Richard V. Somes’ action spectacle “Topakk,” which has been turning heads internationally, is set to premiere at the 76th Locarno Film Festival in Switzerland.
The film’s star, Arjo Atayde, will be flying to Locarno with key people from Nathan Studios, film producers.
Note “Topakk” was already acknowledged at Cannes’ Marché du Film Fantastic Pavilion early this year, marking a milestone for Filipino cinema.
Many see “Topakk’s” success as a testament to the potential of Filipino films to compete on the international stage.
Titled “Trigger” for the international market, “Topakk” is a gripping narrative about a man battling post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
The protagonist, Miguel, portrayed by Arjo Atayde, is a discharged military man. He finds himself in a different kind of war when a drug peddler seeks his protection against a vigilante death squad.
Somes, who co-wrote “Topakk” with Jim Flores and Will Fredo, was inspired by 1980s action films like “Commando” and “First Blood” in creating the film.
In Miguel, he set out to create a flawed and human character, not someone who’s invincible. Miguel was actually based on real people Somes met, many of whom were security guards who once aspired to be decorated soldiers but are now merely trying to survive.
The film also stars Sid Lucero, Enchong Dee, Kokoy De Santos, Paolo Paraiso, Julia Montes.
Atayde’s trip to Locarno is also an official function as he is set to represent the country and the House of Representatives in the hopes of gaining more knowledge on current trends in filmmaking by participating in seminars and talks during the festival.
As the Vice Chairman of the House Committee on Creative Industries, it’s Atayde’s responsibility to help expose the Filipino film industry to beautiful locations while exploring the possibility of future collaborations with international actors and producers.
With the recent passage of the Special Program in the Creative Arts Act in the Philippines, more young filmmakers will be able to showcase their talents globally.
