Awards collectors

Jeffrey Jeturian has many credits on his resumé for directing and producing films in the Philippines.

His latest work, The Bet Collector (Kubrador), has been shown at DIFF and has received rave reviews around the globe.

The film is the story of a woman, played by Gina Pareno, who relies on betting to support her family.

"The movie may seem to be about betting but it is actually a reflection of every Filipino's life," said Jeturian. "The lead character encounters lots of different people and she has to adapt to being an independent woman."

Beautiful script

Pareno is a highly acclaimed TV actress and film veteran.

"I never thought a 55-year-old woman like me would have landed the lead role in a film such as this," said Pareno. "I think that the script is beautiful, and I am such a great fan of Jeffrey's work that I feel so blessed to have been a part of this film."

Pareno has received three awards for best actress in The Bet Collector, from New Delhi, Brussels and the Amiens film festivals this year.

As well as Pareno's awards, the film has also received three FIPRESCI awards for best film in New Delhi, Cine Manila and the Moscow International Film Festival.

"I am so pleased with the reception the film has received worldwide. We have covered 20 film festivals this year and have been invited to 40 more," said Jeturian.

"DIFF has been the nicest fest, though. We have been pampered so much we wish we were staying for a month, but unfortunately we have to carry on travelling."

The film has not been well received in its home country though.

"Audiences back home prefer mainstream films, so my next film is going to be a horror movie starring Jay Manalo, that will hopefully attract a crowd," said Jeturian.

"But now that the film has been so appreciated around the world, we may re-release it in the Philippines."