Wazzup Pilipinas!
Adamson University (AdU) is taking bold steps to spotlight Filipino creativity and culture through its highly anticipated “PELIKUHA: Kwento. Kulay. Kultura.” This three-day film and photography festival, now extended until January 24, invites passionate artists and storytellers to showcase their talents in a celebration of culture, artistry, and innovation.
PELIKUHA serves as a fusion of Realifilm and Deep Focus, flagship programs of Silip@Lente-AdU, the university’s renowned student organization for film and photography enthusiasts. The group consistently fosters the growth of budding artists, offering workshops, competitions, and events that cultivate skills and build confidence.
Realifilm: Breathing Life Into Stories
Realifilm, a cornerstone of PELIKUHA, is an annual film competition that nurtures the creative aspirations of young filmmakers. By challenging students to excel in storytelling, cinematography, and direction, the competition has become a platform for aspiring directors to ignite their passion for filmmaking.
Deep Focus: Capturing Life Through the Lens
The Deep Focus photography contest is equally pivotal in PELIKUHA’s mission. By emphasizing technical excellence and artistic expression, this yearly competition motivates student photographers to explore their potential and create visually compelling narratives.
Spotlight on KOMMotion Film Festival
Adamson University has been a haven for cinematic exploration, as showcased during the fourth-anniversary celebration of the KOMMotion Film Festival last November. The event featured eight short films, including masterpieces from third-year students of the Communication Department and the KOMCine Communication Film Group.
Among the most notable entries were:
“Bert, Tubero!” – Winner of the KOM Youth Excellence Award and Audience Choice Award. This comedic tale follows a plumber navigating the quirky challenges of a wealthy matriarch.
“Tagapagmasid” – A sci-fi cultural drama that earned the Cultural Spotlight Award, presenting a compelling narrative of an alien observer discovering the beauty of humanity.
“Mateo 7:15” – A mystery-horror that explores themes of sexuality and acceptance, highlighting societal pressures and personal freedom.
“Outdo the Other” – A light-hearted story inspired by friendship and academic rivalries, offering a relatable and endearing glimpse into student life.
The KOM Awards, set for May, will celebrate these works further by recognizing exceptional achievements in various cinematic disciplines.
A Year of Cultural Collaborations
The university's commitment to promoting Filipino culture and cinema extends beyond PELIKUHA. Last October, Adamson partnered with the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) to host CCP Cine Icons, featuring a screening of the celebrated film “Anak” with National Artist for Film Ricky Lee in attendance.
Prominent personalities such as CCP Film Chief Mae Caralde, CCP Arts Officer Minda Casagan, and AdU Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Rosula Reyes enriched the event with their presence. This collaboration symbolizes the university’s dedication to bridging academic pursuits with national cultural endeavors.
Expanding Partnerships and Opportunities
Adamson University’s partnerships with organizations like the Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP), the Academic Film Society, and JuanFlix: The FDCP Channel continue to strengthen its influence in the arts. By fostering alliances and creating platforms for student filmmakers and photographers, the university aims to uphold its legacy as a beacon for creative expression in the Philippines.
As PELIKUHA gears up to unfold, the extended call for entries until January 24 provides an exciting opportunity for students to participate in this cultural renaissance. Whether it’s through the lens of a camera or the frame of a cinematic masterpiece, PELIKUHA ensures that Filipino artistry will shine brighter than ever.
Let the stories unfold, the colors burst, and the culture come alive. Join the movement.
Ross is known as the Pambansang Blogger ng Pilipinas - An Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Professional by profession and a Social Media Evangelist by heart.
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