![]() |
| Diary Of CG |
In terms of form and technique, Philippine cinema is the equal, if not the superior of its foreign counterparts. But in terms of content and meaning, Philippine cinema is primitive and provincial. This characteristic of our film industry is a paradox. For technique in film is largely determined by technological devices, which in turn depend on the money and a country's level of industrialization. Content, on the other hand, is determined by the resources of the unaided human mind. Our native ingenuity has more than made up for the lack of scientific equipment in film. The strange thing is that, in terms of human thinking power, for which we need money nor equipment, the Philippines is way behind other countries. A good example is Joey Gosiengfiao's
Diary Of CG (Regal Films). In terms of form and technique, the film, though not perfect, is remarkable. The pacing, for example is excellent. The sequence where Remedios (Alicia Alonzo), commits suicide is a good example of how varied camera angles contribute to the suspense. The long shots are notable in comparison to the accustomed medium shots of most Filipino movies. But whatever merits the film can claim in terms of technique were completely overshadowed by its lack of meaningful content. Toto Belano's screenplay is notable for its restraint in the treatment of a subject all too often tastelessly exploited. At the end of the movie, however, one who has been enmeshed by the screenplay into sympathizing with the young woman, could legitimately demand to know why he has been subjected to the exercise. For upon analysis, the plotting fails to account for the central character's desire to get even.
What is good about
Diary Of CG as expected, is Alma Moreno. Chona / Cristina develops from an adolescent to a young woman with a hard heart. She holds the film together, in fact, it may be said that the film exists for her sake. After an embarrassing performance in
Throw Away Child, Alfie Anido proves himself equal to the challenge of dramatic moments in the screenplay, successfully communicating Alfredo's anguish without appearing mawkish. Alonzo as the quietly grieving mother, Deborah Sun as Glori and Celia Rodriguez as Donya Madonna give Moreno excellent support. There is also the inexcusable practice of calling characters by the actors' names, Albert Martinez's character is named Albert and Jimmy for Jimi Melendez. It is unfortunate that Gosiengfiao has not found a screenplay writer who can give him material congenial to his temper. He had established a reputation in theater before turning movie director, and in
Diary Of CG, he adapts his theater knowhow to film use in heightening moments of dramatic import. Gosiengfiao's handling is somewhat studied and clumsy, but it is indication enough that the director is dramatizing a point at the same time that he is making a comment. Still, there is no denying that Gosiengfiao is a master of theatrics. He peppers the film with over-the-top confrontation scenes chock full of profanities and insults enough for the characters to play with.
Directed By: Joey Gosiengfiao
Screenplay: Toto Belano
Cinematography: Ricardo F. Jacinto
Music: Jun Latonio
Film Editor: Rogelio Salvador
Production Designer: Dez Bautista
Produced By: Regal Films
Release Date: September 24, 1982
