Oro, Plata, Mata

One of the notable films in Philippine cinema, "Oro, Plata, Mata" (Gold, Silver, Death) is one of the epics of the silver screen immersive in breadth and scope. Set on the eve of the Japanese invasion of the Philippines during World War II the tale depicts two wealthy land owning families from the province whose affluent existences are turned upside down with the outbreak of war. From there it's an odyssey into the heart of darkness as social barriers break down and an endurance test of life-changing events ensue. Ace direction and good acting are further highlighted and complemented by the flawless editing and cinematography. If there's one flaw with the film it's the length. While watchable the movie would have had more of an impact in shorter form with the slow parts excised to heighten the best and gripping parts. Perhaps famed director Peque Gallaga's masterpiece and some of the best acting by the country's film luminaries, "Oro, Plata, Mata" is one of the most successful triumphs of art as life.