Production design in Philippine media is usually what’s already available to shoot. Just some tweaking and you’re good to go. While that isn’t the accustomed practice, with the budget of production movies today, production designers need to make do.
But the production behind the Metro Manila Film Festival 2023 entry ‘Mallari’ doesn’t want to conform to to norm.
You ever heard recently of a Filipino movie creating production set designs from scratch? And we’re not talking about little sets like rooms or intimate locations, the production of ‘Mallari’ created from scratch a church and a cemetery.
Check out the photos from the set of ‘Mallari’ below:
We also get to ask ‘Mallari’ production designer Marielle Hizon a thing or two building the world of the biggest horror movie this MMFF:
How was the preparation during pre-production?
Pre-production process was fun, exciting and nerve-wracking at the same time. It was my first time to do a period film – three timelines at that, 1812, 1948 and present time. I had to brush up on my history and really spend time to review Spanish-colonial era and after the American war. It took a lot of planning for logistics too since our shooting schedule was tight and we had to open big sets at the same time and I’m extremely grateful for my team who went above and beyond to complete everything.
Since the production needed a Warner Bros. Pictures quality, what were the strictest instructions given to you?
I always give my 100% for every project that I do. My team and I always give our best – big or small projects. To be honest, I didn’t know about Warner Brothers until maybe last 3 shoot days. Haha. There weren’t any “instructions” really but rather a lot of encouragement and support from my producers and director. It was a very collaborative experience.
What are the challenges creating sets from scratch?
It’s the size of the sets that were quite a challenge. And since we will be building the big sets outdoors, the weather added to the challenge. As for the visita, since the size was big, we needed to make sure that it’s safe and sturdy for everyone. It wasn’t just a shell that you can tear down right after pack up. I had to consult an architect as to where we need to focus on regarding safety. The guys who built it were also seasoned carpenters so we all brainstormed on how to build it safely from ground up. It’s a complete church inside out, roof and all.
What did you feel seeing the final product ono the released materials so far?
Looking at the teasers and trailer, I’d say the audience still have more to look forward to from the movie. 🙂
‘Mallari’ stars Piolo Pascual with Janella Salvador, Elisse Joson, JC Santos and Gloria Diaz. Written by Enrico Santos and directed by Derick Cabrido.
‘Mallari’ opens in cinemas December 25, 2023 from Mentorque Productions in cooperation with Cleverminds, Inc., distributed by Warner Bros. Pictures. Rated R-13 by the MTRCB.