Ishmael Bernal's Controversial 'Gamitin Mo Ako' to Be Screened on Sept. 18

When the late National Artist for Film Ishmael Bernal's "Gamitin Mo Ako" first came out in the cinemas almost 40 years ago, the movie was met with a lot of controversy.

This time around, as it's set to be screened anew this September, the Society of Filipino Archivists for Film (SOFIA) wondered if the viewing will be any different from 1985.

The society announced the film's upcoming screening on Sept. 5 via Facebook. It will be held at 7 PM on Sept. 18 at the Cinematheque Centre Manila.

"Gamitin Mo Ako" was directed by Bernal, with its screenplay written by the late National Artist for Theater and Literature Rolando Tinio. Controversial for its time, it follows the story of a woman, her daughter, and their love triangle with a man. It stars Rita Gomez, Al Tantay, William Martinez, Stella Suarez Jr., Orestes Ojeda, Daria Ramirez, and more.

The screening of "Gamitin Mo Ako" is in celebration of SOFIA's 30th anniversary and is presented along with the Philippine Film Archive of the Film Development Council of the Philippines. The lone available copy of "Gamitin Mo Ako" in U-matic format was lent to the society by John Hoffman of VH Films.

The screening is for mature audiences only. Keep your eyes peeled for the pre-registration link!

When: 7 PM, Sept. 18

Where: Cinematheque Centre Manila, 855 Kalaw Ave, Ermita, Manila

How much: To be announced.