BUWIS (Tax) - A Cinematic Drama Film

Introduction

This tutorial provides a comprehensive overview of the play "Buwis" by Charlson Ong, which is a dramatic exploration of family, tradition, and loss within a Chinese-Filipino context. By understanding the characters, setting, and themes, you can better appreciate the nuances of this theatrical work and its cultural significance.

Step 1: Understand the Characters

Familiarizing yourself with the main characters will enhance your understanding of the play's dynamics.

• Anita: A 75-year-old Chinese-Filipino widow navigating grief and family expectations.
• Jackson Peña: A 55-year-old BIR examiner, representing authority and societal pressure.
• Max: A 10-year-old neighbor, symbolizing innocence amid adult complexities.
• Belinda: A 50-year-old insurance broker and Anita's niece, embodying modernity and ambition.
• Jayson: A 25-year-old presumed dead after a plane crash, representing loss and unresolved family issues.

Step 2: Analyze the Setting

The setting plays a crucial role in establishing the mood and themes of the play.

• Location: The action takes place in a traditional Chinoy household in downtown Manila.
• Key Elements:
  • Altar: Central to the home, symbolizing ancestral worship and cultural roots.
  • Traditional Urn: Represents the connection to the past and the importance of honoring ancestors.
  • Offerings: Fruits and incense signify respect and remembrance.
  • Dragon Kite: A significant cultural symbol, adding a layer of depth to the household's representation of heritage.

Step 3: Explore the Themes

Understanding the themes is essential for a deeper appreciation of the play's message.

• Family and Tradition: The play explores how family ties and cultural traditions shape individual identities and relationships.
• Grief and Loss: Characters deal with various forms of loss, particularly the absence of Jayson, which impacts their dynamics.
• Cultural Identity: The intersection of Chinese and Filipino identities is examined through the characters' interactions and values.

Step 4: Reflect on the Symbolism

Identifying symbols within the play can provide insights into its deeper meanings.

• The Altar: Represents the family's connection to their ancestors and the weight of tradition.
• Incense: Symbolizes the act of remembrance and the spiritual connection to the past.
• Dragon Kite: Reflects cultural pride and the complexity of heritage, serving as a reminder of the joys and burdens of cultural expectations.

Conclusion

"Buwis" is a nuanced exploration of family, tradition, and identity within the Chinese-Filipino community. By understanding the characters, setting, themes, and symbolism, you can appreciate the depth of this dramatic work. To further engage with the play, consider attending a performance or reading additional analyses to explore its impact on contemporary society.