“The Girl in the Orange Dress”

By Baek JinWook

Release Date: 25 December, 2018
Directed By: Jay Abello

This film is under the star Cinema and MJM productions for Metro Manila Film Festival 2018. I had a chance in watching Philippine film and it was enjoyable and entertaining overall.

The main characters are Jericho Rosales and Jessy Mendiola who acted as the main role in the story together with Three Jessy’s best friends (Hannah Ledsma, Ria Atayde and Sheena Halili).

The Story started with a movie star and an ordinary lady “Anna” waking up in the same bed at the AG New World Manila Bay hotel. It gave me an idea what happened during the night when Anna was half-naked shocked upon waking. Meanwhile Jericho Rosales is one of the famous star in the Philippines and eventually paparazzi took a photo of them walking inside the hotel which face of Anna was not shown. Eventually it became a big issue and made all the other media companies to gather in front of the hotel.

The Story went on with comedy scenes, Anna and Jericho strives to escape the hotel with out the media people noticing and at the end of the story, Anna and Jericho bravely opened to the public about their night and relationship.

The setting of the film was mostly done inside the hotel which I first thought the story will be boring but the director really made it enjoyable by putting conflicts and reality about the movie star. Jericho said “we all have feelings” which came to me as movie star is also a person who has emotions and feelings which people and the fans has stereotype about them. The movie was not actually realistic but contained reality in human emotion. Also it showed how media and people works and dig in to celebrity’s privacy and life which in the movie it showed as comedy scenes. Also the director put some conflicts about friendship and gave one vague question mark with Jericho. At the first scene when Anna and Jericho woke up in the same bed, Jericho’s phone rang and the name was shown “Honey” which at first I though he was cheating on his girlfriend. But at the end of the scene it drew out that “Honey” is a executive manager of Jericho.  The starring actor and actresses were perfectly matched to each characters and I saw no awkwardness. Also Color Red was considered the most attractive color for love but in this movie by putting the color Orange I believe it showed a soft but sudden love by young lovers.

Beautiful and handsome people creating their love like a destiny which can’t happen in this real world or might happen in the media field I guess, made me to enjoy the movie for 1 hour and 40 minutes.

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Jack em Popoy: The Puliscredibles is directed by Michael Tuviera and starred by Vic Sotto, Maine Mendoza, Coco Martin, and many more. To my surprise, it was refreshing to watch a film starred by Vic Sotto that isn’t dragging and actually made sense.

Popoy (Vic Sotto) has been working as a senior police officer for years and hasnt climbed up the ranks. Jack (Coco Martin) joins Popoy’s department and eventually met Emily (Maine Mendoza) while both were catching a thief. Emily is Popoy’s adopted daughter, he took care of her the moment his partner, Emily’s biological father, died in a mission. Together, they attempted to bring down a major drug syndicate.

The film was good and it could’ve been great but it lacked depth. Sure, the action scenes were nice and the film was fast paced unlike any Vic Sotto films in the past and Coco Martin’s acting was great but it wasn’t anything new. People see it on a daily basis in Ang Probinsyano. Same with Vic and Maine, making funny faces doesn’t make you a comedian. But, with all these, it was actually refreshing and (oddly) satisfying to watch them all together in a comedy action film. (Also, can I just say that Arjo Atayde is so good looking, pours his heart into his role and his acting is superb.)

If you were to ask me if I would recommend this film to people I know, I would, though I would warn them to maybe lower their expectations a bit. I decided to watch this film because I’ve seen people raving and hyping the film so I was curious what the fuss is all about. Again, it was nice and all but it lacked something. I still don’t know what that something is but I know it was lacking. 7/10.

Myka Andrea

Mendoza, Khamylle Anne E.

The Girl in the Orange Dress is a film directed by Jay Abello. This is an entry of Quantum Films affiliated with the MJM Productions under the Star Cinema for Metro Manila Film Festival 2018.

The film’s leading characters are Jericho Rosales and Jessy Mendiola. Other stars in the movie are Sheena Halili, Hannah Ledesma, and Ria Atayde (Jessy’s best friends), together with Nico Antonio, Via Antonio, Maika Rivera, Kaladkaren, Cai Cortez, and with the special participation of Maxine Magalona, Jennylyn Mercado, Derek Ramsay, Luis Manzano, and Boy Abunda. 

The movie focuses on two drunk people—a typical Filipina lady named “Anna” and a popular star named “Rye”—who slept together at the AG New World Manila Bay Hotel. In the beginning of the film, Anna found herself in a luxurious 5-star room beside the half-naked man she never met before. But little did she know that the man next to her is one of the famous actors in the country. Though they both felt awkward, everything went smooth until media people came into the scene which is the main cause why they got trapped inside the hotel. The press kept on looking for the two of them through checking each hotel room one by one desperate to get a good scope. So basically, this is a romantic-comedy film which actually has the same premise of Notting Hill at the same time. 

On the other hand, I loved how Echo took measures for his role; and I can say that he truly met the expected gratification of the audiences unlike Jessy who was not able to deliver her expressions and reactions properly. Realistically, I have also noticed some ridiculous scenarios in the film such as media people freely circulating around the hotel as well as guests effortlessly entering the prohibited zones of the hotel. However, the pacing is good. The cinematography is quite proficient—suitable with some funny scenarios on the movie especially from the media people and Rye’s supporters. With that, the culture of the Filipinos in patronizing their idols was patently manifested.

Above all, I can say that “The Girl in the Orange Dress” is absolutely a fun hide-and-seek romantic movie who would make you leave the cinema with smile on your face. Kudos!

The dead will find their way home

Yam Laranas’ Aurora follows Leana (Anne Curtis) as she struggles to make ends meet not only for herself but for her younger sister Rita
(Phoebe Villamor). Their only income—an inn situated on the shore of a secluded island.

The film begins by showing beautiful underwater visuals of the Aegean blue sea and slowly shifts to an aerial shot of the mysterious island where Leana is shown standing, frustratedly looking at a wrecked ship, Aurora– half of it submerged in water surrounded by enormous rocks not so far away from the shore. Indeed, the first few minutes of the film was promising and actually made me very curious as to how the plot would thicken.

It continues by showing the financial struggles Leana had to face given that not so many tourists are interested in checking in a lodge just in front of a tragic shipwreck that could be clearly seen through the windows. As soon as the coast guards stop their search, parents of a missing victim convince Leana to continue the inn’s operation and willingly pay her 50 thousand pesos for every missing body she finds. Desperate for cash, Leana asks help from a local (Allan Paule) to assist her with her search.

Indeed, the bluish- gray color scheme and the setting’s atmosphere gave an overall vibe and was very fitting for a thriller film. As someone who loves horror films, I never got the suspense that is expected from a horror slash thriller genre. The story, however, was quite unique and had potential if only it was executed well. Instead, viewers are puzzled with unanswered questions due to the lacking and messy plot. The film was problematic—like how every film should be, but it had too many issues that some weren’t even solved and instead, were overshadowed by poor computer-generated imagery and bizarre supernatural beings. In fact, the intentions of the ghostly beings were never revealed and questions about the strange ship were never answered.  I won’t lie, some of the scenes almost kept me on the edge of my seat but could be compared to a cliff hanger—the suspense intensifies but never really reaches the climax.

Most of the scenes were dragging and unnecessary. The nonessential clips only added to the slow pace and progression of the film rather than actually strengthening its growth. Just like the film’s unorganized story, sequences were disordered and had really bizarre cuts. However, bagging “Best Cinematography” and “Best Sound Design”, the film’s original scoring and visuals did not disappoint. Indeed, the cinematography was superb showing different shades of blue, picturesque sights and odd camera angles that surprisingly worked paired with intense music composed by Oscar Fogelström. Overall, It could have been flawless if it weren’t for the cringey CGIs—except for the ship, that was actually beautifully done.

Other than Aurora’s cinematography, Curtis and her character saved the film. Good thing viewers had somebody to focus on and feel for. It’s disappointing since this film could have been better, given the distinct story, setting and vibe. If only they worked better on the script rather than focusing on unnecessary graphics that weren’t even carried out well. Because of this, the gist of the film was unclear and not fully explained. Well, it’s not all bad, just needed improvements.

Marge Morales

Lighthearted and touching movie worth to watch with family this New Year

Director: RC Delos Reyes
Producer: Paul Soriano
Release Date: 25 December 2018
Genre: Romantic Comedy

Long wait is over. After almost 10 years, SamTin team-up star in one of the movie entries of the MMFF 2018, Mary, Marry me. The supporters of the former onscreen partners were delighted when announced several months ago that a reunion movie was coming following their blockbuster movies: You are the one (2006), You got me (2007), My big love (2008), and Ang Tanging Pamilya: A Marry Go Round (2009). Along with Toni and Sam, television host, actress, and vlogger Alex Gonzaga also joins and definitely adds fun and life to this movie.

The movie Mary, marry me is a dream come true for the celebrity sisters Toni and Alex Gonzaga as it is deemed as their first project in the silver screen. The film is about two sisters Mary Jane (played by Toni) and Mary Anne (played by Alex) caught up in an awkward fate over Sam Milby’s character Pete. The sisters had a fun childhood not till a tragic incident happened to their parents that estranged them from each other. They grew and found life apart. And when the two were finally reunited, life plays another trick on them. Mary Jane’s sister Mary Anne is set to marry her ex-boyfriend Pete. How will the two sisters fill the void of time they were distant? How will Mary Jane handle the responsibility of being the wedding coordinator of her sister’s wedding when the past keeps sneaking and reminding her of the bygone days with Pete? How far can Mary Anne go in defending her position as Pete’s fiancée? Those intriguing questions are all answered in the movie.

The story centers on the special bond and friendship formed out of sisterhood. The movie celebrates sisterly love, understanding, and joy. The Gonzaga sisters did an outstanding job in their respective roles. Their easy and free acting performances speak of authentic closeness they have behind the camera. Sam Milby’s heartthrob aura never waned. It is present undeniably. This movie is not just for sisters. This is for everybody. You may have no sisters, or no siblings at all but this is a feel-good movie which is worth your time and money. It is effortlessly funny. Alex’s bubbly personality stood out. Her comedic talent is commendable. Some of the most popular comedians at present also add laughter in this flick: Bayani Agbayani, Moi Marcampo, and Melai Cantiveros. Every line they deliver evokes chuckle and giggle to the audience.

This film is both amusing and very touching. And oh, you shouldn’t miss the climax. Alex proved one her dialogue line that she could be the meanest. Yes, she was mean in that particular scene.

Finally, the official soundtrack of this movie Sissums is really captivating, an original song and its lyrics is written by none other than- the Gonzaga sister. Indeed, a fun movie to watch this new year 2019.

Film Review on Joel Lamangan’s Rainbow’s Sunset.

Rainbow’s Sunset is a film directed by Joel Lamangan which won 10 awards, such as best picture, best director and best screenplay, during the 2018 Metro Manila Film Festival Awards Night.

The film talks on the story of married couple, Ramon (Eddie Garcia) and Sylvia (Gloria Romero), and their children when they find out about their father’s true relationship with their cancer-stricken godfather (Tony Mabesa).

I had very high expectations for the film, since going in I knew it won a lot of awards but I was somewhat disappointed after seeing it.

My first thought after watching this film was “great actors, boring characters”. Tirso Cruz, Aiko Melendez, and Sunshine Cruz’s characters had no depth to them, they were shallow and petty, and made decisions that were spontaneous and not very well-thought. I noticed how the film tried to show the life of each character but there were too many of them and there was just to many problems being brought up but not actually solved.

Watching in the theater, some of the sound made me question if it was from the movie or my seatmate’s phone. The background noise, sound effects, volume of voices were sometimes questionable and made me think if it they just downloaded it off YouTube.

The plot itself had many loopholes as well, there were some scenes that seemed unnecessary. Ramon and Sylvia’s only son Emman (Tirso Cruz) was caught in a sex scandal and he was short on money to pay for the agreed settlement price. He then turns to his sister Georgina’s (Aiko Melendez) husband to borrow money, during their conversation the brother-in-law hints in illegal activity that Emman agrees to doing but the film never answers or goes back to this.

Another scene is about Marife (Sunshine Cruz) who is dating a man she didn’t want her family to meet due to him being half her age. They both break up due to a fight but resolution or proper closure was never showed throughout the film.

I did not like how the film ended. Ramon’s death was kind of convenient and it again, did not allow him to have closure with his children (I understand that maybe it’s to prove the point that death is sudden and unexpected but I think his death could’ve come at a much better time).

The cinematography was so-so. Some scenes were grainy and the filters weren’t great for all shots but I appreciated the use of black and white and pops of color in the flashbacks.

I do commend the people behind this film for doing something different for the Metro Manila Film Festival. For a few years now, it has come to light how most films that enter this festival are commercialized and are slapsticks with the repetitive moral lesson of “family comes first”. It is so refreshing to see films that want to inspire and educate the Filipino people and their families with real issues today and not humor them through insults.

Overall, it was an okay film that was touching and full of heart. It talks about touchy social issues such as the LGBTQ+, death, and different kinds of love in a family friendly way. Out of all the MMFF films, I definitely recommend people to see and support Rainbow’s Sunset but if you want to watch a film to educate yourself or someone about matters of the LGBTQ+ community, I think there are far better films, with a better plot and better characters.

Ericka Frye

The film has a storyline that took place in 1944, five years after the Spanish Civil War that divided Spain for years; a battle between democracy and fascism during an unstable political climate. The film begins with Ofelia, a girl who believes in fairytales and magic, and her pregnant mother, Carmen, both en route to a military camp. The mother and daughter are on their way there to meet Captain Vidal, Ofelia’s stepfather who happens to be a fascist, a patriarchal, and a violent man. The mother and daughter earned a shelter in the military camp only because Carmen bears the son of Captain Vidal. The storyline follows as Captain Vidal and his men fight against the rebels, with Ofelia interacting with magical creatures and pursuing missions given by the fairies.

In first blush, the film was difficult to understand because I was not expecting a combination of fairytales and a civil war. Since there is fascism present, some scenes resonate to me and my political views, especially when Captain Vidal tortured a rebel whom he held hostage. Moreover, the military men’s pleasure in asserting their authority and their penchant for sadism and violence are highly reflective of what happens in reality. I also liked how the film explored patriarchy and misogynism. On the one hand, I found Carmen weak-willed and submissive but Mercedes, on the other hand, is a woman not to mess with despite her soft facade.

Considering her situation, heroine Ofelia does a magical escapism. I called it magical escapism simply because Ofelia’s source of solace from the harsh and violent reality is the belief that what she reads on her books are real. Ofelia, like any other person, will really try to escape or at least find a distraction if placed under the same situation. Her fairies and drive to accomplish her “missions” somehow detaches her from the civil war. When Ofelia or Princess Moanna met his father and mother in their kingdom, I felt relieved, despite knowing that all these are purely fictional in nature.

The plot is excellent and the actors fit their roles perfectly. Such eccentric plot— fairytales and war, would only work well only in my wildest dreams but it actually worked for this film. Aside from the plot and the actors, the film also has a commendable cinematography, particularly with how light and darkness were strategically used. Furthermore, the film’s mise-en-scene or its scenery or overall appearance, was simply beautiful—the military camp, the forest, Captain Vidal’s quarters, the helpers’ kitchen, and of course, the labyrinth. The film is beautiful and it’s a feast for the eyes, not exactly like The Grand Budapest Hotel, but still it has its own aesthetic and is not devoid of beauty.

Overall, the film is ironically a delight. This masterpiece hit the inner child in me and the anti-fascist and anti-patriarchy positions that I proudly bear with me. Pan’s Labyrinth is a film that everyone should watch. Again, a perfect combination of fairytales, magic, and war would only happen in my wildest dreams, but like Ofelia, I did not know that my wildest dreams can be a reality. The film is something I would like to call… a perfect storm.

     Justin Dizon

“A winner is a dreamer who never gives up.” –

—

Nelson Mandel

Umberto D, is a classical film produced and directed by Vittorio De Sica.The film was originally released in Italy on January 20, 1952. Watching the entire film will take 89 minutes of your time. It is highly advised that viewers should prepare a tissue or handkerchief while watching this film because this film will surely touch your heart especially to those who love animals.

The story focuses on an elderly man paying his debt to his landlady, until one day, he was left with no choice but to vacate the place. Luckily, Umberto has a dog named Flike who considers him as a best friend. Although this film barely uses a dialogue, I think it is effective in the sense  that it captures the viewers’ attention by understanding what is happening in every scene and for that no scene may be missed.

One of the most memorable scenes in this film is when Umberto taught Flike to bite his hat so that Flike may capture everyone’s attention and give him money, but sadly, no one does.

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Another scene that is very interesting is when Umberto tried to abandon Flike and mislead him, but I think they have been together for so long that Flike made a way to see Umberto by means of smelling him which lead to knowing where Umberto is.

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I will not spill too much information, but I guarantee you it is worth your time to watch this film.  After watching this film I realize that the saying, “a man’s best friend” is absolutely true. It has been clearly shown in the film. Plus, this film gives me a reflection about life, that yes life is unfair, yet life love those people who dare to live with it.

Mark Gil Sabandal

AB Communication 3