Ang Panday

Ang Panday is one of the most successful and acclaimed Filipino movies of the year 2017. Starring the charismatic Coco Martin as the protagonist Flavio III, it also showcases the talents of other Filipino actors like Awra Briguela, Jake Cuenca, and other seasoned performers in the entertainment industry.

Ang Panday, which translates to "The Blacksmith" in English, is a reimagining of a beloved epic story in Philippine cinema that traces back to 1980. The film is a modern adaptation of the classic character of the same name, originally played by Fernando Poe Jr., one of the most iconic figures in Philippine cinema. The modern version, directed by Rodel Nacianceno, also known as Coco Martin, sets itself apart from the previous incarnations by blending traditional elements of the source material with a contemporary twist.

The film opens with Flavio III (Coco Martin), the grandson of the original Panday, who is living a simple and carefree life in Manila. Despite staying away from conflicts, Flavio is inherently brave with a strong sense of justice, much like his grandfather. This quality catches the interest of an ancient dark sorcerer, Lizardo (Jake Cuenca), who has returned from his thousand-year imprisonment in another dimension ready to exact vengeance and spread chaos in the human world. The descendant of Panday soon realizes that he has been chosen to take on the role of the defender of humanity and face the emerging evil force.

Throughout the film, we witness Flavio's transformation from a humble blacksmith to a courageous warrior. With a magical sword forged by his grandfather, and his personal indomitable spirit, he takes on many challenging battles, confirming his destiny as the new "Panday."

Awra Briguela, popularly known for his comedic skills, notably complements the film's serious tone with much-needed humor, portraying the role of a street child who becomes Flavio's sidekick. The relationship they develop over the course of the film provides audiences with a hearty dose of laughter amidst the escalating intensity of the plot.

Jake Cuenca, on the other hand, excels in his villain role, establishing himself as a force to be reckoned with. He breathes life into the character Lizardo, making him fear-inspiring and loathsome at the same time – a testament to the actor's range.

The film’s direction leverages state-of-the-art visual effects to bring alive the mythical world of the Panday. The elaborate action sequences and picturesque landscape shots are a testament to the production's attention to detail and stellar cinematography. The aesthetic appeal of the film is effortlessly merged with the folklore's rooted tradition, presenting a delicate balancing act between old and new.

Moreover, the film significantly highlights the underlying social issues persistent in society, such as poverty, corruption, the struggles of the marginalized, and the collective yearning for a hero or savior, adding depth and relevance to the narrative, thereby resonating with its viewers.

Ang Panday is more than just a rehashed version of a classic favorite. As much as it pays homage to the original, it presents a unique and fresh take on the tale. It reconstructs the myth with a blend of modern finishes while keeping its heart rooted in its origin. The elements of action, fantasy, comedy, and drama are skillfully woven together to deliver a compelling cinematic experience that is both entertaining and enlightening.

The film's success is not only grounded in its compelling storyline and exceptional performances but also in its great understanding of Filipino culture, stirring powerful emotions and a strong sense of nationalism. Ang Panday is a testament to the vitality of Philippine cinema, embodying the kind of courage and heroism that exceeds beyond the film's narrative.

Profound and captivating, Ang Panday brings the audience a modern Filipino action-adventure that promises an epic tale of good versus evil and a story of self-discovery, while honoring its iconic origins and aiming to pass on the traditional folklore to the new generation.