A Filipino family l from the Midwest moves to California to start a new life.
D
irectors Statement:
As a Filipino American filmmaker, I am passionate about amplifying underrepresented voices and stories within Hollywood, particularly those of Filipino Americans. With The Manalos (New Beginnings), I aimed to create a comedic yet heartfelt narrative that resonates with the experiences of many Filipino American families who navigate the complexities of cultural identity and adaptation in the U.S.
Through this film, I hope to spark conversations, evoke laughter, and, most importantly, contribute to a broader narrative that celebrates our rich culture and diverse experiences. I believe that by telling our own stories, we can challenge Hollywood’s status quo and pave the way for more inclusive and authentic representations of Filipino Americans on screen.
The Manalos is my way of showing that our stories are not just important—they are vibrant, multifaceted, and deserving of a central place in the cinematic landscape. It’s time for Filipino Americans to see themselves not just as side characters but as protagonists with stories worth telling.
Peace and Love!
Biography
Mike Talplacido is a Filipino American filmmaker passionate about telling authentic stories about Filipino Americans and the LGBTQ+ community. Based in North Carolina but originally from the Philippines, Mike brings a unique perspective to his storytelling, blending humor and heart to explore the complexities of cultural identity and personal discovery.
Mike's previous work as a director includes the acclaimed short film "To Ken with Love," a story about Ken Jones, who humorously grapples with feeling like "the whitest Gaysian ever." The film premiered at NewFilmmakers LA and won Best Narrative Short at the Honolulu Rainbow Film Festival in 2023. It has also been featured on TFC, GagaOOLala, and IndieFlix.
In addition to his work as a writer, filmmaker, and producer, Mike is the founder of KMM Ventures, a US-based production company dedicated to uplifting diverse voices and stories. His latest short film, The Manalos (New Beginnings), continues his exploration of the Filipino American experience with a comedic twist, capturing the hilarity of family life and cultural transitions.