In a world where it’s fashionable to blame all our problems on wealthy people and straight white men, it’s refreshing when the entertainment industry portrays reality: that individuals can achieve much progress when we pursue vocations that help others and empower us to be independent. Healthy families often provide the foundation that we need to build a solid work ethic so we can excel in our fields. They should also serve as our primary safety nets when circumstances beyond our control render us unable to support ourselves. So without further ado, here are five Filipino movies that inculcate the value of pursuing one’s calling:
Despite their tendency to play favorites, Mommy Grace Salazar and her deceased husband strove to raise loving children who excel in what they do. When those kids grew up, they pursued different goals and adhered to beliefs that contradict each other. Such differences led the siblings to have conflicts. Their fights forced them to deal with issues that had been simmering through the years. But despite all the friction, they still came through for one another when it mattered.
While I don’t agree with the leftwing bias of this movie, I enjoyed it because of its unique insider’s view of the lives of Philippine Science High School students. Physics teacher Ms. Casas is also one of my favorite characters in Filipino fiction. Finally, the movie shows us that education and freedom give people the tools to succeed. Especially if they’re good in STEM.
Ginny, an ambitious young architect, becomes romantically involved with Marco, who’s wishy-washy about his life’s direction. They eventually get red-pilled about this simple yet overlooked truth: women lose interest in nice guys who lack the drive to succeed. We desire men who single-mindedly pursue their vision.
Domestic helper Joy falls in love with bartender Ethan in Hong Kong. Theirs is a cute love story that shows that it’s easy to romanticize “you-and-me-against-the-world” scenarios when both parties in a relationship lack the resources to meet their individual needs. The need to survive will eventually force couples to prioritize their jobs over being lovey-dovey. Ugh, how kill-joy, right? Well, in this movie, not at all! The premise was treated in a light and fun way.
The story’s female protagonist went through so much pain as a child. But how does she respond? Does she indulge in vices? Does she get pregnant by one man after another? Does she demand that the government use the people’s taxes to fund her benefits as a single mom? Watch the full movie online to find out! I love this film for its unconventional screenplay that shows how writers’ experiences influence their views on love, which flow into their craft.
A lot of Filipino flicks are insipid and derivative. So let’s support those that convey empowering messages through their artistic portrayal of reality. Plus it’s a great way to unwind!
(Photos from Canva)
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