Señorita (2011 Film)

Señorita is a 2011 feature-length film directed by Vincent Sandoval. The project originated as a short film before being expanded into a full-length narrative feature.

Señorita-vincent-sandoval — Promotional image for the film Señorita.

Plot

The story centers on Donna, a transgender woman living in Manila who seeks to leave behind her life in sex work. An opportunity for a fresh start arises when an old friend requests that Donna care for her 12-year-old son, Tomas, for one year while she works abroad. Upon moving to a small town to fulfill this role, Donna discovers that the local mayor, who is campaigning for re-election, has ties to one of her former clients from Manila. Her attempt to escape her past is complicated as she becomes involved in local political dynamics, leading to a double life.

Production and Release

The film was produced by Vincent Sandoval and Darlene Malimas, with cinematography by Ruel Dahis Antipuesto. It held its world premiere on August 6, 2011, at the 64th Locarno International Film Festival, where it was featured in the Concorso Cineasti del presente section. It later served as the North American premiere at the 30th Vancouver International Film Festival in 2011.

Cast

Vincent Sandoval as Donna/Sofia
Publio Briones III as Ramon
Dominic Milano Palomo as Tomas
Garry Lim as Pepe Holganza
Richard Manabat as Ricky Verano
Stella Monteno as Nanay Ruby
Aya Ng as Dixie
Eric Alvin Po as Julius
Kaloy Olavides as Lino