Cinemalaya 2024: These are the 10 films to watch for in annual film festival

Cinemalaya 2024 is happening!

The annual film festival is celebrating its 20th year from Aug. 2-11 at the Ayala Malls Manila Bay, and on social media, it released just released the posters and synposes of the 10 full-length films to look forward to this year, happening.

"Alipato at Muog" is a documentary by JL Burgos about his family's relentless search for his brother, Jonas, who was abducted in a crowded mall at noontime back in 2007. 

"An Errand," written by Sarge Lacuesta and directed by Dominic Bekaert, talks about Moroy, a driver who speeds from Baguio to Manila upon SIR's orders to fetch his Viagra. His mind drifts from reality and fantasy and by the end of it, finds himself changed.

The super hyped "Balota" is top billed by Marian Rivera. She plays the teacher Emmy who runs to the forest with the last ballot box after violence erupts during elections. "Balota" is directed by Kip Obiena.

"Gulay Lang, Manong!" is about a farmer's grandson Ricky getting into the cannabis trade and then getting caught. Themes of integrity, betrayal, and power take centerstage in this film by Bc Amparado.

An alien shell discovered, turbulent waters, star-crossed lovers and a coastal community's survival make Joshua Pedroso's "Kantil" quite the interesting watch.

While "Kong Basho" by Jaime Pacena Ii, talks about family matters with half-sisters Ella and Reina reconnecting after their father's death, the film has quite to say about "the Filipino diaspora amid a backdrop of historical trauma."

Directed by Jonathan Jurilla, "Love Child" revolves around sweethearts Ayla and Paolo who drop out of college to start a family, with their son later getting diagnosed with autism.

A deaf boy, Lucas, sexually abused by a powerful priest is the premise of "The Hearing." Despite obstacles, Lucas' parents decide to file a case and come across Maya, a sign language interpreter. "The Hearing" is written by Honey Alipio and directed by Lawrence Fajardo.

"The Wedding Dance," directed by Julius Lumiqued, is set against the backdrop of the Japanese invasion in the 40s. Awiyao comes home and asks his wife Lumnay to attend the wedding dance, that triggers a whole set of difficult emotions.

Featuring an all-Ati cast speaking in their own language, Innate, "Tumandok" by Richard Jeroui Salvadico and Arlie Sweet Sumagaysay, showcases the never-ending struggle of the IPs to reclaim their land. 

— LA, GMA Integrated News