Setting in films acts as an extension of the artist’s character, helping to convey his, or her, emotional state and inner thoughts. It gives an extra taste of what the movie wants to accentuate.
For the past years, Ilocos Norte has been introduced as a film maker’s destination. The province’s spine-tingling views and historical landmarks have been taken into the big screens. The latest of which is a Regal Entertainment film called “Seasons”, starring Lovie Poe and Carlo Aquino.
Written by Dwein Baltazar and with Easy Ferrer’s direction, the upcoming film sets ground in Ilocos Norte. Highlighting picturesque local locations, the production team were spotted at Bacarra National Comprehensive High School and oddly, in a waiting shed near barangay #15 San Roque in said town.
They were also seen at Robinsons Place-Ilocos, in San Nicolas, Ilocos Urban wave resort in Laoag, and in Sentinella Hill in Bangui, enjoying the commanding view of the 9-kilometer Bangui coastline that is famous for its windmill turbines, and panoramic view of the hills and coastline of neighboring town of Burgos and Pagudpud. It is probably more accurate to say the place is perfectly suitable as the movie setting.
Undeniably, Ilokanos expressed excitement and pride, for having the opportunity for their town to be chosen as a shooting location for the said film.
In addition, Ilocos Norte proved anew that the province is more than just a tourist destination and a prominent movie backdrop. Homegrown artists like University Athletic Association of the Philippines courtside reporter Mariz Domingo and blogger Andrea Dawn Peralta, both beauty queens of the province, will star in the film. Ilocos Next Top Model Title holder Rob Imperial, Ilocos Norte youth leader Michael Christophe and several gems of the province will also be featured.
Films have long become a great way of marketing travel destinations. From tourist spots, food to culture and heritage, films urge people to get on their feet and wander around great places. This satisfies the unceasing goal of the province to become an ultimate film setting.
Essentially, the locale should be a topnotch in a movie. Choosing settings is just as important as choosing the characters.
