Rising Filipino actress Ashtine Olviga takes center stage in memorare, a haunting new short film set to hold its world premiere at the Main Program of Sehsüchte International Student Film Festival in Potsdam, Germany, on April 23, 2026.
In memorare, Olviga delivers a gripping performance as Maia, a devoted follower of the Virgin Mary whose faith takes a dark and unsettling turn. As strange occurrences unfold, Maia appears to be haunted by the very figure she reveres. Told through eerie archival footage recorded by an unknown source, the film blurs the boundaries between devotion, fear, and psychological descent, anchored by Olviga’s emotionally charged portrayal.
She is joined by Mina Cruz and Jewel Milag, completing a cast that brings intensity and nuance to this experimental narrative.
The film is written and directed by Pia Velonza, with Hector Barretto Calma as Producer. The creative team also includes Akie Yano (Director of Photography), Elvin Jay Macanlalay (Production Designer), and Alyssa Villanueva (Assistant Director).
Velonza is part of a new wave of Filipino filmmakers exploring bold and unconventional storytelling. She has participated in the 2024 Platform Busan of the Busan International Film Festival and was a 2023 fellow of Heroes Hub Youth Fellowship program, a collaboration between DAKILA, Active Vista Center, and the Friedrich Naumann Foundation. Her work draws influence from experimental cinema and woman-centric narratives, shaping memorare into a distinct and unsettling viewing experience.
Producer Hector Barretto Calma brings a strong independent film background, with works recognized in international festivals such as the Taiwan International Documentary Festival and the Jogja-NETPAC Asian Film Festival.
With Olviga’s standout performance at its core, memorare marks a significant moment for emerging Filipino talent on the global stage. Its inclusion in Sehsüchte underscores to global audiences a powerful new screen presence.
For more information, screening schedules, and festival updates, please visit the official Sehsüchte International Student Film Festival channels.
