Neo Lounge (0+)
China, Philippines, 2007, colour, 86 min.
Director: Joanna Vasques Arong
Director: Joanna Vasques Arong
Beijing 2003. In a city full of surprises and contradictions, many foreigners are finding refuge in the trendy bar, Neo-Lounge, run by a hip Shanghainese couple. The film follows a year in the lives of a Bulgarian jazz singer after she lands her first gig during the SARS epidemic period and a larger-than-life Italian businessman whose parties never seem to cease at his lavish home. As they both strive to chase their dreams and find their own space, they, together with their colorful friends, soon find out that escaping their past isn't always easy.
AWARDS
Best Documentary, Cinemanila IFF; Best Documentary, Brussels Independent IFF; Special Mention, Asiaticafilmmediale.
Joanna Vasques Arong
Joanna Vasques Arong
started working on short documentaries in the Philippines. Prior to taking the plunge into films, Joanna worked in various fields around the world including finance and economic development. She pursued a Political Science/International Studies degree at Boston College and a Master's Degree in Development and Environmental Studies at the London School of Economics. Besides producing and directing her own short films, Joanna freelances as an editor, producer and director for companies, non-profit organizations and individuals.
FILMOGRAPHY
«The Temple», 2005; «Lao Shan, Lao Yin», 2006; «Neo Lounge», 2007; «Yugong Yishan», 2008.
China, Philippines, 2007, colour, 86 min.
Director: Joanna Vasques Arong
Director: Joanna Vasques Arong
Beijing 2003. In a city full of surprises and contradictions, many foreigners are finding refuge in the trendy bar, Neo-Lounge, run by a hip Shanghainese couple. The film follows a year in the lives of a Bulgarian jazz singer after she lands her first gig during the SARS epidemic period and a larger-than-life Italian businessman whose parties never seem to cease at his lavish home. As they both strive to chase their dreams and find their own space, they, together with their colorful friends, soon find out that escaping their past isn't always easy.
AWARDS
Best Documentary, Cinemanila IFF; Best Documentary, Brussels Independent IFF; Special Mention, Asiaticafilmmediale.