Reviews

When I first saw the teaser trailer for "Vice Versa" at the GMMTV Expo, I couldn't help but think, "Another soul transfer plot? How overused." But after the brilliant "Bad Buddy," I was eager to see Ohm and Nanon again. When the official trailer dropped, I was convinced to give it a shot, and I also wanted to see how Jimmy and Sea would fare. I'm happy to say I did not regret it. The chemistry between Jimmy and Sea is palpable, and their acting skills are impressive.

Directed by X Nuttapong Mongkolsawas, "Vice Versa" stars Jimmy as Puen, who takes over the body of Pakorn/Tun, played by Nanon, and Sea as Talay, who takes over the body of Tess, played by Ohm. For most of the series, we follow them as they navigate the lives of Tun and Tess and their journey to return to their original bodies.

Talay is a talented new graduate who has just landed a job as a colorist. However, during a beach trip with his friends, he drowns and wakes up in an alternate universe, inhabiting the body of Tess, a spoiled rich kid. In the hospital, he meets a nurse from his own universe who explains the existence of two parallel universes and the need to find the "Portkey" to return home. Talay soon discovers that Tun, played by Puen, is also a transmigrated soul. As they work together to find their port keys, their bond strengthens. But what will happen when they return to their original universe? Will they recognize each other?

One of the highlights of the series is how Puen and Talay decide to make positive changes in the lives of Tess and Tun. In their original lives, Puen is a famous actor and Talay is a struggling colorist. When they take over Tess and Tun's bodies, they continue to work in the film industry-Tess's dad owns the biggest film production house, and Tun is a skilled scriptwriter. This continuity adds depth to the story.

Each episode is themed around a different color and title, staying true to the cinematic and production motif, which I found quite engaging. The gradual unraveling of the plot and the exploration of Puen and Talay's lives and struggles were well-executed and compelling.

A fun aspect of the show was guessing the cameo of the week, with many famous faces making guest appearances. Each episode also featured an enjoyable post-credit scene showcasing new Lay's flavors, adding a touch of light-heartedness.

"Vice Versa" brings a fresh twist to the BL genre with its soul-switching and parallel universe plot. It's far from boring; the story is beautifully crafted. If you think you've seen it all in soul transfer dramas, this series will surprise you with its unique approach and heartfelt narrative.

As an avid fan of gymnastics-themed series and movies, and a follower of the sport itself, I was naturally drawn to Double Twisting Double Back. Additionally, being a fan of Tony Labrusca, I was eager to see his performance. Unfortunately, I missed it when it premiered at the CinemaOne Originals festival in 2018. Luckily, I stumbled upon it while browsing iWant and watched it immediately.

Tony Labrusca stars as Badger, an ambitious gymnast with a troubled past. Gerald Zion, better known as Badger, dreams of making a triumphant return to gymnastics and earning a spot on the national team, with hopes of competing in the Olympics. To achieve this, he must leave behind a comfortable life as a successful salesman. Alongside him is Wasi, played by Joem Bascon, a shrewd and unapologetically money-driven man who represents Badger's inner demons. Bascon delivers one of his best performances, bringing depth to this complex character.

On paper, the film's premise promised an unflinching look at the physical and emotional challenges of pursuing gymnastics. However, the narrative takes an intriguing turn when it is revealed that Badger and Wasi are actually the same person. This twist transforms the film from a conventional sports drama into a high-octane psychological thriller, delving deep into Badger's mind as he battles with split personalities.

Initially, I expected a straightforward sports movie, but Double Twisting Double Back surprised me by tackling themes of mental health and sex addiction. Tony Labrusca shines in his role, portraying a meek yet ambitious dreamer grappling with his darker side. This role showcases Labrusca's growth as an artist and cements his place in the acting world. His performance is compelling, and his background in gymnastics adds authenticity to his portrayal.

Joem Bascon's performance is equally noteworthy. He subtly and effectively portrays Badger's inner demons, embodying the character's repressed, obsessed, and deranged aspects. Bascon's portrayal is the film's most memorable element, leaving a lasting impact.

Double Twisting Double Back also mirrors the struggles of Filipino athletes who often lack government support. Many athletes come from financially challenged backgrounds and view winning gold medals as their ticket out of poverty.

This film is a bold and audacious attempt at a psychological thriller. The creators deserve credit for pushing viewers out of their comfort zones and presenting a narrative that is far from the usual feel-good fare.

For Tony Labrusca, this film is an opportunity to prove his acting chops beyond his earlier commercial success. While Labrusca shines, Joem Bascon's performance steals the show, making Double Twisting Double Back a standout in this year's festival lineup.

The film's sexually-charged and psychologically complex narrative can be compared to international hits like Black Swan and Fight Club, but it stands on its own with its daring choices. Double Twisting Double Back is a significant and memorable addition to the CinemaOne Originals festival, solidifying its place as a must-watch.

In summary, Double Twisting Double Back is a sexually-charged psychological thriller that not only showcases Tony Labrusca's talent but also highlights Joem Bascon's outstanding performance. It's a twisted, intense, and unforgettable film.

I just finished watching Hierarchy on Netflix without even seeing the trailer beforehand. Based on the series poster, I suspected it would be the Korean version of Gossip Girl, Elite, and Pretty Little Liars. After watching it, my initial impression remains unchanged. The plot is predictable, and the twists were not surprising.

Set in Jooshin High School, the most prestigious school in South Korea, the series follows the lives of elite students who are chosen at birth to attend. These include Jeong Jae Yi, the first daughter of the Jaeyool Group; Kim Ri An, the successor of the Jooshin Group; Yoon He Ra, the youngest daughter of a trading company; and Lee Woo Jin, the second son of a powerful political family. In contrast, the poorer students are portrayed as content, wise, cheerful, and grounded.

The story takes a turn when Kang Ha transfers to Jooshin High School. Behind his innocent smile lies a secret that threatens to unravel the entire establishment. As typical of high school/teen suspense dramas, the protagonist from a poor background faces bullying from the wealthy students, who are linked to a mysterious death. The teachers and administrators turn a blind eye to the privileged students' bad behavior. The series also delves into the imperfect family lives of the rich students, highlighting the pressures of maintaining reputations, inheriting businesses, and dealing with envy.

While Hierarchy isn't disappointing, it also isn't exceptional. The storytelling isn't seamless and at times feels forced. However, there are several redeeming qualities. The production values are impressive, with every shot looking expensive and meticulously designed. The cinematography is stunning, with flawless color grading and cinematic visuals. The background music is catchy and perfectly conveys the emotions of each scene.

Overall, Hierarchy is a decent, time-pass drama. It's not a waste of time, but it doesn't stand out either. If you enjoy western teen dramas like Elite, you might find this series enjoyable. Just don't go in with high expectations.

I have a soft spot for Cinderella adaptations, and I never miss a chance to watch them. "Cinderella in the Caribbean," directed by Brian Brough, stars Emma Reinagel as Ashlyn and Conor McGee as Noah.

In this contemporary take, Ashlyn, a hardworking student striving to become a teacher, is coerced by her stepmother Miriam into joining the family on a Caribbean trip for Miriam's destination wedding. Despite living independently, Ashlyn is quickly reminded of her stepfamily's tendency to belittle and exploit her. To complicate matters, Miriam's fiancé, Bruce, is a kind-hearted man completely unaware of Miriam's true nature. Amidst this chaos, Ashlyn finds solace and the beginnings of love with Bruce's son, Noah. However, she struggles to secure her happily ever after while her stepfamily threatens to ruin Bruce.

While the plot is somewhat predictable-since we all know the leads will end up together-the movie is far from boring. The interactions are engaging, and the acting is subtle and not cringeworthy. Emma Reinagel's portrayal of Ashlyn is relatable as she balances work and studies in the States.

Miriam, the "evil" stepmother, played with convincing malice, drops the bombshell of her wedding plans and demands Ashlyn's presence at her destination wedding, not out of affection, but due to Bruce's insistence on family bonding. The step-siblings, Fiona and Jerry, add to Ashlyn's misery with their jealousy and animosity.

Noah, played by newcomer Conor McGee, instantly senses something amiss with his new family. The subplot involving Miriam's ulterior motives for marrying Bruce adds an intriguing twist, revealing that Bruce, despite his good-natured persona, is no fool.

Kudos to writer Brittany Wiscombe for crafting a contemporary spin on a classic tale. Her previous work, "Not Cinderella's Type," also offers a fresh take on the Cinderella story and is worth watching.

Overall, "Cinderella in the Caribbean" is an enjoyable and heartwarming film that brings a beloved fairy tale to a vibrant, tropical setting. It's a delightful watch for anyone who loves a modern Cinderella story with a dash of romance and a hint of intrigue.

Summary: "I Am Not Big Bird" follows a 30-something virgin, dejected after his girlfriend rejects his marriage proposal, who heads off on holiday to Thailand with friends. There, a peculiar chain of events ensues when he is mistaken for a famous Thai porn star, the "Big Bird" of the title.

Initial Impressions: Promoted as a bold and boundary-breaking film, "I Am Not Big Bird" ultimately falls flat. Despite being marketed as a raunchy sex comedy, the movie plays it surprisingly safe, resulting in a tame and underwhelming experience. It offers laughs, primarily through gags and shock value, but fails to deliver on its promise of being progressive or daring.

Plot and Setting: Set in the mid-2000s, pre-smartphone era, the film stars Enrique Gil in a comedy largely set in Thailand, revolving around sex and genitalia. The premise follows Luis Carpio (Gil), whose proposal is rejected by his girlfriend because he's waiting for marriage. He flies to Thailand with friends, only to be mistaken for Big Bird, a porn star with a notoriously large penis. This mistake leads to a series of comedic and risqué situations.

Execution: Directed by Victor Villanueva, known for "Patay na si Hesus," "Boy Bastos," and "Lucid," the film surprisingly lacks the provocative edge of Villanueva's previous works. The movie tries to balance risqué elements with mass appeal, resulting in a sanitized tone that hinders it from reaching its potential.

Humor and Risqué Elements: The humor largely revolves around the size of Big Bird's penis and the subsequent hijinks. However, the film shies away from fully embracing its raunchy premise. Scenes that could push boundaries are instead sanitized or implied. For instance, a potentially explicit scene is replaced with a humorous advisory that it's "too sexy for Filipino audiences," and drug use is implied rather than shown.

Character Development: The film attempts to explore male friendships but falls short. The characters' backstories and dynamics are underdeveloped, leading to a forced and hollow conclusion. While Macky's story receives some attention, July's backstory is neglected, making the film's attempt to shift from comedy to a heartfelt narrative feel unearned.

Conclusion: "I Am Not Big Bird" is a missed opportunity. Despite moments of humor and the potential for a groundbreaking comedy, it ultimately plays it too safe and fails to fully capitalize on its premise. The sanitized approach prevents it from being the bold, provocative film it could have been, resulting in a movie that neither pushes boundaries nor leaves a lasting impression.

Summary: "Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe" is a coming-of-age novel by Benjamin Alire Sáenz, first published on February 21, 2012. Set in El Paso, Texas, in 1987, the story follows two Mexican-American teenagers, Aristotle "Ari" Mendoza and Dante Quintana, as they navigate friendship, racial and ethnic identity, sexuality, and family relationships. The novel has received widespread critical acclaim and numerous accolades.

Plot Overview: In the summer of 1987, 15-year-old Aristotle Mendoza meets Dante Quintana at the local pool. Bonding over their classical names, they become inseparable. Dante teaches Ari about literature and poetry, while Ari admires Dante's swimming ability and sincerity. When Dante moves to Chicago for a year, they promise to remain friends. Dante later confesses his love for Ari, who struggles to reciprocate. After Dante is attacked for kissing another boy, Ari eventually accepts his own feelings for Dante, leading to a heartfelt conclusion where Ari embraces his love for Dante.

Personal Connection: I cannot remember the last time I watched a movie twice in a row until this one. The book series changed my life when I randomly picked it up at a bookstore and couldn't put it down. Seeing Ari and Dante come to life on screen was breathtaking. Their story, both in the book and the movie, moves me to tears every time. This adaptation was perfect, with every scene captured beautifully and the story told just as it should be. The casting was spot-on, and the entire experience left an indelible mark on my heart.

Cinematic Experience: Spellbinding from start to finish, this beautiful movie effortlessly weaves a tapestry of emotions. The cinematography is breathtaking, capturing the essence of each scene with grace. The stellar performances and captivating storyline make it a cinematic masterpiece that lingers in your thoughts long after the credits roll.

Conclusion: "Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe" is not just a movie but an emotional journey that perfectly captures the essence of the novel. The impeccable casting, stunning cinematography, and faithful adaptation make it a must-watch for both fans of the book and newcomers alike. This story will forever hold a special place in my heart.

"Kalel, 15" offers a raw and unflinching portrayal of the challenges faced by a teenage boy grappling with an HIV diagnosis amidst a backdrop of family dysfunction and societal stigma. The film deftly explores a myriad of issues, from the stigma surrounding HIV to the complexities of Filipino youth culture and the consequences of growing up with a troubled parent.

From the opening scenes, the film captivates with its brilliant storytelling, exceptional acting, and striking cinematography. The use of black and white imagery perfectly captures the grittiness and darkness of the narrative, setting it apart from conventional cinema. It's a truly unique and captivating film that draws viewers in and keeps them engaged throughout.

At its core, "Kalel, 15" confronts the uncomfortable truths about HIV and its impact on individuals and communities. It shines a light on the carelessness of Filipino youth when it comes to sex and the urgent need for greater awareness and education. The film doesn't shy away from the harsh realities of living with HIV or the societal stigma that surrounds it, challenging viewers to confront their own preconceptions and biases.

The stark black and white imagery serves as a powerful metaphor for the suffocating environment in which Kalel finds himself. As the frame gradually shrinks, it symbolizes the world closing in around him, highlighting his sense of isolation and despair. Yet, amidst the darkness, Kalel continues to search for hope, even as those around him continue to let him down.

"Kalel, 15" is a film fueled by anger, but it's a productive anger that leads to insight and clarity. Through Kalel's story, the film exposes the hypocrisy and deficiencies of a society that refuses to acknowledge the reality of sex and its consequences. It's a poignant and thought-provoking exploration of a societal issue that demands attention and action.

In conclusion, "Kalel, 15" is a mind-blowing and thought-provoking film that tackles important and relevant themes with sensitivity and depth. It's a film that demands to be seen and discussed, offering a powerful commentary on the complexities of HIV, youth culture, and family dynamics in contemporary Filipino society.

"Last Twilight" is a masterpiece that transcends expectations, delivering a poignant and heartfelt story that resonates deeply with its audience. The series follows the journey of Mhok, a technical college student burdened with heavy debt, who takes on a high-paying job as a caregiver to Day, a badminton player with partial blindness. What unfolds is a beautiful and profound tale of acceptance, love, and the resilience of the human spirit.

From the outset, I had high expectations for "Last Twilight," knowing the talent of Jimmy and Sea, and the legendary director P'Aof. I anticipated that this series would evoke strong emotions and leave me emotionally drained, and it did not disappoint. I braced myself for a sad ending, but what I found was a story that was not only moving but also uplifting and inspiring.

One of the most compelling aspects of "Last Twilight" is its portrayal of disability. The series challenges stereotypes and shows that people with disabilities are just like anyone else, deserving of love, respect, and understanding. Through the relationship between Mhok and Day, the series demonstrates the importance of treating everyone with kindness and compassion, regardless of their circumstances.

At its core, "Last Twilight" is a story about the power of love and acceptance. It teaches us that true beauty lies in the way we live our lives, and that as long as we have someone to love and live for, we can overcome any obstacle. Day's journey of acceptance and self-discovery is both heart-wrenching and heartwarming, showing us that even in the face of adversity, there is always hope.

The series also explores the idea that love knows no bounds, transcending physical limitations and societal expectations. The relationship between Mhok and Day is portrayed with such sincerity and depth that it feels incredibly real and relatable. Their love story is a testament to the transformative power of love, showing us that it can heal wounds, mend hearts, and change lives.

In conclusion, "Last Twilight" is a beautiful and touching series that leaves a lasting impression. It is a story that reminds us of the beauty of love, the importance of acceptance, and the resilience of the human spirit. It is a masterpiece in every sense of the word, and one that will stay with me long after the final credits roll.

"May-December-January" is a refreshing and original film directed by McArthur C. Alejandre and written by Ricky Lee, featuring a stellar cast including Andrea Del Rosario, Kych Minemoto, and Gold Aceron. The film explores themes of love and sacrifice, weaving a narrative that is both engaging and thought-provoking.

The premise of the film, centered around a queer boy coming to terms with his identity and falling in love with his best friend, who in turn starts a relationship with his friend's mother, is certainly unique. While the storyline may seem absurd on the surface, the film manages to take this unconventional setup and ground it in a relatively realistic portrayal, thanks to the strong performances of its central trio.

Andrea Del Rosario, Kych Minemoto, and Gold Aceron deliver standout performances, bringing depth and nuance to their characters. Their portrayal of the complex dynamics of love, friendship, and sacrifice is both heartfelt and believable, drawing the audience into their world and making them emotionally invested in the outcome.

One of the film's strengths is its depiction of Baguio, which is captured in all its postcard-worthy beauty. The picturesque setting serves as the backdrop for the characters' journey, adding an extra layer of visual appeal to the film.

Despite its somewhat conventional approach to what could have been a more unconventional love story, "May-December-January" manages to keep the audience engaged from start to finish. The pacing is well-executed, ensuring that there are no dull moments and keeping viewers on the edge of their seats, even if it means occasionally leaving them scratching their heads.

Overall, "May-December-January" is a film that succeeds in telling a compelling and emotionally resonant story. Its strong performances, engaging narrative, and beautiful cinematography make it a worthwhile watch for anyone looking for a unique take on the complexities of love and relationships.

The film is a riveting and mind-boggling experience, characterized by its exceptional writing and incredible acting. However, what truly sets it apart is its portrayal of gay characters as complex, problematic, and unapologetically villainous.

One of the most striking aspects of the film is its portrayal of gay characters. Unlike the stereotypical portrayals often seen in media, these characters are depicted as multifaceted individuals with their own flaws and motivations. They are not simply relegated to the role of the supportive friend or the comic relief; instead, they are allowed to be nasty, manipulative, and downright evil.

This portrayal of gay characters as villains is both refreshing and daring. It challenges the audience to confront their own biases and preconceptions about sexuality, forcing them to see these characters as fully realized human beings rather than one-dimensional stereotypes. It is a bold choice that pays off, adding depth and complexity to the film's narrative.

The acting in the film is also worth noting, particularly the performances of Romnick and Elijah. Their ability to seamlessly switch between themselves to portray the third character in the movie is nothing short of impressive. This technique not only helps the story unfold and unravel but also adds a layer of complexity to the characters and their relationships.

In conclusion, this film is a masterclass in storytelling and character development. Its portrayal of gay characters as complex and multi-dimensional is a welcome departure from the norm and adds a new layer of depth to the narrative. Combined with its exceptional writing and acting, this film is a must-see for anyone looking for a thought-provoking and engaging cinematic experience.

This film presents a profoundly disturbing psychosexual narrative of jealousy, characterized by predatory and toxic behavior, and at times, an excessive preoccupation with sexual themes. While the film attempts to serve as a political allegory, its execution may not be the most effective in depicting the struggles of the Filipino people. The storyline often veers into hilariously melodramatic territory, with moments that come off as unintentionally humorous, undermining the intended serious tone of the movie. The characters, without exception, are portrayed as morally reprehensible, making it challenging for viewers to empathize or connect with any of them, including those who are depicted as victims of abuse.

One particularly divisive element of the film is the character of Emman, portrayed as a vaping Filipino with a perm, a characterization that some viewers may find off-putting or caricatured. His frequent vaping is a notable, if not distracting, motif throughout the film. Despite these criticisms, the film does boast some redeeming qualities, such as its impressive compositions and cinematography, which add a layer of visual sophistication to the narrative.

In a post-screening discussion, the director shed light on his motivation for making films of this nature, citing a desire to tell stories about the Filipino people and their experiences. While this intent is commendable, it does not alleviate the shortcomings of this particular film. However, it does pique curiosity about the director's other works, which may offer a more nuanced exploration of Filipino identity and culture.

One of the film's highlights is the performance of Ms. Sue Prado, who portrays the main character. Despite playing a morally dubious individual, Prado's transformation for the role is notable, as she effectively embodies the character's complexities. Similarly, Kokoy De Santos delivers a compelling performance as Emman, a character who, despite his flaws, evokes a degree of sympathy from the audience. Supporting actors Miggy Jimenez and Elora Espano also deserve praise for their authentic portrayals, adding depth to the film's ensemble cast.

Overall, this film is not for the faint of heart, as it contains disturbing content that may be unsettling for some viewers. However, for those willing to engage with its challenging themes, the film offers a thought-provoking cinematic experience. Its visual artistry and compelling performances elevate it above its narrative shortcomings, making it a standout entry in the festival lineup.