Kidlat
Tahimik

Awardee

Country

Philippines

Kidlat Tahimik re-examines history through film.

Themes
Reexamining history
Disciplines
Film
Visual Art
Awards
Archive - Prince Claus Laureate 2018

Profile

Kidlat Tahimik is a filmmaker and artist based in the Philippines. Widely regarded as the father of Philippines independent cinema, his works are celebrated for their explorative and critical approach towards colonialism, cultural identity, and neocolonial impacts. Tahimik's films often blend narrative and documentary styles, employing a whimsical yet poignant aesthetic that challenges Western cinematic norms and narratives. Notable works include "Perfumed Nightmare" (1977) and "Turumba" (1983), which have been shown internationally, including at prestigious venues such as the Berlin International Film Festival, where "Perfumed Nightmare" won the International Critics' Prize.Tahimik's artistry extends beyond filmmaking into installation and performance art, continually resonating with themes of indigenous wisdom versus global modernity. His enduring impact lies in his steadfast commitment to a cinema that champions local narratives and indigenous values against global consumer culture.