Filmmaker David Corpuz makes a significant return to Cinemalaya with his latest project, 'Tayo Lang Ang Nakakaalam.' The film, which centers on disenfranchised grief in the queer community, aims to challenge societal attitudes towards loss and love.
Corpuz's Journey from IT to Film
Hailing from San Jose del Monte, Bulacan, Corpuz's interest in filmmaking sprouted during his IT studies at Don Bosco Technical College. A chance course led him to discover his passion for cinema.
From there, I was fascinated with the act of recording. Video recording was our term then, not filmmaking.
David Corpuz, Director
With limited access to mainstream cinema, he frequented Cine Adarna at the University of the Philippines, which showcased arthouse films. This exposure fueled his passion, culminating in a master’s degree in media studies at UP.
Corpuz's filmography includes the 2014 experimental short 'The Ordinary Things We Do,' which won a Special Jury Prize at Cinemalaya. After a long hiatus, his solo feature debut has finally come to fruition.
Exploring Grief and Queer Identity
'Tayo Lang Ang Nakakaalam' addresses the complexities of grief and the queer experience, particularly concerning HIV. Corpuz aims to shed light on the societal perceptions of disenfranchised grief, a theme he explores through a deeply personal lens.
The film’s narrative was inspired by Corpuz's own experiences and his Palanca prize-winning essay, 'Autoetnograpiya ng Luksa,' which reflects on loss and the struggles faced by queer individuals.
He notes, "This is the kind of grief that society doesn’t understand because they have no idea about it or because it’s frowned upon."
Crafting a Relevant Narrative
Corpuz worked alongside co-writer Iar Arondaing to refine the story, emphasizing its relevance to contemporary issues surrounding same-sex relationships in the Philippines.
The film features an ensemble cast, including Martin del Rosario and Miguel Odron, and employs a unique visual style that mirrors the themes of secrecy and intimacy.
Aiming for Social Impact
In collaboration with HIV/AIDS organization LoveYourself Inc., Corpuz ensures the film's portrayal of sensitive topics is both accurate and respectful. He believes that cinema should tackle significant social issues, stating, "We have very few films that tackle the subject matter."
Corpuz hopes that 'Tayo Lang Ang Nakakaalam' will contribute to the ongoing dialogue about the legal recognition of same-sex relationships in the Philippines, expressing a desire for his work to extend beyond mere entertainment.
Ultimately, Corpuz’s film not only tells a story of love and loss but also aspires to foster understanding and acceptance in a society that often marginalizes queer experiences.