Part doc, part myth, Ang Ritwal portrays the convergence of folklore, spirituality and basketball in Manila’s slums. The story follows two young men over the course of 'Undas', the Day of the Dead in the Philippines. One is from a cemetery community, the other from a neighbouring tenement. Ang Ritwal explores the nature of communal rituals and their role in creating a sense of belonging. The film celebrates the syncretic character of the Philippines and the way seemingly disparate influences have converged to form a unique cultural identity for those on the fringes of society.

The Lennon mantra ‘Wherever you are, you are here’ has been in Alex’s blood since childhood. With Irish, French-Canadian, Polish & Brazilian heritage, and an itinerant family upbringing, his work reflects a truly global perspective on life. From his infectious NOWNESS films featuring the dance cultures of South African townships and Brazilian favelas to his recent acclaimed short film about a unique Scottish road trip for under-privileged bikers from London. ’This is Freedom Road’ was developed with adam&eve DDB, garnered 5 stars on David Reviews and has been featured on SHOTS , Directors Library and Dazed. Alex’s films share a common theme of unexpected juxtapositions of people and places. A desire to shine a light on unseen sub-cultures. To explore the humanity and communal bonds in different walks of life. Whether documenting surfers in Senegal, or celebrating cold-water swimming for Havas’s Covent Garden Soups commercial. A filmmaker truly in the here & now.