PH Consulate General in Toronto Screens Award-Winning Film
Consul General Rosalita S. Prospero (rightmost) poses for a souvenir photo with the cast of the film a “A Piece of Paradise” and its writer, director and producer Dr. Patrick Alcedo (second from left). (Toronto PCG photo)
TORONTO 13 March 2018 – To celebrate National Women’s Month and International Women’s Day, the Philippine Consulate General in Toronto held a special screening of the documentary film “A Piece of Paradise”, written, directed and produced by Dr. Patrick Alcedo of York University.
The film depicted the everyday life of Filipino women Norlyn, Em-Em and Betsy as well as their families, as they navigate living and working in Toronto while longing for their home in the Philippines.
The film premiered on 18 November 2018 during the Toronto Reel Asian International Film Festival and won two jury awards, the National Bank Best First Feature Film Award and the Centennial Best Canadian Film Award.
The message of the film was poignant that one can find joy and own a piece of paradise even in the midst of the most difficult circumstances.
While based on the lives of Filipino immigrant women, the film depicted themes that are universal—what it means to raise a family, what it means to build a home, and the search for one’s identity and sense of community in a foreign land—and can cut across cultural differences and resonate with different audiences.
In his remarks, Dr. Alcedo said that “I hope that you will find their stories and their journeys not only moving, but also gentle reminders that no matter how challenging a situation may be, how far we are from our homes and loved ones, and how foreign Canada may be at times, we have resources within and around us to find our own small or even large pieces of paradise.” END
Filipino community leaders and heads of organizations pose for a group photo after the film screening to celebrate International Women’s Day. (Toronto PCG photo)
For more information, visit www.torontopcg.dfa.gov.ph, www.philcongen-toronto.com or https://www.facebook.com/PHinToronto/.