FEU-Manila film students to release Hakbang Saan, a poignant reality of urban life in Manila
Talented film students from FEU-Manila, Kalye Productions, have started their preparations to release their first-ever film Hakbang Saan? The story revolves around Benjo, a man from the province who struggles to survive in the urban life that Manila offers. Kalye Productions will showcase the unfortunate realities of living as a poor man in the Philippines.
Hakbang Saan? centralizes on debunking the idea of hope in urbanization. Meanwhile, the film highlights the struggles and challenges that people from lower socioeconomic status have to endure to fend for themselves daily. The entirety of the setting and perspective will be shown through the eyes of Benjo. This also accentuates the rapid urbanization and the realism associated with living in Manila.
FEU-Manila film students to release Hakbang Saan, a poignant reality of urban life in Manila
Kyle Trinidad directed the film and created it through a collaboration of different creative minds. Anna Valle wrote the story, Andre Coros developed the screenplay, and Ernest Joseph Manalili was the Director of Photography. Arianna Baltan produced the film with Kale Aaron Baccay as the Assistant Director. Rhodie Maria Cerdiña, Jiro Manuel Gendrano, and Harbie Lo as Camera Operators. Karl Ferrer, the Editor, skillfully handled the post-production.
Nel Estuya, a freelance film actor, plays the lead role of Benjo. Estuya has previously displayed his remarkable acting skills in mainstream and independent films. These include Goyo: Ang Batang Heneral and Delia and Sammy. He also starred in SinePiyu XV: Liwayway for his outstanding performances in Kwentong Barbero and Hanggang sa Dulo ng Mundo. Both have earned their spots as finalists in the All Tamaraws Division. Estuya’s portrayal of Benjo is subtle and authentic, making the film a compelling watch for those searching for their sense of belonging in the world.
Kalye Productions is excited to release “Hakbang Saan?” on May 20 in Viddsee and hopes that the film will show the audience the realities of urban life. To learn more about the release of “Hakbang Saan?” and Kalye Productions, you can visit their Facebook page @kalyeproductions.
Angela Grace P. Baltan has been writing professionally since 2017. She doesn’t hesitate to be opinionated in analyzing movies and television series. Aside from that, she has an affinity for writing anything under the sun. As a writer, she uses her articles to advocate for feminism, gender equality, the LGBTQIA+ community, and mental health among others.