Sylvia Sanchez, Nour Hooshmand display Pinay pride at Busan film fest

Nathan Studios continues to make its mark on the international film scene, with three of its co-produced films selected for the 2026 Busan International Film Festival (BIFF) in South Korea.

Veteran actress and producer Sylvia Sanchez represented the production company at the festival’s opening ceremonies, walking the red carpet with the cast and creative team of the Filipino film “Ria.”

“Ria,” directed by Arvin Belarmino, was chosen for the festival’s Vision Asia Competition – Discovery category.

Sanchez, who is a cast member and co-producer of the film through Nathan Studios, was joined by fellow cast members Nour Hooshmand and Kevin Regalado, as well as cinematographer Jellen Geviane De Vera.

“Ria” follows a young folk-punk woman who teams up with her foster mother and their punk community to save their home from demolition by a ruthless property developer.

In addition to “Ria,” Nathan Studios displayed two international co-productions: Japan’s “Nagi Notes” in the festival’s Icons section; and the Philippine film “Filipiñana” in the A Window on Asian Cinema category. Both were presented in special screenings.

The three selections highlighted Nathan Studios’ growing presence in international cinema, as well as its dedication to telling important Pinoy and Asian stories.

The Kapamilya artist stated that the festival is another step in her journey from acclaimed actress to film producer, as she continues to promote Filipino talent and international creative collaborations.

With three films selected for one of Asia’s most prestigious film festivals, Nathan Studios continues to showcase Filipino creativity and storytelling on a global scale.