Activist and internationally acclaimed Cebuana actress Chai Fonacier joins the environmental advocacy musical film “A Thousand Forests.” The film, a tribute to the late Department of Environment and Natural Resources Secretary Gina Lopez, tells stories based on real-life scenarios and centers on five young characters in their pursuit of preserving nature.
This film, which received critical acclaim during its screening, aims to portray the current state of our planet and explore methods of preservation in the face of climate change, a story that needs to be told bravely nowadays.
“A Thousand Forests” emphasizes the collective effort required to tackle environmental challenges and preserve nature. The principal cast includes Dominic Ochoa, and the film is directed by Hanz Florentino, the former director of G Diaries, the multi-awarded ecotourism program of the ABS-CBN Foundation.
The five teens serve as the inspiration for this journey, with Chai Fonacier joining the cast to portray a character who underscores the importance of ‘we’ rather than ‘I.’
Mirroring real-life scenarios, the advocacy film also tells its story through eight original songs, including “Mga Himig ng Pagbabago” composed by Jeannie Chan, which address themes of community, youth, and nature.
As an activist herself the same as the late Gina Lopez, “A Thousand Forests” is close to Chai’s heart, so she did not hesitate to accept the project.
“As an activist, some advocacies are always close to my heart, and environmental issues are among them. This was a no-brainer for me in terms of decision-making on whether or not we would take it on.” Chai added.
Meanwhile, working with a teen-led cast might have been challenging, but the Cebuana native thoroughly enjoyed the experience. When asked about the challenges she faced during filming, she shared, “To be honest, none. What made it even easier was that many of the crew and production are people I know from Cebu.”
Chai Fonacier will narrate a story that holds deep personal meaning for her, anticipating for viewers to grasp the positive aspects and the collaborative effort needed to protect the environment. She underscores that caring for the environment will bring long-term benefits to us all.
She is optimistic, “I hope that it will spark discussion and action. And I hope that we veer away from individualistic efforts. Rather, we must all collectively come to the same goals for the survival of not just human beings, but of all that thrive on this earth. Hindi na puwede ang “I’ll do my best”. Kailangan, We, as communities, should scream and shout and act to defend our rights and to call out governments to act now. Because environmental rights are human rights, and we are running out of time.”
“A Thousand Forests” premieres June 26, 2024 in selected cinemas nationwide.
You can watch it on the following cinemas:
AYALA MALLS SM CINEMAS
Greenbelt Solenad SM North Edsa SM Tarlac
Market Market Ayala Center Cebu SM MOA
Glorietta SM Fairview
Bonifacio HighStreet SM Manila
Feliz SM East Ortigas
Fairview Terraces SM Megamall
U.P Town Center SM Dasmarinas
Trinoma SM Cebu
Cloverleaf SM Calamba
Marquee SM Bacoor
Harbor Point SM Sta. Rosa
Manila Bay SM Seaside
Alabang Town Center SM San Jose Del Monte
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