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Independent Lens: Imelda (2003)
Season 6, Episode 22
10/10
Delusional...
21 June 2004
First, this was an excellent documentary. I knew absolutely nothing about Pilipino history ( yes, ignorant American that I am) and walked away interested in learning more. You are presented with a brief history though, with unanswered questions, which helps you focus more on the subject, Imelda. Second, Imelda Marcos is absolutely nuts. Call it schizophrenia, delusional disorder or narcissistic personality. She embodies all three. Not only did she not apologize for being guilty of excessive greed and sloth, she had no clue why she was being accused of these. The writer did a good job of highlighting the crimes the Marcos family has committed over several decades and showed the current influence Imelda holds over contemporary Philipino culture. For a brief past/present glimpse of the Marcos family and their crimes against humanity and extortion, this documentary shows concrete examples. And you get a glimpse firsthand of just how delusional and completely clueless Imelda Marcos is. While her country starves, she accumulates jewelry. Though she is not different than other leaders of 3rd world countries, it shows the American hand in creating the monster that is her ultimate excessive greed, which she refers to as surrounding herself with "beauty". I laughed throughout the entire film at the endless contradictions. Overall, well done and unbiased.
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Iris (I) (2001)
10/10
Beautiful, Poetic, Honest
23 August 2002
This film is a constant reminder of our mortality. The mind fades but we recall the most cherished memories. I remember my grandmother, as she was in her final stages of Alzheimer's, clearly looking into my eyes and her expression changed. She remembered I was important to her.

This film captured the radiance and vibrancy of Iris' spirit and the deep, simple love and passion between two kindred souls. I can only dream to find this love of my own. I sobbed from beginning to end for many reasons i.e. sorrow, the true beauty of love, the importance of the senses, thinking, feeling and acting on our own desires...This is a reminder of what exactly film is which is TRUE art. All three main characters' acting was simply amazing and truly believable. However, heed my advice, you must be in the right mind frame. This is not a light hearted piece.
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