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Iliw

Iliw (2008)

Oct 18, 2008 1h 42m History Drama

During the Japanese occupation of the Philippines during World War II, a young girl from Vigan and an idealistic Japanese officer fall in love. With a war between them and disapproval from both sides, the two struggle to find their own piece of happiness in the world as duty and family threaten to tear them apart.

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Directed by Bona Fajardo

Cast

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Crew

Director
  • Bona Fajardo

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Thematic Analysis

As a dramatic work, Iliw 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 Bona Fajardo 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 2008, 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 Iliw took approximately 31 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 102 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 143 minutes long.
  • The cast underwent specialized training for 8 weeks before filming began.
  • The costume department created over 459 unique costume pieces for the production.
  • Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.

Historical Context

  • In 2008, when this film is released:
  • Environmental concerns were becoming more mainstream.
  • Digital technology was disrupting traditional media and entertainment.
  • Digital filmmaking technologies were transforming production processes and creating new opportunities.

How This Film Stands Out

While Iliw shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.

Unlike The Escort, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Iliw offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.

While films like Unfriend and Shift explore similar territory, Iliw stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.

This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.

Details

  • Release Date: October 18, 2008
  • Runtime: 1h 42m

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