Chasing Waves

So I just finished shooting a film - finally, after three years. Well, at least 90% of it because I will still go back to the location tomorrow to shoot inserts and establishing shots and record additional ambient sounds and whatever we can get our hands on.

Willie (soundman) looking surprised at the camera with me on my back
and Orvil (in black), the Production Designer.

The location is a remote community called Panyan, more than two hours ride via motorcycle north of Davao City. It's a part of Baranggay Tamugan in Calinan and its a semi-unexplored terrain with mountains, falls, caves and rivers (which has an alternate route going to Baranggay Tamugan, three to four hours by foot) of which a decade or two ago, massive illegal logging was the main livelihood. Electricity is still absent though the government distributed solar panels to a few households so you can imagine how cold and dark it is at night and the only hobby people do is making babies.

Filjun (in red) and RJ (in blue), the film's main actors.

A story about two kids who grew up in the mountains and their only dream is to be able to get a taste of the beach, we chose this location for its texture and authenticity. Armed with a few equipment and overflowing passion, we spent several days going back and forth the location, enduring almost endless rides through rough roads and unforgiving weather. We scouted locations, searched for actors, immersed with the community, learned their culture.

As the filming nears its end and with so many things that happened during the shoot, I'd say this one's for the books. I'm totally stoked that I've found my rhythm again and will continue to make movies. This year will be my year... again!