‘First Light’: James J. Robinson Talks Questioning Faith, Shooting In The Philippines & Exorcisms On Set — Glasgow Film Festival

Australian-Filipino writer-director James J. Robinson experienced an extraordinary incident while filming his debut feature 'First Light' in the remote mountains of the Philippines in 2024, when a female crew member became 'possessed' during production, leading to an exorcism on set that became intertwined with the film's exploration of questioning faith. The unique circumstances surrounding 'First Light' extend beyond the on-set exorcism incident, as Robinson draws from his dual cultural heritage to craft a narrative that delves into complex religious and spiritual themes. The film's production in the Philippines provided a rich cultural backdrop for exploring questions of faith, possession, and the supernatural, with the unexpected exorcism adding an authentic layer to the director's exploration of these themes. Robinson's approach to filmmaking embraces the unexpected, allowing real-life occurrences to inform and enhance the creative process, demonstrating the intersection of cultural beliefs and filmmaking in a region where spiritual practices are deeply ingrained in daily life.