Krystal Angel Corpuz BSA-2

1. Describe the 19 century Philippines as reflected in the film.

- The film provides an insight into the Filipino people's colonial life during Spanish rule. It shows the social structure, with the
native population under the control of Spanish landlords and friars. This scene captures the historical background of the
Philippines during its Spanish colonial rule in the late 1800s.
The film illustrates the social inequalities that were common throughout the colonial era through its narrative, including
prejudice against the native population, forced labor, and land exploitation. It draws attention to the hardships that regular
Filipinos endure in defending their rights and dignity against institutionalized oppression.
Overall, "Ganito Kami Noon, Paano Kayo Ngayon?" provides an insightful depiction of the Philippines' nineteenth century,
illustrating the complexities of colonialism, cultural identity, and independent struggle. The movie offers insightful
perspectives on that era's sociopolitical context and its ongoing influence on Filipino society through its characters and plot.
2. Based on your reading, what can you say about the film's representation of the nineteenth century?
- The film portrays the late nineteenth-century Filipinos' spirit of struggle and desire for independence. The narrative features
individuals engaged in several types of opposition against Spanish oppression, such as Kulas, who unwittingly finds himself
involved in the fight for independence. In terms of cinematic representation, the movie makes use of narrative and visual
devices to evoke the aesthetics and atmosphere of the nineteenth century. From costume design to set decoration, the film
recreates the period setting with attention to detail, immersing the audience in the historical context.
3. What is the main question that the film seeks to answer?
The film "Ganito Kami Noon, Paano Kayo Ngayon?" aims to address several key issues, including identity, cultural heritage,
and the effects of historical events on people's lives. The movie explores the following questions through its story:
1. Identity Crisis: In a colonial society where traditional Filipino values collide with Spanish influences; how do people
negotiate the difficulties of cultural identity?
2. Adaptation and Change: In the late nineteenth century, with Spanish colonization and the rise of nationalist movements,
how did the Filipino people adjust to the new socio-political environment?
3. Legacy of Colonialism: In what ways do the remnants of colonialism still influence contemporary Filipino society and
collective memory?
4. Personal Transformation: What impact can relationships, experiences, and historical encounters have on how people live
their lives and how their identities are formed?
Through its characters' experiences, "Ganito Kami Noon, Paano Kayo Ngayon?" explores these issues and provides insights
into the long-lasting effects of history on Filipino identity and cultural heritage. The film's narrative arc challenges viewers to
contemplate their personal relationship to the past and its influence on the present, as well as the complexity of Filipino
history, culture, and national identity.
4. What is your personal understanding of and own reflection on the film?
- The movie's portrayal of the hardships endured by common Filipinos during the Spanish colonial era is one feature that really
sticks out. It highlights the Filipino people's determination, bravery, and spirit of resistance while also shedding light on the
injustices, inequalities, and cultural conflicts that defined that time.
Furthermore, the movie encourages viewers to consider colonialism's lasting effects and how they have affected modern-day
Filipino society. It brings up significant issues related to identity, cultural authenticity, and the continuous struggle for
national sovereignty and self-determination.
Overall, "Ganito Kami Noon, Paano Kayo Ngayon?" is an important reminder of how critical it is to comprehend and face the
complexity of identity, culture, and history. In addition to highlighting the diverse and resilient Filipino heritage, it challenges
viewers to think critically about the past and how it affects the present.