Benchingko Films Celebrate 25 Years of Bench
Just when you thought things couldn't possibly
get any bigger, Bench proves otherwise by announcing the release of Benchingko Films—a
series of short films with an all-star cast paired with the finest directors in
the country. The retail giant saw it fit to celebrate its 25th year milestone
with a series of shorts to give back to its loyal customers who have supported
the brand through the years. In the words of Bench founder and CEO Ben Chan: "Fashion
keeps changing. Fashion is always evolving. Bench lasted this long because we
figured out how to ride the waves of change. But movies and films are meant to
last longer than fashion. Some are made to last forever. They make the foundation
of a culture. The stay in people's minds and hearts. They become classics. It's
the 25th anniversary of Bench, and this year we wanted to make something truly
classic and ageless. So, we made these films. Movies are the backbone of Pinoy
Pop Culture. "
 |
| Ben Chan |
 |
| Piolo Pascual, Lucy Torres-Gomez, Lovi Poe & Ben Chan |
Benchingko Films marks the first online
short film initiative done by a retailer in the Philippines. The first batch to
be released features Ben Chan and top stars Lucy Torres-Gomez, Piolo Pascual,
Lovi Poe, Coco Martin, and Bella Flores.
25 Bens
The teaser for Benchingko Films was
first unveiled during Bench's launch of the Rajo Uno and Rajo Dos fragrances at
this year's Philippine Fashion Week. The
campaign starts with "25 Bens" featuring none other than Ben Chan.
The film, directed by Ianco dela Cruz, shows a humorous and candid peek at the
many facets of the man behind the global fashion brand. In this short you'll
see twenty-five Bens talking among themselves about the brand and how far it
has come. Ben Chan's message of thanks to everyone who continues to believe in
and support the brand is one of the film's key highlights.
Star Teacher
"Star Teacher" is a
documentary featuring Lucy Torres-Gomez and the City of Ormoc. It shows how she
traces her roots back to Ormoc City and visits a school where she makes
environmental issues relevant to pre-schoolers by way of a read-along and
puppet show. Director Marla Ancheta captures Lucy's close relationship with the
school and her students and her love for Ormoc in this environmentally
eye-opening and heartwarming short. It reveals a peek into the beauty of Ormoc
City, the heart of its people and Lucy Torres-Gomez like you've never seen her
before.
Perya
Set amidst the frenzy of an environment
where image is key, "Perya" closely examines society's ideas on beauty
and normalcy. Casting the lead was a
no-brainer—Piolo Pascual, having one of
the most beautiful faces in the industry, was perfect for the role. Fans will
marvel at how he transforms himself into a character imprisoned and forced to
perform at a local carnival. It documents his origins, his struggles, how he
stumbles on love and his flight to freedom. This drama directed by Toppel Lee
boasts of stellar cinematography which the director is best known for and an
emotionally moving script that will leave you in awe.
Kama
Director Borgy Torre takes the
director's seat for "Kama", a musical starring Lovi Poe. Lovi turns
the heat a few notches up by showcasing her beautiful singing voice as well as
her dancing skills. Lou Veloso supports Lovi by playing a man on his deathbed
who elevates her into the pinnacle of his fantasies.
Horsepower
Director Torre also takes the reins for
"Horsepower", a short that
revolves around a gritty jeepney drag-race featuring Coco Martin. Imagine a
setting like "The Fast and the Furious" only with pimped up jeepneys!
Coco's humble personality adds a nice contrast to the grit of the film that
tackles the desire for fame, fortune, and love. Filled with rich metaphors it
presents the choice between a gamble for a better life and the quiet safety of
being with your family. Fans are sure to get hooked on the plot twists as they
cheer for their primetime drama favorite in this pulse-pounding short.
 |
| Ben Chan & Bella Flores |
Kontrabida pa rin at 84
Jose Javier Reyes joins the team by directing
"Kontrabida pa rin at 84", where viewers get a glimpse into the mind
of Bella Flores, Philippine Cinema's legendary and favorite female antagonist.
The film will keep you laughing out loud in your seats as Bella takes the
limelight and runs you through a crash course on "Kontrabida 101" or
how to be the best evil villain possible. Post processing comic strip text
effects add to the comedic experience. It won’t be a surprise if you turn into
an instant fan after watching this: it's Bella Flores at her fiercest yet most
comedic of roles.
Creative, unconventional, funny, and
moving, Benchingko Films are packed with a little bit of everything for
everyone. The short films will be unveiled via a big screen debut on July 27,
6PM at the SM Mall of Asia Center Stage theater. A Benchingko Films website
that will house all films and make them available for online viewing will be
launched soon.
For more updates like Bench official
Facebook page and follow @benchtm via Twitter.
JULY 27, 2012 "MEDIA LAUNCH"
 |
| Lovi Poe |
 |
| Piolo Pascual |
 |
| Ben Chan |
