Ploning

"Hindi ba mas masarap isipin na kaya ikaw ang mas nasasaktan ay dahil ikaw ang mas nagmamahal?" - Ploning, Ploning

Wow. Talk about love and sacrifice. :( *Sigh*

After a long and tiring morning from the DFA main office in Pasay City to Kirsten's office in Quezon City yesterday, I decided to unwind and relax by watching the highly publicized movie "Ploning" starring Ms. Judy Ann Santos at SM Megamall. I was, evidently, very intrigue with the movie's mystifying and cryptic atmosphere, not to mention the striking and moving lines whenever I catch its trailer on television. I'm honestly skeptical about making this movie review since the Cinema Evaluation Board graded it a whopping "A" and my thoughts about the said film may not give it enough justice. But, I'll still proceed with this review. Haha. :)

Set in the island of Cuyo in Palawan, Ploning (Judy Ann Santos) is an enigmatic middle-aged lass who appears detached from the pains of her daily life. Left by her teenage love, Tomas, for Manila, Ploning hopes to rejoin him in Manila after the town fiesta to continue their interrupted affair. Luckily, Ploning has the clever Digo (Cedric Amit) to look after, which satisfied her longing for Tomas. Unfortunately, during the town fiesta, Digo feels betrayed and runs away using his older brother's raft.

Fast-forward 25 years into the future, Digo returns to Cuyo with his Taiwanese mentor, Tsuy, in search for Ploning. Guided by the perky tricycle-driver Badokdok (Ketsup Eusebio), Digo journeys back to his native isle to retrace his instinctive roots. Of course, memories came flooding back to his brain and, thanks to Seling (Tessie Tomas), he learns how Ploning moved the people of Cuyo in surreptitious and humbling ways. Also, he ascertains his brothers existence and unites with him alongside his 2 nephews. The end.

I seriously cried during certain (2, actually) parts of the film.

1. The scene where Intang was asking everyone to help her save the salt from the rain. An award-winning performance from Ms. Gina Pareño.


2. The scene where Susing was telling Digo about Ploning's white dress. Parents and forgiveness. *Sigh* How nostalgic.

The cast was simply astounding and uberly impressive.

• Judy Ann Santos' depiction as Ploning was utterly natural, effortless, and marvelous. Each scene with her was stunningly adorned with poignant screenplay and the island's magnificent scenery.


• Ms. Gina Pareño's performance as Tomas' mother, Intang, was phenomenal. She clearly illustrated a mother's love for her child regardless of anything. Very nice.


• Meryll Soriano as the silent Alma was incredible and enticing. It's as if she has so much to offer to everyone, if given enough chance.


• Mylene Dizon's recital as the broken city nurse Celeste was compelling and dazzling. At first, I was a bit furious of her angst on Judy Ann. But, towards the latter part, I understood her point and loved her character. WINNER!


• Eugene Domingo (Juaning) and Ces Quesada (Nieves) were also divine in their own right. Each accomplished their designated roles with perfection and finesse.


• Tony Mabessa gave a brilliant performance as Ploning's endearing father, Susing. His execution was very touching and reminded me, surprisingly, of my father. Haha. :)


• Cedric Amit's portrayal as the child Digo seriously caught my attention. His acting was so pure and each scene was authentic and vivid, specifically during the rain scene with the leaf umbrella.


• Of course, let us not forget the other cast of characters that artistically enhanced the entire film. Kudos to everyone!

The cinematography was, unmistakably, breathtaking and awe-inspiring. The island itself was innocent of the city's hustle and undeniably impeccable for the whole story. Each portion of the story was shot seamlessly against spectacular scenery that enhanced this stroke of genius. I cannot imagine any other setting for the complete motion picture. I want to go there to discover this hidden wonder! Argh! :) Oh! The musical score was also noteworthy. It was simple yet celestial. *clap*clap* It gave the entire narrative an innate and exceptional appeal.

In conclusion, this movie is a perfect masterpiece. In an era where superheroes take the majority of the limelight, Ploning is a film that touches one's heart amidst the harsh adversities of daily life and makes one realize that true love, regardless of its form, entails relentless sacrifice. Definitely a must see movie for everyone.

Coffee, Ploning? :D