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Donsol is a 2006 Filipino drama film directed by Adolfo Alix Jr. The film stars Sid Lucero, Angel Aquino, and Cherie Gil. Set in the coastal town of Donsol, Sorsogon, the film tells the story of a tourist guide named Daniel (Sid Lucero) who falls in love with a vacationing Manila-based businesswoman named Teresa (Angel Aquino). As Teresa explores the town and its surroundings, Daniel shows her the wonders of Donsol, including its famous whale sharks.

The film begins with a shot of Donsol's picturesque rolling hills and coconut trees, setting the serene and laid-back tone of the town. We are then introduced to Daniel, a young man who makes a living as a whale shark tour guide. He meets Teresa, a divorced businesswoman on a vacation, whom he develops feelings for. But as they grow closer, they discover that they are from different worlds, with different aspirations in life.

Aside from the budding romance between Daniel and Teresa, the film also portrays the lives of the townsfolk and how they coexist with the whale sharks. The creatures have become both a blessing and a curse for the town; while they have attracted tourists and brought income to the locals, they have also been hunted and poached, putting their population at risk.

At the center of the film is the relationship between humans and nature, and how we impact each other's lives. The whale sharks, despite being the main attraction of the town, are not seen as mere objects for entertainment. Daniel, as a tour guide, is passionate about protecting and preserving them, educating his clients about responsible tourism. He also helps the local fisherfolk transition from hunting whale sharks to becoming their protectors, as he promotes ecotourism.

Donsol is not just a love story or a tourist brochure, but a celebration of the beauty of nature and the resilience of the human spirit. The film also tackles themes such as social class, environmentalism, and tradition versus progress. Through the eyes of the characters, we see how the town of Donsol has changed, and how it strives to balance economic development with cultural and environmental preservation.

The cinematography of Donsol is also noteworthy. The film showcases the breathtaking landscapes and seascapes of the town, captured in long takes and wide shots. It also incorporates real footage of whale sharks swimming in the ocean, adding to the authenticity of the film.

In terms of performances, the lead actors deliver compelling portrayals. Sid Lucero gives a subtle and heartfelt performance as Daniel, a man who is passionate about his work and his town. Angel Aquino is equally impressive as Teresa, a woman who is trying to find herself after a failed marriage. Cherie Gil, who plays Teresa's friend, also adds humor and wit to the film.

Overall, Donsol is a poignant and thought-provoking film that goes beyond the usual rom-com or travelogue. It is a testament to the beauty of nature and the resilience of the human spirit, and how we can learn from each other and the world around us.

Donsol is a 2006 drama with a runtime of 2 hours and 25 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.5.