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The Journey of “Biyaheng Quiapo”: A Decade in the Making
A rejection can sometimes lead us to the right path. For Byron Bryant, it took almost ten years to complete his documentary, “Biyaheng Quiapo,” which showcases the life of National Artist for Film Ricky Lee. The film will have its premiere screening today at the University of the Philippines Film Institute (UPFI).
Featuring interviews with actress Chanda Romero, filmmaker Mac Alejandre, the late Bien Lumbera (National Artist for Literature), and the late folk-rock singer and composer Heber Bartolome, the documentary explores Lee’s profound impact on their lives. You can catch the screening at 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. at the UPFI Film Center Videotheque.
The idea for the documentary first arose in 2013 when Bryant and producer Chantel Garcia approached Ricky Lee about the project. They immediately conducted an interview at Lee’s home and joined him on a trip to his hometown, Daet (Camarines Sur), where he reunited with old friends, including his Grade 2 teacher. Essential footage was captured during this trip.
However, Bryant faced challenges in moving forward with the project. He struggled to find additional interviewees and secure sufficient funding. Despite applying for a grant from the organizers of the QCinema International Film Festival, the project had to be put on hold. It wasn’t until 2019, when Ricky Lee received his doctorate from PUP (Polytechnic University of the Philippines), that Bryant resumed production. This significant milestone became the climax of the documentary.
Bryant reflects, “Sometimes, a rejection should be seen as redirection. Although I faced setbacks, they guided me towards the right path for the project. Initially, I wanted to release it on Ricky’s birthday in 2020, but the lockdown hindered our plans. Now, with the situation gradually returning to normal and Ricky being declared a National Artist, it felt like the perfect time to unveil the film. It’s like finally seeing life according to its divine design.”
Ricky Lee, known for his reserved nature, expressed his anxiety about the attention the documentary might bring him. He had previously declined offers to turn his life story into a movie, feeling uncomfortable with the idea. However, after watching Bryant’s documentary, “The Cinema of Celso Ad Castillo,” Lee saw the dedication and enthusiasm Bryant poured into his work. This persuaded him to agree to a film about his own life, albeit with some reservations.
Lee admits that recent controversies surrounding him, such as being proclaimed a National Artist and the “hawi incident” with Miss Universe 2015 Pia Wurtzbach, have made him feel even more apprehensive about the documentary’s release. Despite this, he eagerly anticipates watching it for personal reasons. The film includes interviews with some of Lee’s close friends who have since passed away, creating a heartwarming tribute.
After today’s screening at UP, “Biyaheng Quiapo” will be shown in PUP Manila and New Era University in Quezon City. Bryant hopes this is just the beginning and that the film will eventually reach audiences all over Southeast Asia.
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