City of Screens

More about the book

Focusing on early-2000s Manila, the book explores the dynamics of cinema circulation, highlighting key venues such as pirated DVD districts and art-house cinemas. It addresses the impact of digital piracy and the decline of the local film industry, showcasing the tensions between independent filmmakers and the state over the concept of a national audience. Despite the international success of independent Philippine films, domestic screenings remain rare. The work delves into the complex interplay of the film industry, public perception, and state involvement in shaping national culture.