Cover A still from the upcoming film ‘First Light’ (Photo: Independent Entertainment)
A still from the upcoming film ‘First Light’ (Photo: Independent Entertainment)
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A creative collaboration between the Philippines and Australia, the upcoming film ‘First Light’ raises important questions about unconditional faith
Set in the remote mountains of the Philippines, First Light follows an elderly nun forced to confront the muddied ethics of an institution she dedicated her life to after a young construction worker dies. Penned and directed by James J Robinson, the film is a deeply personal story that spotlights the bridge between duty, faith, and institutional power.
The Australian-Filipino co-production features Ruby Ruiz in her first major leading role alongside veteran actress Maricel Soriano, Rez Cortez, Soliman Cruz, and National Artist for Film Kidlat Tahimik.
Supported by Screen Australia together with the Film Development Council of the Philippines, Clou Media Productions, the Melbourne International Film Festival Premiere Fund, and VicScreen, First Light is produced by Gabrielle Pearson through her outfit Majella Productions, Christelle Dychangco, and Jane Pe Aguirre.
“For our first official feature production under the Majella umbrella, learning about the intersection between Filipino and Australian methods of working has been one of the myriad gems of doing an international co-production. In a future of globalist filmmaking, realising the ways that disparate cultures across the globe can uncover the universality in their experiences further treads the pathway toward inclusive filmmaking, while offering complex insight into the deeper human condition,” says Pearson.
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First Light will also be Robinson’s first foray into directing after a long and expansive career in photography and filmmaking. “Developing First Light over the past two years has been an incredibly profound journey into the heart of pre-colonial Filipino philosophy. To be able to tell a story by bringing together artists from Australia and the Philippines, and witnessing this cultural exchange in real-time, will be one of the most enlightening experiences of my life; and reflect a deeper journey within myself to define my identity and ancestry as a mixed-race artist,” shares Robinson.
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About
Gabriel found his passion for writing through poetry in high school. He sharpened his skills at Ateneo de Manila University and hopes to write a play worthy of Broadway one day. A self-proclaimed geek, he loves to spend his free time playing video games and board games. When he's not clicking heads on Valorant or roleplaying as a barbarian in Dungeons and Dragons, you can find him exploring art galleries or watching stage plays.
Work
A creative writer who writes about anything and everything, Gabriel loves to dive deep into the arts and culture scene—as well as going on long road trips for travel pieces.
You can reach him on Instagram at @gbohol for any leads, casual conversations or game invites.
