Local artist makes first full-length film in Pangasinan

Did you know that the first full-length film in the Pangasinan language was made by a Bayambangueño?

The film is titled "Anacbanua" and it was directed by Christopher Gozum. While the film explores the theme of spiritual-artistic estrangement, it is also about the province of Pangasinan and the Pangasinense culture.

It was shown in 2009 and its unconventional style earned for the director critical acclaim both locally and internationally.

Among his collaborators here were Pangasinan poets Santiago Villafania (who is also a Pangasinan lexicographer), Erwin Fernandez, and Melchor Orpilla.

Gozum would go on to direct other award-winning films with equally serious themes, such as "Dapol tan Payawar na Tayug 1931."