Islands / Film School Radio interview with Director Martin Edralin

Martin Edralin’s feature debut film, Islands centers on the life of Joshua (Rogelio Balagtas), a timid, middle-aged Filipino immigrant, who works as a janitor at a local school, has lived in the comfort of his parents’ home his entire life. One day he pleads with God to find him a wife for fear of being alone forever.  When his mother (Vangie Alcasid) suddenly passes, Joshua quits his job to take on full-time care of his ailing and depressed father (Esteban Comilang). Inexperienced at taking care of anyone, including himself, Joshua struggles with his father’s care. Help arrives when a cousin, Marisol, (Sheila Lotuaco) visiting from abroad. Marisol’s warmth and nurturing breathes new life into the home and stirs confused emotions in him. ISLANDS director, producer and screenwriter Martin Edralin (Calvin, Emma, joins us for a conversation on his desire to explore the Filipino diaspora experience in his award-winning, and offbeat story of filial duty and adult puppy love.  ISLANDS - 2021 South by Southwest Film Festival (SXSW) - World Premiere 2021 SXSW Special Jury Recognition for Breakthrough Performance - Rogelio Balagtas