Cast
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Aina Dumlao
as Diwa
Leslie Thurston
as Jill
Maria Pallas
as Nadine
Shaw Jones
as Bell
Eddie Martinez
as Elmer Santos
Seli M. Rose
as Beautiful Woman
Elle Vernee
as Homeless Woman at Crisis Center
Courtney Brooks
as Young Mother at Crisis Center
Karesa
as Woman at Crisis Center
Josephine Leily
as Woman at Crisis Center
Karen Sedgley
as Woman at Crisis Center
Jeremy A. Lopez
as Guerra
Crew
Director
- Aina Dumlao
- Bru Muller
Writer
- Aina Dumlao
- Bru Muller
Producer
- Bru Muller
- Aina Dumlao
- Adam Ambruso
- Mary McNeill
- Corey Cooper
- Anna Paternot
- Prossy Dumlao
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Diwa examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of contemporary challenges that mirror our own experiences. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.
Director Aina Dumlao brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 2018, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Diwa took approximately 13 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 18 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 39 minutes long.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 12 months to complete.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
Historical Context
- In 2018, when this film is released:
- Streaming services were revolutionizing film and television consumption.
- Smartphones and social media had transformed daily life and communication.
- Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.
How This Film Stands Out
While Diwa shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Missed, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Diwa subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Eaux vives and I Love Hooligans explore similar territory, Diwa stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: June 9, 2018
- Runtime: 18m
