Keeping eyes on the prize, Borracho Films head Ferdinand Topacio brings 'Spring in Prague' to life

 

Atty. Ferdinand Topacio

Lawyer Ferdinand Topacio has always loved film so it's no surprise he is now part of the industry, not as actor but producer and sometimes writer of movie theme songs.

What turned out to be a surprise to him, though, was the experience of shooting "Spring in Prague." Aside from the fact that the people in the capital of Czech Republic where they filmed were warm and "welcoming," he was impressed with the incentives the government gave international filmmakers like himself.

"Hindi tulad dito (sa Pinas) na tatlong taon bago ibigay (ang incentives)," he said at the red carpet of the premiere. "Kaya naman they are able to produce more quality films."

He lamented that the Philippines once had the edge when it came to making movies over other Asian countries. He pointed out that there was a time the likes of Barbara Luna was known in the region, even in countries as Korea and Japan both of which have seemingly overtaken the local movie industry these days.

Still, Topacio is undeterred and he will continue doing his part.

"It's a passion, an avocation," he said about producing films and discovering talents. "It's my small way of giving back to the film industry that I love."

He has kept eyes on the prize alright, manifesting his dream into reality.

"Pangarap ko talaga na sabi ko, bago ako mamatay makagawa man lang ng isang pelikula," was how he put it. "It's my legacy habang buhay nandiyan ang mga pelikula ko."

In "Spring in Prague," Paolo plays Alfonso, a resort owner whose unexpected bond with a Czech tourist, played by European actress Sara Sandeva, takes him from the beaches of Puerto Galera to the dreamy streets of Prague. They fall in love, but of course.

Directed by Lester Dimaranan for Topacio's Borracho Films and Czech-based FilmFrame, "Spring in Prague'' is released in time for the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries.

Topacio was inspired to bankroll the film after visiting the Santo Niño de Praga shrine in Prague.

“This is a story about human connection—about how two people from very different worlds can find something real and lasting in each other,” he said.

The world premiere of "Spring in Prague" is on September 5 at the ASEAN Plus Filmfest in Prague. 

"Spring in Prague" will be submitted as entry in this year's Metro Manila Film Festival.