San Diego Asian Film Festival 2008

The emotional bonds between foster-parents-for-hire and the abandoned babies they care for are examined in the highly acclaimed drama FOSTER CHILD by prolific filmmaker Brillante Mendoza (see pg for SLINGSHOT). Based on a true story, it’s a slice in the life of a poor foster family in Manila, comprised of Mother Thelma (played by the multi-award winning actress Cherry Pie Picache), husband Dado and sons Gerald and Yuri. The film sees Thelma on the day she’s forced to part with a precious three-year-old named John-John, who has just been adopted by an American family.

Mendoza gives viewers a rare glimpse into the slums of the Philippines. Like his fixed cameras lens, viewers are forced to take in and contemplate – if only for an hour and a half – on the Third World living conditions so many Filipino families must endure. What’s more, the film refers to the alarming number of foster homes interspersed throughout the island nation.

The world premiere of FOSTER CHILD was held at the Cannes International Film Festival and culminated in a rousing standing ovation at the Directors’ Fortnight.

-Adapted by Paul Ventura, HIFF