Kisapmata Film Analysis

The main character, Dado Carandang, embodies the authoritarian regime of Ferdinand Marcos during Martial Law, reflecting his oppressive control and violence.

The film uses the house to represent the Philippines under Martial Law, with constant surveillance and restricted freedom, mirroring the experience of Filipinos during that time.

The power dynamics within the family mirror the control the government exerted over the people during Martial Law. The family's fear reflects the fear of Filipinos facing repercussions for disobedience.

Dado uses fear and surveillance to control his family, representing the Marcos regime's tactics to maintain power. The family's silence reflects the normalization of oppression under a dictatorship.

The film showcases the patriarchal dominance and consequences of its abuse. Dado embodies toxic masculinity and authority while women like Mila and her mother represent the loss of agency under patriarchal systems.

The film explores the destructive effects of a toxic family structure driven by patriarchal values within a strict and abusive setting. It criticizes traditional Filipino family values that tolerate male dominance.

This documentary uses the “aswang” metaphor to represent the death squads operating under Duterte's administration. They are portrayed as predatory and corrupt forces of the state, preying on the weak and creating fear and death.

The documentary exposes the violence and injustice of the War on Drugs using the “aswang” metaphor, highlighting the predatory nature of the death squads and their impact on society.

When leaders use their power to gain advantage for themselves or their supporters, often neglecting the needs of the people.

The systematic disadvantages and unequal opportunities faced by certain groups in society, often due to factors like poverty or race.

The loss of trust in leaders and institutions, often due to perceived corruption or unfair practices.

The way political leaders strategically shape their public image to appeal to voters and gain their support.

Manuel Quezon symbolized Filipino unity and strength through a refined and dignified public persona.

Ramon Magsaysay connected with ordinary Filipinos through a relatable and down-to-earth approach.

Fidel Ramos used his military background and achievements to project an image of strength and action.

Joseph Estrada leveraged his fame as an actor to connect with the masses, appealing to the common man.

"Aswang" refers to a mythical creature in Filipino folklore that can transform into different beings, symbolizing a corrupt authority figure who abuses their power and transcends justice.

The documentary exposes how the poor, often wrongly accused of drug involvement, are disproportionately targeted by extrajudicial killings, revealing a systemic issue of inequality within the Philippine justice system.

Through handheld camera shots and a raw visual aesthetic, the documentary aims to provide an authentic account of the victims' experiences, bringing viewers closer to their stories.

The soundtrack purposefully avoids dramatic music, instead opting for authentic sounds that complement the narrative and enhance the emotional connection between the audience and the subjects.

The documentary shows how violence has become normalized in society, exemplified by children playfully simulating police violence, highlighting the erosion of trust in law enforcement.

The documentary exposes a pattern of police abducting citizens and holding them in hidden cells for ransom, demonstrating the corrupt practices and lack of accountability within the justice system.

The documentary showcases how falsified legal documents and complicity within the judiciary perpetuate injustice, reflecting a systematic failure to uphold human rights and protect vulnerable individuals.

The documentary emphasizes the importance of remembering and honouring victims, highlighting the tragic loss and trauma inflicted by extrajudicial killings and the need for accountability and closure.

The ability of a leader to connect with the common people and build trust through shared experiences and values. This often involves emphasizing a leader's humble background, concern for the poor, and promise to fight for their rights.

The ability of a leader to portray a relatable persona that resonates with the public. Leaders use their life experiences, communication style, and image to connect with voters on a personal level.

The dynamic interplay between past leaders and current challenges. New leaders often build upon the successes and failures of their predecessors, adapting to evolving circumstances.

The essential skill of crafting a personal image that appeals to voters to gain their support and trust. This involves understanding public sentiment, presenting a clear message, and projecting a positive image.

A Philippine news organization that advocates for press freedom and accountability in governance. They use investigative journalism to expose government abuses, particularly those related to the 'war on drugs'.

The act of actively challenging the actions of those in power through critical reporting, exposing wrongdoings, and demanding transparency. This is an essential role of a free press in a democracy.

The use of legal measures and intimidation tactics by a government to suppress dissenting voices and silence critics, often targeting journalists and media organizations.

The deliberate spread of false or misleading information to influence public opinion and undermine trust in legitimate media sources. This can be done through social media platforms and online propaganda.

The idea that the power to kill is a fundamental privilege of the sovereign, enabling control over life and death.

The control over life through policies and measures promoting health, safety, and population growth.

A system of constant observation that makes people self-regulate to conform to societal norms without direct force.

A way of governing oneself based on societal expectations, even without explicit rules.

Individuals shaped by power to fit into societal standards, often through normalization processes.

The ability of an individual to influence the behavior of others, even against their will. This encompasses control over people, resources, and institutions.

The right to exercise power. It's the foundation of legitimate authority and can be derived from various sources.

A type of authority based on personal charisma, inspiration, or heroic qualities. People are drawn to the leader's personal magnetism.

A type of authority rooted in established customs, traditions, and beliefs passed down through generations. It's based on the legitimacy of ancient practices.

A type of authority based on formal rules, laws, and institutions. Power is exercised according to established procedures and regulations.

A type of power that relies on fear, intimidation, control, and manipulation to maintain authority. It focuses on achieving goals regardless of ethical considerations.

The principle that justifies using any means necessary to achieve desired goals, even if those means are unethical.

A belief that it's more advantageous for a ruler to be feared than loved, as fear is a stronger motivator for obedience.