John Lloyd Cruz set to receive Star Asia award at New York Film Fest

John Lloyd Cruz (Photo: Instagram @johnlloydcruztm)

MANILA – After veteran actress Jaclyn Jose’s surprise win at the 69th Cannes Film Festival, another Filipino actor brought honor to the Philippines for also being recognized on the international scene.

The 15th New York Asian Film Festival (NYAFF) presented a Star Asia award to John Lloyd Cruz for his lead role in acclaimed Filipino director Erik Matti’s film “Honor Thy Father.”

Cruz, the first Southeast Asian to receive the honor, was named alongside Korean actor Lee Byung Hun and Hong Kong actress Miriam Yeung – both have been box office stars in their respective countries.

‘Honor Thy Father’ will be screened in the NYAFF, along with other Filipino films “Hamog” directed by Ralston Jover and “Apocalypse Child” by Mario Cornejo.

Matti’s thriller drama tells the story of Edgar (Cruz) and his wife Kaye (Meryll Soriano) who were involved in a fraudulent investment operation. Amassing huge debts, the couple feared that their daughter may be kidnapped for ransom by those they owed money to.

Broader range of Asian cinema

The NYAFF, the United States’ prestigious festival of Asian cinema, sought to ‘connect New York’s most passionate film lovers with the most exciting films, directors, and actors from Asia.’

“We set out this year to champion a much broader range of Asian cinema… For example, we are particularly excited by a new breed of noir film rooted in social issues that is emerging in both China and Southeast Asia,” NYAFF Director Samuel Jamier said in a statement.

This year’s festival will be held at the Film Society’s Walter Reade Theater from June 22 to July 5 and at the SVA Theater from July 6 to 9. It is co-presented by Subway Cinema and the Film Society of Lincoln Center.

Watch the NYAFF’s teaser here: