Congratulations to Alemberg Ang (95), alumnus and former Xavier teacher, whose film “The Rapture of Fe”  won the Golden Prize at the International Digital Competition at the 33rd Cairo International Film Festival last November 20. Aside from Alem, who served as executive producer, other Xaverians collaborated in the project:  Gino Nacianceno and Marco Ortiga (XS 02) as production designers; Michael Son (XS 02) and Carlo Chong (XS 07) as associate producers; and Angelo Santos (XS 03) from SQ Film Laboratories who processed post-production for sound and music.

The film bested 11 other films from Germany, France, India, Poland, Algeria, Serbia, and Turkey, among others.  This is the first time that a Filipino film won in the Digital Competition. The last time a Filipino movie won in Cairo was in 1995 in the Main Competition for The Flor Contemplacion Story.

The award includes a plaque and $10,000 cash prize. The citation reads: For its sensitive portrayal of a woman caught between an abusive husband and an impotent lover, in the process illuminating our understanding of human relationships. The film stood out for its unflinching realism and strong performances that brought alive the complexity of a woman’s quest for fulfillment. The Cairo International Film Festival is considered a Category A festival by the Fédération Internationale des Associations de Producteurs de Films (FIAPF) and is the oldest and most prestigious in the region.

After winning the Special Jury Prize at the 2009 Cinemalaya Philippine Independent Film Festival, the film was exhibited at the Chicago International Film Festival and the Osian’s Cinefan Film Festival (in New Delhi). Nest stop in the film fest circuit is the Bahamas International Film Festival in December where the film will be entered in competition.

Alem would like to  thank Orocan who graciously sponsored the movie, especially when they needed financial help, and  all the supporters and donors from the AAXS, XSPA, and the Xavier faculty and staff.

Congratulations Alem and the other alumni! Luceat lux!