Nice to be back!

Nice to be back at Mediatalk!

I would like to renew my commitment to give a scholarly analysis of the films presented here in the Philippines.  I haven't stopped watching.  But now, it's necessary for us to know where our films, both foreign and local, will lead our country to. 

So watch out for more film analyses.  May God bless our work!

Allegiant

The Divergent series: Allegiant is third of the series featuring a girl who fights against standards and discrimination against systems of societies.

It is remarkable how the Divergent series could evolve to some science fictions standards to fighting political systems.  It exposes the present realities in terms of future scenarios of the "pure" and the "damaged".

But what does the "pure" human represent? And who are the "damaged" ones?  For the wise and discerning audience, these terms in the modern world do not exist at all.  If this were true, then we should be dead serious against further labeling people as rich and poor and powerful and powerless.  We can even remove tags as First and Third World countries.  Much more than removing these tags should be a commitment among countries to start helping one another instead of simply surviving for a something that simply accounts to nothing in the end.

Rating: 3.5 / 5

London has fallen

London has Fallen is a film about Chief Security Officer of the United States ensuring that the U.S. President stays alive while London is being terrorized.

The degree of violence on film truly has escalated.  But the story line of the typical American Cinema remains the same.  It contained the usual order - disorder - order restored scenario and the action-oriented scenes. At the helm of the action is protagonist who is supposed to win over all odds, a typical superhero who cannot be wounded, and who can attain his goal at all costs.

Undeniably, one's unquestionable commitment is to ones country and all that it represents.  This is what America stands even when faced with tyranny.  But much more that country affiliation is the advocacy to peace, respect and solidarity among countries.  There could not be any space for violence of any kind.  Humankind's history is marred with so much death and violence because of selfish powers that want to propagate themselves.  It's time to choose the greater good - the
good of all humanity.

Rating: 3 / 5

Deadpool

Deadpool is a story of a man who takes revenge on the man who turned him into a mutant.

It may contain the conventions of a Marvel superhero character with his own particularities - not the serious type and yet, ruthless to his enemies; with his physical features so manggled that he really needs to put on that mask.  The state of presentation of this feature film blurred with animation and hyperrealism is far from other endearing superhero films.

A redeeming value perhaps is Deadpool's abillity to find the lighter side of misfortunes and serious problems.  Also, despite his overviolent approach to fighting criminals, he could still distinguish what is true love.

The audience should be warned against excessive violence in this film to the point of trivializing it.

Rating: 2.5 / 5

Gods of Egypt

Gods of Egypt is a film about a god who is overpowered by his evil uncle before he could take over the thrown.

With digital animation, we can do almost every special effect possible.  The main challenge is to combine it seamlessly with live characters ang objects.  The film might be overrated in this aspect.  Moreover, the story plot is highly predictable; thus making it more believable to children rather than the discerning movie goers.

Yet, given the pagan symbols and representations of gods, the film can still give compelling messages on the afterlife and conduct of life in this world which resonate with Christian values.  Given this factor, Gods of Egypt can be a truly worthy film worth watching.

Rating: 3.5/5

Kung Fu Panda 3

Kung Fu Panda 3 is the third episode of a Kung Fu fighting Panda on his third phase of maturity as the Dragon Warrior, the carrier of the "chi".

The film never fails to amaze the moviegoers in terms of story plot and development as well as comedic twists.  Po maintains his endearing character of being cuddly and down to earth which appeal to people of all ages.  But he can also be live up to his rightful role as the "Dragon Warrior".  With this third and the most challenging encounter with his nemesis, he must be able to transcend from his weaknesses.

Po's character should inspire everyone that no matter what the challenges we can make it through.  But more than relying our own strength is the admittance that we need the support of others and that friends and family could be our true strength..

Rating: 4 of 5

Hotel Transylvania 2

Hotel Transylvania 2 is an animated film about a vampire who trains his grandchild to be a vampire.

In the name of entertainment, the filmmakers bring us to examine the comedic and satirical side of the world of vampires and monsters.  Unfortunately, save for the humans, the backdrop of cast and characters belong to the the dark side; hence, the need for more creativity to fit it into the world of children and comedy.

Whatever the backdrop is, the story explores the world of bringing out potentials in children which may be forced or respected in time.  Here, children should be treated with paramount respect and honor, and more importantly, be safeguarded against evils and dangers.

Rating: 3/5

Silong

Ang Silong ay kwento ng isang lalaking pinatuloy ang isang babaeng animo'y pinahihirapan ng kanyang asawa.

Tila may sapat na yaman ang mga producers ng pelikulang ito upang pagkagastusan ang ganitong uri ng story line sa hanay ng mga kwentong mas mahalaga sanang isapelikula.  Maaari rin naman itong tanda na maaari nang makalikha ng mas maraming tema ang Philippine movies.   Kailangan din ng isang sikat ng aktor tulad ni Piolo Pascual upang gumastos ang mga tao upang panoorin ang pelikulang ito.

Ang nakapanghihinayang lamang ay tila walang ibang itinuturo ang pelikula kundi ipahayag lang ang nakasulat sa poster, "The deepest scars are the ones you can't see."  Pero kung sa pagtalakay ng isyung ito, walang ipinakita ang pelikula kundi ang sakit ng isip na sa bandang huli, tila ito rin ang pinatututukuyan sa mga Pilipino - lalaki man o babae, tila may sakit ng pag-iisip na may kahiligang gawan nang masama ang kanilang kapwa.  Mag-ingat ang mga kabataan at yaong nais lamang magpahinga sa panonood ng sineng ito.  Kailangan ng masusing pag-iisip kung ano talaga ang implikasyon ng panonood ng pelikulang ito.

Rating: 2/5 or disturbing

Papa Francisco: the Pope Francis Story

Papa Francisco: The Pope Francis Story is a film about a journalist who discovers the real person behind the man who is to become Pope.

The most challenging shoot is of course, the Papal Conclave.  It is excellently done.  But the main advantage of the story is the compelling script that aims to come closer to the very heart of the present Pope Francis.  This is the gauge of the success of the film.

The movie explores not only the process of choosing the pope which is admittedly a mystery for the rest of the Catholic world, but of a far greater mystery - how the Holy Spirit molds each person towards interior conversion until he becomes an instrument even for unbelievers, corrupt systems, and yes, even the entire Church.  This film portrayed by one man, can indeed be the story of our struggles to live out and be authentic witnesses of the Faith.

Showing this September 30, 2015.  Highly recommended.

Rating: 5/5

Heneral Luna

Heneral Luna is a story of a Filipino General who in fighting Americans encounters unusual enemies right in his own backyard.

I truly commend the producers of this film.  For the first time since Lino Brocka, I feel that this film truly makes sense in terms of story line, cinematography, special effects, and the superb cast of characters like John Arcilla and the rest. Heneral Luna just made its mark in history of quality Philippine movies that other producers should follow.

Whether history has been fictionalized or tailor-made to fit movie expectations, the film seems to elicit issues beyond what history can offer - we Filipinos can't seem to be united beyond families and power.  In spite of a colorful history, the nationalism we hold on to may be a myth.  Unless we Filipinos change our ways, we still have a long, long, long way to go in attaining true sovereignty.

 Rating: 5/5

Inside out

"Inside Out" is a story of a joyful alter ego of a girl who wants to restore her to her former happy state.

It's a very creative concept to personify feelings, much more to create a script out of it.  The resolution also is very realistic and engaging.  Truly, this film contains the trademark of Pixar.

The story may depict the dynamics of the self and its seeming conflicts, but eventually, everything reaches a state of well-bring brought about by an integrated self.  The point really is geared towards accepting human beings as they are.  Self-acceptance is the starting point of true love.

Overall rating: 4/5

EX with benefits

"EX with Benefits" is a story of a woman who has to sell a new branded medicine to her ex-boyfriend who is now already a famous doctor.

There is a lack of coherency in scripting of this film.  It seems that the characters are forced by the scriptwriters to create the complications for such a simple love situation, especially at the moment of confrontation,   Moreover, Derek Ramsay's chemistry doesn't jive with Coleen Garcia. Otherwise, the elements of cinematography are satisfactory.

This film may also be an eye-opener for people in the medical profession if there indeed are incidences of corruption and immorality in the selling and endorsing of medicines.  The Philippine Medical Association should definitely look into the matter.  But if this is a question of artistic expression, then the viewers should be well-advised to discern whether this film portrays the dynamics of a love story or expresses free pre-marital sex instead of true love.  Otherwise, this film is not recommended to 13 year-olds or those thinking to enter into the noble and highly-esteemed medical profession.  Let a more mature audience watch and and critique it.

Rating: 2.5

You're still the one

"You're still the one" is a film about two childhood sweethearts whose love never seems to meet.

The technical side is seamless, a source of pride of Star Cinema, although there are inconsistencies in the cultural behaviors of the different era.  The script has a sense and leads towards a desirable ending.

The only thing to watch out for are moral assumptions in the movie - premarital sex and adultery which is portrayed as too casual and accepted among Filipinos.  Let us be sensitive to those who uphold the sacredness of married life and of true friendships.

Rating: 2.5/5

Pitch Perfect 2

Pitch Perfect 2 is a film about a group of high school girls who has to save their sinking reputation.

Without being a spoiler, endings for genres such as these would most likely be predictable.  The only concern is how to get there.  On the technical side, the musical parts are very interesting and entertaining.

There is much more than singing with technical expertise.  Get into the soul of things.  You'll see, friendships do matter.

Rating:  3/5

Maze Runner

Maze Runner is a film about a young man who yearns to do the impossible: to get out of the deadly maze!

The special effects add to the intensity of the story plus of course, the natural acting of Dylan O'Brian.

The message of the story focuses around going out of maze.  But could this apply to the mazes of human life?  And how do we cope up with them?  Of course, for Hollywood films, problems are always solved and resolved, giving us good feelings after watching them.

For all its worth, kudos to the power of the human spirit to struggle despite all odds  to do something rather than sit around helplessly.

Rating: 3/5

Hercules

Hercules is a film about a demigod who assists a displaced king against a tyrant.

There are many flaws in the story such that Hercules is relegated to a simple name.  The story line,  dialogue, and choice of characters put a dent to the plausibility the whole film.  Hercules is a name by itself and so is Dwayne Johnson.  But they don't quite go together.

Hercules depicts man's interior strength and his capacity to fight all odds.  But better be sure that whatever strength we have as men/women, we may use it not for evil but for good.  The real strength of man is if he can place himself in the service of righteousness.

Rating: 3/5

Rio 2

Rio 2 is a sequel of a rare city-bred bird and his family adjusting to their new life in the jungle.

The story is as thin as it gets. However, the Brazilian music is superb and the basic story line can pass.  Animation is fast-paced.  It's generally entertaining and meant for the whole family to enjoy.

Values passed on in this movie are love for family and environment. Despite the modern technology, the beauty of nature is still incomparable.  Of course, enjoy the Brazilian music!

Rating: 3/5

Son of God

"Son of God" is a timeless story on the life of that One Man who changes the world forever.

Credit is given to its production values that include music, special effects, make-up and cinematography.  Diogo Morgado is an excellent choice for the portrayal of Jesus because of his expressive eyes.

Set to be shown during the Lenten Season and Holy Week, this film is a definite classic all year round for all viewers seeking to know and deepen their relationship with Jesus.  Giving the Son of Man a human face that everyone will identify is truly an inspiration for all viewers to carry on the task of proclaiming the Good News, becoming fishers of men, and changing the world for lasting good.

Rating:  5/5

The Heat

The Heat is a film about 2 seemingly opposite characters who became the best of friends.

Of course with the Hollywood style nothing could go wrong.  This film presents the most typical of conventions - script, beats, acts, etc., all except the main characters - Sandra Bullock and Melissa McCarthy.  Here are two women with the strength of a man.  Moreover, the dashes of comedy make The Heat a truly entertaining film.

Much more that conventions and role reversals, the film strives to enunciate friendship, life's true worth not in power but in self-dedication, and of course, love for family.  Enjoy watching!

Rating: 3.5/5

World war Z

World War Z is a story of a man tasked to decipher how he could destroy the zombies who are infecting millions of people in the blink of an eye.

Things as so fast paced; children are exposed to danger and violence.  The script is excellent.  There is no way one man can eradicate the infection, except ... just watch the movie and see.  There's nothing that human beings cannot solve.

Kudos to man's ingenuity!  There's not doubt that there's no problem man cannot solve.  The only challenge is how this can translate in real life.  In as much as man can solve the greatest problems on earth, let's not forget that man himself is also the cause of the problems existing in the world - sin, corruption, sickness, destruction of the environment, moral decay, and poverty - unless he makes a definitive decision to fight against corruption with the power of truth and love.

Rating: 4/5