Sylvia Sanchez’s Cannes Red Carpet Triumph
Fresh from the Cannes Film Festival in France, actress-producer Sylvia Sanchez shared her deep gratitude for her involvement in this esteemed event and her collaboration with international filmmakers through the Japanese art film Renoir. As the CEO of Nathan Studios, she emphasized how meaningful it was for her and her team to be part of the main competition.
“Masaya kami na nasa competition ang movie namin. Nasa red carpet kami. All smiles kami at tuwang tuwa talaga kami,” Sylvia expressed. She proudly recalled the moment their film Renoir took the Cannes red carpet by storm. The movie is set for screenings in Japan and France in August, with a Philippine release planned later this year.
About the Film Renoir
Renoir, directed by acclaimed Japanese filmmaker Chie Hayakawa, centers on Fuki, an 11-year-old girl grappling with her father’s terminal illness and her mother’s stress. Fascinated by telepathy, Fuki escapes into her imaginative world. The film stars newcomer Yui Suzuki, whose compelling performance earned Sylvia’s admiration.
“Akala ko nga magbe-best actress siya eh (Yui). Sobrang galing niya pati body language ang galing,” Sylvia noted, highlighting the young actress’s impressive talent.
This multinational project is a collaboration between studios from Japan, France, Singapore, Indonesia, the Philippines, and Qatar, with Nathan Studios co-financing the film. The production’s presence at Cannes marked a significant milestone for Filipino cinema on the global stage.
Impact on Filipino Film Industry
Sylvia pointed out the huge positive impact this international collaboration brings to the Filipino film industry. “Malaking impact ito, the mere fact na three years pa lang kami nagpupunta sa Cannes as a producer, isa na kami sa naka pag partnership sa international productions at nakapag-red carpet muli dito sa Cannes,” she said.
She hopes this paves the way for more Filipino filmmakers to join the global market, solo or in collaboration with foreign producers. Nathan Studios has already made waves with previous films like the psychological thriller Cattleya Killer (2022) and action movie Topakk (2023), both featured in Cannes and starring veteran actor and congressman Juan Carlos “Arjo” Atayde.
Sylvia’s Personal Cannes Experience
Aside from the professional achievements, Sylvia also enjoyed the star-studded atmosphere of Cannes. She excitedly recalled encounters with Hollywood icons. “Una kong nakita si Cate Blanchett. Then sunod naman si Halle Berry. Andun din si Juliette Binoche. Pero bumilib lang talaga ako kay James Franco,” she shared.
Despite the challenge of getting photos with stars, James Franco warmly signed autographs and even posed for a photo with her. Sylvia described it as a rare and memorable moment. She also spotted Elle Fanning during the awards ceremony, cherishing the experience as both an actress and a fan.
Critical Acclaim for Renoir
The film has received glowing reviews from international critics. A noted reviewer praised its emotional depth despite some narrative scatter, highlighting the strength of the performances. Another critic described Renoir as an impressionistic yet captivating story of a young girl’s summer filled with life, death, and curiosity.
The Hollywood Reporter commended the poetic portrayal of Fuki’s crucial summer, underscored by Suzuki’s compelling and nuanced acting. Her wide-eyed innocence and curiosity made audiences deeply protective of the character.
Sylvia remains ecstatic and inspired by Renoir’s selection for Cannes’ main competition. “When we were starting with Nathan Studios, this was only something we dreamt of and aimed for—and now, it is finally here. All the hard work, determination, belief, and prayers have borne fruit!” she said.
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