Cine Europa, the country’s annual European Union film festival, returned for its 27th edition and officially opened on Oct. 18, 2024. This is regarded as the biggest and most vibrant display of European cinema, bringing together Filipino film lovers, cultural enthusiasts, and the diplomatic community for a month-long celebration of cinematic artistry and excellence.
Presented by the Delegation of the European Union to the Philippines, in partnership with the EU Member States embassies, Goethe Institut, Institut Cervantes de Manila, and the Philippine-Italian Association, Cine Europa 27 promises a diverse selection of films representing the best of Europe’s film industry.
This year’s festival features over 20 films from different EU member states, including from Ukraine as a guest. It highlights the unique stories, traditions, and creative voices that shape the continent’s cinematic landscape.
"Cine Europa continues to build bridges between Europe and the Philippines, fostering cultural exchange through the powerful medium of film. This year’s edition offers a glimpse into Europe’s rich cultural diversity, showcasing stories that resonate universally with audiences across borders,” said Ambassador Massimo Santoro, European Union to the Philippines.
The festival kicked off with an exclusive red-carpet event at Cinema 3 at the Shangri-la Plaza with the special screening of the opening film, “The Long Story Short from Denmark”. Directed by May el-Toukhy, “Maren Louise Käehne”, a comedy and drama film, sets the tone for a line-up that spans genres, from romance to animation that will surely touch your emotions.
One of Cine Europa’s core values is making European cinema accessible to all. The festival therefore continues its tradition of offering free screenings, on a first-come, first-served basis at multiple venues across the Philippines, including at the University of the Cordilleras in Baguio (October 21 to 23), the University of the Philippines in Cebu (October 22 to 27), the University of San Agustin in Iloilo (October 21 to 22), and FDCP Cinematheque (October 24 to 25).
Cine Europa remains one of the most significant cultural events in the Philippines, deepening the connection between the two regions through the universal language of film. Over the years, the festival has become a symbol of the strong and enduring relationship between the European Union and the Philippines, reflecting shared values of creativity, collaboration, and mutual respect.
Cine Europa 27 runs from Oct. 18 to 27, 2024. For the complete film line-up and schedule, visit the Cine Europa 27 Facebook account.