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Carl Joseph Papa is proud of his cathartic film “The Missing” or “Iti Mapukpukaw.” It was the Philippines’ Academy Awards entry in the Best International Feature Film category, the first animated and LGBTQ+-themed film that the Philippines submitted for Oscar considerations. Sadly, it was not chosen to be part of the shortlist but that does not remove the shimmer away from “The Missing.”

“The Missing” is an engrossing film and speaks volumes about grieving and childhood traumas. is trio of actors namely Carlo Aquino, Gio Gahol, and Dolly De Leon are able to convey the film’s themes to a satisfying degree.

I spent some time with the filmmaker to talk about his interest in making “The Missing,” working with his actors, the animation process, the state of Filipino cinema, and what he hopes for viewers to get after watching “The Missing/Iti Mapukpukaw.” “The Missing” is being showcased at the Palm Springs International Film Festival under the Awards Buzz – Best International Feature Film category.

Keep an eye out for “The Missing,” it will stay with you long after the film is over.

See our interview below, and click here for more on our “The Missing” coverage.

“The Missing” will have one more showing this weekend at the filmfest. Click here to buy tickets.

Director of Philippines’ Oscar Entry “The Missing” Talks About the Eye-Opening Film