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Mallari (2023)
Compelling Plot Marred by Gratuitous Jump Scares
The film "Mallari" boasts a captivating plot intricately linked to Philippine history and urban legend. The commendable acting skills of all characters significantly contribute to the film's appeal. The pacing of the movie strikes a perfect balance-neither too fast nor too slow, preventing viewers from experiencing boredom or confusion.
Regrettably, the movie's downside lies in the inclusion of unnecessary jump scares, creating an abrupt disruption in the flow of the film. This drawback proves to be a significant dent in the overall quality of an otherwise promising story.
Despite this setback, it's important to note that "Mallari" still stands as a commendable horror film, especially when compared to the usual offerings in the Philippine horror genre. Its compelling plot, historical ties, and the commendable performances of the cast elevate it above many counterparts, making it a worthwhile watch for enthusiasts of the genre.
Can't Buy Me Love (2023)
Noticeable slow pacing and several unnecessary scenes
Title: "Can't Buy Me Love"
The show presents an intriguing premise by focusing on Chinese influence in the Philippines. However, it falls short due to a recycled plot and conflicts. Given its status as a Netflix-produced series, a 10 to 20-episode format would have been more suitable. The excessively slow pacing becomes noticeable to viewers, making the series feel prolonged.
Certain scenes (NOT ALL), especially those involving the main characters Caroline and Bingo, are not only useless to the plot but also tedious. The series often appears to struggle with maintaining a clear story direction, and the attempt to extend episodes becomes overly evident. Fortunately, being a Netflix series allows viewers to fast forward and skip such scenes.
On a positive note, the charm and acting skills of the secondary characters, Irene and Snoop, stand out. They bring vitality to the entire show, keeping the audience engaged and interested.
A Very Good Girl (2023)
Didn't quite live up to expectation
The acting was wooden, particularly the portrayal of the protagonist, which often leaned toward overacting. While many fans seem eager to defend it by labeling the movie as "campy," it's essential to note that a film can still maintain a level of tastefulness even with a campy vibe. Unfortunately, in this case, the balance wasn't quite achieved.
The plot twist and revelation at the end were disappointingly executed. It felt as if the filmmakers were trying to inject a shocking element into the story, but the result was more of a jarring disconnect. For a plot twist to be effective, it needs to seamlessly integrate with the existing narrative, offering a fresh perspective rather than feeling forced.
Christmas for Keeps (2021)
Boundaries aren't respected for the sake of the main character's needs
The movie would have been great hadn't been for the selfish main character that the movie frames to be good. Yeah, sure, it's important for her to commemorate for important people in her life, but guilting her "friends" is not it. One of her friends is a father who said he's on parenting duty, so he couldn't participate in her plan. And she said, "You're always on parenting duty." Well Avery, it might be a surprise to you, but parents are always on parenting duties, even fathers. Another scenario was when her doctor friend was on duty and Avery complained about that. Sorry Main Character, sick people still exist even if bad things personally happen to you. It's like only her situation and feelings matter. And I despise it when movies do that. Guilting others for having their problems for the main character's personal growth is giving selfish, narcissistic villain. What's worse, as the movie progresses, all the characters just throw the word "consent" and "boundary" out of their vocabulary. Don't get me wrong, I know the difference between encourage and disrespect, EVEN IN CHRISTMAS MOVIES.
Christmas in the Pines (2021)
it should have been a fantasy Christmas movie
It's like the characters are living in a wonderful world where conflicts and problems do not exist. The main character wants to have a good Christmas but does not want to go Christmas shopping? Are they living in Santa's village where everything is available in just a snap? Even Santa's village need elves to help each other.
"What about those in need?"
Ugh. All people need something. You can help the needy while also buying something for yourself. This movie is full of pick-me girls, except for the college student.
In short, full of pick-me people and unrealistic elements. It's already 2023, level up your movies.