by Imelda Alviso
The much-anticipated premiere of "Love Child," an entry in the 2024 Cinemalaya Philippine Independent Film Festival, happened last August 5, 2024, Monday. This event, held at Cinema 2, Ayala Mall Manila Bay in Parañaque City, drew an eager and diverse crowd of cinephiles. The film features an original script that won first place in the Dulang Pampelikula Category of the 71st Carlos Palanca Memorial Awards for Literature. Set in Negros Occidental, it follows a young couple navigating the challenges of raising their autistic son.
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| ASP viewers with the director, Professor Jonathan Jurillo |
The film's leading stars, Jane Oineza, and RK Bagatsing -- a real-life couple -- attended with John Tyrron Ramos, who portrayed their son. The director, Professor Jonathan Jurillo, dedicated the film to his son on the autism spectrum, wearing an orange shirt as a nod to the Autism Society Philippines (ASP). Veteran actress and director Laurice Guillen was also present.
WHAT WE FELT. Watching "Love Child" was immersive and emotionally engaging, with powerful performances and a gripping storyline. The film realistically depicts the challenges of raising a child on the autism spectrum, showing the parents' journey through the emotional stages toward acceptance. Despite minor issues like the musical score and occasional unclear dialogue, the movie was relatable and inspiring, raising awareness about autism and offering hope to families. We felt how the film brought joy to the audience, leveraging the power of cinema to bring people together.
The film resonated deeply with us families caring for a loved one on the spectrum, as it mirrored our own experiences. The early years after the diagnosis were marked with financial and emotional struggles. Having emerged from the difficult years, we bring hope to other families facing similar challenges and a resolve to help increase awareness about ASD.
WHAT WE LEARNED. The movie taught us the importance of seeking professional advice, following it and pursuing interventions suitable for the child. The film stressed the need for a supportive and safe environment for the entire family. It showed that individuals on the autism spectrum, like the grandfather in the movie, can lead fulfilling lives.
ASP advocates from various communities -- Imelda Alviso, Romulo Alviso, Andrea Alviso (Paranque), Rhodora Velasco (Las Pinas), Love Joy Alburo, Kevin Claude Alburo (Muntinlupa) went home with the hope that the movie industry continues to support local films that bring a dignified and just portrayal to the lives of families who live with disabilities.
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