'Balota' to make international premiere in Hawaii International Film Festival

"Balota" is set to make its international premiere at the 44th Hawaii International Film Festival in the United States.

According to GMA Pictures, film will have three screening dates: October 6 and 12 at the Consolidated Theaters Kahala and October 21 at the Lanai Theater at Hale Keaka.

Tickets will be available through the theater's website.

"Balota" is also set to return to Philippine cinemas starting on October 16 with a new cut.

Starring Marian Rivera, "Balota" was written and directed by Kip Oebanda and co-produced by GMA Pictures and GMA Entertainment Group.

It follows the story of a land-grabbing tycoon and a former male sexy actor who are locked in a tight race for the mayoral seat of a small town. When violence erupts, a teacher runs into the forest with a ballot box containing the last copy of the election results.

Marian played the role of Teacher Emmy and her highly praised performance led her to win the Best Actress trophy at the Cinemalaya awards night. She shared the honor with Gabby Padilla.

Aside from Marian, the "Balota" cast includes content creators Sassa Gurl and Esnyr, Will Ashley, Royce Cabrera, Raheel Bhyria, Nico Antonio, Donna Cariaga, Joel Saracho, Sue Prado, Mae Paner, and Gardo Versoza.

—Carby Basina/MGP, GMA Integrated News