FDCP, SM Cinema dedicate 8 theaters to ‘Cine Lokal’

Philippine cinema has been making waves across the sea in different international film festivals. To meet the increasing demand for wider releases of these critically acclaimed movies, the Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP) and SM Cinema introduced on Friday "Cine Lokal."

"It's not 'local', it's'lo-kal'," FDCP chair Liza Diño told the press. Aside from addressing persistent concerns about marketing and distribution, Cine Lokal also seeks to develop "a culture of support" for films. 

Starting April 19, eight theaters will be dedicated to screening two films selected by the FDCP. The selection ranges from award-winning Filipino movies, independently produced movies, regional films, classic films from great Filipino directors, and limited release foreign films.

SM Megamall, SM North EDSA, SM Fairview, SM Iloilo, SM Southmall, SM Cebu, SM Bacoor, and SM Mall of Asia were chosen to host Cine Lokal. 

Producers and actors welcome the wider distribution of films pic.twitter.com/gN1ZMKBiu9

— Aya Tantiangco Miura (@ayaruim) March 24, 2017

Diño: Foreign films are included in the lineup to promote discussion and movie appreciation pic.twitter.com/bL6OXMGFmF

— Aya Tantiangco Miura (@ayaruim) March 24, 2017

The films selected for a Cine Lokal screening will have a guaranteed week-long run and Diño shared that, depending on the demand, "a film might crossover to a regular screening."

For the opening week of Cine Lokal, FDCP has chosen films that inspire reflection on faith and religion, in line with the observance of the Lent. 

The digitally remastered masterpiece "Himala" will be screened alongside Oscar-winning film "Spotlight." Also in the lineup are "Iadya Mo Kami" and "Of Sinners and Saints", two films about priests whose faith are tested. 

Special screenings of "Ignacio de Loyola", "Seklusyon", "Honor Thy Father", and "White Ribbon" will be held on dates yet to be announced. 

FDCP chair Liza Diño: This is an exciting time for the Philippine film industry. pic.twitter.com/oPyjHjNOM6

— Aya Tantiangco Miura (@ayaruim) March 24, 2017

The FDCP is still testing the waters and are figuring out when to cycle movies out, but a weekly rotation is probable, Diño said. The movie selection will likely follow a theme suited for each month, e.g. Mother's Day for May. 

In the interest of transparency, Diño revealed that a 50-40-10 split has been worked out between the producers, SM Cinema, and FDCP. The full 50% of the profits will go to the producers, especially if the FDCP is successful in courting local government units to waive the amusement tax for Cine Lokal films. SM Cinemas take 40%, while FDCP receives a minimum 10% for "processing" expenses.

Tickets go on sale at an introductory price of P120 this April, but will eventually increase to P150 to keep the screenings sustainable. 

For updates on schedules and more information, visit the official Facebook pages of the FDCP and Cine Lokal. — TJD, GMA News