acquisition strengthens the existing relationship between Lights On and Belarmino, who previously collaborated on the short film 'Agapito.'

Belarmino expressed his joy in continuing his collaboration with Lights On, emphasizing their belief in his vision and stories. Producer Kristine De Leon also highlighted the value of trusted partnerships in the demanding process of filmmaking.