There is a statement that is frequently quoted in Facebook because of the current Metro Manila Film Fest.
To paraphrase: The local movie industry is a stinking pile of garbage because people watch crappy movies. And if you watch these crappy movies, you are part of the problem.
I can’t claim any expertise in filmmaking, I don’t have an encyclopedic knowledge of movie, and I’m no film critic. However, I know which movies I like and I know how to a appreciate a good movie.
Not watching bad Filipino movies is not the solution. Especially if that means watching supposedly superior American films instead. That kind of thinking further ruins the already ailing local movie industry.
Watching good Filipino movies, and bringing friends to watch them as well, IS the solution.
The Philippine movie industry will not realize there is a market for quality films unless we actually start supporting quality movies. We do make quality films; what they need is a wider audience.
Since I don’t have an income even to feed myself and at my advanced age making the perilous life-threatening trip from Caloocan to the nearest mall is expensive, others will have to take up the slack. go watch. i’ll sulk at home. :)