‘A Star is Born’ Fil-Am cinematographer arrested after drunken assault

FILE: The occurrence could consequently result in three years in prison under Polish law. (Photo: @MattyLibatique/Twitter)

Filipino-American Matthew Libatique, the cinematographer behind Hollywood film “A Star is Born” starring Bradley Cooper and Lady Gaga, was arrested in Bydgoszcz, Poland last Tuesday, November 13 after an altercation with first responders at Matthew’s hotel. The cinematographer was in the country for the 2018 International Film Festival of the Art of Cinematography where “A Star Is Born” is one of the main entries.

Emergency official Krzysztof Wisniewski reported to TVN24 that the cinematographer “suddenly became aggressive toward medical rescuers, used offensive words, and hit the head of the emergency medical team” after his hotel called the respondents to treat a highly intoxicated and a staggering Libatique. This behavior resulted in numerous injuries and a broken tooth for the paramedic.

Another account by Bydgozcz city police spokesperson Monika Chlebicz said Libatique already had facial injuries when they found him, and as a result, he was immediately taken to the hospital. She also added that the occurrence could consequently result in three years in prison under Polish law, saying, “Mr. Libatique was involved in an alleged incident that led to his detention and being held on a potential charge of assaulting a police officer and a paramedic here in Bydgoszcz. This is now a legal matter that the festival is not in a position to discuss. We can make no further comments at this time.

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Libatique’s trial is expected on Friday, November 16.

As of writing, Libatique’s party has yet to comment on the incident.

Besides “A Star Is Born,” the 50-year old cinematographer, whose father is full-Filipino, is also known for his contributions in “Black Swan” (which he was nominated an Oscar for), “Requiem For a Dream,” “Noah,” “Iron Man,” “She Hate Me,” and “Phone Booth.

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