Lights On Takes Sales Rights to Busan Winner 'Ria'
Lights On has picked up international sales for Arvin Belarmino's debut feature after its world premiere at Busan, where it won the Heart of Eurasia Award.
Lights On has acquired international sales rights to Arvin Belarmino's debut feature "Ria" following its world premiere at the Busan International Film Festival, according to Variety. The film won the Heart of Eurasia Award at Busan.
"Ria" is a co-production between the Philippines, the Netherlands, Saudi Arabia, Japan and Norway. Producer Kristine De Leon commented on the production.
Lights On co-founder and managing director Flavio Armone said the film is an ode to rebellion.
Belarmino and Lights On have worked together before: the company handled the short "Agapito," co-directed by Belarmino and Kyla Romero, which premiered at Cannes.
Lights On's slate also includes Polen Ly's "Becoming Human," a 2025 Venice title that is Cambodia's Oscar submission this year, and "Hair, Paper, Water…" from Nicolas Graux and Trương Minh Quý, which played Locarno in 2025.
Quick answers
What is "Ria" about?
Lights On co-founder and managing director Flavio Armone described the film as an ode to rebellion.
Who directed "Ria"?
"Ria" is the debut feature of director Arvin Belarmino.
Which countries co-produced "Ria"?
It is a co-production between the Philippines, the Netherlands, Saudi Arabia, Japan and Norway.