Mendoza's Thy Womb vies at Venice Filmfest

MANILA, Philippines - Breaking New: Thy Womb, directed by Dante Mendoza (photo), was chosen by the 69th Venice International Film Festival for its main competition section. It’s the second time for a Mendoza film to compete in the world’s oldest film festival. The first was in 2009, with Lola.

Written by Henry Burgos and shot in Tawi-Tawi, Thy Womb stars Nora Aunor, Bembol Roco, Mercedes Cabral and Lovi Poe. The movie is about the travails of a childless midwife played by Aunor. Said Mendoza, ‘I’m happy that we made it to Venice, and very pleased to show a side of Mindanao that is rarely depicted in cinema.’

The Venice Filmfest will run from Aug. 29 to Sept. 8. By the time Mendoza returns from Venice, his other film Captive will start showing in local theaters on Sept. 5.