Pinoy punk filmmaker Arvin Belarmino is making a major international splash with his debut feature film, Ria. Developed through prestigious global film programs, his project scattered a world-run pass. For this time it’s going to be in Busan, Korea.
Asia’s Biggest Screen
First, the raw underground punk drama will celebrate its world premiere at the 31st Busan International Film Festival in South Korea. The event runs from October 6 to 15. Rising star Nour Hooshmand leads the film in the title role.
Remarkably, she earned the part after an intense audition process involving nearly 80 actors. Consequently, this premiere marks a vital milestone for Belarmino, whose project also won the CNC Pitch Award and entered the Cannes Cinéfondation La Résidence.
Bringing the Creative Family Along
Instead of hiring completely new production people, Belarmino built Ria around a trusted creative team.
In fact, his previous short film, Agapito, acted as a direct rehearsal ground for the feature. Because of that shared experience, he brought over key team members, including his cinematographer, assistant director, producer, and production designer Isha. As Arvin shares,
It’s for Nour. Everybody in Agapito is in Ria”
By placing Hooshmand in the middle of this familiar group, he created an organic and supportive environment on set.
Unpacking Punk as Collective Resistance
Meanwhile, the story unfolds over five tense days as a young musician defends her community’s home against land developers. Drawing from Belarmino’s own punk background, the film actively challenges common stereotypes of chaos and rebellion. Furthermore, through development with Talents Tokyo, Locarno Filmmakers Academy, and La Fabrique Cinéma, the project highlights mutual care and political action within the subculture.
As Ria takes the stage in Busan, Belarmino hopes to spark curiosity about the real people behind the punk scene. Ultimately, after debuting on the international stage, his main goal is to bring Ria back home to viewers in the Philippines.
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