The beauty in J.E. Tiglao’s ‘Her Locket’ explodes naturally onscreen, from the opening frames to the closing credits. Starred and produced by Rebecca Chuaunsu, the film talks about familial legacies, the power of forgiveness, and discovering oneself; it blossoms like a memory intended to last forever.
Following the story of former actress, Jewel Ouyang (Chuansu), ‘Her Locket’ brings you back to the late ’50s Manila. Ouyang is a sophomore student of Theater Arts at the University of the Philippines Diliman, who habitually sneaks out from their house at night to meet her friend, at the disco. At UP, she meets jack-of-all trades, Dave (played impeccably by ultra-talented, Tommy Alejandrino), whom she would later on marry. It’s a choice her family vehemently objects, but true love is thicker than blood.
The film also places its spotlight on first-time caregiver, Teresa, played wonderfully by Elora Españo, as well as to Boo Gabunada, as young lawyer and Ouyang’s only son, Kyle.
The titular “locket” in the film, refers to an old necklace containing a photo of Ouyang’s young self and her family, including her only sibling, Magnus. With this locket, Ouyang is able to recall her lost memories due to her deteriorating dementia. As siblings, Jewel and Magnus constantly engage in fights, big and small, a hostile relationship that would soon result to a bigger, more chaotic war.
Lovely and affectionate in how it tells a very inspiring story of a family, ‘Her Locket’ triumphs in a sense that it eloquenly imparts an effective illustration of how envy and greed destroy relationships, and how love and forgiveness repair them. The stellar storytelling in this film, puts these qualities front and center, and makes us understand better, the truths embedded in this compelling tale.
In such a beauty, Chuaunsu’s powerful portrayal is a potent ingredient. She dazzles with her scenes and owns them with performances that ooze near-perfection. Going into the premiere, I wondered why she had to play the lead on this movie; I understood it now. Also commendable is Españo, who endearingly articulated the struggles of Teresa.
The light moments between young Jewel (Sophie Ng) and young Dave, are appealingly placed between serious moments, allowing them shine throughout the movie. But it is when the real drama starts, when the legal battle over inheritance that is, that things get more complicated.
‘Her Locket’ seems designed to break down centuries-old traditions. It is a resonating message intended to uplift women in a setting where men are more favored; it is an empowering tale meant to equip women with a voice. But then again, it is a riveting story about a family both torn apart and repaired by love. What a beautiful and inspiring film!
Watch the full trailer below:
Catch ‘Her Locket’ and other films from September 4-10, at these cinemas: Gateway (2 cinemas), Robinsons Galleria, Robinsons Manila, SM Fairview, SM Mall of Asia, SM Manila, SM Megamall, SM North Edsa, SM Southmall, SM Sta. Mesa, and Market Market.
