Watch From What is Before

From What is Before is a Filipino film that tells the story of a small rural town in the province of Zambales in the Philippines during the 1970s. It is a slow-burning and poignant exploration of the everyday lives of the inhabitants of the town as they navigate the tumultuous period leading up to the declaration of martial law by then-president Ferdinand Marcos. The film primarily follows the character of Hakob (played by Perry Dizon), a Christian mystic and farmer who has recently returned to the town after spending years abroad. We see his journey as he struggles to reconnect with the people he left behind and reconcile with his own past. Throughout the film, we also meet a range of other characters who represent different facets of life in the town. There is Sito (Roeder Camanag), a radio operator who is constantly worried about the threat of violence in the region, and his daughter Catalina (Hazel Orencio), a young woman who is struggling to find her own identity amidst the political and social upheaval. One of the central themes of From What is Before is the idea of loss and the ways in which people react to it. The film is set in a time of great change and uncertainty, with the impending declaration of martial law adding to the already present tensions in the town. We see how different characters deal with this loss in different ways, whether it be through alcoholism, passive resignation, or a renewed commitment to their faith. Director Lav Diaz employs his signature style of long takes and slow pacing, but the film never feels sluggish or tedious. Instead, it serves to draw the viewer into the world of the town and allow us to truly feel the weight of the emotions experienced by the characters. The film's cinematography is also noteworthy, with breathtaking shots of the Philippine landscape and a striking use of light and shadow to create an atmosphere of both beauty and foreboding. Overall, From What is Before is a haunting and powerful film that offers a deeply felt portrayal of a pivotal moment in Philippine history. It is a testament to the resilience and strength of the human spirit in the face of adversity, and a reminder of the importance of community and connection in times of turmoil.