More of 2004’s finest (local) films

Although the harvest wasn’t particularly bountiful – compared to Philippine cinema’s golden years in the ’50s, 1976 and 1982 – there were still noteworthy films that played in local theaters in 2004. I’ve already listed down some of my choices that last time. Below is the completion of my list of the best films shown last year:

• Feng Shui (Star Cinema) – This is the closest local film product that can compete with those Japanese and Korean horror movies. Directed by Chito Roño, this film that topbills Kris Aquino is visually stunning and has a lot of terrifying scenes that do not necessarily resort to cheap scare tactics. I’m glad that it turned out to be a blockbuster because we can now say that if only producers would come up with a good film, local viewers would come in droves to watch it.

• Santa-Santita (Unitel Pictures International) – From the direction of Laurice Guillen, this movie has very powerful scenes that will keep viewers riveted to their seats. I may not be very happy with the way events are resolved in the end, but I do acknowledge that it is an important film – and a difficult one to mount (with principal location in busy Quiapo district).

• Minsan Pa (MLR Films) – A film produced with the best of intentions, but sadly failed to make a dent at the box-office. Shot mainly in Cebu, it is undeniably expensive and the high production costs are evident on the screen.

Longer than the usual running time of most local films, it loses steam in some parts (but it is generally still engaging as a whole). This is my least favorite among Jeffrey Jeturian’s work. But in spite of this, the film is still good and this only shows how brilliant Jeturian is as a filmmaker.

• Pa-Siyam (Regal and Reality Entertainment) – This is the best of Erik Matti’s works. The film is technically superior (the production design of Richard Somes is excellent) and boasts of inspired performances by Roderick Paulate, Cherry Pie Picache (as always), Maricar de Mesa, Yul Servo, Aubrey Miles and Ana Capri.

• Panaghoy sa Suba (CM Films) –A film that dares to go against conventions (done in Cebuano with English subtitles, which is a no-no among Filipino viewers), this could very well be Cesar Montano’s biggest contribution to the Philippine movie industry. And what great contribution it is – a film that he produces, directs and stars in – because it is excellent in all aspects: Direction, screenplay (by Cris Vertido), sound, production design (although with minor flaws), music (very enchanting), editing, cinematography and the performances of all actors involved in the film.

• Ebolusyon ng Isang Pamilyang Pilipino – This film by Lav Diaz proved one thing: That I love my job well enough to be able to sit through a movie that runs for 10 hours and 30 minutes! Yes, Ebolusyon is that long–and unnecessarily so. (You devote one whole precious day just to view it.)

I will not pretend to be a cineaste and say that I am head over heels in love with alternative cinema–or whatever you want to call Ebolusyon because I do not know what to make of it. But I will respect Lav Diaz’s intentions and whatever statement he wants to convey through this film. I also have to say that it is a very good documentation of the ordinary life of the Filipino as a person and as a family unit.

But I swear, given its running time (it’s practically the same length of time I devote to watching all of the filmfest entries), it is unable to tie some loose ends in the movie (or maybe Lav Diaz wants us to tie these up ourselves based on our perception of his work).

There are also fine performances here by Pen Medina, Ronnie Lazaro, Angel Aquino, Angie Ferro, Joel Torre, Roeder and some cast members who are not necessarily familiar with local moviegoers.

Although I still have reservations about it, I admit it is a significant film. At 10 hours and 30 minutes, it should be.