Failure To Launch

Because of the unusual strong gust of winds, hot air balloons failed to soar the skies during the last 12th Philippine International HotAir Balloon Fiesta at the Clark Airfield in Pampanga.

My Indie Valentine

On Valentine's Day, my hubby brought me to the screening of a local indie film entitled ENDO. We came out of the moviehouse very much impressed and proud of the talents that were showcased in the film. The story was well-written; the script very very realistic; the scenes were hauntingly so real-life too!; and the actors were all natural.

ENDO I found out is a slang abbreviation for "end of contract", or what temp workers refer to as their last day on the job until the next one comes along. The movie is not about labor malpractice or the employment sufferings and grievances of its characters. It is a love story-- so true and honest and simple! The movie in all its simplicity, was refreshing. I say, refreshing from most indie films which are either too political or extremely artistic-- and personally, just a little heavy for me to digest.

I adore all the cast members, from the lead actors to the bit players, no exceptions, their performances were all excellent! There was no over the top acting, it was consistently subtle and poignant. Very touching but still entertaining.

I am no movie critic but I highly recommend this movie to all. If only to show support to such talented people who put this film together. May they find inspiration and motivation to produce more quality movies like ENDO.

I was also thrilled to find out that ENDO competed in the Festival des 3 Continents in Nantes, France last year. And maybe here is where I can relate and express my concern with the movie's subtitle which did not do justice to the film. The translations were too literal and shallow-- they were void of emotions and characterizations. I know, thus is such a small kink and beyond the Director's control(?!. But still, I urge the industry to look into this aspect of moviemaking. "Subtitling" should not be synonimous with translation, it should not compromise the emotions and the essence as a whole of the movie. This is a part of filmmaking which I believe is too important especially, now that our movies are getting more and more globally competitive.

Again my congratulations to you all behind ENDO! You make the Philippines proud!