The Last of 2012: Movies

Tiktik (2012)

For all the hype that this movie made prior to its showing, I expected something that would make me believe that Filipino mainstream films can compete on the same level with high-class international movies. In a way, Tiktik did not disappoint. The opening credits were a really amazing sequence, a gorgeous concoction of animations of Philippine mythical creatures. The "world-class special effects" that the ads boasted of were pretty much laudable during the first few minutes. But as plots go, Tiktik seemed to be torn between being a real thriller or a complete dumbing-down to be a full-pledged slapstick comedy. It was really just too convenient that there was a field of salt at the back of the neighbor's house, for example, right? While I do think that Filipino films can really get away with bits of funny and dark humor antiques here and there amid a tremendously serious premise, I thought Tiktik could really do better with some more honing in its technique and character development.

It is a really enjoyable film, I have to say. (Ramon Bautista stan over here.) It has gripping action sequences and again, the visual effects are to rave about. I guess, I was just looking for more cultural depth since Tiktik had already made the bravest step of trailblazing this kind of storytelling style.

Rurouni Kenshin (2012) 

There is great pleasure derived from being able to watch a movie you never thought you'd see in the real big screen. As a fan of numerous Asian films, I've been content with watching on my computer for years. But upon learning about Rurouni Kenshin being shown for a limited time here in the Philippines, I rejoiced and lined eagerly at the box office with the whole anime community of the country.

I admit, I haven't seen the anime series in full and I can't exactly tell how the movie did as far as adaptations go but Sato Takeru as the wandering swordsman was really effective with his brooding silences as well as comedic timing. Himura Kenshin is a well-beloved character and I believe, at least with the audience that night at the cinema, that Takeru's portrayal was well-received. The film manages to capture the changes in the main characters even through the fast-paced plot and subplots. The movie was more than an action film, it was a sublime tale of a portion of Japan's history as well as the relationships between the characters and even the antagonists. Of course, Japanese live action films are known for capturing larger-than-life characters and stories with intricate sets, costumes, cinematography and special effects. Rurouni Kenshin was such and more. It tipped its hat to (seasoned) fans of the anime while making sure that it can be appreciated by newbies such as me.

Besides, seeing it with a movie-house full of (fellow anime) fans who probably almost-never get to see a Japanese film in a real local cinema added to the experience. It's no wonder Rurouni Kenshin's screening got extended to about two months, from just a mere week. Already, we are awaiting the sequel. And it's probably high time I watch the series and read the manga for real. Heh.

The Hobbit (2012) 

I watched this film twice, first before being able to read the book, and the second time after finally reading the tale of Bilbo's adventures. On both times, I had marveled at the sheer beauty of the sets for Middle-earth, the gorgeous soundtracks, the incredible costumes and make-up. The Hobbit is a testament of director/producer Peter Jackson's passion for the beloved Tolkien material.

I understand the additional story-lines in the movie that helped advance and add depth to the main The Hobbit story, including the meeting of The White Council, the story of Azog the Defiler, Radagast the Brown, and other bits. Some character development was different, too. Somehow, I got bothered during the first time I saw it that it's going about too long than it should. I understand that The Hobbit is a book for kids, and the movie seems to be following the style of Lord of the Rings more than it had to.

But then, I loved it. Andy Serkis's Gollum was amazing as always, Riddles in the Dark was as climactic as it was in the book. Martin Freeman as the reluctant hobbit with a bit of a superiority complex dragged to an adventure was quite spot-on. The rift between the elves and the dwarves was cunningly staged, I think, and it had set up the trouble that is to come in the sequels. It was fantastic to be back with a new adventure in Middle-earth. I really don't have an extensive knowledge about the whole book series to compare the plots that the movie nailed or deviated from. I just know that I enjoyed the visual treat and I am looking forward to the next one.

El Presidente (2012) 

I think El Presidente is commendable for its ambition. It had great potential. Hell, I've always wanted to watch a decent local period film that is not about Rizal. But there was still much to be desired. I felt rather uneasy with the cuts and the fight sequences. But I really thought the set and costumes were impeccable with their ability to re-create the Spanish era.

However, since I was never pro-Aguinaldo, Estregan's acting did little to nothing to convince me otherwise. I really thought watching his blandness in the lead role was kind of uncomfortable especially as he was surrounded by high-caliber actors in supporting roles. When you have Cesar Montano, Joonie Gamboa, Christopher de Leon, Yul Servo, Ronnie Lazaro and the like around you, I think you need to up your scale. I was wondering throughout if Sid Lucero would have been the better fit for the role of Aguinaldo. He was amazing despite the minute size of his screen time as one of Aguinaldo's men. His face when he was told to run an errand near the end told a bigger story than the carefully-written speeches and long shots on Estregan's blank face.

Also, I felt really uncomfortable about the accuracy of the story. When you present factual events in films like this, people will have the tendency to take it in face value. To me, the way the plots unfolded (especially concerning the Tejeros convention and the projected betrayal of Bonifacio, who by the way, was well-portrayed by Cesar Montano) seemed like a defense towards the actions Aguinaldo had taken. It was like that--the movie felt like it needed to defend and make Aguinaldo appear to be the "chosen one" for the country.

Yes, Aguinaldo was a hero. Yes, he played a great role in our history. It's exactly the reason why stories like this needed to be carefully told, especially in a medium as widely accessible as mainstream films. The film was a visual treat and our film industry could do more with this kind of first-rate cinematography quality albeit the focus left me wanting.