Season of the Devil

Season of the Devil, a film directed by Lav Diaz and released in 2018, is a thought-provoking and haunting narrative set in the late 70s during the tumultuous era of martial law in the Philippines. The film primarily stars acclaimed actors Piolo Pascual and Shaina Magdayao, along with a powerhouse appearance by Bituin Escalante, adding a depth and authenticity to the scenes that resonate with the audience.

The film centers on the character of Hugo Haniway, an endearing poet played by Piolo Pascual. Hugo is a man who is neither for nor against the political regime, with a desire to simply live a peaceful life with his beloved wife. But his world is turned upside down when his wife, Lorena (Shaina Magdayao), a doctor who provides healthcare for the less fortunate members of their society, suddenly goes missing.

In a desperate search for his wife, Hugo is forced to confront stark realities. He immerses himself into the underbelly of a society debilitated by lawlessness, fear, and a languishing sense of freedom. This unsettling atmosphere doesn’t deter Hugo; instead, it fuels his determination to find his lost love.

The film's title, Season of the Devil, draws a meaningful analogy to the dark times the country is going through, mirroring the demonic forces that seem to have taken over and left the citizenry struggling for peace, justice, and freedom. It is a place where compassion and reason are overshadowed by power and brutality.

The character development in the film is exceptionally detailed. Pascual as Hugo profoundly embodies a man stuck in a tormenting pursuit for his wife, layered with poignancy and utter helplessness. His performance is quiet yet powerful, reflecting a man grappling with despair. Additionally, the character of Lorena, portrayed by Magdayao, serves as a symbol of hope, resilience, and righteousness in the face of a dire setting. And Escalante, with her indomitable acting prowess, enhances the film's overall narrative, adding an extra layer of depth and emotion.

Besides its gripping storyline, the film also stands out for its audacious approach to storytelling. Season of the Devil is not a conventional dialogue-based film but rather an a cappella musical. The stringent minimalism of the film is complemented by hauntingly melancholic scores, with nearly the entire narration sung in Filipino. With raw, heartfelt verses, the film's lyrics serve as a backdrop against which the narrative unfolds—a narrative that holds a mirror to the society of its time, stinging with truth and pain.

The movie is permeated with director Lav Diaz's signature long takes and black-and-white visuals, significantly contributing to the film's sober and somber mood. The stark high-contrast black & white cinematography lays bare the harsh realities faced by the characters, implicating the audience in their agony and struggle without resorting to graphic brutality. The monochromatic visuals empathize with the grimness of the era, symbolically rendering the metaphorical demons running rampant in the society.

Season of the Devil is not just a film; it's a historical mirror of a time that was fraught with fear and oppression. The film is a monstrous epic, a surreal and hypnotic experience that demands the viewer's full attention. It blends the boundaries of cinema and poetry, showcasing not only the dark corners of dictatorship but also the resilience of human spirit against the contrasting backdrop of beauty and chaos.

With its deeply compelling narrative, rich performances, and unique storytelling format, Season of the Devil offers an immersive viewing experience. The film profoundly reflects the resilience of the human spirit in times of severe hardship, showcasing succinctly how love can propel individuals to wade through the worst of times. It is a daring exploration of the human struggle for freedom, peace, and love in a history scuffed with political unrest.