'Ali,' Bangladesh-Philippine short film, wins Special Mention Award at Cannes Film Festival

GMA Network

25-05-2025

"Ali," the short film directed by Adnan Al Rajeev with Arvin Bellarmino and Kyla Romero as scriptwriters and Kristine De Leon as co-producer, won the Special Mention Award in the Short Film Category at the 78th Cannes Film Festival.
Belarmino, whose short "Agapito" was also one of the 11 finalists in the Short Film Category, said of the win of "Ali": "Sobrang proud and happy po, especially for the history of Bangladesh."
Co-writer Romero said, "Super proud and happy po!"
De Leon, meanwhile, said, "I am so proud of this film. I'm incredibly happy for Adnan. He's a filmmaker with pure intentions, and he truly deserves this. I'm also overjoyed for both Bangladesh and the Philippines. This is yet another proof of concept that co-production works. Cinema truly has the power to bridge two different worlds."
Earlier before the awards show, we met Belarmino and Romero at Kabayan Restaurant in Cannes having their early dinner. They were accompanied by "Agapito" producer Jon Galvez and film distributor Evelyn Vargas-Knaebel.
"Ali" is about the story of a young, talented, poor boy, Ali, who dreams of joining a singing contest. He is blessed with an unusual singing voice. A Bangladesh-Philippine co-production, the short film is co-produced by Kristine De Leon and Tanveer Hossain. It is also written by Arvin Belarmino and Kyla Romero.
The filmmakers who took part in the Short Film Category at the 78th Cannes Film Festival. Contributed photo
Romero's feature film project, "Giliw" (Beloved) was also chosen to participate in HFF München's prestigious Women Writing Lab and be mentored by Robin Swicord ("Memoirs of a Geisha," "Little Women," "Matilda").
De Leon also co-produced the short film "Agapito" which was co-directed by Belarmino and Romero. The Philippine-France production was also one of the 11 finalists in the Short Film Category. The short was also co-produced by Alemberg Ang, Jon Galvez, Carlos Ortiz, Mick Quito and Dominique Welinski.
In our earlier interview with De Leon, she said of director Adnan Al Rajeev, "Adnan is truly one of the kindest souls I've had the pleasure of working with. He would often call us out of the blue, simply to express his gratitude and appreciation for our support. His humility and warmth are deeply moving.
"What sets Adnan apart is his ability to listen—genuinely and attentively. He absorbs feedback from everyone around him, thoughtfully reflecting on how each perspective can enhance his storytelling while staying true to his unique voice and vision.
"Throughout this journey, I've been fortunate to collaborate with producer Tanveer Hossain. Both Tanveer and Adnan have placed immense trust in me regarding the production strategy and process, even as a young woman navigating this industry. Their confidence has been both empowering and affirming.
"In crafting this intimate narrative, Adnan sought to unveil a broader truth—a tale of love, sacrifice, and the intricate ways in which families and communities shape our identities. While deeply rooted in his personal and national context, the story transcends borders, echoing a universal reality: countless voices remain unheard across the globe. By bringing these silenced stories to light, Adnan aims to honor Bangladesh's legacy of resilience and give voice to those whose truths have long been suppressed."
The short film, "I'm Glad You're Dead Now" directed by Tawfeek Barhom won the Short Film Palme d'Or award.
"It Was Just an Accident", helmed by Iranian Jafar Panahi, won the Palme d'Or award. The controversial filmmaker is currently in exile from Iran due to his displaying and voicing opposition through his films. Actress Cate Blanchett and European Film Academy President Juliette Binoche presented the award.
Other winners include "Sentimental Value" (Grand Prix), "Sirat" and "Sound of Falling" (tie, Jury Prize), Nadia Melliti of "The Little Sister" (Best Actress), Wagner Moura of "The Secret Agent" (Best Actor), Kleber Mendonca Filho of "The Secret Agent" (Best Director), Jean-Pierre Dardenne and Luc Dardenne of "The Young Mother's Home" (Best Screenplay) and Hasan Hadi of "The President's Cake" (Camera d'Or). —MGP, GMA Integrated News