It was a fun year for me at the Cinemalaya festival. And despite this being only my second year, I was lucky enough to attend as part of the media.
There were many impressionable films and they (except for one) did not disappoint. I enjoyed most of what the festival had to offer because they were on a diverse set of topics and had unique takes on stories we may have seen before.
Allow me to share my first-ever Cinemalaya movie rankings.
10. The Lookout
Director: Afi Africa
Had it been executed properly, the movie would have been great. Plot holes and lapses in character development cost this movie, for me. Nevertheless, it is highly entertaining. A really good popcorn flick.
9. Musmos Na Sumibol Sa Gubat Ng Digma
Director: Iar Arondaing
Beatiful imagery. We have to commend the movie for all the fascinating shots from start to finish. If only the storytelling was woven in a certain way, it would have had a really strong impact.
8. School Service
Director: Louie Ignacio
A great reminder to everyone of how society works these days. The script is bold and commendable but it doesn’t give us anything new. Ai Ai was praise-worthy for her performance. However, once you leave the cinema, it’s easy to forget about the film.
7. Liway
Director: Kip Oebanda
Sadly, a wasted opportunity to tell a really, really great story. Maybe it’s because of the unnecessary elements or some lapses in the storytelling process. But one thing is clear: this deeply personal film will sear in our minds and hearts. I suppressed a lot of tears during the prologue.
6. ML
Director: Benedict Mique
Shocking. Gruesome. Violent. Eye-opening. This is one good movie for those on the fence about one of the darkest times in our history. You will enjoy this, if you have the stomach for brutal torture scenes. Eddie Garcia deserves a lot of praise for his performance here.
5. Distance
Director: Perci Intalan
Family dramas need not be over the top, as “Distance” proved to us. There is a certain appeal to movies that allow us to introspect.
4. Kuya Wes
Director: James Mayo
Enjoyable, inspiring and hits close to home. I appreciate how Mayo took a very serious (and dark) theme and wrapped it in a colorful, bright-colored wrap. Moi was memorable.
3. Mamang
Director: Denise O’ Hara
“Mamang” is a sad reminder for many of us. It’s both a lesson and warning about the sadness that comes with old age. This nudges us to make the most out of life and relish it because one day, all we know will slowly fade away. Celeste Legaspi is amazing.
2. Pan De Salawal
Director: Che Espiritu
The most entertaining movie of the year for me. It is such a refreshing watch that it does more than tug the heart. It washes away any negativity about life. It reminds you that one must never lose hope.
1. Kung Paano Hinihintay Ang Dapithapon
Director: Carlo Catu
Biggest surprise for this year’s lineup because at first glance, it doesn’t look like something that would have that much impact. But once you start watching, boy the effect is tremendous. Flawless execution.
