Its been a big year for Cinemalaya 2019 and this year’s winners reflect not only artistry and talent but also a sign of the times. The Philippines’ most prestigious film festival feted the best of best during last night’s awards ceremonies and crowned John Denver Trending, a film about a young boy who fell victim to bullying because of a viral video as the Best Full Length Feature among the 10 entries.

John Denver Trending’s newbie actor Jansen Magpusao also took the top honors for Best Actor for his portrayal of the titular character  as the film bagged the awards for Best Original Music Score, Best Editing, Best Cinematography and Netpac award for Full Length.

Meanwhile, Best Director for a full feature went to Eduardo Roy Jr for F#*@BOIS. Veteran actress Ruby Ruiz took home the plum for Best Actress in her first leading role in ISKA. Ricky Davao’s unique portrayal also earned him the Best Supporting Actor for F#*@BOIS while young star Ella Cruz was awarded Best Supporting Actress for her role in Edward.

Other awardees of the night include:

Audience choice, short feature film: Heist School
Audience choice, full-length feature film: Belle Douleur
Best Sound, full-length feature film: ISKA
Best Production Design, full-length feature film: Edward
Best Screenplay, full-length feature film: ISKA
Best Screenplay, short feature film: Kontrolado ni Girly Ang Buhay Niya
Best Director, short feature film: Don Senoc for Sa Among Agwat
Best Short Feature Film: Wag Mo Kong Kausapin by Josef Dielle Gacutan
Special Jury Prize for Full Length: Edward
Special Jury Prize for Short Feature: Tembong
Netpac for Short Feature: Disconnection Notice
Netpac Award Special Mention: Sa Among Agwat
Shorts Special Mention for Subject Matter: Hele ng Maharlika

Congrats to the winners. Mabuhay ang Pelikulang Pilipino! (Long live Philippine cinema)