It's Time!

It is that time of the year again. Here, Cinemalaya just finished its initial run. On the other side of the globe, the Oscar fever has been jumpstarted by a slew of summer movie offerings. Critics are a-buzzing, spectators are a-waiting, but it does not mean that no financial tidbit can be gleaned from the big screen.

In fact, money is one of the most useful motivations in a movie plot. Given the powerful vision that this art form can create, why not use it as a springboard for financial discussion? If movies imitate life, then heed the financial triumphs that these films portray.

1. Notting Hill: a wise investment

Even at the start, the romance between a small bookstore owner and a global superstar is cursed to oblivion. Imagine looking at their bank accounts, and you can easily see the great social divide. But in a reverse Cinderella twist, love conquered the cash flow through compromise and genuine affection. Also heartfelt is the big investment they made as a couple: the park where their relationship first blossomed.

Lesson: Money may be where the heart is, after all.

2. Anak: the danger of being unprepared

Essentially a commentary about the OFW phenomenon, this film actually mirrors the endless tribulations of a returning hero. Striking is the scene where the former OFW stares at her depleting savings – a possibility made real by unsustainable business decisions. She may have prepared for it, but she never expected the extent of loss she has to

Lesson: An ounce of financial planning always beats a pound of cure.

3. The Godfather: build valuable networks

The most endearing quality of Don Vito Corleone and company is their undying commitment to family, even if it involves violence and prosecution. But beyond the bloodbath, there is wisdom in knowing who your priorities are. And even our very own culture values close-knit ties, where the bad effects are often overshadowed by its positive consequences.

Lesson: Family trumps even the most profitable business interest.

4. Slumdog Millionaire: as the universe conspires

It may be the typical rags-to-riches story, the equivalent of serendipity when it comes to financial destiny. Still, this film harps on a gospel truth: seek and you shall find. Sure, the stars may have aligned for that fateful moment of answering the million-dollar question. Yet no one can deny how much he worked hard to finally land such an opportunity.

Lesson: Heed it, and it shall be found.

5. The Pursuit of Happyness: take a leap of faith

Admittedly, it is hard to imagine the depths of deprivation until one gets trapped in the rabbit hole of lost chances. But the difference in every tribulation lies in the attitude, and this is exactly what the movie celebrates. Can you imagine if he did not run the last few miles in order to attend his job interview? And at the end, it is such a relief to know that money is only a fraction of the equation.

Lesson: When hope springs eternal, so shall the river of financial opportunities.