Brillante Mendoza serves as jury, leads masterclass in Jordan filmfest

Serves as jury, leads masterclass, screens Cannes winner “Ma’ Rosa” in Amman.

Award-winning indie filmmaker Brillante Ma. Mendoza took on multiple roles at the Amman International Film Festival – Awal Film (AIFF) 2026, where he served as a jury member and led a masterclass alongside a special screening of his award-winning film “Ma’ Rosa.”

The screening, held on July 31 at the Rainbow Theater in Amman, introduced Jordanian audiences to Mendoza’s acclaimed 2016 drama, which follows a Filipino family navigating poverty and moral dilemmas. The film earned global recognition, including a Best Actress win for Jaclyn Jose at the Cannes Film Festival.

Mendoza later engaged audiences in a masterclass and public conversation, where he discussed his filmmaking approach, creative process, and commitment to telling grounded, socially relevant stories. The session was moderated by Murad Abu Eisheh, co-head of programming of the festival.

Beyond the masterclass, Mendoza also served as a member of the festival jury, further underscoring his presence at one of the region’s key film events.

Among those in attendance were Philippine Ambassador to Jordan H.E. Wilfredo C. Santos and his spouse, Madame Geraldine C. Lucero-Santos, as well as Her Royal Highness Princess Rym Ali, president and co-founder of the Amman International Film Festival.

Festival attendees, including industry figures and film enthusiasts, gathered for the screening and discussion, highlighting the continued global reach of Filipino cinema through Mendoza’s work.

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