Posted at 08:45 PM in Life as I Know It
.I had the time to watch a DVD movie last night, so I chose to watch Ploning. Oh yes, the film starring Pantene's very own, Judy Anne Santos. It was the official entry of the Philippines for the Best Foreign Language Film of the 81st Academy Awards. It wasn't shortlisted, but I honestly think that it deserves glory well beyond what an Oscar can bring. I remember Judy Anne saying that this movie was a gift to her fans. And yes, it definitely is.
Judy Anne Santos was stellar - this was definitely a role that she was meant to play, she spoke Cuyonon like a native would. She was subtle and yet gleamed with grace. This film really brought out the main reason why she has her place as an actress in the world of Philippine cinema. The supporting cast was great as well - Gina Pareno is definitely becoming one of my favorite actresses - with her versatility and depth of character portrayal. I also loved Eugene Domingo in this role, more of like a comedic irony which I think she played really well. And I simply adored the role of "canned lychees" in the storyline, that's definitely one element that sort off tied it all together.
In hindsight, its definitely weird that the official entry of the Philippines to the Oscars was not even in Tagalog - but then again, that just shows the diversity of what the Philippines has to offer. More than that, it just goes to show that some emotions, human relationships and genuine human connections transcend the boundaries of language. Ang daming power lines, quotable quotes and "hagulgol" moments. This is definitely one film worthy of being called "Filipino."
Masakit, kasi nagmahal ka,
At natapos ito nang hindi ka handa
Sa bawat natatapos na pag-iibigan,
May isa na mas nasasaktan.
Hindi ba mas masarap isipin,
na kaya ikaw ang mas nasasaktan,
dahil ikaw ang mas nagmamahal.
It hurts, because you loved,
and you weren't ready when it ended.
Every time love ends,
there is always someone who's hurt more.
But doesn't it make you feel better thinking,
that the reason why you were the who was hurt more,
was because you were the one that loved more.
May rason para sa tanan. (There's a reason for everything.)
In the end, all I can say is - napakataray ng acting skills mo Juday! It's no wonder your star still shines brighter than it ever has before.
And what makes her shine!?
Hearing: Ploning - Trailer
Feelin' impressed.