In the past months, Filipino directors have shared their work with us, releasing films online that you may have missed in the cinema. It’s not every day we get the opportunity to watch these films for free (and legally), so here’s what to include in your next movie marathon.
Senior Year (2010)
Before “Heneral Luna” and “Goyo: Ang Batang Heneral,” there was “Senior Year,” Jerrold Tarog’s depiction of the life of high schoolers just months before graduation. The film is satisfyingly candid, following teenagers navigating love and future careers. Even without a star-studded cast, the film’s success lies in its well-told simplicity.
Watch it on Jerrold Tarog’s Vimeo.
I’m Drunk, I Love You (2017)
Jaime Habac Jr.’s “I’m Drunk, I Love You” has become one of the country’s quintessential modern romantic comedies. Following the story of Carson (Maja Salvador) who has been in love with her best friend Dio (Paulo Avelino) for seven years, the film tugs at the heartstrings of both the brokenhearted and hopeless romantics.
Watch it on YouTube.
Neomanila (2017)
Fresh off the success of “Birdshot,” Mikhail Red creates a neo-noir thriller set in modern-day Manila amid the war on drugs. “Neomanila” follows Toto, a young boy targeted by rival gangs and corrupt officials. He is rescued by Irma, a professional hitman, who trains him to catch drug dealers and users. In this film, Red proves his directorial chops with a story that reflects on today’s political climate.
Watch it on YouTube.
Women of the Weeping River (2016)
Director Sheron R. Dayoc’s film centers on a civil war between two Muslim communities in Mindanao. Winning Best Film in the 2016 QCinema Festival, “Women of the Weeping River” features neophyte actress Laila Ulao breathing life into the compelling story of two Mindanaoan clans engaged in a generations-old blood feud. While the men continue to wage war, the women meet in private to seek possible reconciliation between the two clans.
Watch it on YouTube.
Bar Boys (2017)
In Kip Obeanda’s “Bar Boys,” the “iskolar ng bayan” narrative takes a more sinister turn. Examining the culture of academic competition, the movie follows the story of four friends who become rivals once they enter law school.
Watch it on YouTube.
Shift (2013)
Exploring an individual’s seach for love and identity, Siege Ledesma’s “Shift” focuses on the relationship between tomboy Estella (Yeng Constantino) who falls in love with her openly gay friend Trevor (Felix Roco).
Watch it on YouTube.
Header photo courtesy of Jeshoots on Unsplash
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