Cine Lokal Ensures No More First Day Last Day for Indie Films in Dedicated Cinemas

Strengthening its commitment to support Philippine cinema, the Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP) and SM Cinema launch Cine Lokal—a new cinema line that will house independent, award-winning films and FDCP programs in select SM Cinema branches across the country starting April 2017.

FDCP Chairperson and CEO Liza Diño and SM Lifestyle Entertainment, Inc. (SMLEI) President Edgar Tejerero will formalize the partnership as they sign the three-year contract at Cerchio Restaurant, Tomas Morato on March 24, 2017.

“Cine Lokal’s goal is two-fold: to provide independent filmmakers with a commercial venue for their films, thereby strengthening their experience and training on film marketing and distribution, and to create a culture of support and viewership among Filipinos nationwide. Independent films mirror our society’s milieu in the most meaningful and affective of ways and we are grateful to SM Cinema for this great opportunity for us to bring more choices of these films closer to our people,” said Chairperson Diño.

SM Megamall, SM North EDSA, SM Fairview, SM Iloilo, SM Southmall, SM Cebu, SM Bacoor, and SM Mall of Asia were chosen as the location of the eight dedicated cinemas to show FDCP-curated films throughout the duration of the partnership. To ensure the success of its newest venture, SM Cinema and FDCP have committed to work together from booking, licensing, up to the marketing of the films to be shown in Cine Lokal branches.

“We dedicated screens in almost all big regions in the Philippines. Those are dedicated screens, meaning, there’s no pullout. As to the length of stay ng pelikula, we leave it to FDCP whether they want to change it every week, every two weeks, or every month,” said SM Lifestyle Entertainment Inc. President Edgar Tejerero. “Cine Lokal affirms our support for the Philippine film industry which includes our independent film producers. With the help of FDCP, we have an opportunity to expand our content and invite a new set of audience. Cine Lokal brings SM Cinema closer to its goal of becoming not only the largest, but the most diverse film exhibitor in the country,” he added.

Movie lovers and independent film enthusiasts alike can expect an exciting roster of award-winning, independent films at Cine Lokal starting April 2017.

The premier line-up of films includes the restored version of Himala, Iadya Mo Kami, Spotlight, and Of Sinners and Saints.

BG Productions matriarch Baby Go dubbed as the “Queen of Indie Films” was present during the question and answer session because Iadya Mo Kami was produced by her company. Allen Dizon, a lead actor in the film and a key player in the independent film scene was really glad about this development. “Ngayon lang nangyari so isang start na alam kong maraming matutulungan…mararaming makakanood kung susuportahan natin yung independent films….saka hindi lahat napapalabas sa mga malls.”

Allen will spend his pre- and post-Holy Week days shooting for his new film under Ralston Jover titled Bomba where he plays the role of a deaf-mute caught in a dark relationship with a young woman.