Baguio City, Philippines – November 21, 2024 – The University of the Cordilleras Language and Literature Society and the College of Arts and Sciences, in collaboration with **EdukSine Studios and the Japan Foundation Manila (JFM), hosted a compelling screening of the award-winning Japanese film Angry Son. With an audience of 220 students and faculty members, the event became a powerful platform for cultural exchange, storytelling, and social reflection, shedding light on themes of family struggles, identity, and the Filipino-Japanese experience.
A Film That Resonates Across Borders
Directed by Kashou Iizuka, Angry Son tells the story of Jungo, an 18-year-old raised by his Filipino mother in Ota City, Japan. With only financial support from his estranged Japanese father, Jungo grapples with his mixed heritage, personal relationships, and the search for belonging. His journey to reconnect with his father unveils a profound narrative of acceptance, love, and cultural duality, deeply resonating with the audience.
For students at the University of the Cordilleras, the film was more than just a viewing—it was a mirror to real-life experiences of multicultural families, sparking introspective reflections and meaningful discussions on identity and representation in cinema.
Special Guests from Japan Foundation Manila
The event was further elevated by the presence of Japan Foundation Manila (JFM) representatives whose insights enriched the discussions on Japanese cinema, cultural collaboration, and the impact of storytelling on global audiences:
Eisuke Matsuda– Assistant Director, Japan Foundation Manila
Carlos Ortiz– Program Officer, Japan Foundation Manila
Their participation underscored JFM’s mission of fostering cultural exchange through film and highlighted the significance of sharing narratives that bridge diverse cultures and communities.
Exclusive Q&A with Director Kashou Iizuka
One of the event’s highlights was a virtual Q&A session with Angry Son’s director and writer, Kashou Iizuka. Students and faculty had the rare opportunity to gain firsthand insights into his creative process, the film’s inspiration, and the challenges of portraying complex social themes on screen. The interactive discussion allowed the audience to connect even more deeply with the film, making it a truly immersive cinematic experience.
A Deeper Social Perspective with the ABONG Filipino-Japanese Foundation of Northern Luzon, Inc.
Further enriching the film showing, the event welcomed key representatives from the ABONG Filipino-Japanese Foundation of Northern Luzon, Inc. (Abong), an organization dedicated to promoting cultural exchange, mutual understanding, and support for the Filipino-Japanese community. The guests included:
Arnel M. Cabanisas – Executive Director
Ms. Jennifer Palitog – Social Worker Practitioner
Ms. Angelica Challoy – Social Worker Intern
Juvanie Garoy – Social Worker Practitioner
Jona Morae Fidchongkas – Social Worker Intern
Their insights brought the film’s themes to life by providing real-world perspectives on the challenges faced by individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds. Through their expertise, students gained a deeper understanding of the emotional, social, and psychological impact of family separation, identity struggles, and cultural adaptation.
Student Reflections: An Emotional and Eye-Opening Experience
The film’s themes struck a personal chord with many attendees. Several students shared how Angry Son challenged their perspectives and stirred profound emotions:
“I had a mirrored feeling of emotions while watching it. At some points, I even felt like crying.” – BS Psychology student
– “From the title itself, I expected it to be very dramatic, which it turned out to be. I also thought it would focus solely on Filipino culture, but the film effectively portrayed the fusion of both Filipino and Japanese cultures.” – BA Communication student
– “Definitely, yes! I would recommend this film to anyone I know. I didn’t expect to love it as much as I did, but it beautifully captured Filipino culture. – Language and Literature Society member
Cinema as a Bridge for Cultural Understanding
The University of the Cordilleras, in partnership with **EdukSine Studios and Japan Foundation Manila, continues to champion cinema as a tool for education and social awareness. The screening of Angry Son was more than just an event—it was an invitation to reflect, empathize, and engage with stories that matter.
As EdukSine Studios expands its reach, bringing thought-provoking films to schools, universities, and communities, it remains committed to using cinema as a catalyst for meaningful conversations and cultural exchange.
Stay Connected
Follow EdukSine Studios and Japan Foundation Manila for updates on upcoming screenings, film talks, and cultural initiatives:
EdukSine Studios
www.eduksine.com
Eduksine Studios
Japan Foundation Manila https://jfmo.org.ph/ The Japan Foundation Manila
For partnerships, collaborations, or inquiries, email us at info@eduksine.com