The Woman Who Left

The Woman Who Left, a 2016 Philippines drama film directed by Lav Diaz, presents an evocative narrative that oscillates between themes of forgiveness, pity, and the genealogy of evil. It stars Charo Santos-Concio, John Lloyd Cruz, and Michael De Mesa, each delivering powerful performances that contribute to the profound melancholy that permeates the movie's framework.

The narrative follows the odyssey of Horacia Somorostro, portrayed by the sublime Charo Santos-Concio in her first film role since leaving a corporate position at a major media network. Wrongly imprisoned for a crime she did not commit, Horacia’s freedom is unexpectedly reclaimed after a woman with a guilty conscience acknowledges that she was the one responsible for the crime. Spending three decades behind bars has effectively detached her from the world she once knew, and this sets the stage for a story of alienated existence and relentless quest for reclamation.

From this point on, Diaz escorts the audience through an intense journey into the restless soul of his protagonist. Now free, Horacia tries to navigate her way back into a society, which has drastically changed during her years in prison. She struggles to reconnect with her estranged family and to adjust to unfamiliar technological advances and societal dynamics. Far from finding solace in her liberation, Horacia is gripped by an obsession to bring justice to her life and to those of the people unjustly incarcerated along with her.

John Lloyd Cruz presents an arresting performance as Hollanda, a transgender individual struggling with his personal demons. Horacia and Hollanda's paths cross in a narrative thread that presents a poignant commentary on society's marginalized and oppressed figures. The complexities of their characters are efficiently morphed into reflections of humanity's inherent contradictions and struggles. Michael De Mesa, on the other hand, plays the role of a wealthy and privileged individual, injecting an additional dimension of disparity and power dynamics into the film's narrative.

Set during the turmoil and uncertainty of political unrest, The Woman Who Left constructs a space within a broader socio-political milieu. The film examines institutional inadequacies, subtly critiquing the Philippine justice system while simultaneously unraveling the societal infrastructure which produces individuals capable of inflicting immense suffering on others. The struggles and tragedies of its protagonists serve as metaphors for the nation's own narrative, replete with themes of betrayal, injustice, and the relentless fight against systemic corruption.

Diaz's film is characterized by long takes, black and white cinematography, and unhurried pacing, a narrative style that has been his signature throughout his career. This minimalistic approach compels the audience to reflect upon and engage with the narrative's inherent trauma and despair. It relies on the powerful performances of its lead actors, along with the film's stark visuals, to build tension and resonance. Moreover, the ambiance created by silence and stillness in many parts of the film further enforces the overall aesthetic and thematic context.

The Woman Who Left, despite its bleak premise, is not devoid of hope. Horacia's journey, while fraught with hardship and suffering, also exemplifies human resilience and perseverance. It underscores the power of an undying spirit, teaching a riveting lesson about the value of patience. The film magnifies the dualism of hope and despair, and how these opposing sentiments interchangeably define human living in the larger social and political gamut.

In conclusion, The Woman Who Left is an intense and profound exploration of personal reckoning and societal critique. It provides a disquieting yet necessary look into the complex interplay of virtues, vices, and victimhood through its illuminating narrative and compelling characters. Lav Diaz, in his classically minimalist artistic style, constructs a narrative framework that demands deliberation and empathy from its viewers, making The Woman Who Left an undeniably impactful film experience.