FROM the storyteller who brought to the cinema a very Cebuano comedy film in “Patay Na Si Hesus,” comes another unique plot of adventure, murder and laughs. “Si Chedeng at Si Apple” is Fatrick Tabada’s latest comedic masterpiece, which has earned him a Famas (Filipino Academy of Movie Arts and Sciences) nomination for best screenplay.
Tabada, together with Rae Red of “Birdshot,” co-directed the movie following the adventures of Mercedes “Chedeng” Suarez, played by Gloria Diaz, a 66-year-old widow, who, in the throes of her husband’s cremation, decides to get out of the closet and search for her ex-girlfriend. Chedeng is accompanied by her best friend Apolinaria “Apple” Macaraeg, played by Elizabeth Oropesa, who murders and hand-carries her abusive live-in partner’s severed head in an authentic Louis Vuitton bag. Chedeng and Apple, together with the bag, embark on a journey through Cebu in the hope of finding Chedeng’s lost love, Lydia Cantillo.
This critically praised fim shows both directors’ mighty eye in creating a well-balanced story of murder, comedy and love; centering on women who are far from the typical film heroines, but are just as strong, relatable and extremely empowered. One is sure to love Chedeng and Apple.
In a Facebook interview with one of the filmmakers, Tabada, a true-blue Cebuano, candidly talks about “Si Chedeng at Si Apple,” movies, and his humble beginnings in the film industry.
Where did you get the inspiration to write?
Inspiration rarely hits me. The motivation and inspiration to write come from the bills and vices that I need to pay.
How is the story of “Si Chedeng at si Apple” different from your other screenplays?
The characters are both in their 60s. It was a challenge writing it from the POVs (points of view) of senior citizens who are about to take charge of their own lives.
What issues are you shedding light on in the movie? How did you balance the tone of the movie?
We want this film to be our love letter to women who are, in one way or another, victims of the oppressive patriarchy. When I was writing the script, I want it to be painfully funny. Drama and comedy blending perfectly. I didn’t want the drama to be dragging but at the same time I also didn’t wanted comedy to drown the issues and drama that I wanted to tell, and I hope we did just that.
Did you have any difficulties shooting? What were they?
Typical and common wish list of a film production: more time and more budget. But everything was handled well by our talented and competitive production team.
How was it working with Gloria Diaz and Elizabeth Oropesa? How did they find Cebu?
At first, it was nerve-racking. It was our first time directing (with Rae Red as my co-director) and Ms. Gloria and Ms. Elizabeth are veteran actresses. Surprisingly, both of them were collaborative. It was a blast! They loved Cebu, especially the lechon!
What do you want your audience to learn or get from the movie?
In these pressing times, the world confronts the issues facing women, and we don’t even have to look far. In the Philippines, women suffer from domestic and sexual violence and even women in power are experiencing political harassment.
We would like this to be a film that sends the message that women from all walks of life, though have been receiving punches left and right by the patriarchal society, caged in a closet and have never been given the chance to soar, are now standing up, fighting for the freedom that they long deserve and are ready to behead the patriarchy and hide it inside a luxurious Louis Vuitton bag.
When did you start making films? How did it happen?
It started way back in college. We had this short film festival in our school where I directed and wrote my first short film. I told myself, this is what I want to do.
What are the movies that inspire you?
Well, my favorite movies are “Little Miss Sunshine,” “In Bruges,” among others.
What kind of movies are you into? What movie have you watched recently?
Everything—from genre to art film. (The last movie I saw was) “Solo: A Stars Wars Story.”
“Si Chedeng at Si Apple” and “Patay na si Jesus” seem to center on exploration and adventure by incorporating road trips or traveling to different places. Why is that? I love road trips! I think in order for you to get to know a person better, you need to take a trip with him or her. Same with my characters, in order for me and the audience to get to know them, I take them on a road trip. Life’s an adventure, you know.
How did you feel about your Famas nomination? Who told you?
Honored. I read it on Facebook.
What’s next for “Si Chedeng at Si Apple”?
We’ re going to Seattle for the Seattle International Film Festival and to San Francisco for the Frameline Film Festival. I will be there! (The movie is set for commercial release in the US this month).
Will there be a movie showing in Cebu?
Hopefully.
What are your tips for Cebuano film hopefuls?
To aspiring filmmakers, keep the passion alive. Make films!
Would you be attending the Famas Awards on June 10?
Nope. I’ll be in San Francisco to attend the US screening of “Si Chedeng at Si Apple.”