Itim: An Exploration in Cinema

About This Movie

So, Doy del Muno's 'Itim: An Exploration in Cinema' is this fascinating peek into the creation of Mike De Leon’s 'Itim'. It’s not just about the film itself, but also a deep dive into the atmosphere and essence of filmmaking in that era. The doc features the only surviving clips from De Leon's lost short 'Monologo', which adds this layer of haunting nostalgia. The pacing feels reflective, almost meditative, as it weaves through the stories and memories tied to the making of 'Itim'. A unique blend of personal history and cinematic exploration, it feels like a love letter to the craft, making it distinctive in the landscape of Philippine cinema.

This documentary is quite rare, and finding it on any format is becoming increasingly difficult as time passes. The scarcity of the surviving footage from 'Monologo' adds to its allure for collectors, as it not only highlights lost works but also provides a glimpse into an important part of Philippine film history. Enthusiasts are drawn to its introspective tone, making it a noteworthy piece for anyone interested in the evolution of cinema in the region.