You are what you watch: the role of film in identity formation and development in the Philippines

Abstract

This thesis analyzes the role of film in identity formation and development in the Philippines. It also investigates the situation of the Philippine film industry in relation to government and private institutions. Operating in a Marxist political economy framework, this thesis posits that capital greatly influences how identities are formed due to its control over what kinds of films are available in the market and are encouraged to be made. This alienates filmmakers from their capacity and potential to create films that can truly liberate minds, which in turn sustains viewers as mere spectators of film - devoid of consciousness in changing their realities. Through the usage of interviews, film showing, and secondary sources, the researcher hopes this could give light in better achieving a Philippine film industry that truly liberates minds.