The 2008 Cinemalaya entry Jay is part of the official selection of the Asian Hot Shots Berlin, whcih will take place on January 13 - 18, 2009. For the short film program, Ambulancia by Richard Legaspi and God Only Knows by Mark Reyes are in competition.
The film Jay, starring Baron Geisler and Coco Martin, will be screened on January 14, 8 pm. The film directed by Francis Xavier Pasion is about a TV producer (Baron) who makes a documentary about a slain gay teacher. In the process, he meets the former boyfriend of the teacher (portrayed by Coco).
Another full-length entry from the Philippines (selection to be announced soon) will also be screened on January 18, 8 pm.
Aside from this, there will also be screenings of Asian experimental video film in two different art galleries and a special side program of psychotronic entertainment dedicated to horror movies from Pakistan and Philippine entertainment icon, Weng Weng.
The festival will showcase a total of 50 feature length films (8 in competition) and 50 short films (22 in competition) . The best film for both feature and short will be awarded 1000 euros while the runner-ups will get 500 euros.
Asian Hot Shots Berlin is a platform for young Asian film in its artistic and political relevance. It debuted in January 2008 with the Philippines as the country in focus, showcasing more than 30 Filipino films.