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Alaala: A Martial Law Special

Alaala: A Martial Law Special (2017)

To commemorate the 45th anniversary of the declaration of Martial Law by former President Ferdinand Marcos, GMA Public Affairs presented “Alaala” with a special performance in which Alden Richards brought to life the experiences of Boni Ilagan, one of the victim of military brutality during the dictatorship.

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Directed by Adolfo Alix Jr.

Cast

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Crew

Director
  • Adolfo Alix Jr.
  • Rember Gelera
Writer
  • Bonifacio Ilagan

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Thematic Analysis

As a dramatic work, Alaala: A Martial Law Special 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 Adolfo Alix Jr. 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 2017, 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 Alaala: A Martial Law Special took approximately 7 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 68 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 117 minutes long.
  • The screenplay went through 13 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
  • The cast underwent specialized training for 5 weeks before filming began.
  • The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.

Historical Context

  • In 2017, when this film is released:
  • Political polarization was intensifying in many countries.
  • Climate change awareness was becoming a central global concern.
  • Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.

How This Film Stands Out

Details

  • Release Date: June 25, 2017
  • Runtime: 1h 8m

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