ICYMI: Genesis Captures Viewer’s Choice Best Film; Fabian Triumphs as Supporting Actress

Photo from St. Mary’s College of Baliuag, Inc.

From months of filming, tight schedules, and countless sacrifices to a moment of triumph, the school’s official short film entry Genesis emerged as Best Film (Viewer’s Choice) at the LENTE: Baliwag City Short Film Festival, with Llana Fabian also earning Best Supporting Actress on Sept. 29 at the Baliwag Star Arena.

Several members of the production team were also recognized through nominations, including Chrizia Villaluna for Best Director, Gianina Lexine Paguio and Rayah Samantha Garcia for Best Lead Actress, and Erizha Jane Santos for Best Editing.

For Ms. Villaluna, the journey behind Genesis was far from easy. She recalled that one of the biggest challenges during production was the unpredictable weather, as continuous rains and class suspensions disrupted their filming schedule.

“The habagat really took a toll on our process… circumstances did not align with the weather intended for specific scenes,” she shared, adding that sudden changes also required several retakes.

Despite these setbacks, she emphasized that the team managed to overcome the difficulties through proper communication and careful scheduling.

Beyond logistical challenges, Ms. Villaluna highlighted the emotional depth required in directing the film, particularly in guiding her actors to authentically portray their roles.

Instead of simply instructing them to act, she encouraged them to fully understand and embody their characters.

“I didn’t just directly tell her to break down, cry and act, I remember retracing back to our story, asking her the question: ‘What would you do if you were living the actual life of the character you’re portraying?’,” she explained, noting that genuine emotion comes from connection, not forced performance.

Ms. Villaluna also shared that even before filming, the story itself had already left a deep impact on her.

“Before filming, before fully finalizing the script, I also clearly remembered crying to the story of the characters in Genesis. And I remember swearing from there on that I would extract the same emotion from the audience,” she said.

She added that her direction aimed to make viewers feel the same pain, joy, and confusion experienced by the characters, while shedding light on the realities of mental health struggles.

“I hope the audience realizes how confusing and complex the human mind is…and to see Genesis not just as a mere film for a contest, but a reality of worlds,” she emphasized.

Following the director’s vision, the story itself was shaped through a collaborative effort led by writer Aimie Frances Alleli Sarmiento.

“It was definitely a collective effort… my heart is filled with gratitude for my classmates and seniors who were so supportive and passionate,” Ms. Sarmiento said, emphasizing how their shared vision became one of her main sources of inspiration.

As the scriptwriter, she also highlighted her intention to raise awareness about mental health through the film, aiming to create a story that would not only be seen, but deeply felt by its audience.

Ms. Sarmiento explained that Genesis symbolizes both a beginning and an ending, drawing inspiration from the biblical concept of creation. She shared that the story centers on two individuals who, despite personal struggles, form a meaningful friendship that brings hope and renewal.

“One of the film’s core messages is choosing kindness in a world that is often cruel,” she said, adding that not everyone has the ability or opportunity to express their inner struggles, making empathy and understanding essential.

She further emphasized that the film reflects the unseen battles people face daily, noting that these realities are what shape the narrative and make it relatable to viewers.

For Ms. Sarmiento, the emotional depth of each character is what audiences will likely connect with the most.

“I think each tribulation shown in the film will make people feel seen and heard,” she said, expressing hope that Genesis would leave a lasting impact by reminding viewers that even in darkness, there is still light to be found.

Meanwhile, producer Ma. Flordanisa Torres highlighted the strength of the team behind the production, describing the cast and crew as “genuinely memorable.”

She shared that despite the challenges they faced, the group remained united, overcoming difficulties through cooperation and shared dedication.

In the end, Genesis stands not only as an award-winning film, but as a testament to collaboration, storytelling, and the power of giving voice to stories that reflect real-life struggles.