4. Ang Nawawala (2012)
Premiered at the Cinemalaya Film Festival in 2012, Ang Nawawala is a story about Gibson (Dominic Roco) who experienced trauma in his childhood and has gone mute after witnessing the death of his twin brother. When he went back from the States after studying for three years, he met Enid (Annicka Dolonius) who later on became his love interest. They both have the same taste in music, making their souls uniquely connected. When analyzing the film to an in-depth perspective, it also touches upon how mental health conditions in the Philippines remain a taboo in general. The character of Dominic opts to lock himself away from people because he knows that no one would be able to understand his psychological conditions, not even his family.
3. Gusto Kita with All My Hypothalamus (2018)
Derived from the idea that love originates from the tiny part of the brain called hypothalamus and not from the heart, Gusto Kita with All My Hypothalamus is centered on four men with different personas who eventually fell in love with one girl. Ukay-ukay salesman Caloy, widower shopkeeper Lando, hyperactive college student Alex, and mute ex-convict Obeng. The film is set in a typical urban setting particularly in the busy streets of Quiapo where we can see different faces of poverty and how living in the metro becomes an everyday struggle for students, vendors, street dwellers, and the like. The film depicts love as a fleeting feeling which serves as an escape from life’s struggles and social realities including poverty.
2. Endo (2007)
One of the most compelling indie films of 2007, Endo is a story of a typical Filipino laborer who falls under a 6-month-due fixed contract. This film presents a love story in a time where poverty becomes a hindrance. Leo (Jason Abalos) falls in love with Tanya (Ina Feleo), but he’s too caught up with his responsibilities and he’s unsure if he can provide a better future for her. The movie makes a great resemblance as to love that will eventually face an end of contract. It’s been over a decade since the movie was first released, but the problem with endo hasn’t been really put to an end until today.
1. Changing Partners (2017)
Similar to the film Baka Bukas, Changing Partners, starring Agot Isidro, Anna Luna, Jojit Lorenzo, and Sandino Martin, is a musical drama film that presents an unconventional type of love story between homosexuals. What makes it unique is the added formula pertaining to the huge age gap between the partners. In our society, this type of love story is called a May-December love affair which has always been a taboo to many. The catch here is that the leads sometimes change from heterosexual to gay couples. This film aims to celebrate love in all kinds and forms.
ALSO READ: INDIE Films: Where to Watch Them If You Missed Them
Did you watch any of these films? Share us in the comments section below!
