"ANYONE can cook." It’s a simple yet profound philosophy that has guided 24-year-old Davao filmmaker Franky Arrocena throughout his journey as a director. For him, this mantra is a belief in potential, a reminder that anyone, regardless of their circumstances, can create something extraordinary.
Franky, the visionary behind the award-winning indie film ‘Hello, Daisy’, has captivated audiences with his distinct style and heartfelt narratives.
He recently recognized as Best Emerging Filmmaker at the Emirates Film Festival in Dubai.
Raised in Agro Compound under the shadow of Bolton Bridge, Franky’s childhood was anything but ordinary.
“My mother and I used to sell barbecue and ginanggang on the streets,” he shared. “As a kid, I was very curious. I always talked to almost everyone we met on the street, allowing me to have a lot of perspectives from different people from different walks of life.”
It was this curiosity, coupled with his grandparents’ tales of urban legends and mythical creatures, that sparked his love for storytelling.
“I always thought that great moments are even greater when they become a great story to tell,” he reflected. “I carry that childlike wonder with me when I direct films.”
Discovering a passion for film
Franky’s journey into filmmaking was shaped by an unexpected moment in his childhood. During a visit to a public hospital where his sister was staying, he watched his first Disney-Pixar film, Toy Story.
“It fascinated me, seeing toys come to life,” he shared.
“Eventually I saw Ratatouille, which ultimately became my anchor film particularly because I can remember being insulted and being called an ‘ilaga’ by some bullies because of our stature in life,” he reflected.
“But seeing Ratatouille, I embedded the motto ‘Anyone can cook’, Which allowed me to empower myself to push on despite it all, because after all, if a rat can become the world’s best gourmet chef, why can’t I?” he added.
That simple idea became a guiding principle, helping him embrace his passion and see challenges as opportunities.
Building a filmmaking community in Davao
Franky’s early days as a filmmaker were filled with challenges. “There were established groups of veteran filmmakers already, and the competition was very tight,” he explained. “I realized there was a need in Davao City to spearhead local filmmaking communities that can cater to younger and more amateur aspiring filmmakers, and I did just that in Duwende Films.”
Under Franky’s leadership, Duwende Films fostered a nurturing environment where mistakes were welcomed as part of the creative process. “Genuine improvement comes along with genuine mistakes, so I just let my art flow.”
This sense of camaraderie and inclusivity became the heart of Duwende Films. “We stayed like a barkada more than a strict corporate filmmaking group, which ultimately gives heart to our films,” Franky noted.
A vision for Dabawenyo cinema
For Franky, Davao’s film industry stands out because of its people.
“Stories, albeit can be similar, will never be a Dabawenyo story if a Dabawenyo did not make it. All films that come out of Dabawenyo filmmakers have that special Davao heart and soul attached to it,” he said.
As a director, Franky prioritizes passion and collaboration over perfection and allows himself to risk experimentation and “crazy ideas”.
“My approach is to create an environment where first-timers feel at ease and taken care of,” he shared
Looking ahead, Franky is eager to explore new creative territories and is excited to pursue his first feature-length film this year, and hopefully a Bisaya musical. His goal is to reconcile his love for music and filmmaking in a unique and meaningful way.
To aspiring filmmakers, Franky advises, “Don’t be afraid to make mistakes, because mistakes can be beautiful too. Filmmaking shouldn’t be so complicated, so just do. I always return to Ratatouille’s quote, ‘Anyone can cook.’”
Franky Arrocena’s journey from Davao City to the global stage is a testament to perseverance and passion. Committed to nurturing young talent and sharing Mindanawon stories, he continues to inspire Davao’s film industry. KBP
