1. Gusto Kita With All My Hypothalamus (Dwein Baltazar)
A tragedy about hopeless humans of Quiapo disguised as a comedy. Almost plotless but very intriguing. Iana Bernardez as Aileen, a vessel of male desire in the heart of Quiapo, is as beguiling as her mother Angel Aquino. Pretty much the whole ensemble aka the men going gaga for Aileen's attention, are entertaining. I've never seen shots of Quiapo alive, colorful and easy on the eyes since my classmates' thesis in college.
2. The Eternity Between Seconds (Alec Figuracion)
A welcome addition to the growing list of films about two strangers changing each other's lives, while having meaningful, thought-provoking conversations in between. I refuse to call it a copycat even though it was apparent that it's heavily influenced by the likes of Linklater's
Before Sunrise and Coppola's
Lost in Translation except this time it's beautifully shot in South Korea, with a hypnotic score, steady vibe aura, and an unexpected chemistry between Yeng Constantino and TJ Trinidad. I love its theme of fleeting but deep-rooted happiness.
3. Mata Tapang (Rod Cabataña Marmol)
Its theme of brotherhood reminds me of
Last Flag Flying, not to mention its numerous use of curse and sex jokes. But
Mata Tapang tackles beyond that as it delves into the existence of its characters--a closeted soldier, a family man, and a lover in a complicated relationship. It also reminds me of
Ghost for its unfinished business arc and poignant conclusion. It’s commendable for not shying away from concepts of surrealism that are parallel with existentialist premises. Talky but always articulate.
4. Hitboy (Bor Ocampo)
Unapologetically goofy, and the actors are fully committed to it. But it's Mon Confiado that steals the whole film and to be honest, it's starting to become a trend. From
Ang Guro Kong Di Marunong Magbasa to
El Peste, Confiado is ready to poke fun at himself while being serious in doing it.
Hitboy has a lot of potential, but it struggles to find humanity because of its overly silly style. I would have dug it more if they went full throttle with the crazies. "
Confiado. Swabesito. Pero Peligroso" it is.
5. Excuse Me Po (Ronald Battalones)
Before it became the unexpected feel good movie of 2018, Battalones'
Excuse Me Po seems like another character study about humans living in poverty. Compelling and hilarious until it shifted its gear. An acting showcase for La Oro as she plays a woman who lives as if she’s acting in front of the cameras. She's great though and one can tell that she's enjoying her character. Too bad the shift in tone completely turned this movie upside down, but it's still very likable despite its inconsistencies.
6. Delia & Sammy (Theresa Cayaba)
Detailed in its character study but distant in its storytelling. Punchlines and hearttuggers are off timing and just when it’s about to get devastatingly good, it becomes too silly and corny for its own good. Still, a decent comeback for Rosemarie Gil, and a good showing for both Jaime Fabregas and Nico Antonio. Anthony Falcon is also commendable for his small role as a transwoman, especially after seeing his macho-weirdo turn in
Hypothalamus.
7. Poon (Roni S. Benaid)
The good thing about horror movies is it can still be considered good even if it's bad. Bad horror movies tend to be comedic, and
Poon definitely delivers the chuckles. Make no mistake as it actually has a good premise and a great twist that no one saw coming. It's just the execution that makes this weaker than its potential. I cannot really complain much since movies like this paves way for actors and actresses comebacks.
Poon gave Glydel Mercado a lot of material to show her acting chops.
8. Mga Mister ni Rosario (Alpha Habon)
Kate Alejandrino is charming as hell and the story has heart but it’s also too silly to be taken seriously. There is a lot of potential for this to be good but it always go the humane & romance route when the movie demands it to be campy and fun. The film struggles to find balance to do both and the result is a bit of a letdown.
My Winners:
Best Film
Gusto Kita With All My Hyphotalamus
Best Director
Dwein Ruedas Baltazar, Gusto Kita With All My Hyphotalamus
Best Actress
Iana Bernardez, Gusto Kita With All My Hyphotalamus
Best Actor
TJ Trinidad, The Eternity Between Seconds
Best Ensemble
Gusto Kita With All My Hyphotalamus
Best Supporting Actress
Ritz Azul, Mata Tapang
Best Supporting Actor
Mon Confiado, Hitboy
Best Screenplay
The Eternity Between Seconds
Best Cinematography
The Eternity Between Seconds
Best Production Design
Gusto Kita With All My Hyphotalamus
Best Editing
Gusto Kita With All My Hyphotalamus
Best Musical Score
Gusto Kita With All My Hyphotalamus
Best Sound Design
The Eternity Between Seconds
