We’ve put together an offbeat selection of holiday gifts for that Fellini-loving, Criterion-collecting, MUBI–tote-bag–carrying cinephile in your life.
For the friend whose mind is forever filled with their latest QCinema screenings, the Wong Kar-wai collector’s set from Criterion, and that new Martin Scorsese bio-miniseries on Apple TV, we’ve gathered a few ideas to make their Christmas wonderfully cheerful and delightfully nerdy.
Physical Media
Of course, the first thing on our list is actual films. Physical media is rare these days, especially with all the classic video stores (remember the good old days of AstroVision and Tower Records?) officially closed in the Philippines. Still, an incredibly passionate community of collectors thrives online, buying, selling, and trading movies with one another. If your loved one is a cinephile, chances are they’re part of this world—which is why the best gift you can give is, well, physical media. Blu-rays or DVDs of their favorite films (or even a favorite of yours that you’d like to share with them) are gifts they can cherish forever.
Facebook Marketplace has plenty of great titles if you do a quick search. But we highly recommend the Criterion Collectors of the Philippines Facebook page, where a vibrant community offers not just standard Blu-rays and DVDs but also coveted Criterion Collection releases, which are widely considered the pinnacle of physical media. Not sure which titles to buy? Consider giving a Criterion gift card or an Amazon gift card instead. Your cinephile friend will be thrilled to browse, choose, and curate their own perfect pick.
Vintage & Original Movie Posters
Gifting vintage or original theatrical movie posters shows your favorite cinephile that you appreciate their love for film; not to mention, it’s far more thoughtful than picking up the mass-produced pop art you’ll find in random stores, the same ones everyone already has. If you don’t know where to start, once again, check out the Criterion Collectors of the Philippines Facebook group, where passionate cinephiles regularly sell original double-sided theatrical posters at fair prices.
If you’re in the mood for a vintage-hunting adventure, head to Makati Cinema Square. The top floor houses an excellent antique shop that often carries original one-sheet posters from the 1970s and 1980s, lobby cards from the 1930s, and large theatrical posters ranging from Bruce Lee classics to obscure Filipino gems.
Film Books
What better gift than the gift of words and continued learning? Every cinephile loves discovering more about film and the people who make their favorite works, so consider gifting a great book this holiday season. Fully Booked—particularly the Power Plant Mall and High Street branches—offers a wonderful selection of film-related titles that any movie-obsessed fan would appreciate.
On a recent visit, we spotted standout reads like 50 Oscar Nights by Dave Karger, a compelling collection of interviews with Oscar-winning personalities reflecting on the night of their victories; Spielberg: The First Ten Years by the director’s longtime biographer Laurent Bouzereau, a lush coffee-table volume filled with never-before-seen photos and documents chronicling his early career; and a range of art books exploring the worlds of Wes Anderson and Studio Ghibli.
If you’re looking for something a little rarer, explore one of Manila’s many independent bookstores (which you can read about here) to track down the perfect, thoughtful gift.
A Private Cinema Experience
If you’re more inclined to give an experience rather than something material, we have an excellent recommendation. Movie theaters around Metro Manila can be reserved for private screenings, making it possible to bring a cinephile’s dream to life. If your favorite film lover has always wanted to see their all-time favorite movie on the big screen, this is your chance to make it happen. Rent a theater and let the movie magic unfold.
While there are many great cinemas available for private rental, we highly recommend the boutique theater Sine Pop in Quezon City. It offers a cozy atmosphere, complete privacy, and state-of-the-art amenities. All you need to do is bring your favorite Blu-ray or DVD, hand it to the projectionist, and you’re all set.
READ ALSO: 6 Theaters In Manila Where You Can Host Private Screenings
Movie-Themed Funko Pop!
Sure, they’re frivolous, but they’re also incredibly fun. They make for great home décor, too, especially for cinephiles and pop-culture nerds who are basically Funko Pop’s target market. The best part? Funko Pop! officially opened its flagship store in the Philippines just this year. Just head over to the Mall of Asia and pick out a few pieces for your favorite film lover.
Do they adore horror? Grab the special-edition Regan from The Exorcist in her iconic bed scene. A Marvel fanatic? There’s an endless lineup of Avengers to choose from. A romantic with a soft spot for musicals? Sebastian and Mia from La La Land have their own Funko, captured mid-dance to “A Lovely Night.” They’re playful, charming gifts guaranteed to make any movie nerd smile from ear to ear.
Oscar Memorbilia & Academy Musuem Merch
Here’s a fun, slightly obscure hack: The Academy of Motion Picture Arts & Sciences (or more commonly known as The Oscars) sells some of the best film memorabilia on the planet through their official Academy Museum Store website. You’ll find everything from merchandise tied to their latest exhibits, collectibles inspired by Oscar iconography, an endless selection of books and official prints for home décor, and even movie-themed pieces from brands like Moschino and Pantone. Sure, it’s a bit of a hassle if you don’t have a U.S. delivery address—but trust us, any true movie nerd will appreciate the effort.
