'First Light' Film Tackles Corruption, Faith in Philippines

James J. Robinson's debut feature, 'First Light,' is set to captivate audiences at the International Film Festival Rotterdam. This drama intricately weaves together themes of faith, colonialism, and institutional corruption through the compelling narrative of Sister Yolanda, an elderly nun in the Philippines.

Ruby Ruiz stars as Sister Yolanda, whose life of service is disrupted by a construction worker's suspicious death. This event compels her to re-examine her long-held beliefs and her relationship with the church and community. Director Robinson draws from personal experiences, exploring the dichotomy between the core tenets of religion and institutional or political exploitation.

The film's narrative proved remarkably prescient, echoing widespread anti-corruption protests that erupted in the Philippines in 2025 concerning mismanaged infrastructure funds. Robinson noted the unsettling relevance of the film's themes amid these national demonstrations, finding a somber beauty in collective resistance.

Robinson consciously avoided didacticism, focusing on Sister Yolanda's personal journey as a metaphor for Philippine history. He emphasized ethical production, ensuring fair wages and working hours for the Filipino crew, directly contrasting exploitative colonial legacies. This commitment extended to research into indigenous knowledge systems, influencing the film's visual language and its poignant reflections on life and death.

Shot in the Ilocos and Calabarzon regions, 'First Light' also captures the enduring influence of colonization on Filipino society. Robinson connects this to his own family history and the persistent belief in the superiority of Western products, lamenting the impact on indigenous ways of thinking. The film's powerful portrayal of internal conflict and societal issues promises a thought-provoking cinematic experience.