CAAM is proud to partner with Cinematografo Film Festival, now in its second year. The festival highlights Filipino and Filipino American films and filmmakers.
We are co-presented four programs this year. Our Talent Development & Special Projects Manager Sapana Sakya will be a panelist at the festival about funding for filmmakers.
Cinematografo is proud to launch the 18th anniversary screening of THE DEBUT, the first known Filipino American feature drama produced in the U.S., as the Centerpiece presentation. Gene Cajayon’s seminal film tells the story of teenager Ben Mercado (Dante Basco) who rejects his Filipino heritage. His contentious relationship with his immigrant father Roland comes to a head at his sister Rose’s 18th birthday party. In the span of one night, he comes to terms with his identity, heritage and what being a Filipino-American is all about.
Director Gene Cajayon, many cast, crew and supporters of the film are expected to attend. Preceding the program is a bonus screening of THE LITTLE FILM THAT COULD, a short documentary shot in 2001 that tracked the life of THE DEBUT as it toured on-the-road around the U.S. The film was opening night presentation at both CAAMFest (known as SF International Asian American Film Festival) and Los Angeles Asian Pacific Film Festival 18 years ago. Both CAAM and Visual Communications (being honored this year in a tribute) are co-presenters of the return of THE DEBUT. CAAM, then known as NAATA, was instrumental in co-producing, financing and launching the film to U.S. audiences.
