'Muro Ami' shines at intl film festival in Chicago

A Philippine film has earned praises in a prestigious international film festival in Chicago, according to the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA). “Muro Ami," which is included in the International Film Festival at the Chicago Cultural Center from May 4 to Sept. 24, received roaring applause and standing ovations from the audience during its screening, the DFA said. “The 260-seat venue was almost filled out during the two-day screening," it added, noting that “Muro Ami" was shown with English subtitles. GMA Pinoy TV and the Filipino American Network sponsored the film showings, according to the DFA. “Muro Ami," a film that depicts one of the worst forms of child labor in the illegal fishing system, was directed in 1999 by Marilou Diaz-Abaya of GMA Films. The International Connections Committee of Cinema Chicago, together with the consular corps and cultural partners, present the international film festival with weekly film series showcasing 21 films from around the world that are not widely available in the United States. Participating in this year's festival were the consulates generals of Argentina, Austria, Brazil, Canada, China, France, Germany, India, Israel, Italy, Japan, Mexico, Netherlands, Korea, Philippines, Poland, South Africa, Switzerland, Thailand, Uruguay, and the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office. — JE, GMA News