Davao City, Philippines — On January 15, 2025, EdukSine Studios and Japan Foundation Manila (JFM) brought the critically acclaimed Japanese film Angry Son to Philippine Nikkei Jin Kai International School (PNJKIS) in Davao, offering students a profound exploration of identity, family, and societal expectations through the lens of Japanese cinema.
The special screening gathered an audience of 120, composed of Grades 11 and 12 students, faculty, and esteemed guests, all eager to engage with the film’s thought-provoking themes. The event emphasized the power of storytelling in fostering empathy, cultural appreciation, and social awareness.
A Cinematic Experience That Bridges Cultures
The program opened with an introduction to Japan Foundation Manila, highlighting its mission to promote cultural exchange through the arts. Dr. Ines P. Mallari, PNJKIS President, delivered an inspiring message on the importance of cross-cultural understanding, emphasizing how films serve as a bridge between nations.
Following this, students were captivated by Angry Son’s emotional depth and compelling storytelling, which follows Jungo, an 18-year-old living in Japan with his Filipino mother. As he struggles with his father’s absence, his mother’s plans to remarry, and his evolving identity, Jungo embarks on a journey to find his estranged father, confronting complex realities of family and self-discovery.
Engaging Dialogue with Director Kashou Iizuka
After a one-hour lunch break, students participated in a Talkback Session with Angry Son director Kashou Iizuka, where they gained exclusive insights into the film’s creative process, themes, and cultural significance. The discussion fostered meaningful conversations on identity, representation, and the challenges of single-parent households, all of which resonated deeply with the audience.
Adding to the depth of the discussion, the event was graced by distinguished guests:
- Dr. Jhoanna Cruz – UP Mindanao
- Mr. Voltaire Bitalac – Community Liaison, CineKlab–LPU Davao
- Representatives from Manila Shimbun
Their presence enriched the conversation, emphasizing the significance of cultural collaboration and the role of cinema in fostering understanding across communities.
More Than Just a Film Screening
Beyond its entertainment value, the Angry Son screening at PNJKIS became a platform for learning, reflection, and engagement. It reinforced the importance of international cinema in broadening perspectives and deepening cultural connections. Through initiatives like this, EdukSine Studios and Japan Foundation Manila reaffirm their commitment to using film as an educational tool that sparks meaningful conversations and promotes inclusivity.
Looking Forward
With the success of this screening, EdukSine Studios continues its mission of making socially relevant films accessible to Filipino audiences. By bringing diverse narratives to schools and communities, EdukSine Studios is paving the way for a more inclusive, culturally aware, and cinema-literate society.
“When I watched the movie earlier, or as you mentioned during our lunch time, the movie showed us so many social issues that are happening nowadays. And even in the realities in the society nowadays that even if— maybe because here in Philippines although we are very open already like in Japan, you know, our catholic faith here is very strong. So, there are things here that may not be acceptable as the depicted in the movie, like the same-sex marriage and on. But then I think this movie is also good for us to learn that, you know, people are given different choices, and so it’s up to us to respect. So many themes came out of this movie and I don’t want to say anything more about this, but I think there were so many things for us to learn, even the students at PNJKIS. Inside the classroom, there were so many things that happened there, and I hope they were able to detect the things that they could learn from there. Now, I would like to say that this is really a very wonderful movie, despite my apprehension at first, I could say that I hope that many Filipinos and many Japanese will be able to watch your movie. Thank you and congratulations.” – Dr. Ines P. Mallari, President of PNJKIS
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
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