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'Isang Lahi' docu-drama submitted to int'l filmfests

by KAREN FLORES, abs-cbnNEWS.com | 11/17/2008 8:50 PM

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"How does one live a happy life?"

In an attempt to answer this ultimate life question, Filipinos shatter regional lines in "Isang Lahi: Pearls from the Orient."

A dramatic take on real Filipino stories, "Isang Lahi: Pearls from the Orient" is a film about five documentarists (Ruel Ruiz, JP Tanchanco, Ayee Domingo, Zoilo Barrel, and Naethan Lucero) who traveled all over the country in search of true happiness. The group attempts to empower Filipinos in their diversity, examining their conditions and mental attitudes on life and everything in between.

"No matter what your situation is, you can be happy. Real people went through these situations so they can easily relate to the film," Domingo said Monday in a press conference.

The movie revolves around four key areas of life: love, health, wealth, and success. Guided by renowned experts in each field, "Isang Lahi: Pearls from the Orient" features four mini-films based on narratives of Filipinos from various regions. Each story is tastefully brought to life by some of the country's most talented artists which include Joel Torre, Mark Gil, Juan Rodrigo, and Aiza Seguerra.

"We have to seek the will of people and uplift it. We have to believe we will rise," said award-winning chef Gene Gonzales.

"Isang Lahi: Pearls from the Orient" is directed by JP Tanchanco for Tanchanco Trimedia Productions, and is supported by the National Commission for Culture and the Arts. Set to be launched in Philippine cinemas next year, the documentary was submitted to several international film festivals abroad.

"Now that we're done [with this film], we're happy. I'm sure a lot of people will get this vibe [upon watching it]," Tanchanco said.