Cinema gives us the opportunity to learn about different cultures and opens our eyes to tales we've never heard of before. In some way, this is tenfold for short films, as more creative control and smaller budgets allow filmmakers to spread their wings and tackle subjects that are important to them. In the case of director Elvert Banares, that subject is the Suguidanon Epic – a sprawling tale of cultural significance to the indigenous Panay Bukidnon people of The Philippines. With a touch of cinematic flair, Banares brings portions of this tale to the big screen in “The Flight of Banog”.
“Kodomobanpaku” is screening at Los Angeles Asian Pacific Film Festival
The young Rohan (Jashem Rosh C. Padernal) sits by an outdoor fire one night while his elderly father, Amang Baoy (Romulo C. Caballero), tells him tales from the Suguidanon Epic. Portions of this grand story are re-enacted as we scratch the surface of some of the key points from this historic folk tale.
The first thing to note about “The Flight of Banog” is just how kinetic the short film is. From the moment Amang Baoy begins to chant part of the Suguidanon Epic, there's an energy that takes over the film and flows through everything, from the editing to the camerawork. We zip through the air and fly across fields as we're frantically introduced to a cast of colourful mythic characters, each more striking than the last. Baoy's chanting may be an unfamiliar form of storytelling to many, so accompanying his words with such engaging visuals is an excellent choice.
Part dramatization, part documentary, “The Flight of Banog” is the first time we've seen the Panay Bukidnon council of elders give consent for the Suiguidanon Epic to be translated to film. The indigenous tribe, which resides in Visayas, in the Philippines, have endured with their cultural traditions and practices, thanks to their isolation. Through Banares's film, we get to experience the celebration of a tale that remains an important part of the people's existence to this day. Being introduced to such a culturally intimate story in this engaging manner is a privilege, as this enticing short film is sure to pique the interest of many viewers.
The portions of the Suiguidanon Epic that are put to screen are frantic and confusing yet wholly intriguing. Everything about the story, from the quest of the golden hero, Humadapnon, to the titular flight of Banog, a giant hawk, is alluring for how different it feels. The story is brought to life with the help of some magnificent costumes, which are stunning to behold. There's an exotic quality to the short that shines through in its color, energy, and authenticity.
A short film like “The Flight of Banog” is a rare treat. This is a project that has been crafted with a deep love and respect for its subject matter, a quality which is translated to the screen. To introduce, what to many, will be a foreign and unfamiliar tale in such an exciting and engaging manner is extraordinary, and for that, everyone involved must be commended. With this short film, Elvert Banares has presented a welcome slice of indigenous culture in The Philippines, which encourages you to dig deeper and learn more.
