For the second consecutive year, Cinemata is partnering with the Gawad CCP Para sa Alternatibong Pelikula at Video (Gawad Alternatibo) by the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) for its highly anticipated 35th edition. Over 350 films from the program will be streamed on Cinemata starting August 17, offering audiences diverse social issue alternative films in the Philippines.
According to Mae Urtal Caralde, the head of CCP Film, Broadcast, and New Media Division and organizer of Gawad Alternatibo, Cinemata is an ideal option for hosting Gawad Alternatibo films as it is a free and secure platform that highlights essential social issue films.
“We want to make sure that all 350 entries are accessible to the public, including Filipinos from the provinces and international audiences keen on watching alternative films from the Philippines,” she said.
Established in 1987, Gawad Alternatibo is one of the longest-running independent film competitions in Asia. This annual event celebrates Filipino alternative storytelling and filmmaking, showcasing the main competition program in animation, documentary, experimental, and short feature films. Over the years, Gawad Alternatibo has become a platform for emerging and established filmmakers to push the boundaries of creativity and explore alternative narratives.
This year’s theme “Paghahabi” (Weaving) reflects the festival’s goal of sharpening the encounter of images and ideas, creating a diverse tapestry of contradictions that reflects the complexity of the Filipino experience. The festival hopes to mend the social fabric and bring forth collective aspirations, promoting a better understanding of the ordinary Filipino.
The Gawad Alternatibo Film Festival and Competition will be held onsite at the Tanghalang Ignacio Gimenez (TIG) from August 4 to 13, 2023. Awarding ceremonies will take place on August 12, 2023. Check out the official schedule.
35th Gawad Alternatibo Categories
The 35th Gawad Alternatibo features a lineup of film categories and curated sections, with the main competition focusing on Animation, Documentary, Experimental, and Short Feature.
Curated Sections: A selection of film entries handpicked by the programmer and selection committee will be showcased to a broader audience, presenting exceptional films beyond the competition entries.
Gawad Alternatibo Classics: This special section will feature the works of renowned alternative filmmakers and Gawad Alternatibo Hall of Famers, such as Nick Deocampo, Raymond Red, Roxlee, Cesar Hernando, and National Artist Kidlat Tahimik, providing a glimpse into the rich history of alternative filmmaking.
Lakbay Sine – Pasalubong Edition: Audiences will have the opportunity to explore works from the regions visited by the CCP Lakbay Sine program, featuring the distinct talent and perspectives of regional filmmakers.
Gawad Alternatibo Congress: A highly anticipated gathering of Gawad Alternatibo filmmakers throughout the years, this program will serve as a homecoming to discuss the challenges and chart the next decades of alternative filmmaking in the country.
Last year, Cinemata was the exclusive streaming partner for the festival’s 34th edition. Over 60 films were made available online on the platform.
