“I am thirsty, I am hungry”. That’s the 1977 title I watched with people of all ages last Tuesday, sponsored by the Film Development Council of the Philippines.
Rosetta, an orphaned, young, and elegant woman, was given a chance to improve her life after being taken in by her affluent adoptive parents. After their sudden death, she was evicted from her home and, in desperation to maintain her lifestyle, threw herself into prostitution and syndicate activity. A trusted confidant convinced her to stop and pursue a life of charitable work for children. The story continues with their run from the syndicate, culminating in the confrontation with her scarred past and her present service to help uplift children from poverty.
Not only did the film’s theme interest me, but so did the glimpses of 1977 Iloilo with famous landmarks such as the Jaro Belfry, Muelle Loney, University of San Agustin, the old Iloilo Provincial Capitol, and a presentation of the Dinagyang Festival. The stark contrast of those images compared to today reminds me of how far Iloilo City has developed.
After the film had ended, I then walked from Festive Walk to Jaro Plaza (God knows how I managed that) and took photos of the Jaro Belfry and Jaro Plaza center gazebo. These were my reminders of the film’s last frames. There used to be a giant billboard pasted on the Belfry’s walls with the image of Mother Mary and Baby Jesus. Reminding us that while death may render our bodies useless, our souls remain and decide whether we deserve a place in heaven or rot in the gates of hell.
A recommended film to watch again despite its age, although I don’t think it’s available online. Hopefully soon.