Diane’s ‘TheRapist’ suggests that morality is subjective

MANILA, Philippines — Many who have seen “TheRapist” by first-time film director Diane Ventura agree that its technical aspects canvass what she learned at film school in New York. The lighting, the camera angles and movements, the editing---no matter how each was good on its own, these aptly remained parts that made up the whole.

But above all, it is the concept of “The Rapist,” screened at Market! Market! a few days ago as part of the 13th Cinemanila International Film Festival, that gets and holds viewers’ attention. Although just 15 minutes long, the film is able to explore the many sides to the issue of rape; from either genders’ points of view; and sans bias nor apology. The length of the film actually works to its advantage in that it makes people want to see more.

Throw in the superb performances by actors Cherie Gil and Marco Morales, the staggering I-bet-you-didn’t-see-this-coming twist, and, voila, you have people applauding and talking about the film as soon as the credits roll. It seems a star director is born in the person of Diane and with more work in this vein, she will certainly carve a name for herself outside the shadow of her ex boyfriend and current business partner, singer-songwriter Ely Buendia.

In a short interview with the budding filmmaker, Bulletin Entertainment learned that Diane is not at all concerned with gaining financially from her opus or reaping accolades for it at film fests both here and abroad.

“I just want to put out my work,” said she who solely bankrolled the work.

“TheRapist” was shot in one day. Marco, who plays the patient accused of rape, is a friend of Diane that’s why he got the part “although after seeing his performance,  is there anyone else whom you think could have done it better than he did?” was her rhetorical question.

As for Cherie Gil, Diane said she didn’t know her personally but sent her the script from the cold nonetheless. Fortunately, the veteran actress loved it and signed on the project soon enough. Diane lauded Cherie for asking intelligent questions about that character that was offered to her even as she gave her insights.

“But she was careful not to step on my toes. Cherie is collaborative as artist but respectful, too, in that sense,” Diane said.

In a release, Diane was quoted as saying, “’Therapist’ is about female empowerment. And about not allowing yourself to be put in a position where you shouldn’t be…

“I’m saying na…whatever is dictated by society, or whatever is generally accepted by the public or the society is NOT always right naman. At the end of the day, ikaw ang nagdi-dictate kung ano ang tama…that morality is subjective, kumbaga.”

Apart from filmmaking, Diane runs the production company DVENT Productions that recently put up Ely’s “XL” concert at Republiq inside Resorts World Manila.

She is set to release her debut album soon.