World Cinema

The Missing

Carl Joseph PAPA
Philippines 2023 91min DCP Color Animation 12Korean Premiere

Schedule

MEGABOX Jeonju Gaeksa 9

Date

2024. 05. 02

Time

20:30

Code

171
H
KE
12
MEGABOX Jeonju Gaeksa 9

Date

2024. 05. 04

Time

10:00

Code

317
H
KE
12
CGV Jeonjugosa 5

Date

2024. 05. 10

Time

10:00

Code

905
H
KE
12

Overview

When an alien comes back to take him, a mouthless young man's life twists and turns as his memories untangle.

* This film contains lighting that may affect photosensitive viewers.

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Review

The Filipino animation The Missing is created using the rotoscoping technique. Rotoscopic animation, which traces live-action images frame by frame, was developed in 1917, so it may not be worth focusing on that technology alone. What matters is why the film utilized this technique and whether it was an appropriate choice. In conclusion, The Missing successfully used this technique. The protagonist, Eric, appears as a being without a mouth. He is traumatized by an incident in his childhood. He believes that UFOs are trying to take him away, and his belief appears as a vivid reality for him. Furthermore, as the story progresses, Eric loses his ears, eyes, and even his genitals. The rotoscoping technique greatly assists in portraying the story of a character on the edge of reality and fantasy. Also, it contrasts with childhood memories depicted in typical animation. The Missing is a coming-of-age story of a youth. Eric gradually overcomes his trauma with the help of his ever-caring mother, and Carlo, his coworker who is emotionally involved with him. The film gently embraces socially sensitive subjects. (MOON Seok)

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Credit

  • DirectorCarl Joseph PAPA
  • ProducerGeo LOMUNTAD, Dan VILLEGAS
  • ScreenplayCarl Joseph PAPA
  • CinematographyJethro JAMON
  • GafferYuri MONES
  • Production DesignEero Yves FRANCISCO
  • MusicTeresa BARROZO
  • EditorBejamin TOLENTINO
  • SoundAlexis TOMBOC, Lamberto CASAS JR.
  • CastCarlo AQUINO, Dolly DE LEON, Gio GAHOL

Film Source

Project 8 Projects⎜geolomuntad@project8projects.com

Director

Carl Joseph PAPA

Born in Manila, 1986. He directed three films including Manag Biring (2015) and Paglisan (2018). His latest film The Missing was the Philippines submission to the 2024 Oscars.