The Debut (2001) is the first Filipino-American film to be released in theaters nationwide. It serves as an example of contemporary life for second generation Filipinos, with themes pertaining to identity, acculturation, and family. This movie is especially catered to Filipino Americans because of the story line. It is the typical question that all Filipino Americans must answer: with whom do I identify? For most, a lack of exposure may lead to disinterest in one's cultural heritage. Vernacularly speaking, Ben's character would be called “white-washed,” meaning that he has assimilated to America so well that he is devoid of any customs, knowledge, or even curiosity about the Philippines or Filipino life. Ben also criticizes others for having an accent, even though they have lived for years in the United States.
In some ways, it is not Ben's fault. Although there are many Filipinos in America, their influence at the time was weak, in regards to public appearance either in politics or popular culture. The history of the Philippines is also limited in schools. Because the American colonization was a gruesome one, it tends to be skimmed, just listing figures like General MacArthur, who saved the Philippines from the Japanese occupation. It does not delve into the Battle of Manila, the creation of concentration camps, or events such as the World's Fair. This re-education of the Filipinos began shortly after their colonization. There is a common saying that the winners get to write history. In this case, it is partly true because the Filipino school systems were under the control of the Americans. Educators would glaze over the bloody history, and focus on the United States as saviors. So where is one to learn about the Philippine's true history? Unless enrolled in a Filipino/American Experience class, or through personal endeavors, one is forced to seek it from friends and family. For example, parents can tell stories about their past, and friends can collect a group and attend a Pilipino Culture Night. Otherwise, that person is at a loss. A culture should be immersing; if areas lack anything remotely Filipino, interest isn't even generated. The Debut was groundbreaking because it was the first Filipino American film to really gain attention in the United States. It's modern twist helps relate it to the current generation, which in turn helps them identify with it. Old history films sharing, say, information about the World's Fair, seem like so long ago that it hardly seems identifiable. This also goes for current Filipino soap operas who may have less of an impact due to its ridiculous story plots.“It wouldn't be pair.” (In a filipino accent, f's sound like p's.
He's saying “fair.”)
“What?”
“I said it wouldn't be pair to jump in.”
“Man, what does fruit got to do with this? I can't believe I'm related to you. You've been here two years and it still looks like you went through customs yesterday.”
Because of acculturation, history becomes more diluted with every generation. It's important to reinstate the value of culture, and to target those who will be able to pass it on to their children. This movie is specifically for Filipino-Americans because it tells their story in hopes of reaching out to those torn between the two cultures. It emphasizes the importance of family, culture, and tradition – things Filipinos are proud of. Ben learned that he should never be ashamed of where he comes from. The Debut teaches audiences to celebrate the Filipino American experience, because in the end, it is a part of who they are. Plot synopsis:
Ben is a talented high-school senior who dreams of going to an art school after graduation. However, his strict father wants him to become a doctor and accept a scholarship to medical school instead. His demand is fueled by good intentions – as an immigrant coming to America, he only wishes the best for his son, and wants him to have a stable career with a high paying job. He doesn't wish to hear of Ben's dreams, and this conflict of interests leads to many arguments between them. There is also a cultural difference: whereas the rest of the family still adheres to Filipino customs and traditions, Ben has rejected his Philippine heritage. Everything begins to pique as his sister's 18th birthday is arriving, and they are preparing for
her debut. A debut is a woman's coming-of-age party, in which she is officially presented to society. There is also a court in which the young men and woman dance. Ben would rather hang out with his Caucasian friends than attend, but he is finally pressured to go. It is at her debut that he finally confronts all his problems. Things begin to change as events unfold and he forced to question himself, the choices he has made, and the way in which he sees the world. He begins talking to his sister's best friend Annabelle, who gives him a listening ear. Unfortunately, her ex-boyfriend appears, and he begins a fight. He calls Ben names like “white boy” and “coconut,” meaning that he is brown on the outside but white on the inside. In the end, the culture clashes make him realize that his Filipino heritage is important, and he resolves things between him and his father.
Awards
2000 Audience Award for Best Feature Film – Hawaii International Film Festival
International Film Festival 2000 Best Feature Film – San Diego Asian Film Festival
Ben is a talented high-school senior who dreams of going to an art school after graduation. However, his strict father wants him to become a doctor and accept a scholarship to medical school instead. His demand is fueled by good intentions – as an immigrant coming to America, he only wishes the best for his son, and wants him to have a stable career with a high paying job. He doesn't wish to hear of Ben's dreams, and this conflict of interests leads to many arguments between them. There is also a cultural difference: whereas the rest of the family still adheres to Filipino customs and traditions, Ben has rejected his Philippine heritage. Everything begins to pique as his sister's 18th birthday is arriving, and they are preparing for
her debut. A debut is a woman's coming-of-age party, in which she is officially presented to society. There is also a court in which the young men and woman dance. Ben would rather hang out with his Caucasian friends than attend, but he is finally pressured to go. It is at her debut that he finally confronts all his problems. Things begin to change as events unfold and he forced to question himself, the choices he has made, and the way in which he sees the world. He begins talking to his sister's best friend Annabelle, who gives him a listening ear. Unfortunately, her ex-boyfriend appears, and he begins a fight. He calls Ben names like “white boy” and “coconut,” meaning that he is brown on the outside but white on the inside. In the end, the culture clashes make him realize that his Filipino heritage is important, and he resolves things between him and his father.
Awards2000 Audience Award for Best Feature Film – Hawaii International Film Festival
International Film Festival 2000 Best Feature Film – San Diego Asian Film Festival
All pictures: (Photo courtesy of debutfilm.pinoynet.com)
Post by: A.C.B
