AS everyone celebrates self-care this July, it is crucial to carve out time to take a deep breath and step away from stress-inducing activities outside and at home. When every little thing starts to drain you, spending quality time with yourself, known as “me time,” can help you get back on track.
According to Direction Psychology, “me time” refers to “the conscious effort of taking (much-needed) time-out to recharge your batteries.” This crucial time for yourself allows your mind and body to communicate again without hindrances from outside factors such as stress, problems, and pain by doing the things you enjoy and are passionate about.
What to do during “me time”?
For many, watching films is one of the favorite ways to unwind and enjoy their “me time.”
In a study by Zhesheng (Jason) Xu titled “How the Entertaining Effects of Movies Help People to Reduce Chronic Stress and Increase Happiness,” three film types—comedy, tearjerker, and thrillers, the ones people usually choose to watch in cinemas—were analyzed. The study concluded that these types of films help reduce chronic stress and increase happiness.
When you are watching, you tend to forget the weight of the world on your shoulders because films offer new worlds you can live in and be one with the characters; satisfy your fantasies; provide new insights; enhance your mental and emotional aspects; and let you feel you belong.
You may cry, laugh, or get scared and nervous while watching but all these are worth it because everyone has different ways of making the most of their “me time.”
Now, enough with the FYIs! What’s more exciting to watch during your “me time” than Filipino films closer to your values and identities?
Here are five Filipino films recommended by five film-enthusiast students to watch when spending time alone.
First on the list is the 2016 tearjerker and comedy film “Everything About Her” by director Joyce Bernal, starring Vilma Santos, Angel Locsin, and Xian Lim.
If there’s someone who is always on the front row of comedy films, it is none other than Scott Jesley Noguerra, a 21-year-old speech pathology student at the University of the Philippines Manila.
“I have a profound appreciation for comedy films that intertwine humor with the authentic struggles of everyday life…stories that spotlight experiences and challenges often overlooked by mainstream media,” he said, explaining why he’s watched the film at least once every year since 2020.
“My interest in these nuanced and relatable narratives stems from a desire to see genuine yet complex human experiences reflected on screen.”
But what sorcery does this film possess that hooked Noguerra on it for four years and, maybe, counting?
He explained: “More than anything, I deeply appreciate how the two central characters, both women, are intricately developed, each reflecting distinct yet intersecting struggles that resonate deeply…The strained familial relationships of both women also delve into themes of forgiveness and reconciliation, adding emotional depth to the narrative…Despite its weighty themes, the film interlaces moments of humor.”
When asked how the film helped him in his “me time,” Noguerra replied, “As someone in the allied health field, the film offers a touching and authentic depiction of caregiving dynamics. Beyond this, it explores intricate family relationships and personal growth. Personally, as someone who often conceals vulnerabilities…I find solace in Vivian’s path toward acceptance of her own weaknesses.”
“These insights are crucial for my emotional well-being and guide me in navigating my familial relationships with greater sensitivity. Furthermore, the film injects moments of humor that provide a refreshing escape and remind me to seek optimism in life’s challenges,” he added.
If there’s any part of the film that Noguerra can relate to, it is when Vivian said the words: “I just have one last memo for all of you. Kapag wala na ako dito, gusto ko pa ring makita yung mga ngiting ‘yan. Huwag kayong iiyak kapag naaalala ninyo ako. I want that smile. Dahil ang ibig sabihin no’n, I did something right in my life.”
“Vivian’s final words beautifully encapsulate the message of celebrating life through smiles and positivity. She expresses her desire for those she leaves behind to remember her with smiles instead of tears. This sentiment underscores the importance of cherishing moments of happiness and gratitude, even in the face of loss or adversity,” Noguerra explained.
Second on the list is “Through Night and Day” recommended by Matthew Allen Manansala, a 21-year-old communication student at the Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila (PLM).
“Through Night and Day” is a 2018 romantic-comedy film starring Alessandra de Rosi and Paolo Contis, directed by Veronica Velasco.
Manansala recommended the film because it is one of his favorites and he likes the genre. He also admires how the story was written because of its unexplainable impact on him, despite its simplicity and predictability in some parts.
“Whenever I’m watching this kind of movie genre, as an aspiring filmmaker, I have thoughts running through my mind that can help me in writing a film. My mind keeps thinking about the next scenario in the movie like ‘If I’m the one writing this scene, what would I write?’,” he said.
When asked about his key takeaway from the film, he said it was the importance of letting go. “This movie imparts to its audience the lesson that a relationship’s strength is not determined by the passage of time. Certain individuals are destined to enter your life, but they shouldn’t remain.”
Manansala is an aspiring filmmaker, and his passion can be traced to 2016. His love for film ignited when he began editing short films until he released his first indie skit “Download” (2020) and “Sampung Utos,” which inspired him to write short films. His third skit “Call” was the first short film he wrote and directed.
Manansala was also a member of PLM’s film organization, PLM Independent Film and Arts (PIFA), where he created his initiation film “Recitation” and bagged six awards.
If you do not like simple and predictable films, this might be the perfect one for you!
Next on the list is the 2022 psychological-comedy film “Leonor Will Never Die.” The film stars Sheila Francisco, Bong Cabrera, and Rocky Salumbides, and is directed and written by Martika Ramirez Escobar.
Hannah dela Cruz, a 21-year-old communication student at Manila Tytana Colleges, fell in love with the film as it touched her fondness for classic Filipino films with deep stories.
“It offers a fresh perspective on Philippine cinema. For those who love watching classic Filipino films, this movie captures the nostalgic essence of it. Siguro para sa mga non-Filipino na makakanood nito, great introduction ito sa culture na mayroon tayo. Additionally, I appreciate how it challenges one’s perceptions, leaving me speechless while evoking an indescribable feeling,” Dela Cruz explained.
She has only watched the film once, but its effect on her self-care was so profound that she recommended it to people who also have a hard time scrolling to find films to watch.
“I love watching films that subtly give you a life lesson in a most unhinged, mind-teasing way. It puts me at ease because it captivates my focus and attention, something I often lack during my self-care hours. Mahilig ako manood pero nahihirapan ang makatapos ng mga films na medyo predictable at something na paulit-ulit ko nang napapanood,” Dela Cruz added.
When asked about her favorite message of the story, Dela Cruz simply answered, “We are the writers of our own story.”
Dela Cruz’s interest in films began when she started watching music videos of her favorite artists, especially Kiyo and DPR Ian, who direct and edit their own videos. She was inspired to be like them until she found herself searching for films with deep, captivating stories and visual storytelling that drew her in. She loves films that make her lose track of time and make her feel that she is in the film.
Following Dela Cruz is her friend, Crissa Mae Ayson, a 21-year-old communication student at Manila Tytana Colleges.
Ayson’s favorite genre is romantic comedy, and sometimes purely comedy, which explains why she recommended “Four Sisters and a Wedding” and watched it four times already.
The iconic comedy and tear-jerking movie can’t be skipped when looking for a Filipino film to watch. “Four Sisters and a Wedding” is a 2013 film directed by Cathy-Garcia Molina. It stars Angel Locsin, Toni Gonzaga, Bea Alonzo, Shaina Magdayao, and Enchong Dee who played the roles of siblings.
Ayson recommended the film because she thinks that it effectively conveys what a Filipino family is like. “It makes me laugh, makes me feel good. It also makes me realize the important role of siblings in a Filipino family.”
As the eldest daughter in her family, Ayson felt a deep connection to the film, especially to Teddy. “We are the human counterparts of the phrase, ‘NEVER BACK DOWN NEVER WHAT? Never give up…’. As the panganay, we have to stay strong because all of the younger siblings look up to us. At the same time, we are like the leaders of our packs, taking care of them, guiding them, and at times providing for them is part of our job description,” she explained.
Despite Ayson’s love for comedy films, she was initially somewhat forced to be enthusiastic about films because of the professors she had who turned her into a filmmaker by producing films as an academic requirement. But as time passed, she learned how to embrace filmmaking and now, she seeks Filipino films when she needs a good cry or something to laugh about.
Our final recommendation is the 2003 Filipino classic “Magnifico” directed by Maryo J. de los Reyes, and led by Jiro Manio, Gloria Romero, Lorna Tolentino, and Albert Martinez.
Joshua Zabala, a 22-year-old chemical engineering student at the National University of Manila, loves comedic films because they help him relax and unwind after a long day.
But, wait! Didn’t Zabala mention that he loves comedy? What made “Magnifico” Zabala’s recommendation despite the film being a drama and coming-of-age story?
“Although it is a dramatic film, I find it comforting because it encapsulates the resilience and strength of a child in the face of challenges, which helps me reflect on my ability to overcome obstacles in life. Watching Magnifico reminds me of the importance of staying strong and hopeful even in difficult situations, providing me with a sense of comfort and inspiration during my self-care hours,” Zabala explained.
Zabala has watched the film five to six times already—imagine the gallons of tears and boxes of tissues he had while watching the film. But what does the film have that keeps him coming back for it?
“What I love about this film is the way it portrays familial ties and shows how a child sees the world—their innate goodness despite poverty and adversity—a refreshing perspective often overlooked in mainstream cinema,” he said.
Zabala began watching films because his father used to buy him CDs and DVDs to watch when he was a child. Reminiscing his childhood days until he became an adult, Zabala saw himself in how Magnifico faced his challenges in life “head-on with unwavering determination and kindness.”
“His perseverance and ability to find solutions despite limited resources resonate deeply with me. It reminds me that, no matter the obstacles, maintaining a positive attitude and being resourceful can make a significant difference in overcoming difficulties,” he added.
Your “me time” is waiting!
Today may be stressful and exhausting but do not fret because these Filipino films for your “me time” are just waiting for you.
But before you start watching, make sure to buy your favorite snacks, and have some tissues around while having a good cry and laugh.
With reports from Gella J. Aboratigue
