A cheaper alternative is digital indie filmmaking, which has been gaining ground in the country for some years now. Video has gained respect after the success of films such as Daniel Myrick and Eduardo Sanchez's "The Blair Witch Project" and Thomas Vinterberg's "The Celebration." Kidlat Tahimik also recognizes the use of videos. Khavn de la Cruz, who is one of the more recognized digital indie filmmakers in the country, explains that digital filmmaking is a free-form process, just as long as you have a camera. While some would want to follow traditional rules, digital indie filmmakers avoid them most of the time.

The important element for independent filmmaking is being resourceful since you're on your own. According to Khavn, "kung anong meron ka diyan, gamitin mo." Roxlee, on the other hand, emphasizes originality. "Maging original ka. Gawin mong mas Pinoy."

INQUIRER
June 26, 2001