Matthew Libatique is the first Filipino American to be given an award by the American Film Institute (AFI).
Key points:
- Libatique received The award was given on April 27, at the 49th AFI Life Achievement Award Tribute Gala honoring Nicole Kidman at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood.
- His speech was filled with emotion honored and included gratitude towards his family, mentors and collaborators.
About Libatique:
- Libatique He was born in Queens, New York, to immigrant parents from the Philippines in 1968.
- He graduated from the AFI Conservatory and has often worked with his classmate Darren Aronofsky.
- Libatique has been nominated for three Academy Awards for his work as a cinematographer on “Black Swan,” “A Star Is Born” and “Maestro.”
The details:
- The Schaffner Alumni Medal recognizes is awarded to AFI Conservatory Alumni who embody the creative qualities and commitment to quality storytelling of filmmaker Franklin J. Schaffner. He is one of only 31 recipients to ever receive the award.
- AFI President and CEO Bob Gazzale gave the award to Libatique and said: “Most recently, his collaborations have been with Bradley Cooper on ‘A Star Is Born’ and the much-celebrated ‘Maestro.’ Well, tonight, he is AFI’s Maestro.”
- In his speech after receiving the award, Libatique compared it to “a warm embrace and a testament to the collective efforts” of those who supported him. He attributed his success to the AFI Conservatory and recognized mentors like John Alonzo and Owen Roizman.
- Libatique thanked longtime collaborator Aronofsky, saying “Wherever you are, man, I just want to give you a big hug. I love you.” He also expressed gratitude to his wife and children for their support in his demanding career.
Tangent:
- Other previous AFI Schaffner Alumni Medal recipients include Patty Jenkins, David Lynch and Terrence Malick.
- Kidman, who was honored with the prestigious AFI Life Achievement Award at the event, is the first Australian recipient of the recognition. The tribute special will premiere on June 17 on TNT.
What’s next
- Libatique is currently collaborating with Spike Lee and Denzel Washington on the new film “High and Low.”
