Saranggola

Saranggola (1999) is a poignant and gripping Filipino drama film set against the backdrop of a rural yet war-torn landscape. The narrative seamlessly intertwines the intimate essence of familial relationships with the larger socio-political challenges inherent in a setting mired by conflict and violence. It showcases Ricky Davao, Lester Llansang, and Jennifer Sevilla in leading roles, brilliantly breathing life into the complex characters portrayed in the movie.

At its heart, Saranggola is a coming-of-age tale wrapped in the cocoon of socio-political commentary. It revolves around the unforgettable journey of a young boy, Itoy, portrayed by Lester Llansang, living in the strife-torn landscape of the Philippines. Itoy lives with his father, a local fisherman played by Ricky Davao, who offers an unforgettable performance as a caring and supportive father striving for normalcy amidst chaos.

Jennifer Sevilla plays the role of Itoy's mother, who embodies a quiet strength and resilience typical of women living in war zones. The protagonists' lives are marked by their constant struggle to maintain stability in their relationships and livelihood, even as circumstances grow increasingly tumultuous.

The film gets its title 'Saranggola,' meaning 'kite' in Filipino, which serves as a significant metaphor throughout the movie. The flying of the kite by Itoy becomes a symbol of dreams, aspirations, and hope; an escape from the grim realities of the conflict-ridden environment. The kite-flying sequences are beautifully and metaphorically shot, often depicting a stark contrast between the wide, blue, open skies, and the grim, war-ravaged landscape beneath it.

While telling a deeply personal and moving story, the movie does not shy away from highlighting the larger socio-political context. It explores and emphasises the political unrest in the country and how the common people's lives become the collateral damage in such struggles for power. The film paints a starkly realistic picture of a society mired in conflict and the impact it has on innocence, dreams, and everyday life.

"Saranggola" exhibits an artistic mastery of visual storytelling, using evocative cinematography to capture the rugged terrains, fishing villages, and lush agricultural fields of rural Philippines. The film caters to a dual narrative, switching between stark, tense, war-driven sequences and tranquil, serene scenes of routine life, more personal moments, and picturesque natural landscapes.

While the film narrates the adversity faced by the protagonists, it also addresses the resilience of the human spirit. The people continue with their lives, strive to provide for their families, and somehow find joy in the simpler things of life. In this sense, the film reflects a poignant paradox – the warmth of human stories against the cold, brutal face of war.

The performances by Ricky Davao and Jennifer Sevilla are particularly noteworthy. They infuse life into their characters with their sensitive portrayals, allowing the audience to empathise deeply with their predicaments. Lester Llansang, playing eleven-year-old Itoy, delivers a mature performance that showcases a range of emotions, from innocence and curiosity to fear and despair. His bond with his father, portrayed by Davao, forms the emotional backbone of the movie, subtly exploring themes such as growing up, father-son relationship, and the loss of innocence.

Saranggola is an emotional rollercoaster that takes you through intimate family moments, heart-wrenching realities of a war-torn society, the resilient spirit of its people, and the simplicity of hope depicted through a child's kite. The film is more than just a narrative; it is a compelling social commentary that resonates deeply with its audience, making it a must-watch for fans of poignant dramas and narratives set in socio-political contexts.

To conclude, Saranggola (1999) masterfully weaves together an engaging narrative, memorable performances, and a significant socio-political message, sure to leave a lasting impression on its audience.