‘Filipiñana’ trailer draws Wes Anderson, Yorgos Lanthimos comparisons

On X, some viewers described the film’s aesthetic as reminiscent of Anderson’s symmetrical compositions and pastel-heavy color grading—with one user jokingly calling Manuel “East Anderson.” The performances, meanwhile, reminded others of Lanthimos’ absurdist, deadpan style.

While some expressed excitement about the Filipino filmmaker’s work being a lovechild of the two auteurs, others called out the supposed similarity with their work, claiming it is a “blatant textbook copy.”

Some users argued that “Filipiñana” pays homage to older Filipino films and local cinematic traditions, with one describing it as “very Lino Brocka.”

Others acknowledged that it is a “fusion” of international and local cinema. A user summed it up: “Anderson in the symmetry, centered framing, and meticulous color coordination. Late ‘70s to ‘80s Filo cinema in the warm, slightly faded film-stock colors, tropical setting, and carefully composed shots.”

The conversation has since expanded into a broader debate over influence and recognition. One user argued that “these comparisons are devaluing PH cinema’s capability to [stand alone] and not be dependent on a ‘Western counterpart.’”

“Filipiñana” began as Manuel’s thesis short film, which won the Silver Bear Jury Prize in the Berlinale Shorts section of the Berlin International Film Festival. He later expanded it into a feature-length film, which premiered at Sundance in January and won the World Cinema Dramatic Special Jury Award for Creative Vision before returning to the Berlinale in February.

While no nationwide theatrical release has been announced yet, “Filipiñana” is set to close the 22nd Cinemalaya Philippine Independent Film Festival on August 16.

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