Celestina: Burlesk Dancer (2024) Movie Script
1
Thanks, Tinay.
Eat up, son. I need you to help me.
Yes, Ma.
Joaquin.
Pa!
Is the kite for me?
I got it from Igme.
Shall we let it fly?
Yes, Pa.
- Run!
- I want to let go of more string, Pa.
I want it to touch the clouds!
Only an angel can do that son!
- Come on, Pa.
- Okay, run!
I hope we catch a big one.
Pa, can you make me a new slingshot?
I'll use a guava tree branch
to make you a sturdy one. I got you, son.
Eat right and drink carabao milk
every morning to make you stronger.
What do I always tell you?
A real man...
A real man is brave and strong.
Good boy.
Ebony wood is stronger, Pa.
Then ebony it is.
The most important thing is
to be a good person, Joaquin.
Weak, or strong,
man, or woman.
Cornelio!
Dolfo.
You sold the only land you inherited.
After you spend it all,
what will you sell next? This house?
Cornelio, look at me!
That's all you're good for. Drink. Women.
And when you're loaded,
gambling like there's no tomorrow.
You'd bet everything on a
cockfight, or a boxing match.
But since you're such
a loser, you never win.
Shut it, Tinay!
Why should I?
Does it hurt your ears
when you hear the truth?
You're not just a loser, Cornelio.
You're a coward!
You never face your problems.
You hide behind your parents' money
and now none of it's left, thanks to you.
Don't talk to your son about being brave
and strong when you're anything but.
I said, shut up!
You're the useless one around here,
you uneducated piece of trash!
Your tiny parcel of land with
17 mango trees? Worthless!
You got some nerve mouthing off, Celestina.
You were just a singer in a small bar.
I got you out of there,
and gave you some dignity.
I'm sorry.
I was wrong.
It's your duty to satisfy me.
Here.
It's great, Pa. Thank you.
Not only that. Here.
Let's shoot it out, Pa.
Next time, okay? My back hurts.
Let me see. Bang!
I'll catch you, Pa.
Pa.
Bang!
Pa!
Pa, we're just playing!
Wake up, Pa.
You scared me.
Go run.
I really got scared.
[music playing]
Good morning, sir.
[music playing]
Wait here.
[music playing]
Ma, I don't want to go.
Come on.
I don't want to leave Pa.
Trust me, Joaquin.
Ma, when are we going home?
Not soon.
But what about Pa?
We left him all alone.
It's not right.
Stop crying.
You need to be brave, Joaquin.
Because I'm a boy?
No. No, son.
Because we're about
to start a new life.
We'll face a lot of hardship.
But don't worry.
We'll get through this.
But I need you to be brave.
So I can be braver.
But why did we leave him?
Isn't that wrong?
Joaquin...
We need to do this.
That's newly harvested.
Let's cook it later.
We get one each?
Thank you.
Let's go, son.
Ma'am, is there a job
I can do around here?
Sorry dear, there's nothing.
Thanks anyway.
Ma'am can you help me
get a job? I'll do anything.
I have nothing either, sorry.
Thank you.
Let's go, son.
Buy some?
Can you tell me where I can find a job?
- Try there.
- Thank you.
Let's go.
Fix that.
My name's Ernesto.
You can call me Master Impressario.
Yes, Master Impressario.
You dance?
No, but I can sing.
I need dancers.
What kind of dance?
Burlesque. You know it?
Master Impressario,
I need a job. Any job...
We're full.
Go to the market.
You can sell fish, or something.
I'm begging you.
You're bugging me.
Come back when you're
ready to do burlesque.
Hey Fredo. Don't mess that up!
Get your act together.
This is just comedy.
Let's go, son.
You'll get through this.
What's your name?
Joaquin, ma'am.
Who made your mother cry?
He did.
Shall we get back at him?
Yes, ma'am.
Some things scare you only
because you haven't tried them yet.
I used to be a dancer.
Not anymore?
I have a lover. He's Japanese.
He doesn't like me dancing in public
so I'm doing vaudeville instead.
I need to work. Tomorrow
we'll be completely broke.
Dance.
It's a tough pill to swallow,
but only at first.
Once you start earning
from it, it gets easier.
I'm Rosalinda, by the way.
I'm Tinay.
Don't let Estong intimidate you.
He's all bark,
but deep inside, he's a softie.
Come.
Estong!
Hey Rosalinda!
It's "Master Impressario."
Estong sounds more
natural, no pretensions.
She's ready to dance.
Is that so?
Listen.
Dancing burlesque is
all the rage in Europe.
It's dance as an art form because
it comes from the heart. It has soul.
Dance as if your body were possessed
by the percussion section of an orchestra.
Your body is one with every beat
of every one of those drums.
The sway in your hips shows it.
Rosalinda, it looks like Estong has
found your replacement. She's pretty.
Something tells me she has it in her.
And with no clothes on,
it'll show even better.
But it doesn't end with your hips,
nor with the jiggling of your bosom.
The body must listen
to what's in your heart.
Are you starting to feel it?
Is your heart filling up with joy?
Once you can answer yes to
these questions, you're ready.
Don't forget the eyes, they talk.
Look at your audience.
Really see them. When
they stare back at you,
you have them in the palm of your hand.
They have fallen in love with your dancing.
What's your name?
Celestina.
They call me Tinay.
Celestina... Burlesque Dancer.
The sound of it sparkles!
Let's see you dance.
Show us.
Go on.
Close your eyes.
[music playing]
That's it. Remember the
percussion section! Feel it.
There, that's it.
Oh, the chest.
That's it.
A little more tenderness.
More hip.
More. Loosen up some more.
There, keep going!
[music playing]
Good. Good!
Come back later. We'll rehearse. You're in.
She's a dancer, Estong, not a whore.
I know. Geez, Rosalinda.
You can look now.
You can start tonight.
She needs cash upfront.
You're the most generous person I know.
It's for her child.
Rosalinda, I know. You know I do.
Okay.
Oh, and no men
for now, understood?
Don't be like Rosalinda
who left burlesque for her Japanese man.
It's called love.
Love?
I know how to sing.
Sure, let's rehearse your piece.
That's extra pay, Estong.
Of course, my dear Rosalinda. Now go.
Let's go.
What are you all lounging about for?
Ladies and gentlemen!
Don't you have any hands?
Good evening.
[music playing]
Hold this.
And this goes with that. Look, nice right?
[music playing]
It's not too much?
Not at all. You look great.
[music playing]
Friends, Long Live Theatre is proud to
present our newest burlesque dancer.
She will set your
hearts on fire. Celestina!
[cheering, background chattering]
Shes flawless!
[music playing]
So easy on the eyes.
[cheering, background chattering]
[music playing]
Shes a seductress.
She's good.
[music playing]
What an ass!
[cheering, background chattering]
Go shake em!
Sonofagun! What a dish!
Bury me in your Melons, Celestina!
[cheering, background chattering]
[music playing]
[cheering, background chattering]
Ma.
Son.
Thank you.
Your son is easy to take
care ofsweet and obedient.
Thank you.
What did you do all day?
I played and I picked guavas from the tree.
The sweetest I've ever had!
Can we visit Pa even once?
Listen to me, son.
We're not going back to your father.
He was not a good husband, or father.
You always tell me to be kind.
Why are you being so unkind to my Pa?
I'm doing all of this for you.
Someday you will understand.
Master Impressario, allow me to be blunt.
I'm starting this new life with my son.
Burlesque has become our lifeline.
I expect to be paid on time.
And if my dancing helps
to fill up more seats,
I hope you'll reward me
with an increase in my salary.
Singing and dancing are all I know.
I'm willing to show a little more skin
to tease them some more,
but I'll never go nude. I have a son.
You know what I mean.
In return, I will put all my heart
and soul every time I dance.
You were right. I feel
the rhythm inside of me.
When I let go, it's as if I was possessed.
Fine.
You will be paid on time.
For dancing as well as for singing.
You have nothing to worry about.
Call me Estong. I'm your friend.
Thank you, Estong.
Burlesque is an art.
It expresses emotion better
than the tango or the pasodoble,
and the people love it.
Farmers and fishermen don't crave to watch
the tango after a hard day's work, do they?
But burlesque? They'll pay to watch it.
It's a thrill like no other.
Burlesque is for the masses.
This theater apes the
style of America and Europe.
Therefore your country is doomed.
This will never happen in Japan.
Melchor!
- For you.
- Thank you.
Thank you, Haruto-san.
You are a kind Japanese man.
Here.
- For me?
- Yes.
Than you, Haruto-san.
Rosalinda, no dancing. Understand.
Yes of course, yes.
Don't follow in Rosalinda's footsteps.
She was a great burlesque dancer,
but she threw it all away for
someone not of our own blood.
What a waste.
I never knew love until I met you.
I don't know how or why I fell.
But my heart knows
that I need you and I want to be with you
for the rest of my life.
I love you, Celestina. I wish to marry you.
I promise you a good life.
You will be my Queen.
I will never hurt you
nor let others hurt you.
Do you feel the same?
I do. And I am ready to be your wife.
For life.
I love you, Haruto.
Don't ever leave me.
I love the taste of you, Haruto.
Tinay.
Tinay!
Merry Christmas Tinay!
- Are you drunk?
- I am. I got Joaquin a gift.
Joaquin!
Big Sis.
Merry Christmas, Joaquin!
- This is for you.
- Thank you.
I love it! Thank you.
- Do you like it?
- Yes.
You didn't have to get him
something so expensive.
Let him be happy. Let pain
and misery be our lot, not his.
- Go to your room, son.
- Go check them, okay?
Yes, Ma.
[dog barks]
Is it Haruto?
He's gone back to Japan.
He promised to bring me with him.
He said that wasn't possible.
I asked him not to go.
Also impossible.
I asked him what could be done.
He had no answer.
He had no answer.
He gave me a bunch of cash.
I threw it back at him.
I told him it wasn't
money I needed, but him.
That's when he told the truth.
He has a wife.
He lied to me.
And then he said I had no
right to complain because
I was paid for every
minute of our time together.
That son of a bitch!
I didn't ask to be paid Tinay. I love him!
I am not a whore, Tinay.
I love that son of a bitch.
Tinay, I loved him.
[sobbing]
I loved him, Tinay. I'm not a bitch.
Shit.
[sobbing]
Don't worry, we'll find a way.
We still have a small
parcel of land we can sell.
Thank you.
Masaru-san.
I see that you're very happy.
I'm happy that you're happy.
It's a small celebration but...
- Congratulations.
- Please come in.
I'm very lucky.
Your cousin is my new wife.
Marcela and I are close.
We will put up a business together, okay?
Thank you, Masaru-san.
[cheering, background chattering]
[music playing, background chattering]
Tinay.
Who's it from?
They didn't say.
Thank you.
[background chattering]
[background chattering]
[cheering, background chattering]
[music playing, background chattering]
I'm Leandro.
- I'm...
- Tinay. I know.
What else do you know?
You're separated from your husband.
You have one kid.
So you're a detective.
Only when I'm smitten.
Which happens often, it seems.
- Who's he?
- Never. Only now.
You have a gilded tongue.
Again, only now.
Let's go, where have you been?
Okay, let's go.
Pay your respects to Mother Ingga.
Bless me, grandma.
God bless you Joaquin.
I'm sorry, ma'am.
The neighbors who looked
after Joaquin have moved.
Mom loves children,
especially when you pay her.
Stop it, Rosalinda. She might believe you.
I take it back. Just some of the time.
You're embarrassing me.
I think that Joaquin and
I will get along. Right?
Tinay, your son is quite a looker.
He'll break many hearts
when the time comes.
Right Joaquin?
I look like my Pa.
Makes sense.
Your mom would not have fallen
for someone less handsome than you.
Not anymore.
- What?
- She hates him now.
Don't say that, Joaquin.
But it's not a lie.
Even so. Some things
are better left unsaid.
- Have you taken a bath Joaquin?
- Not yet, ma'am.
I knew it.
- You should always keep fresh.
- I brought clean clothes.
Oh, you have them?
Here, ma'am.
Stay here while I give him a bath.
Mother Ingga, where's your husband?
He died a long time ago.
How?
A heart attack.
Just like his father.
He vanished into thin air
but left you some money.
As if I was a whore.
Would you rather he left no money at all?
He could've talked to me before leaving.
He probably didn't want
to disturb your sleep.
Besides, he knew you needed the money.
No. He insulted me.
You're angry because
you hate that he left
and you're afraid you'll
never see him again.
Canned goods. Help yourself.
Help yourself.
Don't forget, Masaru-san.
Go on, help yourselves.
There's rice, canned goods, breads.
Your long wait has paid off.
In these times, this is heaven-sent.
The truth has been spoken.
Mother Ingga, can you convince my Ma
to take me to visit my Pa?
I can talk to her but that doesn't mean
you'll get your wish.
Just try please.
Do you love your Ma?
I do.
But I keep thinking about Pa.
Never lose faith in your Ma.
Everything she does, she does for you.
She loves you more than anything.
You live here?
Uhm... no.
Where do you live?
What do you do?
Are you a businessman?
You seem to know more about who I am.
Fine,
what do you want to know?
Only what you're comfortable revealing.
I'm single.
I don't have kids.
I'm an orphan.
I love my country.
Do you love me too?
What do you think?
I am no whore. When I love,
I do so with all my heart.
I will never sleep with
someone I do not love.
Dignity matters to me.
At the same time I value
being able to live in peace.
If you look down on burlesque
and only want to use me,
leave now.
If you're a criminal
or any kind of outlaw,
be honest with me.
Before I fall for you.
I apologize if I offended you
by leaving you some money.
I just wanted to help.
I guess I wanted you to quit burlesque.
Seeing men ogle you while you danced may
have been too much for my male ego to take.
This is my body and only I
can decide what I do with it.
Learn to respect my decision
just as I respect yours.
I'm not a businessman.
I'm part of the movement
against the Japanese.
Trust me.
I love you.
I will never put you in harm's way.
I know you.
You're Celestina, the burlesque dancer.
Dance for me. Come on,
take off those clothes. I'll pay.
What's wrong with you?
- I'm sorry.
- I dare you to approach me!
Rosalinda. You're drinking again?
Joaquin is asleep.
Spend the night.
Have a drink with me.
That's enough, Rosalinda.
Enough.
[sobbing]
It'll be okay.
It'll be okay.
Haruto's not coming back.
I begged him.
You know what his reply was?
That his wife is pregnant.
[sobbing]
He told me to stop hoping.
That asshole!
I believed all his dreams for me.
And all his promises.
I gave up dancing for him.
Rosalinda.
You have to accept that it's over.
You cannot force these things.
No.
No.
No...
He still cares about me. I can tell.
War is coming, that's all
people talk about these days.
They say Manila will be bombed first
and it will spread across Luzon.
Haruto still loves me.
He wants me to take care...
I hope war breaks out soon.
Haruto will come and rescue me.
I want Haruto back.
Rosalinda.
Enough of this crazy talk.
Men have a way of sniffing
out women they can fool easily.
Wake up and wise up.
Women in your line of work attract
the most unreliable of men.
So stop this nonsense.
Tinay,
you and Joaquin should spend
the night here. Go sleep next to him.
Thanks, ma'am.
Joaquin longs for his father, you know.
It's none of my business, I know.
But please consider your son's feelings.
- Ma!
- Enough.
[sobbing]
Should we buy it?
Yes, Ma. We need it.
- How much?
- We may need two of those, Ma.
Be still, they are beasts.
I'm honored to meet you, Tinay.
My name is Graciano, they call me Nano.
Good to see you've arrived safely, Leandro.
I'm Tasyo, Tinay. Thank you
for accepting our invitation.
Don Miguel has intimidated
all the farmers
and now owns all the land
here except for my farm.
I stood my ground.
My land may be small, but I
inherited it from my ancestors.
They burned down my house
and tried to hunt my family down.
We had no choice but to flee.
My family is too scared to go back.
Son of a bitch those land grabbers.
They not only took my land.
They raped my granddaughter.
My son thought they'd leave my
grandchild alone once he gave up the land.
Instead, they shot him.
We fled into the forest.
My grandchild lost her mind.
All this broke her.
The landlords have
taken everything from us.
And now they are friends with the Japanese.
Soon it will be the Japanese who will
take whatever we have left.
That's why we came to you, Tinay.
We need your help.
I don't have any means of helping you.
You do. Be our spy.
The landlords and the Japanese make up a
good part of your audience. Befriend them.
The tongues of smitten men tend to slip.
I can't do what you ask.
Please consider it.
I am not a warrior.
I will not be of any use to you.
You will not fight.
Only talk. And above all, listen.
That won't be enough.
I will have to seduce them to
get the information you need.
Basic info, maybe,
but only at first. Your needs will grow.
You will then ask me to
get even closer to them
and so on until there's no way out for me.
I will put my son's life in danger.
I will never put you or
your son in harm's way.
If that were true, you'd never
have brought me to that meeting.
Tinay.
We have a duty to our country.
My duty is to my son.
I choose a peaceful life for us.
There will be no peace
until there is justice.
You know this.
Do you love me?
I love you.
But you love our country more.
They do not cancel each other out.
They do, if my son's safety
and future are at stake.
Let's face it.
Our values and priorities do not match.
You and I are on different battlefields.
What's taking it so long?
[men chattering]
What time will they open?
[men chattering]
What's going on, why is the queue so long?
[background chattering]
Oh, you people!
Good morning, Melchor!
Good morning, Rosalinda.
[singing, background chattering]
Hey, you dance well! Do it
onstage if you want applause.
The audience aren't here for dick.
Ah...
I bet you got a small one.
It's damn big.
I'm bigger!
You're really good.
Dance has been my life since I was a kid.
The percussion section is
alive and well inside of you.
Not just that section.
The entire orchestra!
By the way.
Tinay, I thought of a gimmick for
the company's coming anniversary.
You and Rosalinda, one on one.
Burlesque versus burlesque!
- Rosalinda's quit dancing.
- I'll talk to her.
I don't think it's a good idea.
I'll double the pay.
I wish you wouldn't pressure her.
There's no pressure, Estong.
I'll do it. I'll do burlesque again!
Great.
The showdown is on.
Will the former queen reclaim her throne?
Or will the reigning queen eat her alive?
Estong, please get Rosalinda
some coffee to sober her up.
Your wish is my command, your highness.
You're drunk again.
I need to drink to drown my desolation.
You need to be strong, Rosalinda.
I only need to love, Tinay. Love!
You don't have to dance
if you don't want to.
I will dance.
Presenting... the country's
newest dancing sensation!
No man can ever be
indifferent to such splendor.
That's enough.
Friends,
- Enough.
- It's okay.
Brace yourselves for the effervescent...
Celestina!
[cheering, music playing]
Celestina, youre mine!
Let me have you every night!
[cheering, music playing]
Enough, Rosalinda.
What the hell? You're drunk?
Yes.
[cheering, music playing]
And now,
the comeback you've all been waiting for!
Welcome back to the stage
the one of a kind beauty of...
Rosalinda!
Why the delay?
We paid for a show.
Can you do it?
Yes, I can!
[background chattering]
[background chattering, music playing]
[cheering, music playing]
Shes still pretty!
And still hot!
[cheering, music playing]
Shes drunk!
Get off the stage!
[cheering, music playing]
We want Celestina!
[cheering, music playing]
You all want to see?
This is what you all want, right?
And this,
and this! Assholes!
You're all traitors! Your love is shit!
You're all sons of bitches! Traitors!
Good-for-nothing traitors, all of you!
Melchor, the microphone!
After everything I did
for you ungrateful traitors!
[background chattering]
When I fall in love I smolder, drift,
lose my way I see the thorns
but I still get pricked anyway
Ouch!
Better safe than sorry
keep this heart locked up
And throw away the key
Keep this careless heart shut
It beats for trouble and danger
A shortage of men theres not
Each one an unworthy lover
Hell woo you, lay down
the stars at your feet
Sweet tongue too
Poisoned at the tip, youre it!
And as soon as you fall he disappears
You curl into a ball
Oh but when you love you smolder,
Enough of the singing! Strip!
Celestina, just dance!
Watch out for the thorns
Still get pricked anyway
No use watching
out, still getting pricked
Always getting pricked
Ouch!
[cheering, background chattering]
We don't want you to sing!
Just dance and shake your ass!
[background chattering]
Dance naked!
[background chattering]
[cheering, music playing]
Yes, take it off!
[cheering, music playing]
This is heaven!
That's my wife.
All of it! Show us everything!
You're flawless!
[cheering, music playing]
[background chattering]
Tinay.
Thank you.
Is it really that easy for
you to forget everything?
My parents were farmers.
They were killed by the landlord
who took our land from us.
I know what your comrades
are going through, I lived it.
I've moved on.
And I refuse to be a victim all over again.
As long as there are oppressors,
there will be victims. Remember that.
War is almost here.
And we are Filipinos.
I know.
You have a long way to travel. Take care.
Thank you.
Until we meet again.
Tinay!
How have you been?
I have long dreamed of this moment.
I still remember our last argument.
Don't be afraid of me, Tinay.
I came here to fix things.
I've changed.
And I'm prospering.
A Japanese befriended me
and became my business partner.
You never have to slave away
at your small plot of mango trees.
You can stay home and
take care of me and my son.
Come back to me, Tinay.
Leave this lover of yours.
Before Joaquin is exposed to more danger.
I'm ready to forget
about your illicit affair.
Think about our child's future.
I've moved on.
Tinay.
Forgive me.
I will never hurt you again. I've changed.
No, you haven't.
You just allied with someone with money.
You're no better than a parasite.
I will have you arrested for adultery,
if you don't come with me.
Power comes with money. You'll rot
in jail unless you change your mind.
Bullshit. You'll never be tough enough.
I didn't mean to, I forgot myself.
You're a monster, Cornelio!
Tinay?
They're not there. They
rushed Rosalinda to the clinic.
What? Where's my son?
Don't worry. He's sleeping inside.
Ingga asked me to look after him.
I just went to get food.
Heart condition.
Same as his father.
She needs surgery, or else...
Let's just accept it, Ma. I have.
Stop it, Rosalinda.
You are my child,
and I am your mother.
You are supposed to bury me,
not the other way around. I've buried too
many loved ones. It's all too much for me.
You will fight this.
I'll help.
All we need is money.
We'll find a way.
Thank you, Tinay.
Tell your friend not to
lose hope, or I'll smack her.
Get it together,
or else, I'll beat you to joining
your father wherever he is.
Tinay,
can you stay with her?
I need to use the restroom.
Yes, ma'am.
There's no reason left to fight.
My love has gone. And with him, my dignity.
My dreams.
We are strong women, Rosalinda.
Stop trying to make me cry
out of pity for you.
We are made of much
sterner stuff, you and I.
Rosalinda.
How old were you when
you first fancied a man?
Twelve.
How long did it take
for him to court you?
He didn't court me.
He was too shy.
One day I asked him if
he had ever kissed anyone.
He said he hadn't.
I kissed him.
On the cheek?
On the lips.
Hard. Long.
I sucked that tongue dry!
What did he do?
Nothing, he was stunned.
Then I went for his dick.
I put my hand inside his pants.
I got it hard. It was huge.
Was he your first lover?
We didn't become lovers.
I didn't want him after that.
Help me, Tinay. Help me.
I'm here for you, Rosalinda.
I'm here for you.
Ma, can I tell you something?
I dreamt of Pa last night.
We were flying a kite. It was big, Ma!
And spiffy! It was flying
so high the string ran out and broke
and that's when
the kite flew away.
Pa ran after it, looked for it, but it
was so far away and he never found it.
Go to sleep, son.
Let's settle it right here if you like.
Are you sure you want to
meet the tip of my sharp dagger?
I wasn't a good husband,
but I've always been a good father.
Please give this to Joaquin.
Tell him it's made of kamagong wood.
We're minding our business here
and they come just barging in.
What happened?
They just announced the
new regulations. New taxes.
New prohibitions.
From the municipality?
No.
Dictated by the Japanese, I'm sure.
What more when the fighting starts?
They'll have us by the neck.
For your protection.
I have a dagger.
You'll need this. Especially
now that your husband's back.
Ingga's not in, Tinay.
She's at the hospital.
Did they leave Joaquin with you?
No. Ingga left him with the
man you were arguing with.
Are you sure?
Positive. There was a
Japanese officer with him.
Did you really give my son to Cornelio?
You did that?
Don't make a scene.
My daughter is resting. Come.
Her surgery was successful.
My Rosalinda is safe.
Forgive me.
How dare you give away my child.
He's the father.
How wrong could that be, Tinay?
I entrusted him to you.
You don't know what Cornelio is like.
You don't know the
danger you've put my son in.
You gave him up for money.
You sold him. How could you do this to us?
I wish I had forever to wait
for the money that would save Rosalinda.
But I know all our effort
will never be enough.
Then Cornelio came.
He offered the money we needed.
I'm a mother, too.
It's second nature for me
to choose my child.
But now that Rosalinda is safe,
tell me what I can do
for you to forgive me.
I can go to Cornelio myself.
Please forgive her.
It was too late when I found out.
I wasn't able to stop her.
She only did it for me.
You are my friend, Rosalinda.
My mind understands but
my heart just can't accept it.
What does it take to survive?
What does it cost to be
decent people with compassion?
Wartime or not, what
do we choose to fight for?
Our own well-being?
Other people's? Love of country?
Must the salvation of one
always mean the ruin of another?
Come in.
Please.
Tinay.
Captain Masaru, I want you to meet my wife.
You have a pretty wife.
She is a good dancer.
Pay your respects.
I'm begging you, Cornelio.
Give me back my son.
You're forgetting something.
Joaquin is my son too.
What do you want me to do?
Come back.
Let's be a family again.
I do not love you anymore.
You're too proud.
I can give him back to you.
Thank you.
Let me finish.
We'll share him.
Four days with you, three with me.
I could leave him with
you when I go to Japan.
Or I can bring him with me to Japan.
I can also have you imprisoned.
You'll never see him again.
Please, don't...
Then help me make the right decision.
What do you want me to do?
My Japanese associates and I,
together with some business partners,
are holding a get-together.
Entertain them.
Dance for them.
Better than you've ever danced before.
With nothing on.
Do that and you get your son back.
Will you do it?
[sobbing]
[sobbing]
[sobbing]
[sobbing]
[music playing]
I want to touch her huge breasts!
Lets share.
[cheering, music playing]
Hey! Take it off.
Take it off!
Take it off!
He said, take it off!
[cheering, music playing]
Fresh melons!
[cheering, music playing]
Dance.
[cheering, music playing]
Down.
- Down!
- He said, take it off!
Take it off!
You. You.
[cheering, music playing]
No, no. No.
No, no. No!
[cheering, music playing]
[sobbing]
[sobbing]
[cheering]
[sobbing]
Cornelio!
Where do I pick up my son?
I changed my mind.
You're not getting him back.
But we had a deal.
I don't remember signing anything.
Next time, don't trust too easily.
Traitor! Animal!
- Stop it!
- No, no. Stop it!
The important thing is to win,
especially in a time of war.
Damn all of you demons!
You betrayed your own country.
Give me back my son!
Damn all of you!
[sobbing]
Someone told me that Cornelio will leave
with Joaquin tomorrow. For good.
They'll be at the bus station.
Whatever you plan to do, take great care.
Cornelio!
I'd rather die than allow you
to take my son from me.
Ma, don't!
Come here, son.
Shit.
Pa, stop it!
Cornelio!
Joaquin!
- Joaquin!
- Don't hurt my Pa!
Come here.
Ma, stop fighting!
[sobbing]
No... You're going to shoot him.
Cornelio.
[sobbing] Let's stop this,
for our son's sake.
Cornelio.
[sobbing]
Cornelio.
[gunshots]
[gunshot]
[gunshot]
Pa!
Pa!
Pa, don't leave me.
Pa.
Pa.
I hate you!
I hate you. You killed my father!
I hate you!
I hate you.
[sobbing]
[sobbing]
[sobbing]
Pa.
Pa!
Don't leave me.
Pa!
Pa.
Pa.
Leandro.
Leandro.
I joined the movement and became a spy.
I joined the fight against
tyranny, injustice, oppression.
Leandro taught me
that loving oneself is no different from
loving your country and your people.
It is the one lesson that I hope
to impart to my son one day.
"Laging Natutusok"
Performed by: Yen Durano
Thanks, Tinay.
Eat up, son. I need you to help me.
Yes, Ma.
Joaquin.
Pa!
Is the kite for me?
I got it from Igme.
Shall we let it fly?
Yes, Pa.
- Run!
- I want to let go of more string, Pa.
I want it to touch the clouds!
Only an angel can do that son!
- Come on, Pa.
- Okay, run!
I hope we catch a big one.
Pa, can you make me a new slingshot?
I'll use a guava tree branch
to make you a sturdy one. I got you, son.
Eat right and drink carabao milk
every morning to make you stronger.
What do I always tell you?
A real man...
A real man is brave and strong.
Good boy.
Ebony wood is stronger, Pa.
Then ebony it is.
The most important thing is
to be a good person, Joaquin.
Weak, or strong,
man, or woman.
Cornelio!
Dolfo.
You sold the only land you inherited.
After you spend it all,
what will you sell next? This house?
Cornelio, look at me!
That's all you're good for. Drink. Women.
And when you're loaded,
gambling like there's no tomorrow.
You'd bet everything on a
cockfight, or a boxing match.
But since you're such
a loser, you never win.
Shut it, Tinay!
Why should I?
Does it hurt your ears
when you hear the truth?
You're not just a loser, Cornelio.
You're a coward!
You never face your problems.
You hide behind your parents' money
and now none of it's left, thanks to you.
Don't talk to your son about being brave
and strong when you're anything but.
I said, shut up!
You're the useless one around here,
you uneducated piece of trash!
Your tiny parcel of land with
17 mango trees? Worthless!
You got some nerve mouthing off, Celestina.
You were just a singer in a small bar.
I got you out of there,
and gave you some dignity.
I'm sorry.
I was wrong.
It's your duty to satisfy me.
Here.
It's great, Pa. Thank you.
Not only that. Here.
Let's shoot it out, Pa.
Next time, okay? My back hurts.
Let me see. Bang!
I'll catch you, Pa.
Pa.
Bang!
Pa!
Pa, we're just playing!
Wake up, Pa.
You scared me.
Go run.
I really got scared.
[music playing]
Good morning, sir.
[music playing]
Wait here.
[music playing]
Ma, I don't want to go.
Come on.
I don't want to leave Pa.
Trust me, Joaquin.
Ma, when are we going home?
Not soon.
But what about Pa?
We left him all alone.
It's not right.
Stop crying.
You need to be brave, Joaquin.
Because I'm a boy?
No. No, son.
Because we're about
to start a new life.
We'll face a lot of hardship.
But don't worry.
We'll get through this.
But I need you to be brave.
So I can be braver.
But why did we leave him?
Isn't that wrong?
Joaquin...
We need to do this.
That's newly harvested.
Let's cook it later.
We get one each?
Thank you.
Let's go, son.
Ma'am, is there a job
I can do around here?
Sorry dear, there's nothing.
Thanks anyway.
Ma'am can you help me
get a job? I'll do anything.
I have nothing either, sorry.
Thank you.
Let's go, son.
Buy some?
Can you tell me where I can find a job?
- Try there.
- Thank you.
Let's go.
Fix that.
My name's Ernesto.
You can call me Master Impressario.
Yes, Master Impressario.
You dance?
No, but I can sing.
I need dancers.
What kind of dance?
Burlesque. You know it?
Master Impressario,
I need a job. Any job...
We're full.
Go to the market.
You can sell fish, or something.
I'm begging you.
You're bugging me.
Come back when you're
ready to do burlesque.
Hey Fredo. Don't mess that up!
Get your act together.
This is just comedy.
Let's go, son.
You'll get through this.
What's your name?
Joaquin, ma'am.
Who made your mother cry?
He did.
Shall we get back at him?
Yes, ma'am.
Some things scare you only
because you haven't tried them yet.
I used to be a dancer.
Not anymore?
I have a lover. He's Japanese.
He doesn't like me dancing in public
so I'm doing vaudeville instead.
I need to work. Tomorrow
we'll be completely broke.
Dance.
It's a tough pill to swallow,
but only at first.
Once you start earning
from it, it gets easier.
I'm Rosalinda, by the way.
I'm Tinay.
Don't let Estong intimidate you.
He's all bark,
but deep inside, he's a softie.
Come.
Estong!
Hey Rosalinda!
It's "Master Impressario."
Estong sounds more
natural, no pretensions.
She's ready to dance.
Is that so?
Listen.
Dancing burlesque is
all the rage in Europe.
It's dance as an art form because
it comes from the heart. It has soul.
Dance as if your body were possessed
by the percussion section of an orchestra.
Your body is one with every beat
of every one of those drums.
The sway in your hips shows it.
Rosalinda, it looks like Estong has
found your replacement. She's pretty.
Something tells me she has it in her.
And with no clothes on,
it'll show even better.
But it doesn't end with your hips,
nor with the jiggling of your bosom.
The body must listen
to what's in your heart.
Are you starting to feel it?
Is your heart filling up with joy?
Once you can answer yes to
these questions, you're ready.
Don't forget the eyes, they talk.
Look at your audience.
Really see them. When
they stare back at you,
you have them in the palm of your hand.
They have fallen in love with your dancing.
What's your name?
Celestina.
They call me Tinay.
Celestina... Burlesque Dancer.
The sound of it sparkles!
Let's see you dance.
Show us.
Go on.
Close your eyes.
[music playing]
That's it. Remember the
percussion section! Feel it.
There, that's it.
Oh, the chest.
That's it.
A little more tenderness.
More hip.
More. Loosen up some more.
There, keep going!
[music playing]
Good. Good!
Come back later. We'll rehearse. You're in.
She's a dancer, Estong, not a whore.
I know. Geez, Rosalinda.
You can look now.
You can start tonight.
She needs cash upfront.
You're the most generous person I know.
It's for her child.
Rosalinda, I know. You know I do.
Okay.
Oh, and no men
for now, understood?
Don't be like Rosalinda
who left burlesque for her Japanese man.
It's called love.
Love?
I know how to sing.
Sure, let's rehearse your piece.
That's extra pay, Estong.
Of course, my dear Rosalinda. Now go.
Let's go.
What are you all lounging about for?
Ladies and gentlemen!
Don't you have any hands?
Good evening.
[music playing]
Hold this.
And this goes with that. Look, nice right?
[music playing]
It's not too much?
Not at all. You look great.
[music playing]
Friends, Long Live Theatre is proud to
present our newest burlesque dancer.
She will set your
hearts on fire. Celestina!
[cheering, background chattering]
Shes flawless!
[music playing]
So easy on the eyes.
[cheering, background chattering]
[music playing]
Shes a seductress.
She's good.
[music playing]
What an ass!
[cheering, background chattering]
Go shake em!
Sonofagun! What a dish!
Bury me in your Melons, Celestina!
[cheering, background chattering]
[music playing]
[cheering, background chattering]
Ma.
Son.
Thank you.
Your son is easy to take
care ofsweet and obedient.
Thank you.
What did you do all day?
I played and I picked guavas from the tree.
The sweetest I've ever had!
Can we visit Pa even once?
Listen to me, son.
We're not going back to your father.
He was not a good husband, or father.
You always tell me to be kind.
Why are you being so unkind to my Pa?
I'm doing all of this for you.
Someday you will understand.
Master Impressario, allow me to be blunt.
I'm starting this new life with my son.
Burlesque has become our lifeline.
I expect to be paid on time.
And if my dancing helps
to fill up more seats,
I hope you'll reward me
with an increase in my salary.
Singing and dancing are all I know.
I'm willing to show a little more skin
to tease them some more,
but I'll never go nude. I have a son.
You know what I mean.
In return, I will put all my heart
and soul every time I dance.
You were right. I feel
the rhythm inside of me.
When I let go, it's as if I was possessed.
Fine.
You will be paid on time.
For dancing as well as for singing.
You have nothing to worry about.
Call me Estong. I'm your friend.
Thank you, Estong.
Burlesque is an art.
It expresses emotion better
than the tango or the pasodoble,
and the people love it.
Farmers and fishermen don't crave to watch
the tango after a hard day's work, do they?
But burlesque? They'll pay to watch it.
It's a thrill like no other.
Burlesque is for the masses.
This theater apes the
style of America and Europe.
Therefore your country is doomed.
This will never happen in Japan.
Melchor!
- For you.
- Thank you.
Thank you, Haruto-san.
You are a kind Japanese man.
Here.
- For me?
- Yes.
Than you, Haruto-san.
Rosalinda, no dancing. Understand.
Yes of course, yes.
Don't follow in Rosalinda's footsteps.
She was a great burlesque dancer,
but she threw it all away for
someone not of our own blood.
What a waste.
I never knew love until I met you.
I don't know how or why I fell.
But my heart knows
that I need you and I want to be with you
for the rest of my life.
I love you, Celestina. I wish to marry you.
I promise you a good life.
You will be my Queen.
I will never hurt you
nor let others hurt you.
Do you feel the same?
I do. And I am ready to be your wife.
For life.
I love you, Haruto.
Don't ever leave me.
I love the taste of you, Haruto.
Tinay.
Tinay!
Merry Christmas Tinay!
- Are you drunk?
- I am. I got Joaquin a gift.
Joaquin!
Big Sis.
Merry Christmas, Joaquin!
- This is for you.
- Thank you.
I love it! Thank you.
- Do you like it?
- Yes.
You didn't have to get him
something so expensive.
Let him be happy. Let pain
and misery be our lot, not his.
- Go to your room, son.
- Go check them, okay?
Yes, Ma.
[dog barks]
Is it Haruto?
He's gone back to Japan.
He promised to bring me with him.
He said that wasn't possible.
I asked him not to go.
Also impossible.
I asked him what could be done.
He had no answer.
He had no answer.
He gave me a bunch of cash.
I threw it back at him.
I told him it wasn't
money I needed, but him.
That's when he told the truth.
He has a wife.
He lied to me.
And then he said I had no
right to complain because
I was paid for every
minute of our time together.
That son of a bitch!
I didn't ask to be paid Tinay. I love him!
I am not a whore, Tinay.
I love that son of a bitch.
Tinay, I loved him.
[sobbing]
I loved him, Tinay. I'm not a bitch.
Shit.
[sobbing]
Don't worry, we'll find a way.
We still have a small
parcel of land we can sell.
Thank you.
Masaru-san.
I see that you're very happy.
I'm happy that you're happy.
It's a small celebration but...
- Congratulations.
- Please come in.
I'm very lucky.
Your cousin is my new wife.
Marcela and I are close.
We will put up a business together, okay?
Thank you, Masaru-san.
[cheering, background chattering]
[music playing, background chattering]
Tinay.
Who's it from?
They didn't say.
Thank you.
[background chattering]
[background chattering]
[cheering, background chattering]
[music playing, background chattering]
I'm Leandro.
- I'm...
- Tinay. I know.
What else do you know?
You're separated from your husband.
You have one kid.
So you're a detective.
Only when I'm smitten.
Which happens often, it seems.
- Who's he?
- Never. Only now.
You have a gilded tongue.
Again, only now.
Let's go, where have you been?
Okay, let's go.
Pay your respects to Mother Ingga.
Bless me, grandma.
God bless you Joaquin.
I'm sorry, ma'am.
The neighbors who looked
after Joaquin have moved.
Mom loves children,
especially when you pay her.
Stop it, Rosalinda. She might believe you.
I take it back. Just some of the time.
You're embarrassing me.
I think that Joaquin and
I will get along. Right?
Tinay, your son is quite a looker.
He'll break many hearts
when the time comes.
Right Joaquin?
I look like my Pa.
Makes sense.
Your mom would not have fallen
for someone less handsome than you.
Not anymore.
- What?
- She hates him now.
Don't say that, Joaquin.
But it's not a lie.
Even so. Some things
are better left unsaid.
- Have you taken a bath Joaquin?
- Not yet, ma'am.
I knew it.
- You should always keep fresh.
- I brought clean clothes.
Oh, you have them?
Here, ma'am.
Stay here while I give him a bath.
Mother Ingga, where's your husband?
He died a long time ago.
How?
A heart attack.
Just like his father.
He vanished into thin air
but left you some money.
As if I was a whore.
Would you rather he left no money at all?
He could've talked to me before leaving.
He probably didn't want
to disturb your sleep.
Besides, he knew you needed the money.
No. He insulted me.
You're angry because
you hate that he left
and you're afraid you'll
never see him again.
Canned goods. Help yourself.
Help yourself.
Don't forget, Masaru-san.
Go on, help yourselves.
There's rice, canned goods, breads.
Your long wait has paid off.
In these times, this is heaven-sent.
The truth has been spoken.
Mother Ingga, can you convince my Ma
to take me to visit my Pa?
I can talk to her but that doesn't mean
you'll get your wish.
Just try please.
Do you love your Ma?
I do.
But I keep thinking about Pa.
Never lose faith in your Ma.
Everything she does, she does for you.
She loves you more than anything.
You live here?
Uhm... no.
Where do you live?
What do you do?
Are you a businessman?
You seem to know more about who I am.
Fine,
what do you want to know?
Only what you're comfortable revealing.
I'm single.
I don't have kids.
I'm an orphan.
I love my country.
Do you love me too?
What do you think?
I am no whore. When I love,
I do so with all my heart.
I will never sleep with
someone I do not love.
Dignity matters to me.
At the same time I value
being able to live in peace.
If you look down on burlesque
and only want to use me,
leave now.
If you're a criminal
or any kind of outlaw,
be honest with me.
Before I fall for you.
I apologize if I offended you
by leaving you some money.
I just wanted to help.
I guess I wanted you to quit burlesque.
Seeing men ogle you while you danced may
have been too much for my male ego to take.
This is my body and only I
can decide what I do with it.
Learn to respect my decision
just as I respect yours.
I'm not a businessman.
I'm part of the movement
against the Japanese.
Trust me.
I love you.
I will never put you in harm's way.
I know you.
You're Celestina, the burlesque dancer.
Dance for me. Come on,
take off those clothes. I'll pay.
What's wrong with you?
- I'm sorry.
- I dare you to approach me!
Rosalinda. You're drinking again?
Joaquin is asleep.
Spend the night.
Have a drink with me.
That's enough, Rosalinda.
Enough.
[sobbing]
It'll be okay.
It'll be okay.
Haruto's not coming back.
I begged him.
You know what his reply was?
That his wife is pregnant.
[sobbing]
He told me to stop hoping.
That asshole!
I believed all his dreams for me.
And all his promises.
I gave up dancing for him.
Rosalinda.
You have to accept that it's over.
You cannot force these things.
No.
No.
No...
He still cares about me. I can tell.
War is coming, that's all
people talk about these days.
They say Manila will be bombed first
and it will spread across Luzon.
Haruto still loves me.
He wants me to take care...
I hope war breaks out soon.
Haruto will come and rescue me.
I want Haruto back.
Rosalinda.
Enough of this crazy talk.
Men have a way of sniffing
out women they can fool easily.
Wake up and wise up.
Women in your line of work attract
the most unreliable of men.
So stop this nonsense.
Tinay,
you and Joaquin should spend
the night here. Go sleep next to him.
Thanks, ma'am.
Joaquin longs for his father, you know.
It's none of my business, I know.
But please consider your son's feelings.
- Ma!
- Enough.
[sobbing]
Should we buy it?
Yes, Ma. We need it.
- How much?
- We may need two of those, Ma.
Be still, they are beasts.
I'm honored to meet you, Tinay.
My name is Graciano, they call me Nano.
Good to see you've arrived safely, Leandro.
I'm Tasyo, Tinay. Thank you
for accepting our invitation.
Don Miguel has intimidated
all the farmers
and now owns all the land
here except for my farm.
I stood my ground.
My land may be small, but I
inherited it from my ancestors.
They burned down my house
and tried to hunt my family down.
We had no choice but to flee.
My family is too scared to go back.
Son of a bitch those land grabbers.
They not only took my land.
They raped my granddaughter.
My son thought they'd leave my
grandchild alone once he gave up the land.
Instead, they shot him.
We fled into the forest.
My grandchild lost her mind.
All this broke her.
The landlords have
taken everything from us.
And now they are friends with the Japanese.
Soon it will be the Japanese who will
take whatever we have left.
That's why we came to you, Tinay.
We need your help.
I don't have any means of helping you.
You do. Be our spy.
The landlords and the Japanese make up a
good part of your audience. Befriend them.
The tongues of smitten men tend to slip.
I can't do what you ask.
Please consider it.
I am not a warrior.
I will not be of any use to you.
You will not fight.
Only talk. And above all, listen.
That won't be enough.
I will have to seduce them to
get the information you need.
Basic info, maybe,
but only at first. Your needs will grow.
You will then ask me to
get even closer to them
and so on until there's no way out for me.
I will put my son's life in danger.
I will never put you or
your son in harm's way.
If that were true, you'd never
have brought me to that meeting.
Tinay.
We have a duty to our country.
My duty is to my son.
I choose a peaceful life for us.
There will be no peace
until there is justice.
You know this.
Do you love me?
I love you.
But you love our country more.
They do not cancel each other out.
They do, if my son's safety
and future are at stake.
Let's face it.
Our values and priorities do not match.
You and I are on different battlefields.
What's taking it so long?
[men chattering]
What time will they open?
[men chattering]
What's going on, why is the queue so long?
[background chattering]
Oh, you people!
Good morning, Melchor!
Good morning, Rosalinda.
[singing, background chattering]
Hey, you dance well! Do it
onstage if you want applause.
The audience aren't here for dick.
Ah...
I bet you got a small one.
It's damn big.
I'm bigger!
You're really good.
Dance has been my life since I was a kid.
The percussion section is
alive and well inside of you.
Not just that section.
The entire orchestra!
By the way.
Tinay, I thought of a gimmick for
the company's coming anniversary.
You and Rosalinda, one on one.
Burlesque versus burlesque!
- Rosalinda's quit dancing.
- I'll talk to her.
I don't think it's a good idea.
I'll double the pay.
I wish you wouldn't pressure her.
There's no pressure, Estong.
I'll do it. I'll do burlesque again!
Great.
The showdown is on.
Will the former queen reclaim her throne?
Or will the reigning queen eat her alive?
Estong, please get Rosalinda
some coffee to sober her up.
Your wish is my command, your highness.
You're drunk again.
I need to drink to drown my desolation.
You need to be strong, Rosalinda.
I only need to love, Tinay. Love!
You don't have to dance
if you don't want to.
I will dance.
Presenting... the country's
newest dancing sensation!
No man can ever be
indifferent to such splendor.
That's enough.
Friends,
- Enough.
- It's okay.
Brace yourselves for the effervescent...
Celestina!
[cheering, music playing]
Celestina, youre mine!
Let me have you every night!
[cheering, music playing]
Enough, Rosalinda.
What the hell? You're drunk?
Yes.
[cheering, music playing]
And now,
the comeback you've all been waiting for!
Welcome back to the stage
the one of a kind beauty of...
Rosalinda!
Why the delay?
We paid for a show.
Can you do it?
Yes, I can!
[background chattering]
[background chattering, music playing]
[cheering, music playing]
Shes still pretty!
And still hot!
[cheering, music playing]
Shes drunk!
Get off the stage!
[cheering, music playing]
We want Celestina!
[cheering, music playing]
You all want to see?
This is what you all want, right?
And this,
and this! Assholes!
You're all traitors! Your love is shit!
You're all sons of bitches! Traitors!
Good-for-nothing traitors, all of you!
Melchor, the microphone!
After everything I did
for you ungrateful traitors!
[background chattering]
When I fall in love I smolder, drift,
lose my way I see the thorns
but I still get pricked anyway
Ouch!
Better safe than sorry
keep this heart locked up
And throw away the key
Keep this careless heart shut
It beats for trouble and danger
A shortage of men theres not
Each one an unworthy lover
Hell woo you, lay down
the stars at your feet
Sweet tongue too
Poisoned at the tip, youre it!
And as soon as you fall he disappears
You curl into a ball
Oh but when you love you smolder,
Enough of the singing! Strip!
Celestina, just dance!
Watch out for the thorns
Still get pricked anyway
No use watching
out, still getting pricked
Always getting pricked
Ouch!
[cheering, background chattering]
We don't want you to sing!
Just dance and shake your ass!
[background chattering]
Dance naked!
[background chattering]
[cheering, music playing]
Yes, take it off!
[cheering, music playing]
This is heaven!
That's my wife.
All of it! Show us everything!
You're flawless!
[cheering, music playing]
[background chattering]
Tinay.
Thank you.
Is it really that easy for
you to forget everything?
My parents were farmers.
They were killed by the landlord
who took our land from us.
I know what your comrades
are going through, I lived it.
I've moved on.
And I refuse to be a victim all over again.
As long as there are oppressors,
there will be victims. Remember that.
War is almost here.
And we are Filipinos.
I know.
You have a long way to travel. Take care.
Thank you.
Until we meet again.
Tinay!
How have you been?
I have long dreamed of this moment.
I still remember our last argument.
Don't be afraid of me, Tinay.
I came here to fix things.
I've changed.
And I'm prospering.
A Japanese befriended me
and became my business partner.
You never have to slave away
at your small plot of mango trees.
You can stay home and
take care of me and my son.
Come back to me, Tinay.
Leave this lover of yours.
Before Joaquin is exposed to more danger.
I'm ready to forget
about your illicit affair.
Think about our child's future.
I've moved on.
Tinay.
Forgive me.
I will never hurt you again. I've changed.
No, you haven't.
You just allied with someone with money.
You're no better than a parasite.
I will have you arrested for adultery,
if you don't come with me.
Power comes with money. You'll rot
in jail unless you change your mind.
Bullshit. You'll never be tough enough.
I didn't mean to, I forgot myself.
You're a monster, Cornelio!
Tinay?
They're not there. They
rushed Rosalinda to the clinic.
What? Where's my son?
Don't worry. He's sleeping inside.
Ingga asked me to look after him.
I just went to get food.
Heart condition.
Same as his father.
She needs surgery, or else...
Let's just accept it, Ma. I have.
Stop it, Rosalinda.
You are my child,
and I am your mother.
You are supposed to bury me,
not the other way around. I've buried too
many loved ones. It's all too much for me.
You will fight this.
I'll help.
All we need is money.
We'll find a way.
Thank you, Tinay.
Tell your friend not to
lose hope, or I'll smack her.
Get it together,
or else, I'll beat you to joining
your father wherever he is.
Tinay,
can you stay with her?
I need to use the restroom.
Yes, ma'am.
There's no reason left to fight.
My love has gone. And with him, my dignity.
My dreams.
We are strong women, Rosalinda.
Stop trying to make me cry
out of pity for you.
We are made of much
sterner stuff, you and I.
Rosalinda.
How old were you when
you first fancied a man?
Twelve.
How long did it take
for him to court you?
He didn't court me.
He was too shy.
One day I asked him if
he had ever kissed anyone.
He said he hadn't.
I kissed him.
On the cheek?
On the lips.
Hard. Long.
I sucked that tongue dry!
What did he do?
Nothing, he was stunned.
Then I went for his dick.
I put my hand inside his pants.
I got it hard. It was huge.
Was he your first lover?
We didn't become lovers.
I didn't want him after that.
Help me, Tinay. Help me.
I'm here for you, Rosalinda.
I'm here for you.
Ma, can I tell you something?
I dreamt of Pa last night.
We were flying a kite. It was big, Ma!
And spiffy! It was flying
so high the string ran out and broke
and that's when
the kite flew away.
Pa ran after it, looked for it, but it
was so far away and he never found it.
Go to sleep, son.
Let's settle it right here if you like.
Are you sure you want to
meet the tip of my sharp dagger?
I wasn't a good husband,
but I've always been a good father.
Please give this to Joaquin.
Tell him it's made of kamagong wood.
We're minding our business here
and they come just barging in.
What happened?
They just announced the
new regulations. New taxes.
New prohibitions.
From the municipality?
No.
Dictated by the Japanese, I'm sure.
What more when the fighting starts?
They'll have us by the neck.
For your protection.
I have a dagger.
You'll need this. Especially
now that your husband's back.
Ingga's not in, Tinay.
She's at the hospital.
Did they leave Joaquin with you?
No. Ingga left him with the
man you were arguing with.
Are you sure?
Positive. There was a
Japanese officer with him.
Did you really give my son to Cornelio?
You did that?
Don't make a scene.
My daughter is resting. Come.
Her surgery was successful.
My Rosalinda is safe.
Forgive me.
How dare you give away my child.
He's the father.
How wrong could that be, Tinay?
I entrusted him to you.
You don't know what Cornelio is like.
You don't know the
danger you've put my son in.
You gave him up for money.
You sold him. How could you do this to us?
I wish I had forever to wait
for the money that would save Rosalinda.
But I know all our effort
will never be enough.
Then Cornelio came.
He offered the money we needed.
I'm a mother, too.
It's second nature for me
to choose my child.
But now that Rosalinda is safe,
tell me what I can do
for you to forgive me.
I can go to Cornelio myself.
Please forgive her.
It was too late when I found out.
I wasn't able to stop her.
She only did it for me.
You are my friend, Rosalinda.
My mind understands but
my heart just can't accept it.
What does it take to survive?
What does it cost to be
decent people with compassion?
Wartime or not, what
do we choose to fight for?
Our own well-being?
Other people's? Love of country?
Must the salvation of one
always mean the ruin of another?
Come in.
Please.
Tinay.
Captain Masaru, I want you to meet my wife.
You have a pretty wife.
She is a good dancer.
Pay your respects.
I'm begging you, Cornelio.
Give me back my son.
You're forgetting something.
Joaquin is my son too.
What do you want me to do?
Come back.
Let's be a family again.
I do not love you anymore.
You're too proud.
I can give him back to you.
Thank you.
Let me finish.
We'll share him.
Four days with you, three with me.
I could leave him with
you when I go to Japan.
Or I can bring him with me to Japan.
I can also have you imprisoned.
You'll never see him again.
Please, don't...
Then help me make the right decision.
What do you want me to do?
My Japanese associates and I,
together with some business partners,
are holding a get-together.
Entertain them.
Dance for them.
Better than you've ever danced before.
With nothing on.
Do that and you get your son back.
Will you do it?
[sobbing]
[sobbing]
[sobbing]
[sobbing]
[music playing]
I want to touch her huge breasts!
Lets share.
[cheering, music playing]
Hey! Take it off.
Take it off!
Take it off!
He said, take it off!
[cheering, music playing]
Fresh melons!
[cheering, music playing]
Dance.
[cheering, music playing]
Down.
- Down!
- He said, take it off!
Take it off!
You. You.
[cheering, music playing]
No, no. No.
No, no. No!
[cheering, music playing]
[sobbing]
[sobbing]
[cheering]
[sobbing]
Cornelio!
Where do I pick up my son?
I changed my mind.
You're not getting him back.
But we had a deal.
I don't remember signing anything.
Next time, don't trust too easily.
Traitor! Animal!
- Stop it!
- No, no. Stop it!
The important thing is to win,
especially in a time of war.
Damn all of you demons!
You betrayed your own country.
Give me back my son!
Damn all of you!
[sobbing]
Someone told me that Cornelio will leave
with Joaquin tomorrow. For good.
They'll be at the bus station.
Whatever you plan to do, take great care.
Cornelio!
I'd rather die than allow you
to take my son from me.
Ma, don't!
Come here, son.
Shit.
Pa, stop it!
Cornelio!
Joaquin!
- Joaquin!
- Don't hurt my Pa!
Come here.
Ma, stop fighting!
[sobbing]
No... You're going to shoot him.
Cornelio.
[sobbing] Let's stop this,
for our son's sake.
Cornelio.
[sobbing]
Cornelio.
[gunshots]
[gunshot]
[gunshot]
Pa!
Pa!
Pa, don't leave me.
Pa.
Pa.
I hate you!
I hate you. You killed my father!
I hate you!
I hate you.
[sobbing]
[sobbing]
[sobbing]
Pa.
Pa!
Don't leave me.
Pa!
Pa.
Pa.
Leandro.
Leandro.
I joined the movement and became a spy.
I joined the fight against
tyranny, injustice, oppression.
Leandro taught me
that loving oneself is no different from
loving your country and your people.
It is the one lesson that I hope
to impart to my son one day.
"Laging Natutusok"
Performed by: Yen Durano