Walang Masulingan (2025)

This two-channel video installation presents scenes from Manila, a bustling city of over 12 million people. Since July 2022, the Philippines has been led by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., son of the former dictator, and Vice President Sara Duterte, daughter of Rodrigo Duterte. Kiri Dalena and Ben Brix combine aerial footage with ground-level shots to depict the city's vibrant life from different perspectives. The film follows people as they navigate daily routines – attending school, commuting to work, participating in cultural events or religious services, creating protest art, making music, or performing household tasks. Some moments are captured spontaneously, while others involve reenactments with participants, creating a blend of documentary and staged narrative. - Michaela Richter, Berlin