No, Piolo Pascual is not the gift I want from dear old Saint Nicholas this Christmastime. However, I had the opportunity to watch a special screening of Raymond Red’s Manila’s Finest, wherein he played the lead character, Hector Magtibay.

Pascual gave his Magtibay character heart, passion, conscience, and vulnerability. Without a doubt, he was totally immersed not just in becoming, but in being Hector.

On the silver screen, you not only see but feel his anxiety when his group of principled policemen is pitted against the rising power and notoriety of the men who comprised the Metrocom. His kindness and sincerity are not only apparent but believable, especially in his conversations and mediation efforts with warring groups of thugs. The paternal energy and concern are felt deep in one’s bones in the scenes he shares with his on-screen daughter, Ashtin Olviga.

The desire and rapture Pascual brings to his trysts with the character of Jasmine Curtis-Smith result in sizzling cinematic encounters. And when Hector uncovers the truth about his paramour, Pascual pulls you in and joins you in his character’s utter devastation.

Pascual is all heart and sincerity. It is hoped that the authenticity he gave to Magtibay earns the appreciation and approval of the MMFF powers-that-be.

The Red-directed film is terrific and dire at the same time. It is ambitious in its presentation of the film’s timeline, which it manages to relive quite well. However, the foreboding, anger, grit, and tension of the period remain somewhat nondescript.

As for the narrative — better watch it and be the judge.

Aside from Pascual, the actors who truly shined in the movie were Curtis-Smith, Ariel Rivera, Cedric Juan, Rico Blanco, and the pretty young miss Olviga. They stood out because of the emotional truth they invested in their respective characters. Their performances were heartfelt, and one is moved by the sincerity and soul they brought to the screen.

My Christmas wish is that the MMFF moviegoing public bestow this film a fighting chance. Also, may the movies Bar Boys After School and Shake, Rattle and Roll: Evil Origins be part of this year’s Magic 5 at the box office.

Grown-up wish list

No more mincing words nor waxing poetic or philosophical.

For all politicians: more sincere public service and less talk — less grandstanding, greed, mudslinging, power preservation, and pride. Make us believe that this nation can be great again. From the Office of the President, Congress, Senate and Judiciary down to the barangay level, be the best examples of leadership, care, sound decision-making, management, and genuine service delivery.

For the education sector: more subjects and emphasis on arts and culture, good manners and right conduct, reading and comprehension, languages, balanced math and sciences, love of God—not fear of Him — and love of country.

For the environmental sector: dredging and cleaning rivers, canals, and esteros; planting more trees and ensuring they grow healthy and robust; planting more mangroves; declaring more bodies of water and mountains as sanctuaries and protected areas; discovering and using more environmentally friendly fuel and energy sources; and providing stronger support for farmers and fisherfolk.

For policymakers on the economy and energy: I understand the law of supply and demand and the realities of international factors. However, when making decisions, please ensure they benefit the greater good and do not make the daily lives of every Juan and Juana more difficult.

For artists in the entertainment, arts, and culture sectors: more projects that promote national pride, self-awareness, empathy, morality, and love for anything and everything Filipino.

Personal

Good health, since I am not getting any younger. I am two years shy of joining the Seniors Club — and I am excited about it, what with the discounts, queuing perks, best seats on public transport, free movie screenings, and more.

Guidance from the Muses, especially when I write my columns and co-host with Alex Brosas on DTT Show: Tarayan at Talakayan Showbiz Edition. Speaking of DTT Show, here’s wishing for 100K organic subscribers and a YouTube Silver Button.

Maintaining present friendships, forging new ones, and discovering and enjoying fresh alliances and opportunities.

More photo opportunities; more chances to dance to a slow tune, laugh, cry, and make beautiful memories with my so-called dear friends list.

Spending quality time with my Mama Liwayway, brothers, nephews, and immediate family. Time flies faster than a speeding bullet, and having them in my life — and creating more moments with them — is truly precious.

And finally, may Daily Tribune continue to serve its readers and online followers without fear or favor, delivering fearless views and content that not only tickle the mind but ignite inspiration and serve as a catalyst for change, fairness, justice, peace, prosperity, and love for all.