Nora Aunor, Dolphy’s LGBTQ-themed films to return to cinemas for Pride Month
(from left) Nora Aunor and Vilma Santos in “T-Bird at Ako” and Dolphy and Rodrick Paulate in “Mga Anak ni Facifica Falayfay.” Images: Ayala Malls Cinemas
Two Filipino classic LGBTQ-themed films, “T-Bird at Ako,” starring the late Superstar Nora Aunor and Star for All Seasons Vilma Santos, and “Mga Anak ni Facifica Falayfay,” featuring the late Comedy King Dolphy and actor-comedian Rodrick Paulate, are set to return to local cinemas this June in celebration of Pride Month.
Directed by Danny L. Zialcita, the 1982 classic “T-Bird at Ako” follows the story of Sylvia (Aunor), who finds herself in a complex relationship with a nightclub dancer, Sabel (Santos), who unintentionally kills a man in self-defense after he tries to assault her.
Aside from the veteran actresses, the movie also features Dindo Fernando, Tommy Abuel, Suzanne Gonzales and Odette Khan, among others.
“Mga Anak ni Facifica Falayfay,” which was originally released in 1987, is a follow-up to Dolphy’s “Facifica Falayfay” (1969). In the sequel, the passing of Facifica’s spouse (Pacifico, portrayed by Dolphy) impacts one of his children, Rodrigo (Paulate). As Rodrigo navigates self-identity, he seeks approval from his father.
The movie, directed by Romy Villaflor, also stars Zsa Zsa Padilla, Lotlot de Leon, Eric Quizon and Rolly Quizon, among others.
Both films are part of Ayala Malls Cinemas’ “A-Rewind” initiative, which showcases digitally restored Filipino classics. The program, in partnership with ABS-CBN Film Restoration, aims to reintroduce landmark local films to new generations of viewers, with a special focus this month on queer stories told through Philippine cinema.
Under the program, classics “Kailan Ka Magiging Akin,” “Tatlong Ina, Isang Anak,” “Tatlong Taong Walang Diyos,” “Hiling” and “Magic Temple” have all been re-released in cinemas earlier this year.
Tickets are priced at P180 for regular patrons and P160 for students for the screenings of “T-Bird at Ako” and “Mga Anak ni Facifica Falayfay” this June. /ra
