Island Dreams

Island Dreams is a charming 2013 Filipino comedy-drama film directed by Gino M. Santos and Aloy Adlawan, starring Louise de los Reyes, Alexis Petitprez, and Irma Adlawan. Part of the Metro Manila Film Festival New Wave Full-Feature Category, this film is a unique fusion of romance, comedy, and self-discovery. It's a refreshing change from typical sappy, tear-jerking dramas. Instead, it maintains an authentically warm-hearted tone with a refreshing pinch of lighthearted humor.

The film centers on the character of Julie (Louise de los Reyes), a dreamy, lighthearted young woman from an isolated fishing village who yearns to escape her mundane world. She dreams of becoming a full-fledged tour guide and explores the stunning, yet unappreciated, beauty of her province. Her character is full of aspiration, characterized by her ever-so-vibrant desire to experience life beyond the confines of her small village while using her love for local history and culture as a stepping stone for her dreams.

Then, we have Alexis Petitprez playing the role of Ferdinand, a rigid and uptight travel writer from France who has come to Guimaras, Philippines, to conquer his past. Ferdinand sinks his hands into writing about different places of art, culture, and beauty. Still, he does so without ever absorbing the essence of the locations or engaging in enriching experiences. He's seen as a cold, lost soul trying to find redemption.

Irma Adlawan adds a zest of enigma in the movie in her role, offering viewers a unique character to explore while unfolding the storyline. Her performance in Island Dreams adds a more profound sense of intrigue and allure to the gentle waves of the story.

As the plot unfolds, the movie traces Julie and Ferdinand's unexpected meeting, leading to a series of hilarious mishaps, trials, and tribulations as they decide to go on a mock tour. As they traverse through the breathtaking scenery of Guimaras, they each help the other to confront their greatest fears while discovering their dreams along the way. Through their unlikely companionship, Julie discovers a purpose in the once dreaded monotony, and Ferdinand realizes there's more to traveling than mere work.

The duo's quirky relationship adds a layer of comical relief, softens the overall narrative's seriousness, and draws the audience closer to the characters. As they struggle to meet at a middle ground, their personalities clash, yet a strange friendship starts to bloom. Their journey of self-discovery is just as beautiful and picturesque as the Guimaras landscape around them.

One of Island Dreams' strongest selling points is its stunning portrayal of the Philippines. The film highlights the natural beauty of the Guimaras Island, providing viewers with breathtaking panoramas, secluded beaches, and luscious mango farms. From the beautiful sunrise and sunset hues to the local cultural scenes, the film captures the Philippines' heart and soul, adding depth to the storyline. It's this precise idyllic backdrop that creates an instrumental symbolic setting for the characters to find out more about themselves and each other.

Darlene Malimas and Aloy Adlawan's writing deftly balances the film’s comedic and dramatic elements. Their script delicately wraps humor, charisma, profound life lessons, and romance into a perfect cinematic bouquet that intrigues and captivates the audience. Their subtle blend of humor and sentimentality leaves you continually wondering and wanting to know more about the characters.

Island Dreams is a cinematic delight to watch. From its hilariously charming storyline to its heartfelt moments of introspection, the film is an exploration of dreams, aspirations, and the unseen beauty of life. It invites the viewers on a wonderful journey of humor, self-discovery, and unexpected friendship amidst the picturesque landscapes of Guimaras. Refreshingly different from mainstream Filipino cinema, the film creates a lasting impression on viewers and is a charming addition to any film-lover's watchlist.