Dekada '70

Dekada '70 is one of the most exceptional Filipino films I have seen. The film had depth and was very meticulously created. Owing to the fact that it was based on a novel, the plot of the film was very coherent. Unlike other Filipino films Dekada '70 gave justice to the Philippine Film Industry. Among the typical films that have been sprouting in this generation Dekada '70 left its mark. The quality of the film was astounding. Through the set designs, costumes, and make-up, I was able to get a realistic glimpse of how things looked like in the 70's. Even very minor details were given much attention to make everything look and feel as part of the 70's. I feel that it is very important to stage or film relevant events that are part of our History as a Filipino people. By doing so a wider number of people is reached and awareness on historical events increase. In a phase of apathy and hopelessness, movies like Dekada '70 reminds us that all is not lost for the Philippines is always worth fighting for.

I admire the director of this movie for being able to make a dramatic film based on a ground-breaking novel. It really pays tribute to the Philippines' Martial Law history. I really felt the seventies in this film. Too bad, this one didn't qualify for an Oscar Award in 2002. But it doesn't matter at all. This is really and excellent film. Vilma Santos once again acted like a superior actress who kbows no bounds. Christopher de Leon was okay. All their children did a good job acting. I also admire the make up designers of the movie who made everything fit to the seventies: the house, the furniture, the clothes, the hairstyle, the fashion and etc. I also liked the ending as well and the soundtrack song. It was really touching.People who like based-on-history films should really watch this one.

"Dekada '70" is simply powerful. Vilma Santos's performance is stunning, as usual, (though personally she did a better job in "Bata, Bata, Paano Ka Ginawa?"). Christopher de Leon also has a shining performance, as well as Piolo Pascual, who swept the supporting actor awards in, if I'm not mistaken, all of the 2002 Philippine movie/acting awards ceremonies. The movie was actually very faithful to the book, only a few new scenes had been added. It isn't easy watching, but neither is it dragging. Watch out for the abrupt transitions, which is probably the only weak aspect of this film. Though it doesn't match up to Lualhati Bautista's masterpiece, "Bata, Bata, Paano Ka Ginawa?", all in all, "Dekada '70" is still a very good drama. 9/10

Dekada '70 is as pop as the 70's is propagated today. The setting, costumes, props even the role assignments in the family is made to be iconic. Chito Rono made an aesthetically wonderful movie with the color complements and quite theatrical acting of the characters. Nonetheless, i felt that the actors are a bit short or rather over in their acting. Although I admit that I got very taken by Vilma's monologue to Christopher, it still lacked authenticity to fully captivate the audience. The roles are played exactly but lacked genuine emotions from the actors. Considering the book is made to capture the sympathy of its readers, which it does, for women of the 70's as well as the sufferings of the Filipinos during martial law I expected the movie to draw the same amount of passion if not even more especially since the best of Filipino cinema are employed. The acting however on an overall analysis felt practiced/ mastered rather than felt from within. Nonetheless, the movie is rendered wonderfully plus the screenplay is quite informative.

the acting was simply amazing! a good adaptation of the book. the casting was also wonderful. the family was how i imagined it to be. it was good that Vilma portrayed Amanda because she has been one of the great actresses in our country. but i feel that Christopher De Leon didn't fit his role that much. Danilo also looked older than the one in the book. I also felt that Piolo's wife should have been more beautiful. But I was amazed by the condition of the cars that they used. the house was also in good form. It was also good that they didn't include morbid parts from the book. Over all the film was good. i could watch that film over and over again.