Cine Europa, the annual European Union Film Festival in the Philippines, has officially opened its 27th edition.
Cine Europa has now been regarded as the biggest and vibrant display of European cinema, bringing together Filipino film lovers, cultural enthusiasts, and the diplomatic community for a month-long celebration of cinematic artistry and excellence.
Presented by the Delegation of the European Union to the Philippines, in partnership with the EU Member States embassies, Goethe Institut, Institut Cervantes de Manila and the Philippine-Italian Association, Cine Europa 27 promises a diverse selection of films representing the best of Europe’s film industry.
This year’s festival features over 20 films from different EU member states, including Ukraine. It highlights the unique stories, traditions, and creative voices that shape the continent’s cinematic landscape.
“Cine Europa continues to build bridges between Europe and the Philippines, fostering cultural exchange through the powerful medium of film. This year’s edition offers a glimpse into Europe’s rich cultural diversity, showcasing stories that resonate universally with audiences across borders,” EU Ambassador to the Philippines Massimo Santoro said.
The festival kicked off on October 18 with an exclusive red-carpet event at the Cinema 3 of Shangri-La Plaza with the special screening of the opening film, “The Long Story Short” from Denmark. Directed by May el-Toukhy and Maren Louise Käehne, it is a film of comedy and drama that sets the tone for a line-up that spans genres, from romance to animation that evokes human emotions.Â
One of Cine Europa’s core values is making European cinema accessible to all. The festival therefore continues its tradition of offering free screenings on a first-come, first served basis at multiple venues across the Philippines that include the University of the Cordilleras in Baguio (October 21-23), University of the Philippines in Cebu (October 22-27), University of San Agustin in Iloilo (October 21-22) and FDCP Cinematheque (October 24-25).
Cine Europa remains one of the most significant cultural events in the Philippines, deepening the connection between the two regions through the universal language of film. Over the years, the festival has become a symbol of the strong and enduring relationship between the European Union and the Philippines, reflecting shared values of creativity, collaboration, and mutual respect.
Cine Europa 27 runs until October 27, 2024.
