Film Review: "The Portrait"

SHORT SUMMARY (for those who prefer a quick read)
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“The Portrait” (written and directed by Isa Ninguno) follows painter Alfonso Desvela as he seeks to create a male version of the Mona Lisa, believing it will secure his place in the art world. His quest for the perfect muse leads him to self-absorbed Filipino aristocrats, highlighting a society obsessed with fame. Ultimately, he discovers Kiko Escondido, a cigarette seller whose unassuming beauty captivates him. As Alfonso paints Kiko, the young man awakens to his own self-worth, realizing he has let life pass him by. In a poignant climax, Kiko asks for the portrait as a symbol of his transformation, but Alfonso, blinded by ambition, refuses. This film critiques the commodification of art and humanity, emphasizing how societal values distort genuine expression. Through its evocative cinematography and unseen portrait,  “The Portrait” challenges viewers to reflect on intrinsic worth and the nature of beauty in a superficial world.

Film Summary

“The Portrait” follows Alfonso Desvela, a dedicated painter yearning to create a male version of the Mona Lisa. He believes that capturing the essence of beauty and mystery in a single subject will elevate his work and secure his place in the art world. In his quest for the perfect muse, Alfonso seeks out attractive Filipino aristocrats, hoping to find someone whose allure rivals that of Leonardo da Vinci's masterpiece. However, he quickly discovers that many of these aristocrats are consumed by their own narcissism, focusing solely on fame and fortune rather than the art itself.

One day, while wandering the streets for inspiration, Alfonso encounters Kiko Escondido, a young man selling cigarettes. Despite his dark skin and the dirt that clings to him, Kiko possesses an undeniable handsomeness that captivates the painter. Alfonso asks if he can paint Kiko’s portrait, and the young man agrees—but only if he is paid. Eager and desperate for a subject, Alfonso finds the amount to be low and readily agrees.

As the painting progresses, Kiko begins to see himself through Alfonso’s eyes. Each brushstroke reveals a beauty he had long overlooked, and for the first time, he feels a sense of worth beyond his circumstances. However, as the final touches are added, he is struck by a bittersweet realization: he has squandered his potential, letting his life slip away while focusing on mere survival.

Overwhelmed by the recognition of his lost opportunities, Kiko decides he can no longer accept payment. Instead, he requests the painting as a symbol of his newfound self-awareness. But Alfonso, now enamored with his work and the fame it could bring, refuses. "This is my best work so far," he insists. "It could change my life."

The tension hangs in the air as Kiko, now realizing his value beyond monetary worth, walks out of the studio. He feels both empowered and heartbroken, leaving behind a piece of himself within the painting.

Audio recording of the summary

Film Review
Beyond the Canvas: Unveiling True Worth in Isa Ninguno’s “The Portrait”

“The Portrait”, directed by Isa Ninguno, is a poignant exploration of beauty, worth, and the commodification of human beings, set against the backdrop of socio-economic injustice in the Philippines. As a painter herself, Ninguno brings a unique perspective, masterfully navigating the hypocrisy of the art world and exposing how ambition can blind artists like Alfonso Desvela to the humanity of their subjects.

Ninguno critiques the obsession with fame and superficiality through Alfonso's search for a muse among self-absorbed Filipino aristocrats. This timely and timeless commentary reveals the shallow undercurrents of a society where image often outweighs substance.

In a striking choice, the portrait itself is never shown, compelling viewers to imagine its beauty and significance. This artistic decision deepens the emotional impact, emphasizing that true beauty often remains unseen in a superficial society. Alfonso's refusal to give Kiko the finished work encapsulates the theme of commodification in art, highlighting the tension between artistic ambition and personal identity.

Visually, the film employs a color palette reminiscent of Leonardo da Vinci, with soft earth tones and subtle lighting that evoke the warmth and complexity of its characters. The cinematography captures the dichotomy between the opulence of the aristocratic world and the gritty reality of street life, enhancing the socio-economic commentary.

Ultimately, “The Portrait” serves as a stirring reflection on the nature of art and the cost of ambition. It challenges viewers to consider how society commodifies not just beauty, but the very essence of human beings. As the credits roll, we are left to ponder our own self-worth and the intrinsic value that lies within each of us, waiting to be recognized.