#2023SummerMMFF: Apag

I personally expected a little to none in this lonesome family drama entry in the 1st Summer Metro Manila Film Festival, but what they’ll serve you is indeed a feast of multiple proportions, the trailer of the movie did not even gave justice to what you will see for about an hour and a half. Apag felt like a combination of  themes from different international titles like The Menu and the critically acclaimed Parasite rolled into that Kapampangan movie. 

We really can't deny the directing prowess of the great Brillante Mendoza, was seen and felt throughout the mood and the setting of the story, everything that appeared on the screen does really make sense as Direk Brillante's narrative slowly builds up the foundation of the story until everything was revealed up until the shocking conclusion unfolds.

Although the narrative was good, the cinematography wasn't as good as the movie used too much one-take long shots that looked awkward and unpleasant, the desire of wanting to have a unique and aesthetic cinematography turned out to be shaky and pain in the eyes to watch as the shaking of the camera was too much. 

Thankfully, despite the failure of the visuals that was presented, Apag quickly redeemed itself with the plot twist that was executed well and was smoothly disclosed. 

When it comes to the acting department, hands down Ms. Gladys Reyes deserved the Best Actress plum that she received, Coco Martin's performance was a little toned down as I was expecting him to deliver intense performance that is worthy of atleast a nomination.  

The rest of the cast delivered well in this movie from Senator Lito Lapid, Jaclyn Jose, and Mercedes Cabral was astounding. Moreover, the whole cast speaking Kapampangan language during the entirety of the film was already a feat alone.

Apag was a respectable piece that showcased the culture, language, food, and the people of Pampanga. Though it is visually was quite disappointing, it can still pass as one of those movies that you’ll crave for after the credits starts to roll.