Reflection: Dekada 70 (JH Acidera)

This movie presented a family’s life during the challenging years of the 70’s. During this time there were many things going on in the Philippines, making living conditions at times stressful and unpleasant. It was very hard to live a normal life as there were many regulations and limitations placed on the community.

Despite such scenario, the family presented in the movie lived their lives as best as they could during this time, in some cases living in fear or living day by day as it comes. The representation of the father and mother figure in the movie caught my interest. Julian, the husband of Amanda seemed to represent a patriotic role, someone with control and power. While Amanda on the other hand was a beloved mother who catered to her family’s needs, her husband and children a like. Unfortunately, there is less attention to herself. A typical mother who stayed home, cooked, washed clothes, and so forth, struggled day to day as she tried to find her own identity. In a way it seemed as if she had conflicting struggles with herself as she realizes how much less of an authority she has compared to her husband. She had the drive to do things, but was never given an opportunity. Despite such oppression, she manages to live on seeing her children grow into their personal interests.

At some points, it seems as if Amanda is breaking down with mental frustrations, whom signifies many Filipino woman who suffer from the same type of matters. Due to dominance of a male figure they feel belittled and not seen for their potential as an individual, to her family, and to society. When the laundry scenes come in and she is washing clothes, you can feel her frustrations and thoughts of how helpless she feels as she stairs into the washing machine as it spins the clothes. When she confronts and says something, Julian seems to turn away and ignore the possibilities. She seems like she wants to take risks but plays things safe, but is eager to stand up for herself. Therefore, she sees an awakening call for herself to do something about her situation.

Her children have chosen to do some risky business as they try to fight against corruptions. Although worried of what may happen, they continue to support them in whatever they want to. Their kids in turn represent the reality of things which contributes to a lot of Amanda’s realization. At times you see in the movie a conflict of family and government.

The ending of this movie was an inspiration as both husband and wife come together to realize that they need each other to support one another so that they could live in peace. Another thing also is that it seems as if they should be more open to their feelings and not suppressed by what role they should play as defined by gender. When Amanda told Julian that it was okay to cry, I think that that broke the ice. Although their relationship was on the verge of destruction, it seems that there was room for repairing and saving their relationship, even if their children are getting older and moving on with their lives.

Parents wish the best for their children and hope that they live life to the fullest.
Despite such conditions during those times, people made the best out of it. Men and woman’s role were distinct but was making progress to some compromise.