IAF Cinematheque Presents Exclusive Screening of ‘Bona’: A Must-See Film Event!

In a significant event for film enthusiasts, the Cinematheque of the Iranian Artists Forum (IAF) is set to screen the acclaimed Filipino film “Bona,” directed by Lino Brocka. This 1980 drama film offers a profound exploration of obsession and unrequited love, making it a must-see for anyone interested in the depths of human emotion. The screening will take place on Monday, accompanied by an insightful review session led by Iranian film critic Saeid Nouri.

“Bona,” with its compelling story and screenplay written by Cenen Ramones, features the legendary Nora Aunor in the lead role. The film intricately depicts the psychological turmoil of a young girl named Bona, whose intense infatuation with a struggling actor named Gardo, portrayed by Phillip Salvador, spirals into a captivating yet disturbing narrative. The film delves into various themes, including:

• Unrequited Love: Bona’s yearning for Gardo represents a deep emotional struggle.
• Obsession: The film vividly illustrates how obsession can distort reality.
• The Dark Side of Desire: It explores the consequences of unchecked passion.

The culmination of Bona’s journey leads to a nightmarish conclusion, which has left audiences pondering the complexities of human desire. Initially, the film was an official entry at the 6th Metro Manila Film Festival and gained international acclaim when it premiered in the Directors’ Fortnight section of the 1981 Cannes International Film Festival. Nora Aunor’s performance was so powerful that it earned her the Gawad Urian Award for Best Actress, solidifying her status as one of the Philippines’ most celebrated actresses.

Originally conceived as a teleplay for the television series “Babae,” Ramones’ narrative focused on Bona’s obsession. Director Lino Brocka reimagined this story, choosing to emphasize her psychological fixation rather than a traditional romantic arc. Brocka’s creative decision to shift the focus to Bona’s obsession with Gardo not only enriched the narrative but also highlighted the complexities of love and desire, making it more engaging for viewers.

However, after its initial release, “Bona” faced a tragic setback. A fire destroyed the negatives and prints of films produced by NV Productions, leading to fears that this cinematic gem was lost forever. Fortunately, a significant breakthrough occurred when French distribution company Carlotta Films, under the guidance of Vincent Paul-Boncour, discovered the original negatives stored at a Paris film lab. This revelation was made possible through the research efforts of film historian Jose B. Capino, who was studying Brocka’s extensive body of work.

The restoration process of “Bona” was meticulously handled at Cité de Mémoire, with sound restoration carried out by L.E. Diapason. The fully restored version made its debut during the 2024 Cannes Film Festival in the Cannes Classics section, receiving acclaim from industry insiders, including Oscar-winning filmmaker Sean Baker. This restoration not only revitalized the film but also brought it back into the spotlight, showcasing its enduring significance.

Moreover, the restored version of “Bona” marked its Philippine debut as the closing film of the 2024 Cinemalaya Film Festival and was featured in the TIFF Classics section of the Toronto International Film Festival. Critics have lauded “Bona” as one of the most significant films in Philippine cinema history. It has even been included in the list of “The Best 100 Films in the World” by the Museum of Tolerance in Los Angeles, illustrating its global impact and influence.

While “Bona” has received widespread acclaim, some contemporary reviews, such as that of Lawrence Van Gelder for The New York Times, have raised questions about the film’s narrative coherence. Critics have noted that it sometimes struggles to fully convey Bona’s obsessive nature, leaving viewers to grapple with the complexities of her character.

Throughout its storied history, “Bona” has accumulated numerous accolades. It won the Jury Prize at the Figueira da Foz International Film Festival in 1982 and secured another Gawad Urian Award for Best Actress for Nora Aunor. Its cultural and artistic significance continues to be celebrated, with adaptations such as the 2012 stage version by the Philippine Educational Theater Association, featuring the talented Eugene Domingo as Bona.

Overall, “Bona” stands as a monumental achievement in Filipino cinema, showcasing the mastery of Lino Brocka and the transformative power of Nora Aunor’s acting. As it continues to resonate with audiences today, it remains a testament to the enduring nature of human emotions and the art of storytelling.