Movie Review: Her Locket

Jewel Ouyang, a senior Chinese woman, has lost everything - her youth, beauty, popularity, and fortune.

 

Now with dementia, she lives with her lawyer son, Kyle, and a young caregiver, Teresa, who seems more ambitious than caring.

 

She finds an old locket that contains her old photo with her parents, and her brother, Magnus.

 

The locket removes the cloud of forgetfulness and frees her memories of her tenuous relationship with her family.

This includes their opposition to her career and love life; of a happy marriage to her husband which was cut short by his untimely death; of achieving success as an actress which enabled her to solely raise their son; and that Magnus tampered her father's will and robbed her of her inheritance.

 

Seeking vengeance, Jewel faces her brother in court to claim what is rightfully hers. Still inflicted with dementia, will she choose to forgive... and forget?

 

"Her Locket" is a poignant and heartfelt biopic that explores women's empowerment and equality through the emotional journey of a woman living in a traditional Filipino-Chinese community. Watching the movie feels life reading a book through its poignant chapters that is weaved cohesively and let the audience join the journey of the lead actress. The film is expertly woven, with relatable performances from the ensemble cast, including standout scenes from Rebecca Chuaunsu, Elora Españo, Tommy Aleajandrino and Boo Gabunada. I personally like the love story between Tommy and Sophie Ng (young Jewel), set in 80s UP campus that is particularly sweet, with natural dialogue that feels kilig. The acting showdown between Rebecca and Elora is also noteworthy, with both delivering award-worthy performances. Their opposing characters are effectively conveyed in the film and both award worthy.Boo Gabunada is effective and a promising actor playing as the loving son of Rebecca and giving strength to the ordeals of her mother. The film is emotionally rich, with tear-jerking moments that will leave you reaching for tissues. Overall, "Her Locket" is a must-watch for those who appreciate films that delve into the complexities of family and memory.

My Verdict: 3.5/5