The Portrait

"The Portrait" (also known as "Ang Larawan") is a 2017 Filipino musical film that delicately weaves a narrative that is both deeply rooted in its historical context and timelessly resonant in its exploration of familial and social dynamics, cultural identity, and the struggle of the individual against the tides of change. Directed by Loy Arcenas, the film stars Joanna Ampil, Rachel Alejandro, and Paulo Avelino in key roles.

"The Portrait" unfolds in the intriguing locale of pre-World War II Manila, and impressively encapsulates the socio-political landscape of the period, showcasing an era teetering on the precipice of massive upheaval. A key element of the story is a striking, captivating, but slowly deteriorating painting, the titular portrait, which plays a surprisingly profound and poignant role in bridging the past, present, and future of the family at the core of our narrative.

The film thrives through its two prominent female protagonists, Candida and Paula Marasigan, brought to life by Joanna Ampil and Rachel Alejandro respectively. They are the unmarried daughters of renowned artist Don Lorenzo Marasigan, a symbolic figure who despite his absence, is a force to be reckoned with in the unfolding narrative. Don Lorenzo was once a pillar of the Filipino high society, a celebrated painter, but has now secluded himself, devoting his time to producing one final masterpiece.

The viewers follow the struggles and sacrifices of Candida and Paula as they grapple with the pressing socio-economic challenges of their day, as well as their interactions with an assortment of richly painted characters, including the charming and influential journalist Tony Javier, portrayed by Paulo Avelino. Contributing further depth to the narrative, the ensemble cast features an array of characters, each of them adds a unique flavor to the story, highlighting different aspects of Filipino society during that time ushering its transition to modernity.

Despite being a maiden work as a director, Loy Arcenas exhibits an assured command over the narrative, balancing the ornate dialogues and well-choreographed song and dance sequence with the rich history, culture, and character arcs that intricately derive from the National Artist for Literature Nick Joaquin’s play, "A Portrait of the Artist as Filipino". The movie beautifully renders the Broadway-style music which underpins the storytelling in a blend of traditional kundiman and modern music numbers, a testament to the musical genius of Ryan Cayabyab.

Cinematically, "The Portrait" is a visual delight, transporting the viewer to a bygone era. The cinematography tastefully enhances the narrative, setting each scene with the precise aesthetic mood, carefully curated to give each frame a life of its own. The use of color and light is particularly impactful, revealing the socio-economic crises and intense personal dilemmas that Candida and Paula face amidst the backdrop of this transitioning society. The costumes and production design, painstakingly curated, further enriches the movie, creating a wonderful sense of time and place.

Simultaneously, the movie deftly raises profound questions about the value of art and its place in society – is it a mere commodity to be traded for survival or is it an irreplaceable testament to the soul and identity of a nation and its people?

"The Portrait", with its elegant blend of historical drama, musical theatrics, and personal drama, provides the viewer an enticing journey through an important part of Philippines’ history, culture, art, and society. The movie's lasting appeal lies undoubtedly in its timeless themes, its memorably defined characters, and its immensely talented cast.