The Melbourne Cinémathèque & ACMI present
Bona
When
Wed 5 Nov 2025
See below for additional related events
Rarely seen since the 1980s, and long believed lost in a fire, this landmark of Filipino cinema stars Nora Aunor (who was also producer) in a role that subverted her image as a star of blockbuster films.
Aunor plays Bona, a high-school student who becomes obsessed with low-grade actor Gardo (Phillip Salvador), eventually moving in with him, against the objections of her parents. Partly shot in a slum, the film is a commentary on the nature of stardom, the dangers of devotion and the place of women under the Marcos dictatorship.
Finally available again in a stunning restoration, it further cements Brocka’s standing as one of the Philippines’ most important directors.
About Melbourne Cinémathèque
Australia's longest-running film society, Melbourne Cinémathèque screens significant works of international cinema in the medium they were created, the way they would have originally screened.
Melbourne Cinémathèque is self-administered, volunteer-run, not-for-profit and membership-driven.
