[Cebu City] June 20, 2022— Two Overseas Filipino Workers (OFW) themed films, Triangle of Sadness and Plan 75, have won top prizes at this year’s Cannes Film Festival in France.
Danish film Triangle of Sadness directed by Ruben Ostend received the Palme d’Or for its satirical view on luxury and greed.
De Leon plays the leading role of Abigail, a Filipino toilet manager on a luxury cruise ship in the film. She has received critical acclaim, with Variety claiming “her every line has so far prompted cheers in press and public screenings alike.”
“When we started to make this film I think we had one goal – to really, really try to make an exciting film for the audience and bring thought-provoking content,” Ostlund said.
“We wanted to entertain them, we wanted them to ask themselves questions, we wanted them to after the screening go out and have something to talk about,” he added.
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Meanwhile, Plan 75, a Japanese-French-Filipino film, got a Special Mention in the Camera d’Or competition, which honors young directors.
The narrative follows a government initiative known as Plan 75, which pushes the elderly to be euthanized by the age of 75.
The film stars Filipino-Japanese Stefanie Arianne in the lead role as Maria, an OFW laborer, and Sheryl Ichikawa in a supporting role as Grace, a strong Filipino mother.
“It’s such an honor to represent both my countries on an international stage,” said the actress.
The films of the OFW definitely wowed the judges and audience at the 75th Cannes Film Festival.