Ma’ Rosa, directed by Brillante Mendoza and starring Jaclyn Jose, is the official entry of the Philippines for the upcoming Oscars awards. Jaclyn Jose won Best Actress at this year’s Cannes, and told the Philippine Daily Inquirer that the world needs to know about Ma’Rosa because it shows “how Filipino families cope and survive in spite of poverty.” With the nomination, she might just get her wish.
Andi Eigenmann, who also starred in the film, spread the word about the announcement on Twitter:
Imcredibly proud to announce that MA’ ROSA is the official selection of the PH to the OSCAR’S!!!
— Andi Eigenmann (@andieigengirl) September 14, 2016
According to the FAP’s press release, Ma’Rosa was picked from eight other films, including Felix Manalo by Joel Lamangan, Anino sa Likod ng Buwan by Jun Lana, Honor Thy Father by Erik Matti, Hele Sa Hiwagang Hapis by Lav Diaz, Dukot by Paul Soriano, Pamilya Ordinaryo by Eduardo Roy Jr., Ang Hapis at Himagsik ni Hermano Puli by Gil Portes and Tuos by Roderick Cabrido.
Brillante Mendoza, in a press screening for the film’s debut on cinemas nationwide last July, described the film as “not only about corruption and drugs. We will see the essence of the family; how [the characters] helped one another and came together amidst this kind of struggle in life.”
Catch the trailer here: