A Review of the Movie, Emilia Perez

I watch the Emilia Perez movie at our Cinema last Saturday. I suggested this move to Eric, Our THD movie Coordinator. I enjoyed the movie very much. Although, the ending was tragic, the music and the story line is compelling and current. It won the Golden Globe Award and I feel it would be also nominated for the Oscar. I have a feeling it will also win the Oscar. Oscar Nominations will be announced Thursday. Watch and see if my guess is right!

Emilia Pérez (Latin American Spanish: [eˈmilja ˈpeɾes]) is a 2024 French Spanish-language musical crime comedy film written and directed by Jacques Audiard. The French production is based on Audiard's opera libretto of the same name, which was in turn loosely adapted from Boris Razon's 2018 novel Écoute. The film stars Zoe Saldaña, Karla Sofía Gascón, Selena Gomez, Adriana Paz, Mark Ivanir, and Édgar Ramírez.

The film follows a Mexican cartel leader (Gascón) who enlists a lawyer (Saldaña) to help the leader disappear by transitioning into a woman. Its original songs were written by Camille, while its original score was provided by Clément Ducol. Filming took place from May to July 2023 in Île-de-France. The choreographic sections of the film are designed by Damien Jalet.

The film had its world premiere on 18 May 2024 at the main competition of the 77th Cannes Film Festival, where it competed for the Palme d'Or, winning the Jury Prize and the Best Actress award for its female ensemble. It was theatrically released by Pathé in France on 21 August 2024. It became the second most-nominated film in Golden Globe history with ten nominations at the 82nd ceremony, winning four, including Best Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy (the first time a non-English-language film won the category) and Best Foreign Language Film, while Gascón became the first trans woman to be nominated for Best Actress in a Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy. Additionally, it was named one of the top 10 films of 2024 by the American Film Institute, and was selected as the French entry for Best International Feature Film at the 97th Academy Awards

The following is one of the reviews that I agree and concur 100%.

"Emilia Pérez is a bold and masterfully crafted film that addresses pressing socio-political issues in Mexico, blending serious themes with musical elements in an innovative and thought-provoking way. As a keen amateur researcher, I appreciate the movie’s nuanced exploration of topics such as the devastating impact of drug cartels, rampant violence, systemic corruption, missing persons, and the fragility of societal structures in Mexico. These realities are seamlessly intertwined with the delicate and often controversial subject of LGBTQ+ rights, particularly transgender issues, creating a compelling narrative that promotes inclusivity. The plot follows the remarkable transformation of Emilia Pérez, a former drug cartel leader who transitions into a cultured woman, determined to atone for her past sins and become a savior to the very community she once ravaged. The film’s central irony lies in Emilia’s eventual demise—her tragic end serves as a powerful reminder of karmic justice. Emilia’s trusted lawyer, Rita (played by Zoe Saldana), fulfills her lifelong dream of motherhood by caring for Emilia’s children while preserving her legacy of hope and redemption within the Mexican community. The cast is extraordinary. Zoe Saldana delivers a phenomenal performance as Rita, perfectly capturing the complexity of her character. Selena Gomez adds depth and star power, while Karla Sofía Gascón, herself a transgender woman, brings authenticity and emotional resonance to the story. The music and choreography are equally mesmerizing, enhancing the film’s emotional impact and artistic brilliance. Emilia Pérez is a cinematic masterpiece that combines action, music, and social commentary into a seamless and unforgettable experience. It’s a thought-provoking film that challenges societal norms and fosters empathy and understanding. The awards it has garnered are well-deserved, and I applaud the writers, cast, and crew for their outstanding efforts. This is a must-watch for anyone who values storytelling at its finest".

Meanwhile, Enjoy this Abstract Painting: What do you see and Feel?

Incidentally, the THD Movie Listing for Jan 20-26 looks great based on the Reviews. The Movies, NR 24, A Real Pain and Widow Clicqout are rated from 3.5 to 4.5 Stars out of 5.0. The movie, Golden Years that I viewed last night had only a 3.0 rating, but I enjoyed it. 

Lastly, the planet alignment has started....

The much-anticipated planet alignment of 2025 has started. To catch this celestial alignment, look toward the southwestern horizon as twilight gives way to darkness.

Venus and Saturn will dazzle together, with Venus shining as the brighter beacon. Above them, Jupiter, recently past its opposition, radiates as the second brightest point of light after Venus, offering an excellent opportunity for naked-eye observation.

Mars, with its signature red glow, is unmissable near the eastern horizon. This January is a prime time for viewing the Red Planet, as it grows brighter ahead of its closest approach to Earth in over two years. That peaked on January 15, when it reached opposition. However, the views will be spectacular for a few more weeks.

For those with a telescope or binoculars, Uranus can be spotted near Jupiter, while Neptune sits close to Venus and Saturn, completing this celestial spectacle.

Eleven Challenges of Being Eighty or Older

A couple of weeks ago, I posted on some common misconceptions/misunderstanding of people who are 80 years old or older. Todays' posting is on the 11 challenges of being 80 or older. If you are in this group, I hope you find this article useful. Let me hear from you via comments.     

Fellow Residents Here at THD attending a Hannukah Celebration, December 30, 2024 

I found the following article on my FB page the other day. Having just turned 90 last December 20, this article I can definitely identify with. It is with great pleasure to share this article with my readers all over the world who are now 80 years old or older.  I like to hear from you, if you find this article relevant in your daily life if you are 80 years old or older, assuming you are still using the Internet. 

Reaching 80 years old or Older is a remarkable milestone.

It’s a reflection of a life filled with experiences, lessons, and countless memories. However, with this stage of life comes unique challenges that can affect physical health, emotional well-being, and daily living.

Understanding these difficulties is essential for those in their 80s or older, as well as for their loved ones, to ensure this chapter of life remains fulfilling.

Here are 11 common challenges faced by individuals at 80 years old or older and practical ways to address them.

1. Physical Health Decline

As people age, physical capabilities may decrease, making daily tasks more demanding than before.

At 80 or older, the body naturally becomes less resilient, and activities like walking, climbing stairs, or even getting out of bed can require more effort.

Conditions like joint discomfort, muscle weakness, and reduced flexibility are common and can impact mobility.  Persistent tiredness can make it more difficult to sustain previous activity levels.

Although these changes are a normal part of aging, they can be frustrating. Maintaining a routine of light exercise, such as stretching, yoga, or walking, can help preserve strength and flexibility.

Regular check-ups with a healthcare provider can also catch potential issues early and ensure proper management of any conditions.

2. Adjusting to Changing Roles in the Family

As people reach their 80s or older, their role within the family dynamic often shifts.

They may no longer be the primary decision-makers or caregivers and instead rely more on younger family members for support.

This adjustment can feel unfamiliar, especially for those who are used to being independent or central to family matters. Balancing the desire to maintain authority and autonomy with the need to embrace support can be challenging.

Open communication, setting boundaries, and finding ways to stay involved in family activities can help ease this transition.  It’s a reminder that wisdom and experience are valuable contributions that continue to shape the family’s story.

3. Memory and Cognitive Changes

At 80 or older, it’s common to notice changes in memory and cognitive abilities. Forgetting names, losing track of time, or misplacing items can become more frequent.

While these changes are often a natural part of aging, they can be distressing and lead to feelings of frustration. Engaging in mental exercises such as puzzles, reading, or learning new skills can help keep the mind active. ( For Me, playing Bridge four days in the week).

Staying socially engaged and maintaining a routine can also support cognitive health.

If memory concerns become more serious, seeking professional evaluation and support can help address these challenges early.

4. Social Isolation

Social isolation is one of the most significant challenges faced by people in their 80s or older. As friends, family, or peers pass away or move away, social circles can shrink dramatically.

Physical limitations or hearing challenges can create barriers to participating in social activities or nurturing relationships.

This isolation often leads to feelings of loneliness, which can contribute to depression and anxiety. Staying connected to loved ones is essential.

This might involve regular phone calls, video chats, or visits with family.

Joining community groups or senior organizations can also provide opportunities to meet new people and build meaningful connections.  Pets can be another source of companionship, offering comfort and reducing feelings of loneliness.

5. Loss of Independence

The loss of independence can be one of the most emotionally challenging aspects of aging.

Tasks that were once simple, like cooking, cleaning, or driving, may now require assistance. Having to rely on family members, caregivers, or assisted living facilities can lead to feelings of helplessness or embarrassment.

For some, this change in autonomy can affect their self-esteem and overall happiness. Maintaining a sense of control over daily life is crucial.

Using adaptive tools such as walkers, grab bars, or specialized kitchen gadgets can help older adults retain independence in small but meaningful ways.

Additionally, seeking help when needed doesn’t diminish personal value; it’s a practical way to ensure safety and comfort.

6. Financial Strain

Living on a fixed income, such as Social Security or retirement savings, can present financial challenges for people in their 80s or older.  Unexpected expenses, such as medical bills, home repairs, or long-term care, can quickly strain budgets.

This financial pressure may limit opportunities for leisure activities, travel, or even basic needs. Planning ahead is key.

Working with a financial advisor or exploring government programs designed for seniors can provide additional support.

Many communities offer resources like subsidized housing, transportation services, or meal programs to help ease financial burdens.  By staying proactive and exploring available options, financial stress can be reduced.

7. Managing Grief and Loss

By the time someone reaches their 80s or older, they have likely experienced significant losses. The death of a spouse, close friends, or siblings can leave a deep emotional void.

Coping with grief at this stage of life is especially challenging as these losses can feel cumulative, compounding over time.  Memories of loved ones can bring both comfort and sadness, creating a bittersweet emotional landscape.

Acknowledging grief and finding ways to process it is essential for emotional well-being. Support groups, counseling, or simply sharing stories with family members can help ease the burden of loss.

Honoring the memories of those who have passed, such as creating a photo album or writing about them, can be a meaningful way to keep their presence alive.

8. Feeling Overlooked or Invisible

At 80 or older, many people feel overlooked or invisible in a society that often prioritizes youth and productivity. They might notice that their opinions are dismissed, or they’re treated as though their contributions no longer matter.

This lack of recognition can lead to feelings of frustration, sadness, or a diminished sense of self-worth. It’s important to remember that every stage of life offers value.

Sharing wisdom and experiences through mentoring, volunteering, or storytelling can help restore a sense of purpose and connection.

Communicating openly with loved ones about these feelings can also encourage more understanding and engagement.

9. Navigating Technology

The rapid evolution of technology has made the world more connected, but for older adults, it can feel like an overwhelming barrier. Smartphones, computers, and online services are often unfamiliar, making it difficult to stay connected with family, manage finances, or access healthcare resources.

This digital divide can lead to feelings of frustration and isolation. Taking small steps to learn new technology can make a big difference. Many libraries, community centers, or senior organizations offer classes specifically designed to teach older adults how to use digital tools.

Asking younger family members for patient guidance can also make navigating technology less intimidating.

10. Adapting to Physical Changes in Appearance

Aging brings inevitable changes in physical appearance, including wrinkles, gray hair, and weight fluctuations. While these changes are natural, they can still impact self-esteem, particularly in a society that often equates beauty with youth.

At 80 or older, you might feel less confident about how you look or worry about how others perceive you. Instead of focusing on external changes, shifting attention to inner qualities like kindness, wisdom, and resilience can help maintain a positive self-image.

Surrounding yourself with people who value you for who you are rather than how you look can also foster a sense of confidence and acceptance.

11. Preparing for End-of-Life Decisions

By the time someone reaches their 80s or older, thoughts about end-of-life planning often become more pressing. Tasks like writing a will, organizing finances, and making healthcare preferences known are essential but can feel emotionally overwhelming.

It’s not easy to confront one’s mortality, but doing so provides peace of mind and ensures that your wishes are respected.  Discussing these topics openly with family members can help ease the process and prevent misunderstandings later on.

Working with legal and financial professionals can also ensure that everything is organized and clearly documented. Preparing for the future allows you to focus on enjoying the present and cherishing time with loved ones.

Final Thoughts

Being 80 years old or older comes with a unique set of challenges, but it’s also a time for reflection, growth, and connection.

While physical, emotional, and social obstacles may arise, addressing them with resilience and a support network can lead to a fulfilling life.  Embracing change, seeking help when needed, and focusing on the positives can make this chapter of life a meaningful and rewarding experience.

Every stage of life has its difficulties, but it also brings opportunities to learn, grow, and inspire others. At 80 or older, you have a lifetime of wisdom and stories to share—let that be your source of strength and pride.

For Details visit: https://melodyrepeat.com/challenges-of-being-80-years-old/?utm_medium=paid&utm_source=fb&utm_id=120213931409520402&utm_content=120214856500290402&utm_term=120214855944110402&utm_campaign=120213931409520402&fbclid=IwY2xjawHfzcpleHRuA2FlbQEwAGFkaWQBqxbGbBneMgEdW0lCnJaf_PPRQhdW20b_qzXIPvXd81E12rHfS6FojD2eIBBymmZ6IjlE_aem_7srGdUB3H1FnwP6KRkiCWg

Lastly, Did you know that in 1898, following the Spanish-American War, Spain ceded the Philippines to the United States as part of the Treaty of Paris.

As part of this agreement, the U.S. paid Spain $20 million, essentially "purchasing" the Philippines. This move marked a significant shift in the Philippines' history, transitioning from Spanish to American colonial rule.

When the Philippines declared independence in 1898 and established the First Philippine Republic, the United States refused to recognize it.

This refusal ultimately led to the Philippine-American War, which lasted from 1899 to 1902.

The conflict was marked by intense battles and significant casualties on both sides.

My Happiness Ratings Survey, 2025

My 2025 Resident Survey:  Good! Good, Good!   I am Very Happy to Receive this Survey!

January  2025, is my 20th month of Residency here at THD. As a blogger with both local and international viewers/readers, I was often asked about my Happiness Ratings/Satisfaction since my downsizing move here at THD from Sacramento, last June, 2023. The January Phone book is now listing 138 residents.  

Here's my personal evaluation ( Perfect Rating is 5.0) based on the eight items in June, 2023 and currently for January, 2025. Above is my response to the 2025 Survey posted on my door yesterday. 

                               June, 2023                 January, 2025 

1. Facility                    4.8.                               4.8

2. Staff                         4.8.                              4.7

3. Food                         4.8.                              4.8

4. Activities.                 4.8.                              4.7

5. Value                         4.8                              4.8

6.  Amenities.                4.8                              4.8

7. Management Style.   4.5                              4.3

8. Resident Liaison       4.5                              4.3

___________________________________________

Average Ratings           4.75                            4.55

Please note that there is a slight decrease of my Resident Happiness Rating for Items 7 and 8.

My dissatisfaction rating for Item 7 is due to the rapid employee turnovers💚 in the Activity/Liaison sections of THD for the last 20 months without explanation or communication to us.  It seems to me that management style is authoritarian( dictatorial) and not the democratic/supportive style based on the rapid turnover of employees.  It also appears to me that micromanagement and poor internal communication is the cause of this high turnover rate.

During these 20 months there were 4-5 employees turnover in the Activity/Resident Liaison Section of THD, starting with Lisa Bellini, Galen Corson, Teresa Nudo and the latest resignation of Kellie Schuyler. The first three employees, I believe departed involuntarily.  There was a very young employee at the Activity Section that worked only for 3 days and I forgot her name.   

Another item that I heard from several residents is the fact that their suggestion to improve the quality of life here are ignored and never acknowledged.  However, in my case a few minor suggestions in my blogs have been implemented. My suggestions are in my blogs so it is read directly by upper THD management/owners, I believe.    

Fellow Residents, Please submit your 2025 survey ratings soon. 

You will receive either a mini flashlight or a traveler's lotion set for your time and effort. 

Here's a summary of the several Reviews on THD in the WEB the last couple of years.

Multiple reviews mention concerns regarding the management's responsiveness and policies, especially related to assisted living options which appear to be limited or require external support. Some residents find the community's offerings and facilities not as up-to-date as they would prefer, and there are specific references to the meal service variety and the handling of mail or packages during absences.

Criticisms also touch on areas like parking availability and the handling of emergency situations ( no generator during power outage), suggesting a need for better communication and preemptive measures.  The rapid turnover of employees in the Activity Department also generated some negatives comments from a number of residents. 

 💚The recent current high rate of employee turnover here at THD reminded me of an article, I read recently, why high employee turnover can have a negative effect on everyone.  Here's the Conclusion of the article from

 https://firstup.io/blog/high-employee-turnover-the-real-causes-and-impact/#:~:text=Typically%2C%20high%20turnover%20means%2028,%2C%20and%20training%20new%20people.)

"High employee turnover is costly and can negatively affect your business. High turnover is caused by a lack of communication, support, and company culture. Ensuring that your staff has an amazing experience with your organization can help decrease turnover and increase engagement. 

Effective internal communication can help increase engagement and ensure that your distributed workforce feel connected to your company. Here are a couple of ways to establish amazing internal communication:

• Integrate your channels with a workforce platform
• Study your employees and discover the best ways to engage them
• Develop a multichannel approach to reach every worker
• Measure the impact of your communications and track your success "

Here's a Summary of My Suggestions For Improvement: 

A) To Minimize the Noise Levels at Newton's

     1. Two Seating Schedule for Dinner

     2. Install Sound Boards. What happened?

B)  Schedule more lunch excursions to ethnic restaurants 

C)  Schedule more Tours (driving tours), that is with minimum walking

Thank You, THD management for your recent letter of communication listing your actions and improvements to improve the Quality of our life here at THD.  This letter was the first effective communication action of THD management to its clients (us), during the last 20 months of my residency here at THD. 

Paintings in the Hallways of the Third and Fourth Floors of the Heritage Building

This a continuation of my posting on the Paintings Decorating the Four Buildings of THD. This posting is about the paintings in the Third and Fourth Floors of the Heritage Building.  Here are some of the photos on the 3rd Floor:

Here are some of the paintings on the 4th Floor of the Heritage Tower,

Meanwhile, Did you Know? That Lapu-Lapu, a native chieftain from Mactan Island, is considered the first hero of the Philippines for his victory over Ferdinand Magellan in 1521.

Despite his heroic status, Lapu-Lapu wasn’t officially recognized as a national hero until 1987, 466 years after his victory. 

His name is still debated in official history, with some questioning whether he should be honored as a hero. 
  

Lastly, Here's a list of most expensive Paintngs all over the World

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_most_expensive_paintings#:~:text=The%20record%20is%20approximately%20US,Christie's%20in%20New%20York%20City.

Spanish Influence on Filipino Cuisine- Sea Food Paella

The other day, I had cravings for Dungeness crabs. Today my Cravings is for Seafood Paella. This dish was served in Newtons during one of Our Sunday Brunch, when the former Sous Chef Alberto Alvarez was still working here. It replaced the weekly Baked Salmon Dish. Hopefully with a new Sous Chef coming on January 20, we will have Seafood Paella in our Brunch Menu. For recipe for Sea Food Paella.

 

https://www.themediterraneandish.com/easy-seafood-paella-recipe/

A notable example of a Filipino dish with Spanish influence is the paella (locally known as "bringhe"), a rice dish made with glutinous rice, coconut milk, and a variety of meats and seafood.

Another example is lechon, a whole roasted pig that's a staple of festive gatherings. The Spanish also introduced churros, which became a popular sweet treat in the Philippines. 

Additionally, many Filipino desserts, such as leche flan and ensaymada, have strong Spanish origins. Leche flan is a variation of the Spanish flan, and ensaymada was inspired by the Spanish ensaimada pastry from the Balearic Islands.

Here's the site of my blog on my Favorite American and Filipino Dishes:

https://myfavoritepinoydishes.blogspot.com/2023/12/thd-christmas-dinner-menu-and-filipino.html

Meanwhile, Did You Know That:

The closest country to the U.S. isn’t Canada—it’s Russia! At their closest point, the U.S. (Alaska) and Russia are only about 2.4 miles (3.8 km) apart across the Bering Strait.

The Diomede Islands in the Bering Strait mark the nearest point between the two countries. Little Diomede is part of Alaska, while Big Diomede belongs to Russia. During winter, the sea ice sometimes forms a natural bridge between the two islands, making it theoretically possible to walk between the U.S. and Russia.

Lastly, Last night with the Larimore's at East Ocean Sea Food Restaurant at Ignacio Plaza. What a surprise to see them. Did you have a Good Dinner? 

A Review of the Movie, Maria

I saw the film Maria last Saturday in our Cinema. It chronicles the last 7 days of Maria Callas life. I enjoyed it very much, although I do not understand Italian. But if you are an opera enthusiast, most of the Arias sang in Italian are well-known and the tune will be familiar. I enjoyed the sound and Cinematography specially the scene from Puccini, Madame Butterfly ( see review below) before Cio-Cio-San suicide.

Maria is a 2024 biographical psychological drama film directed by Pablo Larraín, written by Steven Knight, and is an international co-production between Italy, Germany, and the United States. The film stars Angelina Jolie as opera singer Maria Callas, and follows the seven days before her death in 1977 Paris as she reflects on her life and career.

 It also stars Pierfrancesco Favino, Alba Rohrwacher, Haluk Bilginer, Stephen Ashfield, Valeria Golino, and Kodi Smit-McPhee in supporting roles. It is the third film in Larraín's trilogy of important 20th-century women, following Jackie (2016) and Spencer(2021). 

The film premiered at the 81st Venice International Film Festival on August 29, 2024, where it competed for the Golden Lion and received generally positive reviews from critics, who singled out Jolie's performance for praise. It was released in select theaters in the United States on November 27, 2024, before streaming on Netflix on December 11. It was theatrically released in Italy by 01 Distributionon January 1, 2025, before its release in Germany by StudioCanal on February 6. Here is one of the review that I concur 100%.

Angelina Jolie’s portrayal of Maria is exceptionally successful. She not only embodies a woman with noble and elegant charm but also conveys the physical and emotional fragility endured by the protagonist before her death. The excessive use of medication causes her memory and hallucinations to intertwine, blurring the line between reality and imagination. She delivers complex and magnificent arias reminiscent of those sung by the Greek-American diva on Europe’s major opera stages.

The tragedy of this opera heroine, whose unparalleled voice brought her to the pinnacle of stage success, infused Puccini and Bellini’s classic works with vitality. However, in reality, she never had the chance to tell her story behind the scenes, away from the white glow of the spotlight. The director and screenwriter made every effort to captivate audiences with stunning visuals, exquisite production, and elegant costume design. The film features collaborations with numerous European opera house choirs, creating unforgettable scenes. One such moment takes place on the large plaza outside the Museum of Modern Art in Paris, where Maria envisions the “Anvil Chorus” from Verdi’s Il Trovatore. Choir members descend from the grand platform near the Eiffel Tower toward Maria—a spectacular and awe-inspiring sight. Another memorable scene involves Puccini’s Madama Butterfly. Before Cio-Cio-San’s suicide, the setting appears to be outside a grand cathedral or opera house. A group of musicians dressed in white suits plays their instruments; soon, rain begins to fall, yet they continue playing, their music soaked in the downpour. Meanwhile, artists in bright pink Japanese kimonos, holding lanterns and red umbrellas, slowly converge from all directions on the square. Amidst the humming chorus from Madama Butterfly, Maria stands at the center, singing her final aria, “Un Bel Di” (One Fine Day). The overhead and panoramic camera angles capture breathtakingly beautiful visuals that, combined with the heart-wrenching music, leave the audience in tears, as if the rain on the screen mirrors their emotions. In my view, this is a masterpiece of cinematic artistry—unforgettable and deeply moving. Another exquisite shot depicts Maria slowly exiting the opera house after an audition. The golden autumn sunlight bathes the earth, and the ground covered in sycamore leaves resembles a golden carpet. Each step she takes seems to crush not just the leaves but also the radiant, distant memories of her life: a dazzling career on stage, her former role as a shipping magnate’s beloved socialite, and her effortless grace and poise in the most fashionable gowns at elite gatherings. Time flows like water, and her life, like a rose on the branch, inevitably withers. Though she can no longer recreate her glory on the opera stage, her every move still exudes an inimitable elegance. Whether clad in a perfectly tailored trench coat or a luxurious fur coat, her presence adds a touch of composure and dignity. Walking among the shadows of sycamore trees, Maria seems like a legend from the depths of time—belonging neither to the past nor replicable in the future. Unique and solitary, she is heartbreakingly beautiful, a vision that remains etched in memory, impossible to forget.

Critical response:  

On the review aggregator website Rotten Tomatoes, 76% of 164 critics' reviews are positive, with an average rating of 6.8/10. The website's consensus reads: "Angelina Jolie unveils new highs within her emotional register in Pablo Larraín's Maria, keeping this tragic biopic compelling even when its theatrics go off-key. Metacritic, which uses a weighted average, assigned the film a score of 62 out of 100, based on 48 critics, indicating "generally favorable" reviews.

The film received an eight-minute standing ovation at the Sala Grande Theatre during its world premiere, bringing Angelina Jolie to tears.

Conclusion: I highly recommend this movie specially to opera lovers and to those that speak or read Italian. I agree with the 3 Star out of 5 Rating. Your 2 hours viewing time will not be wasted.  This movie is now streaming on Netflix.   

Meanwhile, Do you Know that  December 7, 1941, marks one of the most pivotal moments in world history. On this day, the tranquil waters of Pearl Harbor in Hawaii were shattered by the unexpected attack by the Imperial Japanese Navy Air Service against the United States naval base. This attack not only led to the tragic loss of thousands of lives but also marked a significant turning point in World War II, reshaping the geopolitical landscape of the 20th century.

Lastly, Did you Know That:

Juan Luna was the first Filipino artist to gain international acclaim.

His masterpiece, Spoliarium, made history by winning a gold medal at the 1884 Exposición Nacional de Bellas Artes in Madrid, marking the Philippines’ debut on the global art stage.

This powerful painting, symbolizing the suffering of Filipinos under Spanish rule, became a symbol of our nation's pride and struggle.

Luna was also the first Filipino artist to gain formal training in Europe, paving the way for future generations of Filipino artists.

Spoliarium continues to stand as a testament to our rich cultural heritage and the resilience of the Filipino spirit.