Catching up with much effort but watching with effort...
Historian. Teacher.
MNL | LIS
Mike de Leon, Joel Torre, Cherie Gil, and Rio Locsin are at their prime.
A gripping and profoundly layered adaptation of Fowles' The Collector.
The effort is commendable, but the choices in narration, themes, and transitions were questionable. Compared to other films that tackled activism during the Marcos dictatorship, I find the work with disturbing flaws. Some elements in the musical did not translate well in being adapted to the screen. Yet, in a Marcos Jr presidency, the hope is to welcome more works depicting resistance to combat historical distortion. While flawed, Katips is not the epitome but a reminder of potential. It is a reminder of the potential to inspire and build Filipino collective memory through filmmaking.
Criminally overlooked and underrated in its day, Mike de Leon poignantly tells a story of two souls whose passions have been lost into an affair that changes their lives. Inspired music and idyllic cinematography makes it irresistible to cherish this film. Props to adding two of the APO Hiking Society to the cast.
Visually satisfying as one's physical state of mind is pushed on the edge in the 5 1/2 hours running time. Stunning and breathtaking cinematography that goes well with lyrical dialogues to impress horrors and melancholy in the village filled with neglect, people forgotten by the country and folklore juxtaposed with perpelexing truths. Evoked in me the invested feelings with the characters in the numerous arcs they ate in. The final act continues to haunt me.