Bwakaw

Me and Ray are two of the last to watch Bwakaw last night at Festival Mall. I think only 6 people were in the cinema haha. But that can't discourage anyone, the movie garnered rave reviews, standing ovations, and long applause all over during their cinemalaya screenings. It won audience choice awards and best actor during the awards night.

                            

Among all indie films ive seen, this would have to be one of the most commercially appealing, mainly because one doesnt have to be a movie buff to really appreciate it. It has a moving plot, great cinematography and camera work, and good musical scoring. It's not your usual sob story, and a very refreshing break from all the love and breakup stories that have been saturating pinoy cinemas. A great movie review that I've read about it can be seen here.

The director based this film on his mentor who has already passed away, Rene Villanueva. The story revolves around an old man spending his days waiting for his death to come. Gad i cried BUCKETS. Anak ng jueteng talaga! (Rene's favorite expression :p).

I've always had a soft spot for the elderly. There are appearances from alot of recognized actors, which i guess added alot to the appeal of the film.

But Eddie Garcia - geez the man is stellar. I had a renewed respect for him. It can't be easy to play the role of a discreet gay. You almost couldn't tell except for the subtle changes in tone, and the way he looked at Sol, his love interest (or disinterest?lol).

"Rene ipangako mong hindi ka susunod sa akin dito, dito maraming nagaalaga pero walang nagmamahal" - a line from Alicia, his special friend and ex.

I think that line summarized all the reasons why we really shouldnt leave our loved ones in the home for the aged. Im so blessed to be living in the Philippines. I guess ive always worried about how life would be like when I grow old. Will I sulk at all the things i wish i had done? Can I bear seeing my parents getting old and frail?

I reached for Ray and asked "Pano kaya pag tayo tumanda na noh?"

He held me and said "Andito lang ako sa tabi mo hawak ko kamay mo."

So what more could i ask for? :-)