Kung mangarap ka't magising

NOTE 1:Nakakaloka ang moose knuckle ni Christopher De Leon. Di mo talaga inayos Mike talaga ba. HAHAHHAHAA.

Funnily described by legendary actor/director Mario O'Hara as Mike De Leon's car commercial. Kung Mangarap Ka't Magisin is a romance music film revolving around similarly aged youths in UP Baguio - as they try to make sense of their bumbling romance given all their current entanglements AND a lot of cars.

This is a great romance film. I think there is validity to his uncle's review at the time calling this European Car Commercial. It strays hard left to what I consider the puritan tendencies of romance in films in the Philippines. They both are problematic AND unlike cheating films in the Philippines they never really fell into this morality clause. They make the 'right' choice but it never eulogies.

It such a refreshing viewpoint to see from my home country. Also, quite distinct. Both him and Abaya has a unique background akin to Viscontis and Sofia Coppolas of the world. De Leon was the grandson of the legendary LVN Matriarch, the original movie production company of the Philippines, AND Ateneo educated (the rich rich school in my country). His work reflect this. The struggle of his characters are internal AND beyond the social realms of the time. AND it continues in this film, most of the social aspect of his films are hidden in small throwaway lines here and there.

Performance wise, its not a film of emotions but rather chemistry AND Koronel and De Leon truly played it up. With the guidance of De Leon's and Santana's script, they bumble and charms their way to the audience. Christopher De Leon and Hilda Koronel continues their streak of great 70s and 80s films. Practically, De Leon playing his most stereotypic role as that hot-guy on random place AND Koronel is playing a wildly different role yet again. Now as a young mother, lost with all that motherhood and early marriage entailed her.

Also, the script is so interesting. The only real criticism I could think of is that the character of Nannette is awfully written. She is like those stock characters in Filipino film who is ridiculed for their non-classical features AND is the only real stinker of a character in the film. Other than that, it was quite nice. To not repeat myself, it just never takes the expected which I am the fan off.

Highly Recommended.

Kung Mangarap Ka't Magising" is a poignant exploration of love, dreams, and self-discovery set against the backdrop of Philippine culture. The film centers on the complex relationship between two characters, beautifully portrayed by the lead actors. Their journey unfolds through a blend of romance and introspection, as they confront their aspirations and fears. The cinematography captures the vibrant landscapes of the Philippines, enhancing the emotional depth of the story. The film's soundtrack complements its narrative, evoking nostalgia and reflection. Overall, it's a heartfelt tale that resonates with anyone who has dared to dream.

I don't usually watch love stories. But this is less of a chick-flick, more of great camera work from a distinguished director (Mike de Leon), more of an insight into the lives of people with problems. Christoper de Leon (no relation to the director Mike) and Hilda Koronel provide us with their best performances as star-crossed lovers in this beautifully-photographed film. The Baguio scenery have never appeared more exquisite.