20 June 2016 – The Philippine Consulate General in Chicago, in cultural partnership with Western Union, participated in the 13th Chicago International Screenings Program at the Chicago Cultural Center on June 15.
This year’s Philippine entry is the independent film “Ekstra” (The Bit Part) by Director Jeffrey Jeturian. It is a socio-realist drama-comedy film which follows a seemingly usual day in the life of Loida Malabanan (Vilma Santos) as she embarks on yet another shooting day of a soap opera as an extra. Over the course of a one-day shoot, Loida manages to keep her head up in the face of innumerable indignations.
Philippine Consul General to Chicago Generoso DG Calonge gave his opening remarks at the packed 260-seat capacity Claudia Cassidy Theater. The screening was warmly attended and very well received by the audience, along with the overwhelming support of the members of the Filipino-American community.
The program is presented by the Cinema Chicago, in cooperation with the Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events, Chicago Consular Corps and cultural partners, showcasing 18 comedy films from around the world that are not widely available in the United States. The weekly film series will run from June 01 to September 28. END