Filipino Films In the US: California (misc)

 UNDER CONSTRUCTION!

April 22, 1971 – TOWNE THEATER, SAN JOSE: Igorota [Cambrian Children’s Fund benefit]

Friday night "Filipino Movies" were advertised at the Vogue Theatre in Pittsburg CA for three weeks only in 1971:

July 16, 1971 - VOGUE THEATRE, PITTSBURG CA: Teenage Jamboree + Our Man Duling

July 23, 1971 - VOGUE THEATRE, PITTSBURG CA: Sierra Madre (Fernando Poe Jr) + Teenage Escapades

July 30, 1971 - VOGUE THEATRE, PITTSBURG CA: Adios Mi Amor + Pledge Of Love

March 19, 1978 - CROSSROADS CINEMAS, SACRAMENTO: “2 Filipino Films” 

April 9, 1978 – CROSSROADS CINEMAS, SACRAMENTO: “Dolphy & Nora Aunor” + “Dolphy Nida” 

July 8, 1978 – CROSSROADS CINEMAS, SACRAMENTO: Alubihante Dagat + Iniuha Ko Dugo 

July 23, 1978 - CROSSROADS CINEMAS, SACRAMENTO: Gumapang Ka Sa + Captain Barbell (1964) 

July 30, 1978 – CROSSROADS CINEMAS, SACRAMENTO: Nunal Sa Tubig + Mano Mano 

Filipino Films in the US: Richelieu Cinema, San Francisco

Foreign language specialty theatre located at 1075 Geary Street, San Francisco; screened two Luis Nepomuceno films in late 1972.

From Cinema Treasures: "The Richelieu Cinema opened on March 13, 1963 with Fernandel in “The Cow and I”. It was located in the space formerly used as the Richelieu Casino, on the Geary Street side of the Richelieu Hotel on the Southeast corner of Geary Street and Van Ness Avenue. Over the years its policy was mostly foreign and revival programming, employing a rear-view projection system in which the projector is located behind the screen, and the image is thrown upon the screen by the use of a mirror. It closed in June 1981."

Following Nepomuceno's successful screenings of Igorota and The Beggar at the Grand Theatre in 1970, he returned to San Francisco in 1972 with two previously-unseen titles, Because Of A Flower (a subtitled version of Dahil Sa Isang Bulaklak, 1967) and A Time For Dying (Filipino title Pipo, 1970). Press interest in Charito Solis' nude turn in Igorota generated column space for Because Of A Flower, but journalists presented with a sexless and VERY Filipino melodrama were naturally less responsive: 

San Francisco Examiner, 21st September 1972, p.30

San Francisco Chronicle, 21st September 1972, p.49

September 20 to October 3, 1972 – Because Of A Flower [with English subtitles]

The second film, a much more salacious offering with war atrocities and gratuitous nudity, failed to even rate a passing mention. San Francisco's love affair with Igorot princess Charito Solis, it seemed, was over.

September 29 to 30 [sneak peek], October 11 to 17, 1972 - A Time For Dying [sneak preview] 

Filipino Films in the US: Grand Theatre, San Francisco

The Mission's grand old theatre at 2665 Mission Street, San Francisco.

From the Cinema Treasures website: "The Grand Theatre opened March 23, 1940. It was designed for D.B. Levin by architects Albert O. Lansburgh and S. Charles Lee in an Art Deco Style. Interior decorations were carried out by the Heinsbergen Decorating Co. All seating was on a single level. (Note: A list of theatres designed by Alexander Aimwell Cantin and his son Alexander McKenzie Cantin has the 1940 Grand Theatre as one of their projects)."

The San Francisco Examiner, 4th September 1970, p.24

The Grand hosted a number of Luis Nepomuceno's films in 1970, with Igorota (1968) originally booked for just four days:

September 3 to October 13, 1970 – Igorota [Charito Solis and Fred Galang in attendance September 3 to 7] 

The film's level of nudity caused a stir in the press, and led to a staggering six-week run at the Grand:

San Francisco Chronicle
7th September 1970, p.17

Nepomucen followed up Igorota with a second film of his, also featuring a considerable amount of Charito Solis' skin, but with less success:

October 14 to 26, 1970 – The Beggar 

Filipino screenings continued through 1971 with limited run from June 21 to September 12.

GRAND THEATRE SCREENINGS 1971

June 21 to 27 – Magpakilan Man + Teenage Jamboree 

June 28 to July 5 – Seven Deadly Roses 

July 6 to 11 – Adolphong Hitler + Our Man Duling 

July 12 to 18 – Sierra Madre + Teenage Escapade 

July 19 to 25 – Adios Mi Amor + Pledge Of Love 

July 26 to August 1 – Sa Bawat Hakbang Panganib + Zato Duling 

August 2 to 8 – Mga Anghel Na Walang Langit + Tatlong Bugoy 

August 9 to 15 – Divina Gracia + Batang Stevedore 

August 16 to 22 – Manila Open City + Batang Stevedore 

August 23 to 29 – Zamboanga + Zato Duling 

August 30 to September 12 – Divina Gracia + Mga Batang Estibador [no more listings after that date] 

The theatre transferred ownership to Dr Ernie Hilario and re-opened on June 6th 1976 with an all-Filipino program. 

GRAND THEATRE SCREENINGS 1976

June 6 to 15 - Ngiti Tawa At Halakhak 

June 16 to 18 - Kasaysayan Ng Lahi + Ngiti Tawa At Halakhak 

June 21 to 27 - Mr Pogi And D’Crazy Chicks + Kasaysayan Ng Lahi 

June 28 to July 4 - Mr Pogi And D’Crazy Chicks 

July 5 to 13 - Ganyan Daw Ang Umibig + Ang Pagbabalik 

July 14 to 18 - Ganyan Daw Ang Umibig + Patayin Mo Sa Sindak Si Barbara 

July 19 to 29 - Patayin Mo Sa Sindak Si Barbara 

July 30 to August 8 - Ang Daigdig Ay Isang Patak Na Luma + Bornebol 

August 9 to 15 - Diligin Mo Ng Hamog Ang Uhaw Na Lupa

August 16 to 22 - Kenkoy At Rosing 

August 23 to 29 - Ang Barbaro At Si Genghis Khan + Laugh Bag 

August 30 to September 5 - Batu-Batu Sa Langit + Nakakahiya Part 2 

September 6 to 14 - Si Raquel At Si Rafael + Tatlong Kilabot Sa Barilan 

September 15 to 19 - Hindi Kami Damong Ligaw + Kulay Rosas At Pagibig 

September 20 to 26 - Mister Mo Lover Boy Ko + Rock Fest

September 27 to October 3 - Pagbabalik Ng Lawin + Alamat Ng Pitong Kilabot 

October 4 to 10 - Mapagbigay Ang Mister Ko + Tatlong Kilabot Sa Barilan 

October 11 to 17 - Stowaway + Our Man Duling 

October 18 to 24 - Maynila Sa Mga Kuko Ng Liwanag + Baril Na Ginto 

October 25 to 31 - Isla Limasawa + Octopus 

November 1 to 6 - Loose Connection + Magpakailanman 

November 8 to 14 - Alas 5.00 Ng Hapon: Gising Na Ang Mga Anghel + El Pinoy Matador 

November 15 to 21 - Tag-Ulan Sa Tag-Araw + May I Go Out 

November 22 to 28 - Ang Leon At Ang Daga + Captain Barbell [1964 or 1973 version?] 

November 29 to December 5 - Nunal Sa Tubig + Kung Fu Master 

December 6 to 12 - Kung Bakit May Ulap Ang Mukha Ng Buwan + Agents Wen Manong 

December 13 to 19 – Tatay Na Si Erap + Darna And The Giants 

December 20 to 26 - Fiesta: Isang Halik! Isang Sayaw! Isang Peseta + Buhay Bombero 

December 27 to January 2 - Erap Is My Guy + Bulaklak At Paruparo  

GRAND THEATRE SCREENINGS 1977

January 3 to 7 - Affair In Tahiti 

January 9 to 15 - Ibong Adarna (Dolphy) + Bulaklak Man Ay Lupa 

January 16 to 21 - Markadong Anghel + Dyesebel (Vilma Santos) 

January 23 to 29 - Nueva Vizcaya + Dandansoy 

January 30 to February 4 - Lord Give Me A Lover + Pito Ang Asawa Ko 

February 5 to 12 - Ligaya Ko’y Imagawa Mo + Sorrento

February 13 to 19 – International Playboy + Ang Inluluha Ko Ay Dugo 

February 20 to 26 – Mga Uhaw Na Bulaklak + Hoy Mister 

February 27 to March 5 – Magiting At Pusakal + Florante At Laura (Dolphy) 

March 6 to 12 – The Big Broadcast + Adios Mi Amor 

March 13 to 19 – Aliping Saguituilid + Modeling Tinto (Ginto?) 

March 20 to 26 – Shaolin Masters (Rey Malonzo) +N Mga Anghel Walang Langit 

March 27 to April 2 – John En Marsha + Ganyan Daw Ang Umibig 

[Grand closed for Holy Week] 

April 9 to 16 – Wonder Boy [plus live performance of “Bayonic Na Pagibig” starring Nino Muhlach and Tony Ferrer, April 9 to 10 and 16] 

April 17 to 23 – Ang Pagibig Ko’y Huwag Mong Sukatin + The Marijuana Kid 

April 24 to 26, 28 to 30 – Leron Leron Sinta + Ngiti Tawa Halakhak 

May 1 to 7 – Sa Kugubatan Ng Lunsod + Nakakahaya? 

May 8 to 14 – Mother And Daughter + Mano Mano 

May 15 [to 18?] - Impossible Dream + Mr Mo Lover Boy Ko [closed Thursdays, new programs start Fridays] 

May 20 to 25 – TL Ako Sa Iyo + Deadly Brothers [plus bonus live show “Barong-Barong Style” on 21st and 22nd]   

May 27 to June 1 – Bahag-Hari + Mananandata   June 3 to 8 – Lulubog-Lilitaw + Sa Maynila Ako 

June 10 to 15, 17 – Fe Esperanza Caridad + Batang Quiapo 

June 18 to 23 [Thursdays are open again] - Kisame Street + Biyenang Ko Ang Aking Anak 

June 24 to 30 – Daluyong At Habagat + Fung Ku 

July 1 to 7 – Alupihang Dagat + Shang-Alang 

July 8 to 14 – Mainit Na Puso Malamig Na Kamay + Mr Pogi 

July 15 to 21 – Tiagong Akyat + Kenkoy En Rosing 

July 22 to 28 – Bulaklak At Puro-Paro + Kung Fu Master 

July 29 to August 4 – Mrs Eva Fonda 16 + Pagbabalik (Charito Solis) 

August 5 to 12 – David At Goliath + Sa Kagubatan Ng Lunsod 

August 13 – Burong Palangka + Ikaw 

August 14 to 18 – David At Goliath + Sa Kagubatan Ng Lunsod  

August 19 to 25 – Kuntao + Jack And Jill And John 

August 26 to September 1 – Rebecca Marasigan + “The Fabulous ReyCards Special” 

September 2 to 8 – Doctor Doctor I Am Sick + Zato-Duling 

September 9 to 15 – Ang Mahiwagang Daigdig Ni Pedro Penduko + Aloha My Love 

September 16 to 22 – May Lalaki Sa Ilalim Ng Kama Ko + Ang Leon At Ang Daga 

September 23 to 29 – Araw-Araw Gabi-Gabi + Hari Ng Karate 

September 30 to October 6 – Poor Little Rich Girl + Huwag Angkinin Ang Asawa Ko 

October 7 to 13 – King Of The Dragon + Ligaw Na Anghel 

October 14 to 20 – Bawal Na Pagibig + Adolphong Hitler 

October 21 to 27 – Sa Muling Pagkikita + Good Morning Titser 

October 28 to November 3 – Basag Na Crystal + Wrong To Be Born 

November 4 to 10 – Babae-Lalaki Kami + Tell Nora I Love Her 

November 11 to 17 – Bawal Na Pagibig + Doctor Laway 

November 18 to 24 – The Arizona Kid + 7 Faces Of Dr Sibago 

November 25 to December 1 – Lollipops And Roses + Mekenis Gold 

December 2 to 8 – Kill RP Nine-O + Si Lucio At Si Miguel 

December 9 to 15 – Siya'y Umalis Siya’y Dumating + Operetang Sampay Bakod 

December 21 to 22 – Ang Daigdig Ay Infang Patak Na Luma + Kulay Rosas Ang Pagibig 

December 23 to 29 – Binata Ang Daddy Ko + Escarlata 

December 30 to January 5 - Binata Ang Daddy Ko + Manlulubig Di Pasisil 

GRAND THEATRE SCREENINGS 1978

January 6 to 12 - Get The Killer On The Loose + Abogado De Campanilla 

January 13 to 19 - Mister Yoso + Aghel Ng Pagibig 

January 20 to 26 - Magandang Gabi Sa Lahat + Kikay At Kikoy 

January 27 to February 2 - Oo Pangit Pero Lintik + Parehas O Laban 

February 3 to 9 - Unos Sa Dalampasigan + Kidlat Sa Karate 

February 10 to 16 - Biyuting Tasameros + Baril At Rosario 

February 17 to 23 - Bulag, Pipi, Singi + Stowaway 

February 24 to March 2 - Kapag Tumabang Ang Asin + Lorelei 

March 3 to 5 - “Famas Awards ‘77” + “Baliksayal 78” [live show with Maturan, Apeng Daldal and others] 

March 6 to 9 - Bakya Mo Neneng + “Famas Awards ‘77” 

March 10 to 16 - Kumusta Ka Peter + Angelo 

March 17 to 24 - Hagdan-Hagdan Sa Langit + Ang Pagibig Wag Sukatin 

March 25 to 31 - Huli-Huli Yan + Wanted Perfect Mother 

April 1 to 6 - The Manila Connection + Tomboy Nora 

April 7 to 13 - Santiago + Prince Charming Cinderella 

April 14 to 20 - Lalaki Babae Kami + Siya Umalis Siya Dumating 

April 21 to 27 - Anong Uring Hayop + Tulak Ng [Bing?] 

April 28 to May 4 - International Playboy + Siyamang At 7 Chiquiting 

May 5 to 11 - Wonder Vi + Together Again 

May 12 to 18 - Gumpang Ka Sa Lupa + One Day Millionaire 

May 19 to 25 - Mokong + Like Father Like Son 

May 26 to June 1 - Pinagbuklod Ng Pagibig 

June 2 to 8 - Counter Kill + Basag Na Kristal 

June 9 to 15 - Amor + Bawal Na Pagibig 

June 16 to 22 - Brutus + If You Go Away 

June 23 to 29 - Arrest The Nurse Killer + King And Queen For A Day 

June 30 to July 6 - Sariwang Bulaklak 

July 7 to 13 - Mabait Masungit Pangit + Erap Is My Guy 

July 14 to 20 - Neneng Magtanggol 

July 21 to 27 - Omeng Satanasia + Masikip Maluwang

July 28 to August 3 - Ito Kaya’y Pagkakasala 

August 4 to 10 - Akin Kayong Lahat + Oo Nga’t Pangit Pero Lintik 

August 11 to 17 - Love Letters + The Enforcer And The Pussycat 

August 18 to 24 - Alupihang Dagat + Tatay Na Si Erap 

August 25 to 31 - Mr Pogi Part II + Lord Give Me A Lover 

September 1 to 7 - Anak Sa Una Kasal Sa Ina + Kumusta Ka Peter 

September 8 to 14 - Fefita Fofonggay + “Famas Awards ‘77”

September 15 to 21 - Bakya Mo Neneng + Good Morning Titser 

September 22 to 28 - Tatlong Taong Walang Dios + Divorce Pilipino Style 

September 29 to October 5 - King Khayam And I + Alat 

October 6 to 12 - Wag Kunin Lahat Sa Akin + Habang Pinigil Lalong Nangigil 

October 13 to 19 - Bata Pa Si Sabel + Ikaw Na Ang Mag-Ako 

October 20 to 26 - TL Ako Sa Iyo + Doctor Doctor I’m Sick

October 27 to November 2 - Son Of Fung Ku + Kung Ano Puno Siyang Bunga 

November 3 to 9 - Tumabang Ang Asin + Get The Killer On The Loose 

November 10 to 16 - Anting Anting Ni Ompong + Magandang Gabi… 

November 17 to 23 - Matatapang Na Apog + Take It Easy 

November 24 to 30 - Last Target + Darna vs The Planet Women 

December 1 to 7 - Mahal Mo Mahal Ko + Ang Konduktura

December 8 to 14 - Ang Tatay Kong Nanay + Walang Hanggang 

December 15 to 21 - Hagdan-Hagdan Sa Langit + Salamat Po Doktor 

December 22 to 28 - Mister Yoso + Puro-Utos 

December 29 to January 4 - The Red Flag Is Up + Botika Sa Baryo 

GRAND THEATRE SCREENINGS 1979

January 5 to 11 - Shaolin Masters + Materyales Fuentes 

January 12 to 18 - Ang Bulag Pipi At Bingi + Ang Inyong Lingkod 

January 19 to 25 - Ngiti Tawa At Halakahan + Ang Inyong Kamahalan 

January 26 to February 1 - Ganyan Daw Ang Umibig + Villa Milagrosa 

February 2 to 8 - May Lalaki Sa Ilalim Ng Kama + The Manila Connection 

February 9 to 15 - Mga Hayop Sa Damo + Binata Ang Daddy Ko 

February 16 to 22 - Bomba Star + Tsismosang Tindera

February 23 to March 1 - Wonder Vi + Ang Aming Kasuanduan 

March 2 to 8 - Pagibig HuwanG Mong SukatIn + Navy Blues 

March 9 to 15 - Daigdig Isang Patak Na Luha + Patayin Sa Sindak Si Barbara 

March 16 to 22 - Bertang Kerengkeng + Banaue 

March 23 to 29 - Dalawang Pugad Isang Ibon + An Affair In Tahiti 

March 30 to April 5 - Chikiting-Iking + Pagbabalik Ng Lawin 

April 6 to 10 - Lorelei + Gitarang Ginto [Grand closed for Holy Week, April 11 to 13] 

April 14 to 19 - Mister Mo Lover Boy Ko + Cavite Boy 

April 20 to 26 - Ikaw Ay Akin + Suicide Commandos 

April 27 to May 3 - Parolado + Obra Maestra 

May 4 to 10 - Araw Araw, Gabi Gabi + Mabait Masungit Pangit 

May 11 to 17 - Disgrasyada + Biktima 

May 18 to 24 - Cavite Boy + Bahag-Hari 

May 25 to 31 - Kahit Sino Ka Man + Counter Kill 

June 1 to 7 - Atsay + Inspiration 

June 8 to 14 - John En Marsha ’77 + Masarap Masakit-Umibig 

June 15 to 21 - Taho-Ichi + Remembrance 

June 22 to 28 - Kami’y Mrs Lamang + Ang Leon At Ang Daga 

June 29 to July 5 - Sariwang Damo + Sa Akin Kayong Lahat

July 6 to 12 - Amihan At Hagibis + Kampanerang Kuba 

July 13 to 19 - Pretty Boy Segovia + The Red Flag Is Up 

July 20 to 26 - Disco Fever + Feliciano Huk Fighter 

July 27 to August 2 - Bontoc + Mrs Eva Fonda 17 

August 3 to 9 - Hamog + Huli-Huli Yan 

August 10 to 16 - Huwag Kang Makilot + Fiesta 

August 17 to 23 - Kulang Sa Init-Lamig + Operation Butterball 

August 24 to 30 - Tatak Ng Mga Agila + Anting-Anting Ni Ompong 

August 31 to September 6 - Nakawin Ang Bawat Sandali + Wanted Perfect Mother 

September 7 to 13 - Bullet For Your Music + Alas Singko Ng Hapon, Gising Na Ang Mga Anghel 

September 14 to 20 - Menor de Edad + Last Target 

September 21 to 27 - Mabangong Bulaklak + Erpat Groovy 

September 28 to October 4 - Alas At Reyna + Pagkakasala 

October 5 to 11 - Camerino + Diwata 

October 12 to 18 - Kuwatog + Dyesebel (1973) 

October 19 to 25 - Kumander Ulupong + Dupax 

October 26 to November 1 - Patok Na Patok + Sariwang Bulaklak 

November 2 to 8 - Biyak Na Manika + Tisoy 

November 9 to 15 - Isang Gabi Iyo At Akin + Alat 

November 16 to 22 - Saan Ka Galing Ka Gabi + Huwad Na Mananayaw 

November 23 to 29 - Pete Matipad + Love Letters 

November 30 to December 6 - Kalapating Ligaw + Familia Dabiana 

December 7 to 13 - Burlesk Queen + Contra Senas 

December 14 to 20 - Bakit May Pagibig Pa + Diligin Mo 

December 21 to 27 - Pinay American Style + Biyak Na Manika 

December 28 to WHEN???? - Vontes Five + Pabongaman 

GRAND THEATRE SCREENINGS 1980 [STILL UNDER CONSTRUCTION!]

Filipino Films in the US: Crystal Theatre, Salinas

The Crystal in the 1940s (photo courtesy of Cinema Treasures)

A long-gone Art Deco mini-palace servicing the Filipino (and initially Spanish-speaking) diaspora AND the raincoat brigade, the Crystal Theatre at 137 Main St began life in the early 1900s as a live theatre before sound came in and its exterior was given its distinctive shell in 1936. 

Of the handful of cinemas in Salinas, the Crystal spent the least on advertising. As such, there are months at a time when the movies aren't even listed. 

CRYSTAL THEATRE SCREENINGS 1956

April 24 – Papa Loves Mambo

May 1 – Mister Dupong

May 8 – Hiwaga Ng Balete Drive 

May 15 – Ito Ang Aming Daigdig 

May 19 - Takas [special midnight screening] 

May 22 – May Bakas Ang Lumipas

CRYSTAL THEATRE SCREENINGS 1957

February 11 – “All Filipino Movie Monday Nite” 

February 25 – “All Filipino Movie Monday Nite” 

March 4 – “All Filipino Movie Every Monday Nite” 

March 11 – “All Filipino Movie Every Monday Nite” 

March 18 – “All Filipino Movie Every Monday Nite” 

March 25 - Tatay Na Si Bondying 

April 1 – “Filipino Movie Nite” 

April 8 – “Filipino Movie Nite” 

April 15 – “Filipino Movie Nite” 

April 22 – “Filipino Movie Nite” 

April 29 – no listing 

May 6 – “Filipino Movie Nite” 

May 13 – “Filipino Movie Nite” 

May 20 – “Filipino Movie Nite” 

May 27 – “Filipino Movie Nite” 

June 3 – “All Filipino Show Tonight” 

June 10 – “All Filipino Show Tonight” 

June 17 – “All Filipino Show Tonight” 

June 24 – “All Filipino Show Tonight” 

July 1 – “Filipino Movie” 

July 8 – “Filipino Movie” 

July 15 – “Filipino Movie” 

July 22 – “Filipino Movie” 

July 29 – “Filipino Movie” 

August 5 – “Filipino Movie” 

August 12 – Nasaan Ka Giliw 

August 19 – Guwapo 

August 26 – Banga Ni Zimadar 

September 2 – [no listing]

September 9 – 1-2-3 

September 16 – Agua Bendita 

September 25 [Filipino screenings moved from Mondays to Wednesdays] - Pag-Asa 

October 2 – Satur 

October 9 – [no listing]

October 16 – Yolanda 

October 23 – Walang Panginoon 

October 30 – “Filipino Night” 

November 6 – Minera 

November 13 – “Filipino Night” 

November 20 – “Filipino Night” 

November 27 – “Filipino Night” 

December 4 – “Filipino Movie” 

December 11 – “Filipino Movie” 

December 18 – “Filipino Movie” 

December 25 – “Filipino Movie” 

CRYSTAL THEATRE SCREENINGS 1958

Crystal Theatre increases its Filipino screenings to Monday and Wednesday nights before ending its newspaper listings in March 1958

January 6 – Malulos   

January 8 – Maryang Sinukuan   

January 13 – Boys Town   

January 15 – Viva Las Senoritas    

January 20 – Sarsu Welista  

January 22 – Haring Tulisan    

January 27 – Dahong Palay    

January 29 – Higit Sa Lahat   

February 3 – Basahang Ginto  

February 5 – Tin-Edyer    

February 10 – Awa Ng Birhen Sa Baclaran   

February 12 – [Mexican film]    

February 17 – Punglo At Pagibig  

February 19 – Luneta    

February 24 – Berdugo Ng Mga Anghel    

February 26 – Carlos Trece   

CRYSTAL THEATRE SCREENINGS 1962

A newspaper article dated March 1962 announces the Crystal Theatre screens Filipino pictures twice a week, although newspaper listings for Tuesday “Filipino Hit” screenings don’t appear until July. [The Californian, 30th March 1962, p.81] 

July 3 – Bisaya Man (Luna Sa Lahat) 

July 10 – Walang Patawad 

July 17 – Ipinagbili Kami Ng Aming Tatay 

July 24 – Veinte Ocho de Mayo 

July 31 – Prinsesa Naranja 

August 7 – Bawat Patak Ng Dugo

August 14 – Kilabot Sa Makiling

August 21 – Drus Na Daan 

August 28 – Linda Mora 

September 4 – Doon Po Sa Amin 

September 11 – Amy, Susy & Tessie 

September 18 – Luis Latigo 

September 25 – Ang Sampaan Natin 

October 2 – Love At First Sight 

October 9 – Puatang Ng Langit 

October 16 – My Serenade 

October 23 - Pakiusap 

October 30 – Unas Sa Loat 

November 6 – Kilabot Sa Barilan 

November 13 – Ang Magkakapit Buhay 

November 20 – Tatlong Kumando 

November 27 - Minerva 

December 4 – Insinikadal Ko Ang Aling Ama 

December 11 – Kung Akoy Mahal Mo 

December 18 – Duke de Borgona 

December 25 – Mga Birhing Walang Langit 

CRYSTAL THEATRE SCREENINGS 1963

January 1 – Nukso At Nukso 

January 9 [screenings change from Tuesdays to Wednesdays] - Hanggang Ng Daigdig 

January 16 – Bale Todo 

January 23 - Triplets 

January 30 – Salbabaw Ng Aking Bangkay 

February 6 – Walang Pangalan 

February 13 – Kung Hindi Makuha Sa Santong Dasalan 

February 20 - Dahlia 

February 27 - Serenata 

March 6 – Kapitan Lilita Limbas 

March 13 – Pitong Sagisag 

March 20 – Prinsipe Diomedes At Ang Mahiwagang Gitara 

March 27 – Awat Na Adiang 

April 3 – Walang Susuko 

April 10 – Wen Manang 

April 17 – The Flash Elorde Story 

April 24 – Bakit Ka Nagtampo 

May 1 – Mga Tigreng Taga Bukid 

May 8 – Kasal Muna Bago Ligaw 

May 15 – Pitong Gabi Sa Paris

May 22 – Pasong Diablo 

May 29 – 7 Amores 

June 5 – Viva Caballeras  

June 12 – Walang Sisihan 

June 19 – Sa Libis Ng Nayon 

June 26 – Konsiterto Ng Kamatayan 

July 3 – Eca Babagot 

July 10 – Karugtong Ng Kahapon 

July 17 – Ganyan Ka Pala 

July 24 – Ay Pepita 

July 31 – Apollo Robles 

August 7 – Kahapon Lamang 

August 14 – Mga Leon Sa Lannsangang

August 21 – Sa Linggo Ang Bola 

August 28 – Bangkay Kay Kaming Hahakbangan 

September 4 – Joey Eddie And Lito 

September 11 – Tatlong Panata 

September 18 - Tirador 

September 25 – Dobol Trobol 

October 2 – Hinihamon Kita 

October 9 - Hinihamon Kita 

October 16 – Sa Ilalim Ng Dalawang Bandila 

October 23 - Krusaldo 

October 30 – Hani-Hani-Mun 

November 6 – Nagbabang Lupa 

November 13 - “Filipino Comedy...starring Nida Blanca” 

November 20 – Sikit Na Siga Pa 

November 27 – Presinto 13 

December 4 – Lutong Makaw + Dugo Sa Aking Kamay 

December 11 – Laliban Kami 

December 18 - NBI 

December 25 - [no Filipino film] 

CRYSTAL THEATRE SCREENINGS 1964

From the beginning of January 1964 the Crystal became increasingly daring in its programming, from nudies and exploitation films to sensationalist horrors. Filipino films started to fade from the listings in mid-1964 because – well, smut sells! The Crystal's advertising of those films was as threadbare as the performers, but to be honest the titles would have sold themselves.   

January 1 - [no Filipino film] 

January 8 – Kapag Buhay Ang Inutang 

January 15 – Lo' Waist Gang 

January 22 – Lovingly Yours 

January 29 – Wala Kang Paki 

February 5 – Puro Labis Puro Kulang 

February 12 - Vengartino 

February 19 – Vatros Vientos 

February 26 – Los Lacuacheros 

March 4 – Gulo Kung Gulo 

March 11 - Panginoon 

March 18 - Katislaloy 

March 25 – Phone Pal 

April 1 - [no Filipino film] 

April 8 – Lelong Mong Pantot 

April 15 – Ginintuang Tinig 

April 22 – Magtiis Ka Darling 

April 29 – Maturan At Lagman 

May 6 – Hawaiian Boy 

May 13 – Bulung Bulungan 

May 20 - [no Filipino film] 

May 27 – Bakya Mo Neneng 

June 3 – Tugtuing Bukid 

June 10 - Tulisan 

June 17 – Bon Voyage 

[no listings from June 24th to July 20th]

July 22 – Baguio Fever 

July 29 – Fil-American Girl

August 5 – Lo' Waist Gang At Si Og Sa Mindoro 

August 12 – Habagat Sa Tag-Araw 

August 19 – Nag Salali Tang Kalansay 

August 26 - [no listings] 

September 2 – Ang Kanyang Kamahalan 

September 9 – Navy Blues 

September 16 – Salamat Po Doktor 

September 23 – Materiales Fuertes 

September 30 – Golden Guitar 

October 7 – Botica Sa Baryo 

October 14 – Villa Milagrosa 

October 21 – Puro Utos Puro Utos [“Last For Season”]  

From October 1964 the Crystal's programming becomes almost entirely Adults Only. The business is then sold by the government in January 1965 for non-payment of taxes [The Californian, 27th January 1965, p.23]; the new owner is listed as Vernon L. Person. The Crystal is then raided in early 1966, with Pearson and his projectionist charged with obscenity (see articles at the end of this post). Pearson was found guilty in March 1966 and sentenced to six months in jail.

The Crystal Theatre goes dark for a while. 

Not a single mention in a newspaper...

,,,until November 1970!

November 20 to 22, 1970 – Pacifica Falayfay

CRYSTAL THEATRE SCREENINGS 1971

March 12 to 13 [opening night] - Ang Mahal Ko’y Ikaw + Because You’re Mine [Romeo Vasquez in attendance] 

March 19 to 20 – El Pinoy Matador 

March 26 to 27 – The Arizona Kid 

April 1 to 2 – Tanzan The Mighty

 

April 8 to 9 - [no listing] 

April 15 to 16 - [no listing]  

April 22 to 23 – Ikaw [Eddie Rodriguez, Marlene Dauden, Liza Lorena and Liza Moreno in attendance] 

April 29 to 30 – Dewey Boulevard + Double Date 

May 6 to 7 - [no listing]  

May 13 to 14 – Si Lucio At Si Miguel 

May 20 to 21 – Ang Tao Ay Makaslananan 

May 27 to 28 – Wedding Bells [listings for the Crystal Theatre cease after this date until 1972]

CRYSTAL THEATRE SCREENINGS 1972

April 13 to 14 – Aloha My Love 

July 20 to 21 – Good Morning Titser 

July 27 to 28 – [no listing]

August 3 to 4 – Captain Barbell Boom! 

August 10 to 11 – [no listing]

August 17 to 18 – Zato-Duling The Crosseyed Swordsman 

August 24 to 25 – Anghel Sa Aking Balikat 

August 31 to September 1 – Si Siyanang At Ang 7 Tsikiting 

September 7 to 8 – The Muslim Commandos 

September 14 to 15 – Dedicated To You 

September 21 to 22 – The Mad Generation 

September 28 to 29 – Mga Anghel Na Walang Langit 

October 5 to 6 – Poor Little Rich Girl [Amalia Fuentes and Anna-Lisa in attendance] 

October 11 to 12 – The Singing Filipina 

October 18 to 19 – Baril At Rosaryo 

October 25 to 26 – Liezl And The 7 Hoods 

November 2 to 3 – Tell Nora I Love Her 

November 9 to 10 – Wrong To Be Born 

November 16 to 17 – Almira 

November 23 to 24 – [no listing]

November 30 to December 1 – Portrait Of An Angel 

December 7 to 8 – Kiko En Kikay 

December 14 to 15 – [no listing]

December 21 to 22 – [no listing] 

December 28 to 29 – Poor Little Rich Girl [Amalia Fuentes in attendance on the 28th] 

CRYSTAL THEATRE SCREENINGS 1973

January 4 to 5 – Agent 7 Our Manduling 

January 10 to 11 – The Gunman 

January 17 to 18 – Waray At Talyada 

January 24 to 25 – [no listing]  

January 31 to February 1 – Gonzales 

February 7 to 8 – [no listing] 

February 14 to 15 – [no listing] 

February 21 to 28 – [no listing] 

March 7 to 8 – Adolpong Hitler 

March 14 to 15 – Baril Na Ginto 

March 21 to 22 – Kulay Rosas Ang Pag-ibig 

March 28 to 29 – Captain Philippines At Boy Pinoy 

April 4 to 5 – Rang Shang-A-Lang 

April 11 to 12 – Kidlat Meets Gringo 

April 18 to 19 – Geron Busabos 

April 25 to 26 – Huwag Mong Ankinin Ang Asawa Ko 

May 2 to 3 – Fastback 

May 9 to 10 – Sa Bawat Hakbang Panganib 

May 16 to 17 – Aloha My Love 

May 23 to 24 – Swani 

May 30 to 31 – Aloha My Love 

June 6 to 7 – Padre Pugante 

June 13 to 14 – "14 Fighting Men” (FPJ) 

June 20 to 21 – Banda 24 

June 27 to 28 – Magpakailanman 

July 4 to 5 – Man With A Gun [English dubbed] 

July 11 to 12 – Bulaklak At Paru-Paro 

July 18 to 19 – The Sinners 

July 25 to 26 – [no listing] 

August 1 to 2 – Good Morning Titser 

August 8 to 9 – Kapwa Kidlat 

August 15 to 16 – May Isang Tsuper Ng Jeepney 

August 22 to 23 – Sarung Banggi  

August 29 to 30 – Sapagka Kami’y Tao Lamang [with Spanish subtitles] 

September 5 to 6 – [no listing]

September 12 to 13 – Buhay At Pagibig Ni Dr Jose Rizal 

September 19 to 20 – Kiko En Kikay [with Spanish subtitles] 

September 26 to 27 – Escarlata 

October 3 to 4 – Tell Nora I Love Her 

October 10 to 11 – Gangsters Daw Kami 

October 17 to 18 – Anna-Lisa 

October 24 to 25 – Samanlulupig Di Ka Pasisiil 

October 31 to November 1 – Kidlat Sa Karate 

November 7 to 8 – Portrait Of An Angel 

November 14 to 15 – Mark Of Kardo 

November 21 to 22 – [no listing]

November 28 to 29 – [no listing] 

December 6 [one day only] – Top Ten 

December 13 [one day only] – Abogado de Campanilla 

December 20 [one day only] – Maginoong Pusakal 

December 27 – Wrong To Be Born [one day only – final Filipino screening listed] 

The Californian was still mentioning Filipino screenings in February 1974 [1st February, p.76]. The same newspaper then reports the property has been purchased by the Plaza (and soon after the Fox) owner Joseph Friedrich, who has plans to extensively remodel the theatre into a community centre, or demolish the building entirely. The theatre never reopened and was eventually bulldozed late 2003 to make way for a new multiplex cinema.

The Crystal in 2002 (photo courtesy of Cinema Treasures)

THE OBSCENITY TRIAL 1966

The Californian, 14th January 1966, p.2

The Californian, 12th February 1966, p.15

The Californian, 17th February 1966, p.1

The Californian, 17th February 1966, p.2

The Californian, 18th February 1966, p.1

The Californian, 18th February 1966, p.2

The Californian, 19th February 1966, p.1

The Californian, 19th February 1966, p.2

The Californian, 21st February 1966, p.1

The Californian, 21st February 1966, p.2

The Californian, 4th March 1966, p.2

The Californian, 21st March 1966, p.1

The Californian, 21st March 1966, p.2

The Californian, 25th March 1966, p.9

The Californian, 26th March 1966, p.12

Filipino Films in the US: Rex Theatre, San Francisco

 

The Rex (later the Bella Union) in 1972

The earliest recorded screenings of Filipino films in San Francisco - and in fact the first dedicated regular Tagalog-language screenings anywhere on the continental United States - were, appropriately enough, in a former Chinese theatre at 825 Kearny St, a short walk from SF's Little Manila. The Rex screenings pre-date other regular Filipino shows at the Globe in San Pedro (November 1947) and the Rio in Soledad, CA (January 1948), hinting at the start of a larger and most probably unlisted network of Filipino-friendly venues. A beautifully detailed history of the Rex is on the San Francisco Theatres blog. 

Opening as the Shanghai Theatre ("The Only Chinese Theatre In The City") in 1911, it was quickly rebranded the Kearny Theatre, showing non-Chinese entertainment. Burlesque shows and adult roadshow films took over in the early Thirties.   

The Kearny Burlesque closed in May 1945, and was reopened as Teatro Rex, playing Spanish language films before adding Filipino films in 1946:

“...the old and fabled Bella Union, later the Kearny Burlesque, is now the Rex, showing Mexican and Filipino films; the new owner is Maury Schwarz.” [San Francisco Chronicle, 26th June 1946, p.13] 

The first listings for Filipino film screenings start in 1947. The venue is then renamed the Bella Union in 1948 and screened silent films, before switching back to the Rex in February and reverting to its foreign language programming ("Chinese Pictures except Wednesdays"). 

REX SCREENINGS 1947

August 7 – “Philippine Memories (Before War)” + “Road To Tokyo (Filipino Guerrillas)” 

August 10 to 11 – Garrison 13 

August 18 to 19 – Punit Na Bandilla  

August 24 – Sa Paanan Ng Krus    

August 27 to 28 – Malakas Maganda  

August 30 to 31 – Dating Sumpaan    

September 5 – Dating Sumpaan  

September 12 to 14 – Maria Alimango     

September 19 to 25 – Kundiman   

September 26 to 28 – Azucena     

October 3 to 5 – Ikaw Rin   

October 10 to 12 – Magpakailan Man      

October 17 to 19 – Ibong Sawi   

October 24 to 26 – Bayan At Pagibig      

October 31 to November 2 – Tatlong Pagkabirhen    

November 2 to 3 – Punit Na Bandila  

November 7 to 8 – Hatol Ng Mataas Na Langit       

November 14 to 15 - Paruparong Bukid    

November 15 - Garrison 13   

November 16 to 17 – Binatang Parang       

November 21 to 22 – Angel Na Tukbo        

November 23 to 24 - Binibini Pangarap     

November 28 to 29 – Akoy Maghihintay        

November 30 to December 1 – Garrison 13        

December 4 to 6 - Florante At Laura     

December 7 to 8 – Punit Na Bandila        

December 11 to 13 - Kamoning     

December 14 to 15 – Dating Sumpaan    

December 18 to 20 - Martir Ng Bagumbayan    

December 21 to 22 – Sa Paanan Ng Krus    

December 25 to 27 - Death March     

December 28 to 31 – Kundiman  

REX SCREENINGS 1948

January 1 [to 3?] - Mga Anak Na Lansangan      

January 4 to 5 – Leron Leron Sita         

January 8 to 10 - Muya Ng Silangan     

January 11 to 12 – Ikaw Rin        

January 15 to 17 - Giliw Ko    

January 18 to 19 – Azucena        

January 22 to 24 - Ibong Sawi     

January 25 to 26 – Hatol Ng Mataas Na Langit        

January 29 to 31 - Binibini Pangarap      

February 1 to 2 - Magpakailan Man     

February 5 to 7 – Ibong Sawi        

February 8 to 9 - Paruparong Bukid      

February 12 to 14 – Arimunding Munding        

February 15 to 16 - Giliw Ko     

February 19 to 21 – Mga Anak Ng Lansangan         

February 22 to 23 - Kamoning      

February 26 to 28 – Mutya Ng Silangan        

February 29 to March 1 - “First Run Shows – Pictures Direct From The PI”     

March 5 to 7 – Bago Lumabog Ang Araw        

March 12 to 14 - Dasalang Perlas     

March 19 to 21 – Dasalang Perlas        

March 26 to 28 – Isang Halik Lamang

Listings end at this point, presumably for its closure and reopening as the Bella Union silent movie theatre. The "Rex" returns after January 1949.

REX SCREENINGS 1949

March 23 - REX THEATRE, SAN FRANCISCO: Principe Na Hindi Tumatawa [newspaper article mentions Filipino films are screened near Little Manila, but the theatre is closed much of the time due to a scarcity of prints. listings for the Rex claim “Chinese pictures except Wednesdays”]       

March 30 - Ikaw Ay Akin       

April 6 - Hinagpis       

April 13 - Angelus  

April 20 - Ala Alakita  

April 27 - Victory Joe  

May 4 - [Chinese film] 

May 11 - Romansa  

May 18 - “sequel to Victory Joe with Rogelio de la Rosa” [name unreadable]  

May 25 - Dalawang Daigdig  

June 1 - Aladin  

June 8 - The Voice Of Freedom  

June 15 - [Chinese film]  

June 22 - Binatang Taring  

June 29 - “New Filipino Picture”  

July 6 - “Filipino Pictures Every Wednesday”  

July 13 - [Chinese film] 

July 20 - “Filipino Pictures Every Wednesday” 

July 27 - REX THEATRE, SAN FRANCISCO: Magong Nanunubus [last listing until 1951] 

REX SCREENINGS 1951

By now a recognizable path can be detected for Tagalog prints around California from March 1951 - Wednesdays at the Rex, Saturdays at the Rio Theatre in Vallejo, Tuesdays at the Plaza Theatre in Salinas. 

February 21 to 27 [“New Show Every Wednesday”]: Guinang Takai Chi 

February 28 to March 6 - Labis Na Pagmamahal 

March 7 to 13 - Ang Lumang Simbahan 

March 14 to 20 - Sa Kabilang Buhay 

March 21 to 27 - “Always A Great Filipino Picture Program – Phone...” 

March 28 to April 3 - Padre Burgos 

April 4 to 10 - Damit Pangkasal 

April 11 to 17 - Dalamhati 

April 18 to 24 - Magandang Umaga Maestro 

April 25 to May 1 - Kumander Sundang 

May 2 to 8 - Kay Ganda Ng Umaga 

May 9 to 15 - Dugo Ng Bayan 

May 16 to 22 - Apoy Sa Langit 

May 23 to 29 - Pinaghating Sandaaning Piso 

May 30 to June 5 - Kidlat Sa SIlangan 

June 6 to 12 - Dugo Ng Katipunan 

June 13 to 19 - Sa Piling Mo 

June 20 to 26 - Biro Ng Tadhana 

June 27 to July 3 - Suwail 

July 4 to 10 - Milagro Ng Birhen 

July 11 to 17 - Nakaripang Kamay 

July 18 to 24 - Abogada 

July 25 - “Phone For Next Attraction” [listings stop until 1953]

REX SCREENINGS 1953

November 4 – Og 

November 11 – Santa Christina 

November 18 – Punglo At Pagibig 

November 25 – Lagrimas 

December 2 – Aghel Ng Pagibig

December 9 – Kadakilaan 

The Rex ceases all advertising after this date. The building once again became the Bella Union and was used for live performances from May 1954 interspersed with silent film screenings. Frank Lee took over the lease in 1964 and was the first cinema in San Francisco to show first-release Shaw Brothers films in Mandarin. The cinema finally closed in 1985.