PR-15-2025
10 AUGUST 2025, MELBOURNE – First Light made its world premiere at the Melbourne International Film Festival. In the red carpet event, Director James J. Robinson welcomed cinephiles from all over Melbourne, including Consul General Jesus R.S. Domingo.
First Light is a landmark Philippines–Australia co-production—the first of its kind—developed with support from Screen Australia, the Melbourne International Film Festival (MIFF) Premiere Fund, VicScreen (formerly Film Victoria), the Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP), and Clou Media Productions. Independent Entertainment (UK) is handling international sales, with Bonsai Films set to distribute theatrically in Australia and New Zealand. The film was shot on location in northern Luzon, in Filipino language, and stars Filipino actors Ruby Ruiz, Maricel Soriano, Kare Adea, Kidlat Tahimik, Soliman Cruz, and Rez Cortez.
Left: The ceiling of the Capitol Theatre was illuminated in the colors of the Philippine Flag; Right: Director James J. Robinson and Producer Gabrielle Pearson introduce the film
Director James J. Robinson, who is of Filipino and Australian heritage, shared that the project was also a personal journey for him—a way of reconnecting with his Filipino roots while telling a story grounded in the landscapes, communities, and traditions of the Philippines.
The film was very well received, and the audience was treated to a special Q&A with the Director, producers, and members of the cast.
Prior to the premiere, on 08 August, the Philippine Consulate General in Melbourne received a courtesy call from the team of First Light: Director James J. Robinson; Producers Gabrielle Pearson, Jane Pe Aguirre, and Christelle Lou Dychangco; and Actress Kare Adea. During the call, it was shared that the story explores themes of faith, power, and accountability, and is intended for mainstream theatrical release with possible streaming thereafter. It has been approved for inclusion in Victorian educational study guides, enabling it to be used as a resource in teaching English and EAL in schools.
