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They've breathed new life into the Philippine cinema—these are the four must-know directors that Tatler Philippines has proudly put on our 2021 Asia's Most Influential List
It is only necessary that as lovers of art, Tatler Philippines pays tribute to some of the most prominent names in the entertainment industry. Because the focus is often put on actors, actresses, and those in front of the camera, we decided that those behind the scenes need a spotlight of their own. Today, we're recognising four game-changing Filipino directors we've included in our 2021 Asia's Most Influential List. These creatives have not only accomplished significant milestones over the past year, they've also dictated local culture through their own special way.
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Johnny Manahan
Johnny Manahan has been in the entertainment industry for decades now and it's no wonder he's become incredibly celebrated. Lovingly nicknamed "Mr M", Manahan has directed everything from films to TV and variety shows, and even beauty pageants. He and colleague Freddie Garcia started the iconic ABS-CBN talent centre, Star Magic, in 1992. They've honed the skills of many heavyweight showbusiness talents such as Bea Alonzo, Pio Pascual, and renowned love team Kathryn Bernardo and Daniel Padilla. Since the closure of ABS-CBN, Manahan has gone back to his roots at GMA, working as a consultant for GMA Artist Center.
Erik Matti
Erik Matti is a renowned Filipino filmmaker from the Visayas region. Many people might recognise him from the work he did on the family-friendly adventure film, Magic Temple, which he had worked on with the legendary Peque Gallaga and Lore Reyes. Since then, his career has flourished, winning him accolades at awards ceremonies such as the Metro Manila Film Festival. He's an incredibly revered figure in both independent cinema circles and with mainstream movie film buffs. His crime thriller On the Job was even screened at the 2013 Cannes Film Festival and was given a standing ovation.
His most recent work is the 2021 movie, On the Job: The Missing 8, which narrates the story of a corrupt news reporter who must investigate the disappearance of his colleagues. It was given a standing ovation at the Venice International Film Festival by viewers that included film luminaries such as Chloe Zhao and Boon Jong-Ho.
See also: 10 Classic Filipino Movies to Binge this Long Weekend
Brillante Mendoza
Brillante Mendoza's oeuvre has long been celebrated in the Philippines and on the global stage. In 2009, he brought pride to the country by winning the Best Director award at the Cannes Film Festival for Kinatay (he was also the first Filipino to win such an award!). After seven years, his film Ma'Rosa was nominated for the Palme d'Or. Known for his thought-provoking themes and plots, Mendoza's films carry plenty of social commentaries, making them a substantial piece of Filipino art. His latest films include Sisid with Kylie Versoza and Virgin Forest with Sid Lucero.
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Paul Soriano
Paul Soriano is not only an acclaimed film director, he's also the man behind the production company TEN17P. Most recently, he made headlines as the creative behind president-elect Bongbong Marcos' television and online advertisements. Aside from his political affiliations, Soriano is also known for films such as Thelma, which won him the Best Director award at the Film Academy of the Philippines (FAP) Awards in 2012. Cult favourite Siargao, which starred Erich Gonzalez and Jericho Rosales also won Soriano a Best Director award, this time from the Metro Manila Film Festival.
His production company also has their hands full with projects, creating films such as Mariquina, Transit, and Dukot.
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