The challenge began with a call from journalist Federico Cardelús to our producer Pablo Yarnoz. Federico had met Anna Balcells during a trip and was determined to document her incredible work in the Philippines through her foundation, Kalipay Negrense. However, he needed a technical team capable of bringing this vision to life.
Mad Media Madrid responded to the call by providing the necessary technical means and embarking Jaime Díaz de Tuesta and Álvar Alonso on a month-long adventure in the Philippines alongside Federico. During this time, the team captured images and sounds that reflected the dedication and effort of Anna and her organisation.
On their return, Federico and Desiré Eduro took charge of the editing, transforming the recorded material into a powerful and emotive documentary that left no one indifferent.
Directed and Written by: Federico Cardelús
Music: Arturo Cardelús, in collaboration with Las Migas
Camera Operator: Jaime Díaz, Alvar Alonso
Assembly: Desirée Hernández
Sound: Blessed Sound
Production Director: Pablo Yarnoz
Producer: Mad Media
Technical data
Year of production: 2018
UltraHD
Screen: 1.78:1
Duration: 50' 31
The documentary «Kalipay» not only met but exceeded our expectations. Premiered on 15 June 2020 on RTVE's Documentos TV, it was watched by over 300,000 people. The moving story of Anna Balcells and her organisation Kalipay Negrense received considerable recognition in the film industry, obtaining several awards and official selections at festivals:
Human Rights Award at the Bilbao Invisible International Film Festival 2020.
5th Place at the International Free Film Festival 2022.
Official Selection at the Active Non-Violence Festival 2022.
Official Selection at the Focus USA Festival 2022.
Special Mention – Humanitarian at the 3rd Austral International Film Festival.
Human Rights Award at the Bilbao International Festival 2022.
Official Selection at Paraná International Films 2020.
Official Selection at the 3rd Austral Film Festival.
Synopsis of «Kalipay»
On a dark and rainy night, Anna Balcells« life changed forever. Born and raised on the Philippine island of Negros, Anna moved to Barcelona to continue her studies and become a successful businesswoman. After 20 years in Spain and 8 in Manila, Anna returned to Negros, where she met Phil and Cecilia Seckler, founders of Haven Home, a home for abandoned and abused children. Inspired by them, Anna created Kalipay Negrense to combat child abuse and exploitation. »Kalipay, Anna's Dream" tells this story of resilience and hope.
Celebrating Success
We are immensely grateful for the recognition and the impact «Kalipay» has had on public consciousness. The support received is the driving force behind our mission to continue telling stories that inspire and transform.
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