Busong aka Palawan Fate, Philippines (2011)
Directed, written and produced by: Auraeus Solito
Cast: Alessandra de Rossi, Rodrigo Santikan, Bonivie Budao, Walter Arenio, Dax Alejandro, Clifford Banagale
Busong aka Palawan Fate is director's Auraeus Solito's homage to his mother's native Palawan region. It's totally another venture from his notable films such as the gay coming-of-age Ang Pagdadalaga ni Maximo Oliveros (The Blossoming of Maximo Oliveros) and education-centered Pisay. Apparently, Solito interweaves shamanistic beliefs, music, myth, and rituals into this movie, setting forth somewhat dreamy sequences at times. Combining lovely shots of the beaches and forests of the Palawan island with gorgeous underwater images, Busong is undoubtedly visually lavish. Moreover, the final scene, which showcases an enchanting metamorphosis of butterflies, is utterly surreal but breathtaking.
Shot and projected in high definition, Busong might be viewed as anything too much- too defined, too stunning, too extravagant, among others. Also, the film's non-linear exposition, thus at times 'incomprehensible' unfolding of events, can mislead distracted viewers. But one thing is indeed evident: unabashed commendation for Solito's cultural ancestry and heritage.
What seems to be one's busong (fate) can actually be a reality to some. Truth is indeed stranger than fiction.
No comments:
Post a Comment