It has been a tradition for most Filipinos to watch movies from the annual Metro Manila Film Festival during Christmas season. This year, I was able to watch 3 films among the 8 entries. It took me a long while before I made the final decision on which films to watch because, apparently, I cannot watch all 8 films due to a limited budget. I based my decision on the movie trailers and one of the movies that caught my attention was Siargao.
Photosource : https://shadesofwanderer.com
I've always wanted to have a vacation on this place because of the positive remarks I've hear about it. Watching the film intensified my desire to visit Siargao. It was able to showcase the beauty of the island, its splendor, culture and the amazing locals there.
The story was pretty simple. Laura was a famous vlogger who went to Siargao to mend her broken heart. There she met Diego, a burned-out musician who went back to Siargao to escape from his toxic life and shaky career in the city. But he was not totally free from issues and complications because when she went back to the island where he grew up, he saw Abi, his ex-girlfriend. While navigating through his feelings for his ex , he was able to form a friendship with Laura who later on became a part of his decisions.
Photosource : http://cnnphilippines.com
Personally, I think there's nothing extravagant with the plot. I love its simplicity. It was direct to the point. However, the film got too focused on the cinematography (which was beyond excellent, by the way) and failed to utilize and enrich the full potential of the story. The film will make you feel like you were really travelling in Siargao, it will make you feel its island vibe. The waves, stellar beaches, peaceful living and lively night life. But it failed to dig deeper on the character's emotions. At some point, the plot was sacrificed in order to create an excellent cinematography. If not for the artists effective portrayals on their respective character, the film would've failed to create an impact to moviegoers. Nevertheless, it was a pretty good film. It became the top-awarded movie in the film festival having won seven of its twelve nominations which includes the coveted Best Director Award.
Photocredit : http://cnnphilippines.com
I would recommed this movie to travellers who are looking for new places to go to. I'm telling you, Siargao is a must-go place. If you want to know why, try watching the film and I assure you, you will fall in love with this beautiful island.