Watch Kasal?

Kasal, released in 1980, is a critically acclaimed drama film from the Philippines. Directed by Laurice Guillen and written by Lualhati Bautista, the movie stars Christopher De Leon, Hilda Koronel, and Jay Ilagan in lead roles. Kasal tells the story of two young lovers who come from different social classes and struggle to overcome societal and familial pressures that threaten their relationship. The movie opens with the wedding of Jojo (Christopher De Leon) and Mayen (Hilda Koronel). The movie then cuts back to their first meeting in college. Jojo is a wealthy business major, while Mayen is a liberal arts student from a working-class background. Despite their different upbringings, they fall in love and start a relationship. However, their families and friends surrounding them disapprove of their relationship due to their differences in social status. Jojo's mother does not want her son to marry someone below their financial level, while Mayen's father worries that Jojo's wealth will change Mayen into something of a materialistic person. The young couple is determined to stay together despite the disapproval. Unfortunately, the two families' pressure and the circumstances of life also manage to create a crack in their relationship. Eventually, conflicts and misunderstandings manifest, leading to the couple's break-up. Kasal is a poignant portrayal of the societal, political, and economic realities of the 1980s, which still ring with relevance to today's society. The film delves into themes such as the cultural divide, parental influence, pre-marital sex, inter-class marriage and Filipino traditional ideals in the context of a rapidly modernizing society. Beyond these themes, Kasal is also touted for its powerful acting performances, particularly Christopher De Leon's. De Leon's portrayal of the conflicted and vulnerable Jojo earned him the Best Actor award at the 1981 Famas Awards. Hilda Koronel also shines in her role as Mayen, providing an emotional depth to the character. The chemistry between the two leads is palpable and keeps viewers on the edge of their seats as they watch the progression of their relationship. The movie's production value holds up over time, with scenes capturing the fashion, architecture, and social climate of the era. The film's cinematography beautifully amplifies the story's tone and mood, capturing the Philippines' tropical beauty. Overall, Kasal is a classic gem in Philippine cinema, an exquisite portrayal of love and societal dynamics that becomes more relevant with age. It depicts the struggle of love against social and cultural norms, ultimately leaving a lasting impact on viewers. If you're a fan of old-school, thought-provoking cinema, this is a must-watch.