Gayle Oblea's 'As The Moth Flies' part of the FAMAS Short Film Festival which highlights the struggles of mental health illness
Wednesday, April 30, 2025Mental health in the Philippines has long been a neglected issue, often sidelined in discussions about healthcare.
Traditionally, mental health problems were stigmatized, and seeking treatment was viewed with shame. However, in recent years, there has been a growing recognition of the importance of mental well-being, and the conversation around mental health is gradually evolving. Despite significant strides made in awareness, the Philippines still faces numerous challenges in addressing mental health issues on a national level.
There are many approach when it comes to tackling mental health issues, one of which is by movies. Films like A Beautiful Mind, Silver Linings Playbook, or The Perks of Being a Wallflower have all touched on mental health in ways that feel both authentic and uplifting, showing that there's strength in vulnerability and healing.
In the upcoming FAMAS Short Film Festival which will start on May 3 to 10, one of the films included is "As the Moth Flies" written and directed by Gayle Oblea and Produced by Creative Kartel, Happy Manila and Desi Matters, starring Mina Cruz, Boo Gabunada and Epy Quizon, “As the Moth Flies” is a story about two people who struggle to deal with the complexities of their mental health.
The film offers a unique and honest perspective on the realities of living with mental illness, how it affects relationships, and how trauma deteriorates someone.
As the Moth Flies Media Conference
Direk Gayle shared how grateful she is that among 500+ applicants for the FAMAS Short Films Festival, they were chosen and it was a privilege to be able to showcase a film that some people can relate to and also shed awareness regarding this sensitive topic that most people are afraid to talk about because of the stigma surrounding it. As The Moth Flies has been showcase in different film festivals outside the country like Little Venice Film Festival, Urban Dream Mental Health Film Festival, Greenwich Film Festival and Brussels Film Festival where they receive a warm appreciation for the film that they created.
Just recently, As the Moth Flies was also part of Sinag Maynila 2024. Direk Gayle said that after all of the hardships and struggles they went though just to finish the film, finally, they are now reaping their hardwork and people can learn a lot and maybe have those realizations check once they watch the movie.
Watch the official trailer
According to Direk Gayle, Mina Cruz and Boo Gabunada were the perfect couple for the movie. Although Mina was not the original actress to portray the role because the original actress left without any word and left everyone hanging, Mina actually save them from this big fiasco and it was a blessing in disguise. She is an amazing actress. They have a wonderful chemistry and connection on screen despite only knowing each other for a couple of hours.
Versatile, Award Winning Actor and Director Epi Quizon is also part of the film and he accepted the role with open arms saying that he is very much willing to help film makers in creating a movie that will have a big impact on the viewers. He encouraged everyone to support the Film Makers now that we are all back on track especially the entertainment industry.
The film's title, which references the fleeting and often unpredictable nature of moths, could symbolize the transient nature of life or the internal struggle that its characters might face. We all know how moths can be self-destructive at times and that is how mental illness can be without any prior treatment of help.
This movie aims to give awareness regarding what people with mental illness goes through. It's tough because people often think they are just "nag-iinarte" or they look just fine but they are not.
While there are still significant challenges, including stigma, insufficient resources, and limited access to care, the country is beginning to recognize the importance of mental health and is taking steps toward improvement. By continuing to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and improve access to care, the Philippines can create a more inclusive and supportive environment for individuals struggling with mental health issues. As the nation moves forward, it is crucial that mental health be treated as a priority within the larger framework of public health, ensuring that all Filipinos have the opportunity to live healthy, fulfilling lives.
For more updates about AS THE MOTH FLIES, check out their official Facebook page. Don't miss the cinema showing starting May 3 to 9 and Awards Night on May 10. Let's support the Filipino films 🎬🇵🇭
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