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Ping Lacson, Supercop pays "tribute" to Gen. Panfilo Lacson as a policeman, performed by Rudy Fernandez with Lorna Tolentino as his wife
Alice. It gives a chronology of the major events which proves his skill and bravery in solving problems of national concern. This no-nonsense cop is revealed as a
man with a soft spot for his family, his close associates in the police force, and has a weakness for his women assets, one of whom is Rowena (Glydel Mercado). As a cop,
he never forgets the advice of his mentor: "Always instill discipline in your men without putting them down.
The story is trite and could be the portrayal of any ordinary brave cop, but it
sensationalizes Ping Lacson.
The only "attraction" of the film is the appearance of known performers Fernandez and Tolentino. Sometimes the background music is so loud it blurs the dialogue. The selected documentary footages employed to depict the past are so old and scratchy, that they diminish the technical merits of the movie. Joyce Bernal, considered as one of the youngest editors hereabouts, will excel in her trade given the right exposure.
Ping Lacson, Supercop is doing several things at the same time. It is the story of a policeman's bravery and dedication. It is also
about love of country and the willingness to risk life and limb in confronting kidnappers, carnappers, terrorists, gamblers, bank robbers, etc. The movie tries to put
across nationalism, democracy, sterling service
but these are dwarfed by too much violence via bullets galore, car chases, and countless bloody deaths.
The movie simply wants to highlight the supposed achievements of a policeman who holds a key position in government. There is danger in this because the role is romanticized and those who see the movie might take it as documentary truth. This film is certainly an effective though expensive way to project one's image to the public who should be more discerning. Using the media is becoming a common practice for those who want to gain exposure as they aspire for higher positions in government whether they have the competence or not. Though the violent scenes are within the context of the story, the film is not suitable for viewers 13 years old and below.
(Date reviewed: January 3, 2001)
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