Restored Filipino Classic "Kisapmata" to Screen at Brooklyn Academy of Music

A landmark Filipino film, Mike de Leon’s 1981 psychological drama "Kisapmata," has been given a 4K restoration and is set to be screened at the Brooklyn Academy of Music (BAM) in New York from November 7 to 13. The update was highlighted by Letterboxd, a popular social networking platform for movie aficionados, through a teaser shared on its official X (formerly Twitter) account.

The brief preview showcased the film’s enhanced visuals ahead of its upcoming screening event, which will also feature De Leon’s "Batch ’81." Both films previously premiered internationally together at the 1982 Cannes Film Festival, marking an important debut for the director.

The social media announcement by Letterboxd attracted considerable attention, amassing over 142,000 views and numerous comments from Filipinos who expressed pride and enthusiasm for the recognition of their national cinema. One commenter encouraged viewers to explore more Filipino classics, citing titles such as "Insiang," "Himala," and "Ganito Kami Noon, Paano Na Kami Ngayon?." Another expressed surprise and delight at seeing a Filipino film featured prominently on an international cinephile platform.

"Kisapmata" tells the story of Mila, portrayed by Charo Santos, a young woman who struggles to free herself from the oppressive dominance of her father by marrying her colleague. The film draws inspiration from National Artist for Literature Nick Joaquin’s true-crime article "The House on Zapote Street," published in the Philippine Free Press. This account detailed a tragic real-life domestic incident involving Pablo Cabading, a retired policeman who, after a family confrontation, fatally shot his wife, daughter, son-in-law, and then himself.

Mike de Leon is widely celebrated for his insightful filmmaking, often addressing themes such as power dynamics, morality, and social justice. The restoration and international screening of "Kisapmata" reaffirm the importance of Philippine cinema in the global film community.