“How do you fly when the sky’s not
blue?How do you fly when you’ve got nowhere
to run?”
I was moved and inspired to watch the movie THELMA as I was reading
excellent reviews, testimonies about the film by film critics and movie goers
this morning. Months ago, I've heard about a film to be released based or
inspired by true story about young provincial lass to find her secreted or exceptional
gift in running. Before 12 high noon, I
went to the nearby mall to watch the motion picture. Alone. I was enthralled by
the long lines at the ticketing area and as I entered the theater, it was
already full-packed. Gladly, there are still some unoccupied seats. This is not
a movie review; rather it’s my feedback about the film.
The film is a breakthrough in the Philippine Cinema. It’s
like watching a Hollywood indie movie but hey, this is a Pinoy indie film!. Yes, it is very Hollywood material. From
musical scoring to striking cinematography and of course to very well executed acting
by its lead star and supporting actors. And I guess, it’s far by the best
Filipino movie I’ve watched this year. It was really stirring and enriching. We
can learn to the life of Thelma. She was motivated by life adversities to run
for her life and for her family after her sister met an almost grave accident. And
as she ventures herself into an athletic running to finance the surgical
operation of her sister which is very far they can’t pay for, she faced sets of
despondency, misfortune, heartbreak, longing and triumph along the way. However, Instead of giving up because some run
from their problems, she (Thelma) ran to fix them.
Back to the film, Director Paul Soriano shows how a classic provincial
Filipino family’s way of life is. I know because I came from a family like
Thelma’s family. Promise! That’s why the film moved me, lifted my spirit, and
inspired me so much. I love this film. The message was a very comprehensible depiction
of determination and willpower. Thelma was very determined to run for her life
and for her family. She never looked back rather she continued running to reach
the paramount of triumph, an attainment that Thelma’s mother never achieved
before. Direk Paul’s cinematic vision
stood out in this film and it can be told that this is Maja Salvador’s voucher to a best
actress trophy in a leading role. She really fits for the role. The
cinematography was far by the best in an indie film. It perfectly showed how splendid Ilocos Norte
is, from the undeniably stunning golden rays of the sun to greener than green
rice fields to an enchanting waves of the shores to a reflective image of the well-known
windmills.
This film deserves a standing enthusiastic response for its
very fine execution of its material. Congratulations!!! And by the way, this film
is an official entry to the Hawaii International Film Festival. Marvelous! This
is a kind of film that we Filipinos need. A story of hope and uplifting dreams.
Inspiring stories. Enough with the old
same typical romance movies! Enough with trashy films! Our pocket deserves a
very good film!
CONGRATULATIONS TO THE PEOPLE BEHIND THE FILM, THELMA!
The above photo courtesy of TIME HORIZON PICTURES!