Two Richmond filmmakers were in the spotlight for winning awards for their one-minute films at the Mighty Asian Movie Marathon (MAMM) this past weekend.
The 19th annual MAMM showcased and celebrated emerging local B.C. filmmakers on Aug. 31 at the Vancouver Playhouse.
Sixteen films in total were screened at the event, including eight 10-minute short films centred on the theme "empowering voices, shaping tomorrow" and eight one-minute ultra-short films focusing on "breaking stereotypes."
Richmond resident and McMath alumnus Justin (Soliven) Villarosa directed his first-ever short film, with the help of Richmondite Paolo Valdés, titled "The Bouncer," which won the Best Film Award for the one-minute film category.
The film's lead actor Michael Delleva snagged the Best Performance Award.
Villarosa said his team was surprised and "over the moon" when they were presented the best film award in their category.
"I feel deeply grateful. This being my first short film, I was blessed to have the best cast and crew and I'm so happy that I got to celebrate the moment with them on stage," said Villarosa.
"The Bouncer" is about the stereotypes of club bouncers "being stoic with a tough exterior," he explained.
"The film really shows not everything is as it seems and everybody has a sensitive side and a hidden passion," said Villarosa.
"The film is about keeping one's identity and that's why we want to remind people 'Don't forget your ID.'"
Both of Filipino descent, Villarosa and Valdés are hoping to see more Filipinos represented in films.
"We're proud to be representing Richmond at M.AMM and we want to share there are a diverse group of creatives from different cultures in Richmond," said Valdés.
Villarosa, who is also a singer with Canadian R&B duo Manila Grey, said filmmaking has challenged him to find other ways to represent Richmond and artists alike.
"We've done our fair share of music videos and filmmaking is another endeavour I am looking forward to doing to represent the city."
Also, Richmond resident and filmmaker Meng Li won the Best First-time Director Award as well as the Best Screenplay Award for her one-minute short film "Lead Like You."
Li explained the film depicts a positive narrative of a mother's work instead of a "tiger mom" stereotype.
"If you're looking for leadership role models, look at our moms, especially our Asian moms. You will be amazed by their resilience, determination, and innovation, and be surprised by how these traits mirror exactly what good leadership requires," said Li.
"I hope this short film will provide a little inspiration for everyone who wants to lead their own way in life or career."
Both films as well as the other films from the MAMM19 will be screened at the 28th Annual Vancouver Asian Film Festival from Nov. 7 to 17.
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