Warning: May contain spoilers from the film
This year’s Pista ng Pelikulang Pilipino (PPP) premiered last September 13 and will last until September 19, 2019. The film festival features 10 local movies presented by the Film Development Council of the Philippines, in partnership with the National Cinema Association of the Philippines.
Among the lineup of official entries is the sexy drama film “Open“, which stars Arci Muñoz and JC Santos. The story revolves around Rome (Muñoz) and Ethan’s (Santos) 14-year relationship, as the two agree to try an “open relationship” in an effort to strengthen and save their seemingly boring love affair.
Aside from the film’s “hugot” (sentiments) about the hurdles of being in a relationship, there are important life lessons every viewer can learn from the story. Here are a few that we think might relate to you:
Having an open relationship is not always the solution to your ”couple” problems
Having an open relationship inadvertently means losing exclusivity between you and your partner, as this arrangement allows him or her to find new ‘sexual playmates’. So understandably, this setup can destroy weak relationships and increase the chances of developing deeper and more serious feelings for someone else.
In the story, Rome agreed with this plan because she felt like this was the only way to keep Ethan. And to maintain their “exclusivity”, they come up with the rule that they can have sex with strangers but they should not fall in love.
You can grow together with your partner, but also, nurture yourself independently
In the movie, Rome consumed most of her life in a routine with Ethan. The two live under the same roof, go to work together every day and do almost all things comfortably, just like an old, married couple. But being in a long-term relationship requires space to grow and the feeling of freedom and security away from commitment. It’s important to nurture one’s self to build a healthier and stronger relationship. And just like what the movie is trying to imply, you should know how to be happy even before you start sharing your life with someone else.
Don’t be afraid to go out of your comfort zone
For Rome, dating other guys feels unenjoyable since it has caused her to develop a pang of guilt when engaging in sexual acts. But during these tough times, she focused on a more sensible activity to express her emotions–painting. Eventually, in the film, she will meet new people who will offer new opportunities to open herself up and bring joy to her soul.
One of the most important lessons you can learn in the movie is that “Life begins at the end of your comfort zone.” Making a change is daunting at first, especially when you live in a vicious cycle. Thus, exciting experiences happen when you step out of your comfort zone and break the dysfunctional patterns in your life.
The third year of Pista ng Pelikulang Pilipino (PPP) marks the official celebration of the 100 years of Philippine Cinema. PPP entries are still showing at all of SM Cinema nationwide until September 19. Check out https://pistangpelikulangpilipino.ph/ to know more about the film screening.
