Films starring Elijah Canlas to be exhibited in Switzerland and Canada film festivals

Two films featuring Elijah Canlas are gaining more international recognition, with “Raging" (Rumaragasa) heading to Switzerland and “Water Sports" set for Canada.

"Raging" (Rumaragasa), written and directed by award-winning director Ryan Machado, continues its international run following its success at Cinemalaya. It has been selected for the International Competition at the Pink Apple Queer Film Festival 2026, happening from April 28 to May 5, 2026 in Zurich, Switzerland.

Previously, the film had its international premiere at the 76th Berlin International Film Festival, where it screened in the Berlinale Panorama section last February. Canlas, 25, is also the co-producer and stars alongside Ron Angeles, Reynald Santos, Glenn Sevilla Mas, Nathan Sotto, Rodne Galicha, and Nonong Reyes.

The film follows a young man who uncovers a dangerous conspiracy after a mysterious plane crash, with the story told in the Onhan language.

Meanwhile, the independent short film "Water Sports," also starring Canlas and directed by Whammy Alcazaren, is scheduled for its Canada premiere at the 28th Fairy Tales Queer Arts and Film Festival 2026. The short film also features veteran actor Ricky Davao and John Renz Javier.

Both films highlight the continued presence of Filipino independent cinema on the global festival circuit. The roots of most indie films can be traced to Cinemalaya, the long-running Philippine independent film festival founded in 2005 to support filmmakers and promote indie films.

Elijah Canlas has  been associated with Cinemalaya for quite sometime, with standout roles in several projects, most notably "Kalel, 15," which earned him Best Actor recognition in several awards ceremonies including the 43rd Gawad Urian Awards and the Harlem International Film Festival.

He has appeared in indie and mainstream titles such as “Edward,” “Gameboys,” “Blue Room,” “Keys to the Heart,” “About Us But Not About Us,” and “Salvageland.” He often takes on character-driven roles that explore themes of identity, justice, and human vulnerability.

Beyond acting, Canlas has also ventured into music as a hiphop artist and rapper, releasing a hiphop album a few months ago.