The Woman Who Left (2016)

DVD CASE/SIDE

Length of film:  226 Minutes

Rated: 16    

Genre: Drama

Director: Lav Diaz

Starring: Charo Santos-Concio, John Lloyd Cruz, Michael De Mesa, Nonie Buencamino, Shamaine Buencamino

IMDB Rank: 7.2/10

Part 1 Time:  122 Minutes 

Part 2 Time:  104 Minutes

Where does the first part end? Horacia (Charo Santos-Concio) gives Magbabalot (Nonie Buencamino) money in order for him to bring his child to the hospital. In return, Horacia inquires to Magbabalot about getting a handgun.

Final line of dialogue on the first part: “I know a place,” Magbabalot responds to Horacia’s question. Horacia replies “Thank you.”

First line of dialogue on the second part: The next day Horacia and Magbabalot are in the forest. Magbabalot gives Horacia an update on his child’s health “My son has Hepatitis B.”

How jarring is it when the first part ends? Minimal, Horacia tries to peacefully live out her remaining years, but the thought of vengeance continues to build within her. Horacia now seeks out a weapon in order for her to pursue redemption. Will Horacia extract the retribution she is entitled to?

Which part is better? The entire film is quite slow, with many long duration camera shots. Part two is given a modest advantage as Horacia balances her pursuit of vengeance with her motherly instincts as she nurses Hollanda (John Lloyd Cruz) back to health.

Academy Awards: None