From among the hundreds of Filipino film titles mentioned, these are the selected Filipino films which garnered the most votes and voted by Filipino viewers. Only the film selections with at least 14 votes and above were included here.
1. Magnifico (2003)
1. Magnifico (2003)
Directed By: Maryo J. De Los Reyes Story: Michiko Yamamoto
Cast: Jiro Manio, Lorna Tolentino, Albert Martinez, Gloria Romero, Celia Rodriguez, Mark Gil, Tonton Gutierrez, Amy Austria, Cherry Pie Picache, Danilo Barrios, Susan Africa, Isabella De Leon, Dindin Llarena, Joseph Roble, Girlie Sevilla
Magnifico is a 2003 Filipino FAMAS Award-winning drama film directed by Maryo J. De los Reyes, written by Michiko Yamamoto, and starring Jiro Manio, Lorna Tolentino, Albert Martinez, Gloria Romero.
Even though he is not good in school and belongs to a poor and unfortunate family, Magnifico still have a big heart and a large amount of optimism that enabled him to help not only his family but also the community.
Set in an impoverished town, a couple begins to lose hope and courage when faced with life's adversities - a daughter who suffers from cerebral palsy, a son who loses his scholarship, and a young boy named Magnifico or Ikoy, who is not so good in school. But Ikoy has a good heart and a large spirit that allows him to give joy to hopeless people in their community and magically transforms their lives for the better. With Ikoy's grandmother is discovered to have stomach cancer which has reached uncontrollable stage.
Magnifico gained international acclaim as an indie film in major international film festivals gaining 31 wins and 11 other nominations. It won the Crystal Bear for the the 2004 Berlin International Film Festival Children's Category as well as the Deutsches Kinderhilfswerk Grand Prix. In the same year, it also garnered seven major awards in the FAMAS Awards, seven awards in the Gawad Urian Awards, seven awards in the Golden Screen Awards and six awards in the FAP Awards in its home country. In 2011, the Gawad Urian Awards Committee proclaimed Magnifico as the "Best Film of the Decade". It received positive rave reviews from foreign film critics. Currently, it holds a 63% "fresh" rating from Rotten Tomatoes.
12. Hihintayin Kita Sa Langit - Will Wait For You In Heaven (1991)
A 1991 film adaptation of the classic English novel Wuthering Heights by Emily Brontë.
2. Anak (2000)
Directed By: Rory B. Quintos Story: Ricardo Lee, Raymond Lee
Cast: Vilma Santos, Claudine Barretto, Joel Torre, Baron Geisler, Sheila Mae Alvero, Amy Austria, Cherry Pie Picache, Leandro Muñoz, Tess Dumpit, Cris Michelena, Hazel Ann Mendoza, Daniel Morial, Gino Paul Guzman, Jodi Sta. Maria, Odette Khan
The main character is a Filipina overseas contract worker, one of the many residents of the archipelago who is forced to leave her family and take a higher paying job in Hong Kong. While she is working her employer refused to let her take a vacation, nor does he deliver her mail to her. She is unaware, therefore, that her husband has died. When she finally returns to the Philippines she is met with resentment and hatred by her children. The movie studies how she overcomes these feelings and rebuilds the relationship with her family. The film shows us the hardship, difficulties, sacrifices and the insurmountable odds the Filipino migrant workers faces working in foreign lands just to raise their family.
Famous Quote / Movie Line:
Bakit ang ama, makapag-trabaho lang sya at maibigay ang pangangailangan ng anak mabuti na sa paningin ng iba?!… pero bakit ang ina ginawa mo ng lahat… nagpakapagod ka, masama parin sa paningin ng iba?!"- Vilma Santos
“Sana sa tuwing umiinom ka ng alak…habang hinihitit mo ang sigarilyo mo at habang nilulustay mo ang perang pinapadala ko! Sana maisip mo rin kung ilang pagkain ang tiniis kong hindi kainin para lang makapagpadala ako ng malaking pera rito. Sana habang nakahiga ka diyan sa kutson mo, natutulog, maisip mo rin kung ilang taon akong natulog mag-isa habang nangungulila ako sa yakap ng mga mahal ko. Sana maisip mo kahit kaunti kung gaano kasakit sa akin ang mag-alaga ng mga batang hindi ko kaano-ano samantalang kayo, kayong mga anak ko hindi ko man lang maalagaan. Alam mo ba kung gaano kasakit iyon sa isang ina? Alam mo bang gaano kasakit iyon? Kung hindi mo ako kayang ituring bilang isang ina. Respetuhin mo man lang ako bilang isang tao. Yung lang Carla…yun man lang.” - Vilma Santos as Josie Agbisit
In front of her congregation, Elsa, apprehensive at first, eventually professed that there were no miracles, no sightings of the Virgin, and pleaded that people themselves invent gods, miracles, curses and such. In the middle of her speech, a gun pointed towards her, was fired, hitting her on her chest and a violent stampede ensued. The old and infirm who came to be healed, including children were trampled upon in the mass hysteria. Injuries were everywhere.
Elsa gasped her last breath in her mother's arms, looking towards the sky while Orly and other reporters captured her last moment on their cameras. Wailing and crying ensued after the announcement of her death, and the crowd started gravitating towards her. As Elsa was being taken to a waiting ambulance, her followers lifted her lifeless body overhead, in a crucifix position, as the crowd wanted to touch her. Crowds were scampering all over the hill as they followed Elsa down to the car. Against her husband's will, Sepa shouted to the crowd, proclaiming that Elsa was a saint, a martyr for the world's suffering. She led the congregation in praying the Hail Mary on their knees going up the hill as the ambulance carrying Elsa drove away.
The film's script was written by the award winning screenwriter Ricky Lee based on a true incident of a teenage girl in Cabra Island in the province of Occidental Mindoro between 1966 and 1967. It broke trends in Philippine filmmaking by featuring only one known actress in the cast with support from unknown television and legit stage performers.
4. Tanging Yaman (Subtitle: Change Of Heart) (2000)
3. Himala - Miracle (1982)
Directed By: Ishmael Bernal Story: Ricardo Lee
Cast: Nora Aunor, Veronica Palileo, Spanky Manikan, Gigi Dueñas, Vangie Labalan, Laura Centeno, Ama Quiambao, Ben Almeda, Cris Daluz, Aura Mijares, Joel Lamangan, Ray Ventura, Pen Medina
Himala is a landmark 1982 film directed by Ishmael Bernal. It tells the story of a young woman in a small town in the Philippines who claims to have seen an apparition of the Blessed Virgin Mary and suddenly begins to exhibit healing powers. More than a movie about faith-healing, the film is an excellent commentary on Third World poverty and backward and contradictory rural customs. The lead role is superbly played by one of the country's premier dramatic actresses, Nora Aunor.
Himala is the story of Elsa, a barrio woman whose visions of the Virgin Mary changes her life and cause a sensation hysteria in a poor, isolated northern village in the midst of drought. The setting is a small town named Cupang, a community set in an arid landscape. The townsfolk believed that the drought they were having was a curse placed upon the town for driving away a leper years before. During a solar eclipse, Elsa (Aunor) a local young woman allegedly saw an apparition of the Blessed Virgin Mary atop a barren hill, the same place where her adoptive mother Aling Salíng (Labalan) found her as a baby. Right after, she started faith healing local residents assisted by her friends, Chayong (Centeno) and Sepa (Quiambao), who eventually became part of her "Seven Apostles", including entrepreneur Mrs. Alba (Palileo). Word spread around and soon pilgrims and tourists started arriving in Cupang to visit Elsa's house, distinguished by the big sign "Elsa loves you," to see her. At the same time, enterprising residents of Cupang started businesses like selling religious articles, offering accommodations, among others, capitalizing on the sudden influx of local and foreign patients and tourists. Borly (Spanky Manikan), a filmmaker arrived in town to make a documentary about Elsa, interviewing her and people who personally know her. Around the same time, Elsa's childhood friend Nimia (Dueñas), now a prostitute returned and established a cabaret (a sleazy nightclub/brothel) for tourists, which was later ordered closed by the Seven Apostles. One day, in the church's confessional, Orly revealed to the town's Catholic priest (Lamangan) that he saw two drugged youths from Manila raping Elsa and Chayong on the hill. The filmmaker was holding a tremendous guilt; instead of helping the two victims, he continued capturing the incident on film, as he needed a scoop for his struggling career. A cholera epidemic spread throughout Cupang, with Sepa's two children dying after eating tainted meat at Elsa's house. Chayong then hanged herself because of shame from the assault. Authorities quarantined Elsa's house, closing it off from patients. Elsa blamed herself for all of the deaths and decided to stop healing. Eventually, the patients and tourists stopped coming, leaving the town the way it was before the hoopla. Elsa started showing signs of pregnancy from the rape. Mrs. Alba concluded (erroneously) that it is "Immaculate Conception" (when she really meant a Virgin birth) and proclaimed that Elsa is truly blessed. At the exact moment, thunder started roaring in the background, followed by pouring rain. The townspeople rejoiced and played in the rain, convinced that the miracle has returned and that the curse was finally lifted. Mrs. Alba and the crowd returned to Elsa's house and called out to her. She commanded her followers to call everybody to assemble on the hill.
In front of her congregation, Elsa, apprehensive at first, eventually professed that there were no miracles, no sightings of the Virgin, and pleaded that people themselves invent gods, miracles, curses and such. In the middle of her speech, a gun pointed towards her, was fired, hitting her on her chest and a violent stampede ensued. The old and infirm who came to be healed, including children were trampled upon in the mass hysteria. Injuries were everywhere.
Elsa gasped her last breath in her mother's arms, looking towards the sky while Orly and other reporters captured her last moment on their cameras. Wailing and crying ensued after the announcement of her death, and the crowd started gravitating towards her. As Elsa was being taken to a waiting ambulance, her followers lifted her lifeless body overhead, in a crucifix position, as the crowd wanted to touch her. Crowds were scampering all over the hill as they followed Elsa down to the car. Against her husband's will, Sepa shouted to the crowd, proclaiming that Elsa was a saint, a martyr for the world's suffering. She led the congregation in praying the Hail Mary on their knees going up the hill as the ambulance carrying Elsa drove away.
The film is centered on the issues of religious faith and faithlessness, morality, and truth.
Ishmael Bernal's film may be read as a parable of “art” and “life, “faith and fact, hope and despair, in a society driven to desperation by widespread destitution. A filmmaker (Spanky Manikan) plays a pivotal role in the unfolding of the story of a village “miracle-maker” (Nora Aunor) who in claiming the Virgin has appeared to her, consequently brings the dying barrio to life. Bernal's parable is both philosophical and political. The filmmaker seems to have been set up as a representation of the artist who believes his art is a simple transcript of reality and finds himself confounded by the morality of condoning “untruth” by his failure to expose the outrage on the “miracle-maker.” The political aspect, in retrospect, is Bernal's damning comment on the deceptions being foisted by the Marcos dictatorship on the Filipino-- the fiction that Martial law had brought about the “miracle” of eradicating poverty and unrest in Philippine society.
The film's script was written by the award winning screenwriter Ricky Lee based on a true incident of a teenage girl in Cabra Island in the province of Occidental Mindoro between 1966 and 1967. It broke trends in Philippine filmmaking by featuring only one known actress in the cast with support from unknown television and legit stage performers.
The film's international honors include the Bronze Hugo Prize at the 1983 Chicago International Film Festival. Himala is also the Manunuri ng Pelikulang Pilipino's choice as one of the best films of the 1980s.
In 1983, became the first Filipino film to be included in the "Competition Section" of the prestigious Berlin International Film Festival. Since then, Himala has been exhibited in a number of film festivals around the world.
She almost won the best actress prize at the 1983 Berlin International Film Festival where the film vied for the Golden Bear Award, having been personally handpicked by Festival Director Moritz de Hadeln himself to be part of the official selection.
On 11 November 2008, Himala won the Viewer's Choice Award for the Best Film of all Time from the Asia-Pacific Region in the 2008 CNN Asia Pacific Screen Awards beating out nine other outstanding movies.(voted by thousands of film fans around the world). The ten finalists were chosen by critics, industry insiders and actors—including Bollywood stars Amitabh Bachchan and Aishwarya Rai.
Famous Quote / Movie Line:
"Waláng himalà! Ang himalà ay nasa puso ng tao, nasa puso nating lahat! Tayo ang gumagawâ ng mga himalà! Tayo ang gumagawâ ng mga sumpâ at ng mga diyos..."" - Elsa played by Nora Aunor
("There are no miracles! Miracles are in people's hearts, in all our hearts! We are the ones who make miracles! We are the ones who make curses, and gods...")
4. Tanging Yaman (Subtitle: Change Of Heart) (2000)
Directed By: Laurice Guillen Story: Ricardo Lee
Cast: Nora Aunor, Veronica Palileo, Spanky Manikan, Gigi Dueñas, Vangie Labalan, Laura Centeno, Ama Quiambao, Ben Almeda, Cris Daluz, Aura Mijares, Joel Lamangan, Ray Ventura, Pen Medina
The decision of three siblings to sell their ailing mother's property causes deeply burried resentment to resurface as each of them also faces difficulties within their own families.
Separated by both physical and emotional distance, siblings Danny (Johnny Delgado), Art (Edu Manzano) and Grace (Dina Bonnevie) settle a land dispute whilst their mother Dolores "Loleng" Rosales (Gloria Romero) succumbs to debilitating disease. Old resentments begin to surface and spill over to the next generation as they cope with Loleng's sickness and the tract of land left to them by their deceased father.
After their father's death, long-estranged siblings Danny (Johnny Delgado), Art (Edu Manzano) and Grace (Dina Bonnevie) revisit their family home to deal with a property dispute. Though they haven't spoken in years, their sudden proximity immediately rekindles old arguments and resentments, compounded by the worsening Alzheimer's disease of their mother, Loleng (Gloria Romero). When she resumes her matriarchal role, however, Loleng still has the power to bring her family together.
5. Oro Plata Mata (1982)
The decision of three siblings to sell their ailing mother's property causes deeply burried resentment to resurface as each of them also faces difficulties within their own families.
Separated by both physical and emotional distance, siblings Danny (Johnny Delgado), Art (Edu Manzano) and Grace (Dina Bonnevie) settle a land dispute whilst their mother Dolores "Loleng" Rosales (Gloria Romero) succumbs to debilitating disease. Old resentments begin to surface and spill over to the next generation as they cope with Loleng's sickness and the tract of land left to them by their deceased father.
After their father's death, long-estranged siblings Danny (Johnny Delgado), Art (Edu Manzano) and Grace (Dina Bonnevie) revisit their family home to deal with a property dispute. Though they haven't spoken in years, their sudden proximity immediately rekindles old arguments and resentments, compounded by the worsening Alzheimer's disease of their mother, Loleng (Gloria Romero). When she resumes her matriarchal role, however, Loleng still has the power to bring her family together.
5. Oro Plata Mata (1982)
Directed By: Peque Gallaga
Cast: Manny Ojeda, Liza Lorena, Sandy Andolong, Cherie Gil, Fides Cuyugan-Asensio, Joel Torre, Mitch Valdez, Lorli Villanueva, Ronnie Lazaro, Abbo dela Cruz, Mely Mallari, Mary Walter, Agustin Gatia, Robert Antonio, Benjamin Delina
A tale set in World War II Philippines about how a wealthy family copes up with the war and how the people change amidst violence and death. Gallaga’s grandiose epic on the second World War’s impact on the country’s landed elite is a powerful commentary on ordinary humans' capacity for evil.
It tells the story of a family who is scared to be involved in the war and decided to go to the woods in which they have created huts and rooms for their family but the longer they stay there the nearer they get to danger. Set in the Philippine province of Negros during World War II, it tells the story of how two haciendero families cope with the changes brought about by the war. In translation, the movie is also known either as "Gold, Silver, Bad Luck" or "Gold, Silver, Death."
The title refers to an old Filipino architectural superstition saying that design elements in a house (particularly staircases) should not end in a multiple of three, in keeping with a pattern of oro (gold), plata (silver), and mata (bad luck). The film is structured in three parts that depict this pattern played out in the lives of the main characters, from a life of luxury and comfort in the city ("oro/gold"), to a still-luxurious time of refuge in a provincial hacienda ("plata/silver"), and finally to a retreat deeper into the mountains, where they are victimized by a bandit guerilla ("mata/bad luck").
Oro Plata Mata traces the changing fortunes of two aristocratic families in Negros during World War II. The Ojeda family is celebrating Maggie Ojeda's (Andolong) debut. In the garden, Trining (Gil) receives her first kiss from Miguel Lorenzo (Torre), her childhood sweetheart. Don Claudio Ojeda (Ojeda) and his fellow landowners talk about war. The youngest guest mocks Miguel's refusal to join the army and brands him mamas boy. The celebration is cut short by news of the fall of the Corregidor. As the war nears the city, the Ojedas accept the invitation extended by the Lorenzos, their old family friends, to stay with them in their provincial hacienda. Nena Ojeda (Lorena) and Inday Lorenzo (Asensio) try to deny the realities of war by preserving their pre-war lifestyle. Pining for her fiancé, Maggie goes through bouts of melancholy. Miguel and Trining turn from naughty children into impetuous adults. Two more family friends a doctor, Jo Russell (Valdez), guerillas and Viring (Villanueva) join them. As the enemy advance, the families move to the Lorenzos forest lodge. A group of weary guerillas arrive and Jo tends to their injuries. The guerillas leave Hermes Mercurio (Lazaro) behind. Miguel endures more comments of the same kind when he fails to take action against a Japanese soldier who came upon the girls bathing in the river. It is Mercurio who kills the Japanese. Maggie comforts Miguel, who decides to learn how to shoot from Mercurio. Meanwhile, Virings jewelry is stolen by Melchor (de la Cruz), the trusted foreman. He justifies his action as a reward for his services. He tries to break the other servant's loyalty, but they force Melchor to leave. Later, Melchor and his band of thieves return. They raid the food supplies, rape Inday and chop off Viray's fingers when she did not take off her ring. Trining goes with the bandits despite all the crimes they have committed against her family. These experiences committed Maggie and Miguel closer together. Miguel urges the survivors to resume their mahjong games to help them cope. Miguel is determined to hunt the bandits down and bring Trining back. He catches them but his courage is replaced with blood lust, driving him to a killing spree. An epilogue follows the violent climax. The Americans have liberated the Philippines from Japan. A party was held in the Ojeda's home to announce Maggie and Miguel's betrothal. The survivors attempt to reclaim their previous lifestyle, but the war has changed the world, just as it has forever marked each of them.
6. Maynila Sa Mga Kuko ng Liwanag - Manila In The Claws Of Neon Light (1975)
Directed By: Lino Brocka Story: Edgardo Reyes
Cast: Hilda Koronel, Bembol Roco, Lou Salvador Jr., Joonee Gamboa, Pio de Castro III, Danilo Posadas, Joe Jardy, Spanky Manikan, Edipolo Erosido, Pancho Pelagio, Purita Yap, Josephine Gutierrez
Julio Madiaga is a probinsyano or a simple countryside boy who arrived in Manila. From time to time, Julio would pass by the corner of Ongpin and Misericordia as he stares at a peculiar building from a distance. While pursuing his quest, he has to work in order to survive the conditions of the urban jungle. At first, Julio lands a job as a construction worker. Not used to such labor, he at one point falls unconscious due to fatigue and hunger. In the site, he befriends Atong, a fellow construction worker who was hired for five weeks prior to Julio's employment. Another co-worker advises Julio that city life is quite difficult unless one has the income to enjoy living off the comforts of the city. Julio begins to slowly observe the harsh reality of the society, even witnessing the accidental death of one of the workers. One day, while Julio and Atong were shopping for clothes in the marketplace, a fat lady dressed in black and wearing sunglasses catches Julio's attention. The lady reminds him of Mrs. Cruz, the woman who brought his childhood sweetheart, Ligaya, to Manila to study. Julio immediately runs through the crowd to follow the woman. He successfully locates the woman and approaches her. However, before he could even say anything, the lady yells in distress. Julio instantly flees in order to prevent a scene to be made. Julio runs back to Atong and both of them leave the marketplace. There were other instances when he met Mrs Cruz until it leads him into knowing the truth that his girlfriend was a victim of prostitution. When he met his girlfriend everything was narrated to him. He decided to come back to Marinduque so they agreed to meet at Arranque when Ligaya has brought with her the baby. But Ligaya was unable to come at the time set. Julio came back to Pols house. The next day, Pol told Julio of the truth that Ligaya died last night. Julio was so furious he planned of killing Ah Tek whom he saw at Ligaya's burial. He successfully killed Ah Tek but a mob had run after him and when he was cornered and the mob was ready to attack him, the movie stopped showing Julio's terrible face.
These gloomy stories are set against a backdrop of barren soils, contaminated drainage, garbage-filled lands and slums — perfect to describe the filthy and ugly side of our country. These shots are breathtaking — breathtakingly painful, suffocating and depressing. Brocka painted the picture of our society with power, emphasis and dismal energy that is crying for help and attention. Maynila’s ending is shocking, poignant, angry, emphatic and memorable. The film is based on a story written by Edgardo Reyes and serialized in Liwayway magazine from 1966 to 1967.
During the dangerous time that is the Marcos regime, Brocka crafted a film with a lot of courage. This is a brave endeavor that deserves all the accolades it is receiving up to now. This is one of the films that makes me proud as a Filipino — a masterpiece in every sense of the word. This film won Best Archive Restoration/Preservation Title, FOCAL International Awards 2014 held recently.
7. Bata bata Paano Ka Ginawa? (1998)
Directed By: Chito S. Roño Story: Lualhati Bautista
Cast: Vilma Santos, Carlo Aquino, Serena Dalrymple, Ariel Rivera, Albert Martinez, Raymond Bagatsing, Cherry Pie Picache, Angel Aquino, Rosemarie Gil, Dexter Doria, Cita Astals, Andrea del Rosario, Lucy Quinto
A women's rights activist and mother of two, Lea have been abandoned by the fathers of her children. Her daughter and son are at crucial transitional ages and she struggles to provide for them while maintaining her hectic job at a woman's crisis center. Soon though, the job and her budding romance with co-worker Johnny threaten Lea's role as mother when her children's fathers return to accuse her of neglect.
Famous Quote / Movie Line:
"Akala mo lang wala pero meron, meron, meron" - Carlo Aquino
8. Madrasta (1996)
Directed By: Olivia M. Lamasan
Cast: Sharon Cuneta, Christopher de Leon, Zsa Zsa Padilla, Claudine Barretto, Patrick Garcia, Camille Prats, Nida Blanca, Teresa Loyzaga, Eula Valdez, Cris Villanueva, Rico Yan, Koko Trinidad, Tita Muñoz, Vangie Labalan, Cheng Avellana
Mariel (Sharon Cuneta) marries Edward (Christopher de Leon), an annulled man who has three kids namely 15 year-old Rachel (Claudine Barretto), Michael (Patrick Garcia) 11, and Liza (Camille Prats) 5. Mariel knew from the start that it would not be easy and thus a complicated marriage. Aside from being a wife she also needs to become stepmother to her husband’s three children from his previous marriage. Rachel openly dislikes Mariel and makes it a point to make her feel it. Michael, on the other hand, is withdrawn and incommunicative. He shuts out any effort by Mariel to reach out to him. Liza, who hungers for motherly love, gives Mariel a chance. Edward is not much help to Mariel. Clearly he is still suffering from past wounds, particularly on his first wife walking out on him. He has never been good at articulating his feelings least of all to the people he loves. A few years passed and things still don’t get easier for Mariel. She feels more and more alienated from her new family. This is underscored when Sandra (Zsa Zsa Padilla), Edward’s first wife and the children’s mother, comes back from the U. S. for a visit. Sandra’s sudden comeback evokes strong varying reactions from each of the children and Edward. Mariel feels like an intruder not welcome to play a part in this deep familial conflict. Mariel leaves them and returns home to her mother. Away from Edward and the children, Mariel realizes the meaning of her role in the lives of the people she has learned to love. It was a mistake to expect the children to accept her as their new mother. When Edward and the children come for her, Mariel feels ready at last to do what she’s always wanted all along, to come home.
Famous Quote / Movie Line:
"I was never your partner, I’m just your wife... kaya di mo ako nirerespeto." - Sharon Cuneta
9. Jose Rizal (1998)
Directed By: Marilou Diaz-Abaya Story: Ricky Lee, Jun Lana, Peter Ong Lim
Cast: Cesar Montano, Joel Torre, Jaime Fabregas, Gloria Diaz, Ronnie Lazaro, Gardo Versoza, Monique Wilson, Chin Chin Gutierrez, Mickey Ferriols, Pen Medina, Peque Gallaga, Bon Vibar, Subas Herrero, Tony Mabesa, Jhong Hilario
Jose Rizal's life and works are recounted through a series of non-linear flashbacks which reflect on various aspects of his life - as writer, propagandist, lover, friend, brother, doctor, and the man that inspired a revolution.
Imprisoned in Fort Santiago under the abusive Spanish colonization, José Rizal (Cesar Montano) was approached by a young uneducated indio asking the importance of education during his life. Meanwhile, in Balintawak, Andrés Bonifacio (Gardo Versoza) and his fellow secret organization of Katipunan, commenced the uprising against the tyranny created by the Spaniards by tearing their cedula as a sign of Spanish slavery.
Soon, a first lieutenant of the Artillery, Luis Taviel de Andrade (Jamie Fabregas), visited Rizal. Taviel de Andrade did not waste time to study carefully Rizal's case. In just a short period of time, Rizal and Taviel captured each other's sympathy and eventually became friends as they had usual meetings in Rizal's cell in Fort Santiago. Taviel was even able to celebrate Christmas with Rizal in the cell where they drank pan get and sang together.
After Christmas, Rizal was sent to Royal Audiencia (the colonial court of appeal) to hear the trial against him. Soon after, the magistrates decided to condemn him under firing squad on the 30th of the morning in Luneta.
At the night before the execution, Rizal hallucinates, seeing his alter ego-protagonist Simoun of his novel El Filibusterismo tempting the author to change the climax of the story.
On the morning of the execution, his kin received a small alcohol stove (not a gas lamp as commonly portrayed) from his cell containing the last poem "Mi Ultimo Adios." Stopping at the place of execution facing the rising sun, Rizal asked the authorities for a last request as he faces the firing squad but the request is denied. Calm and without haste, he changed his request to save his head during execution and the captain agrees. At the moment the shooting squad points at his back, he readily uttered his final words: Consummatum est. (It is done.)
After the execution, members of the Katipunan had ambushed a Spanish military company somewhere in Manila, completely catching the Spanish forces off guard and seized their mounts, munitions and their rifles. They had also captured a church and executed a friar in an act of vengeance for the execution of Rizal. Bonifacio and his top generals met in their headquarters to plan a new offensive seeking to capture 10 towns in a duration of a week from the Spanish. Rizal's picture can be seen at the background of his headquarters.
Famous Quote / Movie Line:
José Rizal: Ikinulong nila, pinatay nila, hinukay sa libingan, itinapon; ganyan ang ginawa ng iyong mga kababayan sa karangalan at kasaysayan ng aking mga kalahi!
Luis Taviel de Andrade: Hindi naman siguro ganoon kasama ang lahat Senor Rizal...
José Rizal: Ilang taon ka na ba rito sa Pilipinas Taviel?
Luis Taviel de Andrade: Bakit?
José Rizal: Pareho ba tayo ng nakikita? O meron kang ayaw makita?
10. Kisapmata - In Just A Wink Of An Eye (1981)
Directed By: Mike De Leon
Cast: Charo Santos-Concio, Jay Ilagan, Vic Silayan, Charito Solis, Ruben Rustia, Aida Carmona, Juan Rodrigo, Cora Alforja, Dindo Angeles, Edwin O'Hara, Mandy Bustamante, Mely Mallari, Monette Alfon
Dadong Carandang (Silayan), a retired police officer, is the domineering father of Mila (Santos), and he is extremely jealous of the latter's suitors, never allowing them into his house. One day, Mila falls in love with Noel Manalansan (Ilagan) and they decide to seek Dadong's permission to get married. Mila finds out she is pregnant. Dadong agrees on the condition that Noel pay a ridiculously costly dowry as well as shoulder a luxurious wedding. Noel agrees and works hard to meet Dadong's demands Bonoy Carandang (Gonzaga) a dream of father.
After the wedding, Dadong insists that the couple stay in his house. Despite protestations by the couple, they acquiesce. The couple is not allowed to sleep together for various reasons, i.e., that Mila's mother Dely (Solis) is sick and Mila needs to comfort her through the night.
After several months of living in this misery, the couple decides to escape. They were hunted by Dadong, to no avail. One day Dadong changes his tactic and makes some compromises to bring them back. Eventually, the couple decides to go back to Dadong's house, but only to gather their belongings. Dadong pleads with Mila not to leave as it is revealed that he has been carrying out an incestuous relationship with his daughter all along, and the baby is his. When Mila and Noel stand firm on leaving, Dadong is driven to desperation and brings out his gun, shooting Dely, Noel, and then finally, Mila. Seeing to no longer consume himself in such obsession, he shoots himself.
Kisapmata is a 1981 drama film directed by Mike de Leon, written by de Leon and Clodualdo del Mundo Jr., and based on Nick Joaquin's 1968 true crime article entitled "The House on Zapote Street".
It was a breakthrough film as it was the first major treatment of incest in Philippine cinema. The movie was both a critical and box-office success, establishing De Leon as one of the great directors of the new generation. The movie garnered 10 major awards in FAMAS, was presented in Cannes in the Director's Fortnight, and was adjudged by the Manunuri ng Pelikulang Pilipino as one of the 10 Best Films of the 1980s.
The film deals with some strong themes including incest, murder, suicide and parricide.
Though the plot was based on an actual murder case, the movie is an imagined recreation of what led to the homicidal incident. ic Silayan, a patriarch who carries more than mere fatherly love to his daughter, is the ultimate personification of evil here. Unable to accept to accept the impending marriage of his daughter (Charo Santos) to beau Jay Ilagan, he makes life miserable for the pair. Ilagan, slowly learns the hideous secret the family carries and despite his plight, is unable to stop it. The imagery and music add to impending tragedy that awaited everyone. Great acting from Silayan, great directorial work from de Leon!
11. Tinimbang Ka Ngunit Kulang - You Were Weighed But Found Wanting (1974)
Directed By: Lino Brocka Story: Mario O'Hara
Cast: Lolita Rodriguez, Lilia Dizon, Eddie Garcia, Mario O'Hara, Hilda Koronel, Christopher de Leon, Alicia Alonzo, Joseph Sytangco, Rosa Aguirre, Lorli Villanueva, Lily Miraflor, Joonee Gamboa, Ernie Zarate, Mely Mallari, Estrella Kuenzler
The film is set in a relatively small village, where Catholicism rules. The film, as the title suggests, explicitly plays up on the Christian adage that one should not judge one's neighbor, but makes the somewhat obvious case that human beings, however pious they might claim to be, rarely follow that advice.
The story begins with a flashback of Kuala's past. An albularyo (traditional/folk medicine practitioner) performs an abortion on Kuala (Lolita Rodriguez), as Cesar (Eddie Garcia) watches her. The abortion was a success, but when Kuala sees the aborted fetus, she becomes disturbed. In the next scene, she walks in the middle of a grassy plain, and as the heat becomes more and more unbearable, she becomes insane. As the movie returns to the present, Kuala wanders about in dirty clothes and with mangy hair. The townsfolk make fun of Kuala. She is pushed into a watering hole and almost drowned. Bertong Ketong (Mario O'Hara), a leper lonely for female companionship, attracts Kuala with a rattle and takes her to his shack in the cemetery. Junior (Christopher de Leon) makes friends with them, defying the prohibitions of his father, Cesar Blanco, a lawyer and a failed politician. Junior asks Berto's advice concerning his problems with an eccentric teacher, Mr. Del Mundo (Orlando Nadres), who has a crush on him. Junior has problems too with his girlfriend Evangeline (Hilda Koronel), who flirts with her escort during a Santacruzan. The jealous Junior leaves the procession and seeks the company of Milagros (Laurice Guillen), who seduces him. The Asociacion de las Damas Cristianas is scandalized to discover Kuala is pregnant. She is forced to live under the custody of the pious Lola Jacoba (Rosa Aguirre). When Berto makes a clandestine visit to Kuala, she tells him of his unhappiness. Berto tells this to Junior, who resolves to help the pregnant Kuala make an escape from Lola Jacoba's house and lead her back to Berto's shack. However, Burto knows she will be taken away and returns her to Lola Jacoba, and promises to retrieve her after she has given birth. Some nights later, Kuala experiences labor pains. She finds her way to Berto's shack, at which point Berto rushes out to fetch a doctor. When the doctor refuses to help him, Berto takes him hostage but repeats he will not kill him. As Berto flees with the doctor, the doctor's wife shouts for help, awakening the townspeople who rush to follow the fleeing pair. Before Berto and the doctor reach the shack in the cemetery, however, the doctor escapes and a chase ensues. A group of policemen come to the doctor's rescue and shoot Berto. Junior sees this and is shocked; he holds Berto's dead body and cries in front of the whole town. Junior then enters the shack where Kuala has successfully given birth to a baby boy, but the labor has made her weak. Her thinking becomes lucid, and in her sanity she recognizes Junior and realizes that Berto has been killed. She also recognizes Cesar among the crowd; she asks him why he killed their child, revealing his secret. Kuala then gives her baby to Junior, and dies. As Junior leaves the shack, he stared hard at the townspeople, his parents, his former girlfriend and to everyone who were unkind to him, to Berto and to Kuala. He walks near Berto's body and stops by, as the people look on in silence. Junior leaves the cemetery with Berto and Kuala's baby. Their stories draw forth the true nature of hypocrisy in the small town and the boy bears witness and participates in the various emotions that throb under the seemingly quiet village life-prejudice, cruelty, forgiveness, and even love. In Tinimbang, Brocka clearly shows man's limitations as a mortal being, but sends a message of hope for the movie, and in the end, speaks ultimately of rebirth and maturity. This film is an emotionally-charged and stinging commentary on the evils of humanity, the kind of humanity that each and every one of us are capable of, or at the very least, we turn our heads and ignore, preferring not to think of such unpleasantries. The film was considered by Lino Brocka as his first novel and also his first production for his own film outfit. Actor Christopher de Leon is introduced in this film as his debut.
12. Hihintayin Kita Sa Langit - Will Wait For You In Heaven (1991)
Directed By: Carlos Siguion-Reyna Story: Raquel Villavicencio (Screenplay)
Cast: Richard Gomez, Dawn Zulueta, Michael de Mesa, Jackie Lou Blanco, Eric Quizon, Vangie Labalan, Joe Mari Avellana, Guila Alvarez, Gio Alvarez, Jomari Yllana, Judy Cobar, Jeffrey Coronel, Ramir Arce Romero, May Gorospe, Lynn Cruz, Sonny Viana, Ricky Yu, Alfon Miranda
Cast: Richard Gomez, Dawn Zulueta, Michael de Mesa, Jackie Lou Blanco, Eric Quizon, Vangie Labalan, Joe Mari Avellana, Guila Alvarez, Gio Alvarez, Jomari Yllana, Judy Cobar, Jeffrey Coronel, Ramir Arce Romero, May Gorospe, Lynn Cruz, Sonny Viana, Ricky Yu, Alfon Miranda
A 1991 film adaptation of the classic English novel Wuthering Heights by Emily Brontë.
Mistreated foundling Gabriel (Richard Gomez) and his stepsister Carmina (Dawn Zulueta) fall in love, but when she marries a wealthy man, he becomes obsessed with getting revenge, even well into the next generation.
Don Joaquin (Jose Mari Avellana) adopts the young orphan Gabriel (Jomari Yllana/Richard Gomez) who grows up in a sprawling hacienda with his daughter Carmina (Guila Alvarez/Dawn Zulueta) and his son Milo (Gio Alvarez/Michael de Mesa). An envious Milo is subsequently banished after beating up Gabriel. As a young girl, Carmina loves to fantasize about royalty and being a princess with Gabriel as her prince. All is well for Gabriel and Carmina until the old Don dies and the vengeful Milo throws Gabriel out of the house to live in the stable as a farmhand. Carmina and Gabriel, being passionately in love, spend all their time together on a promontory near the sea until Carmina meets the rich and prominent Alan Ilustre (Eric Quizon), who dazzles her with expensive gifts and his wealth. Carmina begins to doubt her future with poor Gabriel. Overhearing Carmina's sentiments, Gabriel is heartbroken and goes away to return after a few years to exact his revenge on Milo and reclaim Carmina.
Short: Carmina begins to doubt her future with poor Gabriel when another suitor dazzles her with expensive gifts. Overhearing Carmina's sentiments, Gabriel is heartbroken and goes away to return a wealthy man to prove his worthiness to Carmina.
13. Batch '81 (1982)
Directed By: Mike De Leon
Cast: Mark Gil, Sandy Andolong, Ward Luarca, Noel Trinidad, Ricky Sandixo, Jimmy Javier, Rod Leido
Batch '81 follows the experiences of seven neophytes who are seeking acceptance into the Alpha Kappa Omega fraternity through a difficult hazing process. The entire experience is seen through the eyes of Sid Lucero, one of the neophytes. The film faced trouble during the Marcos regime but was acclaimed by international critics.
This was the last film ever released by Sampaguita Pictures before the latter closed shop. Gil's son Tim Eigenmann turned a year old on the same year the film was released. Tim would go on to adopt his father's film character's name Sid Lucero as his stage name when he himself became an actor upon growing up.
One of the few films screened at the Director's Fortnight of the 1982 Cannes Film Festival.
One of the few films screened at the Director's Fortnight of the 1982 Cannes Film Festival.
14. Insiang (1976)
Directed By: Lino Brocka Story: Mario O'Hara
Cast: Hilda Koronel, Mona Lisa, Ruel Vernal, Rez Cortez, Marlon Ramirez, Nina Lorenzo, Mely Mallari, Carpi Asturias, George Atutubo, Eddie Pagayon
A beautiful girl gets raped by her mother's lover, and then learns how to exact revenge.
The story centers on a teenage girl, Insiang (Hilda Koronel), who is trapped by a mundane life of poverty in Tondo, a slum district of Manila. In the opening scene, countless pigs scream helplessly against the shrill whine of machines carving them from living beings into chunks of flesh. The image mirrors the brutal and callous world Insiang faces daily.
Insiang is the only child of Tonia (Mona Lisa), a market vendor abandoned by her husband. Insiang's mother sees her only as a reminder of the irresponsible husband who left her for no apparent reason. Mother and daughter live in a slum shanty with the parasitic relatives of Tonia's husband. Tonia, however, has a "live-in" partner called Dado (Ruel Vernal), a hoodlum who is also attracted to Insiang. This causes Tonia to become jealous of her daughter. Insiang has a boyfriend, though, named Bebot. The young girl starts to hate Tonia and Dado even more when Dado stops Bebot from writing to her.
One night, Dado rapes Insiang. When Insiang tells her mother, Tonya believes Dado's tale that Insiang seduced him. The desperate Insiang asks her boyfriend to run away with her. After she and Bebot make love in a cheap motel, Bebot leaves her. Disillusioned, Insiang returns to her mother who accepts her but is determined to prevent Insiang from "seducing" Dado again. With revenge in mind, Insiang yields to Dado's sexual advances, and manipulates him into mauling Bebot in a garbage dump. Meanwhile, Tonya grows more suspicious of her daughter and Dado. Spurred by revenge, Insiang reveals her relationship with Dado to her mother and spurs her on, until Tonia attacks the man with a large knife and butchers him. As a result, Tonia ends up in jail where the formerly innocent Insiang visits her and admits that she planned Tonia's downfall.
Trapped in the slums, Insiang finds living with her disapproving, sharp-tongued mother, Tonya, trying. Tonya, having long ago been abandoned by her husband, takes her bitterness out on those around her. In a fit of anger, she finally throws out her husband's relatives who have been living with her, but it's not for the sake of their not bringing in money anymore, which it seems on the surface. She's making way for her boyfriend, Dado, to move in. Dado, the town bully, is young enough to be her son, and this new living situation becomes the talk of the town. It isn't long before he forces himself upon Insiang. Tonya is at first outraged but soon takes Dado's side and blames her daughter for her own rape. Insiang leaves home to seek support and solace from her ardent would-be boyfriend Bebot, but he proves to be another Lothario as well. Forced to return home, Insiang turns this inescapable situation upon itself to exact revenge.
The film has been called melodramatic, but emotionally stirring. Being the first Filipino film featured at Cannes, Insiang and Koronel as the title character stunned French critics. The film also enjoys periodic revivals at international festivals, such as the New York Film Festival.
Famous Quote / Movie Lines:
Hilda Koronel: Hindi ko siya inaagaw sa inyo. Ako ang mahal niya't hindi kayo.
Mona Lisa: Sinungaling!
Hilda Koronel: Magtatanan kami, lalayo kami rito't pakakasalan niya ako. Wala kayong kwenta sa kanya! Mona Lisa: Hindi ako naniniwala sayo!
Hilda Koronel: Alam niyo ba kung anong sinasabi niya sakin, kung anong ginagawa niyo sa kanya sa kama para masiyahan lamang siya?
Mona Lisa: Tumigil ka!
Hilda Koronel: Oo inay, alam ko ang lahat! Pinagtatapat niya sa akin lahat!
Mona Lisa: Tama na!
Hilda Koronel: At nandidiri siya sa inyo, kaya siya naglalasing bago pumasok sa kwarto niyo. Para masikmura kayo!
Mona Lisa: Tama na!
Hilda Koronel: Yun ang sabi niya. Matanda na kayo inay. Kulubot na ang balat niyo. Kaya't paggising niya sa umaga'y nasusuka siya. Nasusuka sa pagmumukha niyo!!!
15. Milan (2004)
Directed By: Olivia M. Lamasan Story: Raymond Lee
Cast: Claudine Barretto, Piolo Pascual, Ilonah Jean, Iza Calzado, Ryan Eigenmann, Pia Moran, Lotlot de Leon, Ward Luarca, Cecil Paz, At Maculangan, Lollie Mara, Richard Arellano, Irma Adlawan, Maritess Joaquin, Cathy Garcia-Molina, Nuel C. Naval, Elvis Vargas, Chona Zaballa, Melogin Evangelista, Matteo Lucca, Ernie Cortez, Esting Cortez, Jay Rivera, Longo Francisco, Cristina Cortez, Cesare Cortez, Rochelle Tolentino, Ricardo Lorenzi, Jennifer Arcena, Yulan Tejada, Michael Garland
A Filipino (Piolo Pascual) falls in love with another woman (Claudine Barretto) while searching for his wife in Italy.
A Filipino (Piolo Pascual) falls in love with another woman (Claudine Barretto) while searching for his wife in Italy.
Milan details the attempt of Lino (Piolo Pascual) to look for Mary Grace (Iza Calzado), his missing wife who a mere week after their wedding, left the Philippines to work in Milan and since then, has not communicated with him. He deviates from his mission when he meets Jenny (Claudine Barretto), a shrewd and street-smart Filipina who has been living and working in Milan and has decided to help Lino look for his wife. Lino and Jenny become romantically entangled, as the former finds a job and finally, a direction to his once unguided life.
This story follows the journey of naive Lino (Piolo Pascual) as he searches for his missing wife in Italy. He comes across Jenny (Claudine Barretto), an imposing figure in the Filipino community of migrant workers, whose dreams of grandeur have clouded her need for personal relationships. In a desperate quest and game of survival, the two find refuge and affirmation in each other. What started as a mentor-protégé relationship, Lino and Jennys partnership evolves beautifully into a self-consuming love affair. Until these two are put to a test. Reality bites as the land changes everything. In the end, it matters not for Lino that he finds his wife for he has found himself. And alas, it matters not for Jenny that she sacrifices for love, for she has learned to give, in order to live again.
16. One More Chance (2007)
Directed By: Cathy Garcia-Molina Story: Vanessa R. Valdez, Carmi Raymundo
Cast: John Lloyd Cruz, Bea Alonzo, Derek Ramsay, Maja Salvador, Dimples Romana, James Blanco, Janus del Prado, Ahron Villena, Bea Saw, Nikki Gil, Nanette Inventor, Denise Joaquin, Al Tantay, Melissa Mendez, Sharmaine Buencamino, Bodjie Pascua, Robert Woods, Lauren Young, Jodell Stasic, Janna Trias, Gee Canlas, Malaya Lewandowski, Epifania Limon, Jethro Mañego, Gerry Bricenio, Crisanto Aquino, Barry Gonzalez, Raymond Diamzon, Joe Jardi
A long-time couple seem destined for marriage, but frictions and differing ambitions break them apart. As they try to move on with their lives they are continually reminded of what they once had, and temptation to go back is never far away.
Longtime couple Basha (Bea Alonzo) and Popoy (John Lloyd Cruz) are practically inseparable, so when they split up, it's not surprising how heartbroken each feels. But Basha, stifled by the relationship, wants to spread her wings, and Popoy loves her too much to stand in her way. Struggling to build their lives anew, the onetime lovers face daily reminders of their happier times together even as they try to chart their own paths.
A long-time couple seem destined for marriage, but frictions and differing ambitions break them apart. As they try to move on with their lives they are continually reminded of what they once had, and temptation to go back is never far away.
Longtime couple Basha (Bea Alonzo) and Popoy (John Lloyd Cruz) are practically inseparable, so when they split up, it's not surprising how heartbroken each feels. But Basha, stifled by the relationship, wants to spread her wings, and Popoy loves her too much to stand in her way. Struggling to build their lives anew, the onetime lovers face daily reminders of their happier times together even as they try to chart their own paths.
17. Sister Stella L. (1984)
Directed By: Mike de Leon
Cast: Vilma Santos, Jay Ilagan, Gina Alajar, Laurice Guillen, Tony Santos, Anita Linda, Liza Lorena, Eddie Infante, Ruben Rustia, Adul de Leon, Malou de Guzman
Labor, politics and religion are the issues that come in conflict in Sister Stella L. The film tells the story of Sister Stella Legaspi, a nonpartisan religious, whose pacifist stance is challenged by an older radical colleague, her namesake, and Nick Fajardo, a concerned journalist, her ex-boyfriend, in response to the injustice being perpetrated on a group of factory workers in Barrio Aguho. When a strike is declared at the local oil factory, the young nun is thrown into the thick of the strike and leaves her convent work to help the workers in their efforts against unfair labor practices. While she looks upon the matter as an opportunity to put into practice the teachings of Christ, the strikers on the other hand are quick to realize the strategic advantage of having nuns at the picket line. This utilitarian stage gradually develops into a relationship of deep involvement. Sister Stella begins to think like a worker. She learns to identify with their cause. Denounced by corporate officials, the strikers and the nuns align themselves together to fight off harassment from management and, paramilitary agents. Upon the order from the higher ranking official, the group's labor leader, Ka Dencio, is abducted, tortured, and killed. But his death fails to destroy the spirit of the protest. The workers, Sister Stella L, and the journalist, resolve to carry on the fight.
Famous Quote / Movie Line:
"Katarungan para kay Ka Dencio" - Vilma Santos
“Kung hindi tayo kikilos, sino ang kikilos? Kung hindi ngayon, kailan pa?”- Tony Santos Sr.
18. Got 2 Believe (2002)
Directed By: Olivia Lamasan Story: Mia Concio
Cast: Claudine Barretto, Rico Yan, Dominic Ochoa, Carlo Muñoz, Nikki Valdez, Cherry Pie Picache, Noel Trinidad, Laura James, Angel Jacob, Vhong Navarro, Wilma Doesnt, Maribeth Bichara, Jackie Castillejos, Nina Ricci Alagao, Cherry Lou, Alwyn Uytingco, Katski Flores, Diane Stephanie Lim, John Manalo, Ingrid Silvino, Edgar Sandalo
A photographer (Rico Yan) publishes a series of pictures detailing a lovelorn wedding planner's (Claudine Barretto) many embarrassing moments as a perpetual bridesmaid.
Tony (Claudine Barretto) is woman desperate to find love. She meets Lawrence (Rico Yan), a photographer, who offers her to help find the man of her dreams. Together, they will discover the real meaning of "True Love".
19. Sana Maulit Muli (2002)
Directed By: Olivia Lamasan Story: Jose Javier Reyes, Olivia Lamasan
Cast: Aga Muhlach, Lea Salonga, William Martinez, Tina Paner, Rosemarie Sonora, Cherry Pie Picache, Tommy Abuel, Gina Pareño, Lorli Villanueva, Raul Aragon, Ric Arellano, Eula Valdez, Lorenzo Mara, Mandy Ochoa, Bill Recana, Jan Marini, Joey Ayala, Joe Jardi, Aida Espiritu, Keith Fazackerly, Evan Gonzales, Judy McAndrew, Erie Vonsuch, Randy Gamier, Al Ickler, Nick Nicholson, Marco Newman, Jay Pangan, Rosa Morato, Jonalyn Basco, Christopher Carmen, William Romero, Arthur Holley, Cristen Labao, Max Thomas, Bernie Bogan, Malen Guerra, Jessica Uy Aranas, Fidel Remollana, Rachel Sotto, Fil Armstrong
The difficulty of maintaining a long-distance relationship drives two lovers apart. Their romance gets a second chance after time passes and they meet again.
Agnes (Lea Salonga), a painfully shy girl, is extremely devoted and dependent on her confident and free-spirited boyfriend Jerry (Aga Muhlach), an idealistic advertising executive. Their differences strengthen their relationship. Agnes then gets petitioned by her absentee mother based in California. As Agnes flies abroad, she finds herself struggling to survive in the US. Everything seems difficult for her, especially because Jerry is not with her. Meanwhile, Jerry spends the days without Agnes guiding his career and develops another relationship with Cynthia (Cherry Pie Picache). Their long distance relationship is weakened until Agnes and Jerry fall apart. In the long run, Agnes learns to cope with the fast-paced lifestyle in the US- she gets a new place, car, and attitude. She becomes totally independent, almost emotionless. One day, Jerry is assigned to join an ad conference in New York. He pays a visit to Agnes with the hopes of winning her back.
Agnes is a meek and dependent girl living with her long-time boyfriend Jerry. When she is invited to live with her estranged mother in California, Jerry pushes her to go through with the trip despite her protests, for him to focus on his work and build his career as an advertising executive. Agnes struggles to survive in the United States and tries several times to return to the country, but Jerry insists on prolonging her stay as he struggles to save up for their marriage and support his parents and siblings. He encourages her to get a job and Agnes starts working as a caregiver. Agnes tries to convince Jerry to let her return again and reasons that she has the money to support herself but Jerry insists that as the man of the relationship, he should be capable of supporting her. Jerry starts to avoid Agnes, stressing Agnes out more. The long distance puts a strain on their relationship and ultimately ends when a scared and distraught Agnes is unable to contact Jerry after being put in danger one night. Time passes and Agnes becomes more independent and outgoing, working hard until she lands a job as a real estate agent. Meanwhile, Jerry travels to the United States and visits Agnes, with the intention of getting her back. Jerry is overwhelmed by the cultural difference of the United States and the Philippines, Agnes' success in her career, and the changes in Agnes herself. Despite this, they still manage to mend their relationship, but Jerry accepts that he is simply unsuited for the kind of lifestyle they have in the United States. He leaves Agnes and decides to come home.
22. Ikaw Pa Lang Ang Minahal (1992)
23. Ang Tanging Ina (2003)
Directed By: Wenn V. Deramas
Cast: Ai-Ai de las Alas, Connie Chua, Eugene Domingo, Edu Manzano, Tonton Gutierrez, Andoy Ranay, Alan Chanliongco, Jestoni Alarcon, Carlo Aquino, Nikki Valdez, Heart Evangelista, Marvin Agustin, Serena Dalrymple, Shaina Magdayao, Alwyn Uytingco, Jiro Manio, Marc Acueza, Yuki Kadooka
The story evolves around the ups and downs of being a single mother, Ina (Ai-Ai delas Alas) the main protagonist. Her three husbands leave her with 12 children and a financial problems that she needs to shoulder. Simple plot with a hilarious cast. Packed with laughs and tear-jerker scenes with movie/commercial spoofs, surely Ang Tanging Ina will make your heart delight.
The difficulty of maintaining a long-distance relationship drives two lovers apart. Their romance gets a second chance after time passes and they meet again.
Agnes (Lea Salonga), a painfully shy girl, is extremely devoted and dependent on her confident and free-spirited boyfriend Jerry (Aga Muhlach), an idealistic advertising executive. Their differences strengthen their relationship. Agnes then gets petitioned by her absentee mother based in California. As Agnes flies abroad, she finds herself struggling to survive in the US. Everything seems difficult for her, especially because Jerry is not with her. Meanwhile, Jerry spends the days without Agnes guiding his career and develops another relationship with Cynthia (Cherry Pie Picache). Their long distance relationship is weakened until Agnes and Jerry fall apart. In the long run, Agnes learns to cope with the fast-paced lifestyle in the US- she gets a new place, car, and attitude. She becomes totally independent, almost emotionless. One day, Jerry is assigned to join an ad conference in New York. He pays a visit to Agnes with the hopes of winning her back.
Agnes is a meek and dependent girl living with her long-time boyfriend Jerry. When she is invited to live with her estranged mother in California, Jerry pushes her to go through with the trip despite her protests, for him to focus on his work and build his career as an advertising executive. Agnes struggles to survive in the United States and tries several times to return to the country, but Jerry insists on prolonging her stay as he struggles to save up for their marriage and support his parents and siblings. He encourages her to get a job and Agnes starts working as a caregiver. Agnes tries to convince Jerry to let her return again and reasons that she has the money to support herself but Jerry insists that as the man of the relationship, he should be capable of supporting her. Jerry starts to avoid Agnes, stressing Agnes out more. The long distance puts a strain on their relationship and ultimately ends when a scared and distraught Agnes is unable to contact Jerry after being put in danger one night. Time passes and Agnes becomes more independent and outgoing, working hard until she lands a job as a real estate agent. Meanwhile, Jerry travels to the United States and visits Agnes, with the intention of getting her back. Jerry is overwhelmed by the cultural difference of the United States and the Philippines, Agnes' success in her career, and the changes in Agnes herself. Despite this, they still manage to mend their relationship, but Jerry accepts that he is simply unsuited for the kind of lifestyle they have in the United States. He leaves Agnes and decides to come home.
20. Bayaning 3rd World - Third World Hero (1999)
Directed By: Mike De Leon Story: Clodualdo del Mundo Jr.
Cast: Ricky Davao, Cris Villanueva, Joel Torre, Daria Ramirez, Joonee Gamboa, Rio Locsin, Cherry Pie Picache, Lara Fabregas, Ed Rocha, Bon Vivar
Bayaning 3rd World (English: 3rd World Hero) is a 1999 Filipino film directed by Mike de Leon that examines the heroism of Philippine national hero Jose Rizal, particularly on his supposed retraction of his writings against the Roman Catholic Church in the Philippines during the Spanish colonization period in the country.
Two filmmakers try to create a film venturing on the life of Jose Rizal. Before they do that, they try to investigate on the heroism of the Philippine national hero. Of particular focus is his supposed retraction of his views against the Roman Catholic Church during the Spanish regime in the Philippines which he expressed primarily through his two novels Noli Me Tangere and El Filibusterismo. The investigation was done mainly by "interviewing" key individuals in the life of Rizal such as his mother Teodora Alonso, his siblings Paciano, Trinidad, and Narcisa, his love interest and supposed wife Josephine Bracken, and the Jesuit priest who supposedly witnessed Rizal's retraction, Fr. Balaguer. Eventually, the two filmmakers would end up "interviewing" Rizal himself to get to the bottom of the issue.
21. Hinugot Sa Langit – Subtitle: Snatched From Heaven (1985)
Directed By: Ishmael Bernal Story: Amado Lacuesta
Cast: Maricel Soriano, Al Tantay, Rowell Santiago, Charito Solis, Amy Austria, Dante Rivero, Susan Africa, Jaime Asencio, Vic Jose, Pen Medina, Tony Pascua, Mario Taguiwalo, Leticia Tison, Ray Ventura, Aurora Yumul
Hinugot sa Langit (Snatched from Heaven) is a 1985 Gawad Urian Award winning Filipino melodramatic film directed by Ishmael Bernal based on moral values. It is considered a classic in Filipino cinema and picked up four Gawad Urian Awards. It is about an unwanted pregnancy and issues with abortion and the church.
The center of the drama is the young unmarried but pregnant Carmen Castro (Maricel Soriano) who during the first few minutes of the film informs her cousin Stella (Amy Austria). Stella scoffs and recommends abortion. The father of the child, Jerry, also recommends abortion. Her over religious landlady Juling (Charito Solis), who is busy juggling her religious aims and her legal quarrel with the poor families illegally living in her land, however strongly suggests that she keeps the baby as killing it would be a sin against God.
Carmen sees signs that would seemingly suggest an answer to her difficult decision. Her poor neighbors struggle for money to feed their children. She sees a physically malformed child vending goods outside the church. She loses her job at a financing company due to the struggling economy during that time.
Carmen eventually decides to have an abortion in a deeply moving scene with close up shots of the cold steel utensils used by the doctor to undertake it. The cold steel of the abortion tools and the close up shots in turn attempt to emphasize the coldness of killing an unborn child.
Hinugot sa Langit may be branded as pro-life but in reality, while its focus is that controversial issue, Ishmael Bernal and screenwriter Amado Lacuesta employ a number of minor side stories into the main picture to increase the social hypocrisy in the film. The Philippines, being a prominently Catholic nation declare abortion as criminally and morally wrong but the characters surrounding her aren't naturally sure of their own lives. Stella is outwardly happy and wild but inwardly is insecure and lonely. Landlady Juling, whilst attempting to be a saint is riddled with guilt which she tries to forget through her religious practices, forgetting that the world has deeper problems than her past.
22. Ikaw Pa Lang Ang Minahal (1992)
Directed By: Carlos Siguion-Reyna
Cast: Maricel Soriano, Richard Gomez, Charito Solis, Eddie Gutierrez, Dawn Zulueta, Armida Siguion-Reyna, Guila Alvarez, Reyelmin Eduardo, Adrianne Escudero, Richard Reynoso, Ramir Arce Romero, Robert Natividad, Susan Medina, Ramon Reyes, Reddie Boy Escudero, Jean Garcia, Zeny Constantino, Nestor Cortez, Eufemia Azuelo, Edwin Briones, Joel Carreanga, Rosalie Escudero, Millie Escudero, Mela Quisumbing Escudero, Teddy Umali, Johnny Garutaro, Joey Morales, Joseph Tociero, Monique Villonco, Dara Villonco, Cathy Goduco, Edgardo Balaois, Annie Carmona, Rina Sanggalang, Willie Benitez, Armi Benitez, Teresita Reynoso, Bibiano Reynoso III, Simon Michelle, Bridgette Michelle, Bibeth Orteza, Oscar Miranda, Malou Afable, Raquel Villavicencio, Crisanta Yu, Din Roa
Bespectacled Adela (Maricel Soriano) is a homely young woman who is a great disappointment to her father Dr. Maximo Sevilla (Eddie Gutierrez). Slow to learn, Adela can never be a doctor nor a lawyer. She spends her time doing crochet and all she has after her late attractive and elegant mother is her name, Adela. But at a party she reluctantly attended, she meets David Javier (Richard Gomez) a smooth talking bum who Adela’s distrustful father believes is only after her large inheritance. But the gullible Adela is taken by flattery and blinded with love. She attempts to elope with David who stood her up upon learning that she will be disinherited. Losing the only man she ever loved, Adela made her father pay for the aversion she felt from him all her life.
Bespectacled Adela (Maricel Soriano) is a homely young woman who is a great disappointment to her father Dr. Maximo Sevilla (Eddie Gutierrez). Slow to learn, Adela can never be a doctor nor a lawyer. She spends her time doing crochet and all she has after her late attractive and elegant mother is her name, Adela. But at a party she reluctantly attended, she meets David Javier (Richard Gomez) a smooth talking bum who Adela’s distrustful father believes is only after her large inheritance. But the gullible Adela is taken by flattery and blinded with love. She attempts to elope with David who stood her up upon learning that she will be disinherited. Losing the only man she ever loved, Adela made her father pay for the aversion she felt from him all her life.
23. Ang Tanging Ina (2003)
Directed By: Wenn V. Deramas
Cast: Ai-Ai de las Alas, Connie Chua, Eugene Domingo, Edu Manzano, Tonton Gutierrez, Andoy Ranay, Alan Chanliongco, Jestoni Alarcon, Carlo Aquino, Nikki Valdez, Heart Evangelista, Marvin Agustin, Serena Dalrymple, Shaina Magdayao, Alwyn Uytingco, Jiro Manio, Marc Acueza, Yuki Kadooka
The story evolves around the ups and downs of being a single mother, Ina (Ai-Ai delas Alas) the main protagonist. Her three husbands leave her with 12 children and a financial problems that she needs to shoulder. Simple plot with a hilarious cast. Packed with laughs and tear-jerker scenes with movie/commercial spoofs, surely Ang Tanging Ina will make your heart delight.
24. Crying Ladies (2003)
Directed By: Mark Meily
Cast: Sharon Cuneta, Hilda Koronel, Angel Aquino, Eric Quizon, Ricky Davao, Julio Pacheco, Sharmaine Buencamino, Johnny Delgado, Raymond Bagatsing, Bella Flores, Lou Veloso
This film is a whimsical comedy about three women who cry at funerals, professionally.
In Manila's lower rung, Choleng (Angel Aquino), Rhoda (Hilda Koronel) and Stella (Sharon Cuneta) work as professional mourners. For a fee, they attend funerals and start crying, often at the behest of those mourning a loved one. But there is more to these three women than just the unusual job they share. As a new assignment approaches, Choleng suffers a moral crisis, while Rhoda reflects on her prior acting career. As for Stella, she hopes to move up in the world and get back custody of her son.
25. Tatlong Taong Walang Dios - Three Godless Years (1976)
Directed By: Mario O'Hara
Cast: Nora Aunor, Christopher de Leon, Bembol Roco, Orlando Nadres, Peque Gallaga, Mario Escudero, Yolanda Luna, Edwin O'Hara, Joey Galvez, Dante Balois, Soxy Topacio, Licerio Tabalon, Tommy Yap, Nina Lorenzo, Estrella Antonio
The film, set during the Japanese Occupation of the Philippines between 1942 and 1944, tells the story of Rosario (Nora Aunor), a young schoolteacher engaged to be married to Crispin (Bembol Roco). Crispin leaves Rosario to fight the Japanese as a guerilla, and in his absence a Japanese-Filipino officer named Masugi (Christopher de Leon) rapes her.
Masugi later returns to Rosario apologizing for his act, bearing gifts of canned food and rice which Rosario at first refuses. Matters are complicated when Rosario's father Mang Andoy (Mario Escudero) is arrested by the Japanese and Rosario reveals to Masugi that she is pregnant. Rosario must make a choice: accept Masugi's proposal to make her his wife saving her father and ensuring a safe and stable life for her child or reject him and with him the baby they have conceived together.
26. Feng Shui (2004)
Directed By: Chito S. Roño Story: Chito S. Roño, Roy Iglesias
Cast: Kris Aquino, Jay Manalo, Lotlot de Leon, Ilonah Jean, John Manalo, Julianne Gomez, Ernesto Sto. Tomas, Cherry Pie Picache, Nonie Buencamino, Jenny Miller, Gerard Pizzaras, Joonee Gamboa, Daria Ramirez, Archi Adamos, Emil Sandoval
A woman acquires a bagua (feng shui mirror) and her family's lives become endangered as death follows them at every turn.
Joy and her family have just moved into a new home, in a sparsely populated village. For them, it’s time for new beginnings- a new chance and a new hope. But what for fortune awaits them.. and woe the tragedies to follow. On what should be the most unfortunate day of her life, Joy picks up a package left by a stranger in a bus. It is called ‘ba-gua’, (feng shui mirror) an item that drives bad luck away. Joy could not refuse the luck that continues to come her way until everything appears too good to be true. Unexplained events disturb her family’s peace . People start to die as well. Having been advised by the geomancer to simply say no to the next form of luck, all Joy could do now is wait. But what painful decision awaits her? Will Joy prevail or be consumed by the curse of the bagua mirror?
26. Feng Shui (2004)
Directed By: Chito S. Roño Story: Chito S. Roño, Roy Iglesias
Cast: Kris Aquino, Jay Manalo, Lotlot de Leon, Ilonah Jean, John Manalo, Julianne Gomez, Ernesto Sto. Tomas, Cherry Pie Picache, Nonie Buencamino, Jenny Miller, Gerard Pizzaras, Joonee Gamboa, Daria Ramirez, Archi Adamos, Emil Sandoval
A woman acquires a bagua (feng shui mirror) and her family's lives become endangered as death follows them at every turn.
Joy and her family have just moved into a new home, in a sparsely populated village. For them, it’s time for new beginnings- a new chance and a new hope. But what for fortune awaits them.. and woe the tragedies to follow. On what should be the most unfortunate day of her life, Joy picks up a package left by a stranger in a bus. It is called ‘ba-gua’, (feng shui mirror) an item that drives bad luck away. Joy could not refuse the luck that continues to come her way until everything appears too good to be true. Unexplained events disturb her family’s peace . People start to die as well. Having been advised by the geomancer to simply say no to the next form of luck, all Joy could do now is wait. But what painful decision awaits her? Will Joy prevail or be consumed by the curse of the bagua mirror?
27. Inang Yaya (2006)
Directed By: Pablo Biglang-Awa, Veronica Velasco
Cast: Maricel Soriano, Sunshine Cruz, Zoren Legaspi, Liza Lorena, Marita Zobel, Ericka Oreta, Tala Santos, Matthew Mendoza, Kalila Aguilos, JM Reyes, Jessu Trinidad, Erica Dehesa, Julia Buencamino, Janneke Agustin, Roence Santos
Norma has to balance her love and attention for the two special people in her life: her daughter and her ward.
Inang Yaya stars Maricel Soriano as Norma, a nanny who has to choose between Ruby (Tala Santos, her daughter) or Louise (Erika Oreta, the girl who she takes care of).
Norma (Maricel Soriano) straddles between being a mother to Ruby (Tala Santos) and being a nanny to her employer's daughter, Louise (Erika Oreta). Norma left her daughter in the province to be a nanny to another person's daughter. An emergency forces Norma to bring Ruby with her to Manila and her employer is kind enough to accept Ruby in the household. However, Louise (Erika Oreta), the daughter of Norma's employer, competes with Ruby for Norma's affection. Now, Norma has to balance her love and attention for the two special people in her life: her daughter and her ward.
Cast: Maricel Soriano, Sunshine Cruz, Zoren Legaspi, Liza Lorena, Marita Zobel, Ericka Oreta, Tala Santos, Matthew Mendoza, Kalila Aguilos, JM Reyes, Jessu Trinidad, Erica Dehesa, Julia Buencamino, Janneke Agustin, Roence Santos
Norma has to balance her love and attention for the two special people in her life: her daughter and her ward.
Inang Yaya stars Maricel Soriano as Norma, a nanny who has to choose between Ruby (Tala Santos, her daughter) or Louise (Erika Oreta, the girl who she takes care of).
Norma (Maricel Soriano) straddles between being a mother to Ruby (Tala Santos) and being a nanny to her employer's daughter, Louise (Erika Oreta). Norma left her daughter in the province to be a nanny to another person's daughter. An emergency forces Norma to bring Ruby with her to Manila and her employer is kind enough to accept Ruby in the household. However, Louise (Erika Oreta), the daughter of Norma's employer, competes with Ruby for Norma's affection. Now, Norma has to balance her love and attention for the two special people in her life: her daughter and her ward.
28. Bona (1981)
Directed By: Lino Brocka Story: Cenen Ramones
Cast: Nora Aunor, Phillip Salvador, Marissa Delgado, Raquel Montesa, Venchito Galvez, Rustica Carpio, Nanding Josef, Spanky Manikan
“Bona” is a story of obsession, the tragedy of the fan turned fanatic. It delves into what causes an otherwise sensible girl to throw discretion and self-respect to the wind to serve her beloved. In the fanatical context of Philippine movies, it is a story that needs to be told. To serve him utterly, she braves rain, hunger, the scorn of her “decent” family, the illness and ultimate death of her father, the subsequent anger of her brother, the pain of seeing her idol bedding other women, the ordeal of having to arrange for the abortion of one of the girls he’s so casually impregnated, and the shame of having to “service” him sexually without the slightest reciprocation of love or even gratitude on his part.
In the end, the nasty man announces that he’s leaving the country with his latest and wealthiest inamorata. Bona, who has taken all the shit he’s casually thrown her way, can take no more. She kills the bastard. In the process, she has hopefully killed her insane obsession for him. Or maybe she has also killed herself. What a story! The film is set in a fetid Philippine slum, but it is so strong that it may well have been set in a theater in ancient Greece, where the most powerful and incomprehensible of human emotions rivaled the monumental tantrums of the gods.
BONA loves Gardo. Gardo loves Gardo. Gardo loves going to bed with almost any woman he can attract. Once - apparently in the absence of anyone better - he even takes Bona to bed, but by the next morning, the matter seems to have slipped his mind.
Bona is a grave-looking woman who drops out of school to pursue her crush on the narcissistic Gardo by moving in with him, more as a servant than anything else. Gardo, in the estimation of Bona's enraged father, is either a second- or third-rate actor in Philippine action movies.
29. Ganito Kami Noon... Paano Kayo Ngayon? This Is How We Were, How Are You Doing Now? (1976)
Directed By: Eddie Romero
Cast: Christopher de Leon, Gloria Diaz, Eddie Garcia, Dranreb Belleza, Leopoldo Salcedo, Rosemarie Gil, Johnny Vicar, Tsing Tong Tsai, EA Rocha, Jaime Fabregas
A picturesque tale of Kulas a country bumpkin or the Filipino film version of Huckleberry Finn, whose misadventures symbolize the search for the elusive Filipino identity at a time when Spain was being replaced by the United States as the colonizer after a short-lived period of Philippine independence. A sprawling historical epic, which details the country's struggles in establishing its cultural identity dating from the Revolution against Spain until the Philippine-American War, as seen through the eyes of a provincial young man.
The film is set at the turn of the 20th century and explores the adventures and calamities of a simple, provincial young man named Kulas (de Leon) with the struggle for Philippine independence as a backdrop to his story. Kulas is unwittingly sent to look for the bastard son of a Spanish friar. Deciding to try his luck in the city, Kulas arrives in Manila at the time of the Philippine Revolution against Spain.
Diding (Gloria Diaz) attracts Kulas and he falls in love. Kulas befriends a Chinese merchant and together they cheer the arriving Americans during the Philippine-American War. As Kulas matures, he yearns to find the meaning of being Filipino by seeking and determining his true nationality.
30. Itim - The Rites of May (1977)
Directed By: Mike De Leon
Cast: Charo Santos-Concio, Tommy Abuel, Mona Lisa, Mario Montenegro, Sarah K. Joaquin, Susan Valdez-LeGoff, Moody Diaz
A Filipino word for black, this film is a ghost story involving a botched abortion with haunting images and masterful camera work.
De Leon's films are a full reflection of the Filipino psyche that sought answer for questions on social class belonging, political absurdities, and fragmentation in various forms. His first major full-length work was, Itim (Black), in 1976. It was an in-depth study of guilt and violence and shows de Leon’s delicate balancing of cinematic elements to project mood and character. It was voted by the Philippine’s Urian Awards as one of the Ten Outstanding Films of the Decade: 1970-1979. The film also won him the best director award during the 1978 Asian Film Festival held in Sydney, Australia.
This is the movie debut of Charo Santos-Concio into the world of cinema and entertainment.
31. Relasyon - Affair (1982)
Directed By: Ishmael Bernal Story: Ricardo Lee, Raquel Villavicencio
Cast: Vilma Santos, Christopher De Leon, Jimi Melendez, Ernie Zarate, Lucy Quinto, Manny Castañeda, Beth Mondragon, Bing Fabregas
Emil (Christopher de Leon), a young executive and his mistress Marilou (Vilma Santos), a planetarium guide decide to be live-in partners. In the process they discover each others' failing, which result in the strain in their relationship bringing about their temporary separation. When they finally decided to resume their relationship under a set-up wherein the man divides his time between his family and mistress, he dies from an attack of cerebral aneurysm. The woman decides to start a new life abroad finding strength in the love of her departed lover.
Famous Quote / Movie Line:
“Dinadaan-daanan mo na lang ako, aalis ka kung gusto mo, babalik. Tatanungin kita. ‘Uhhmm,’ ang mga sagot mo. Ano ako dito, tau-tauhan? Ni hopia nga e, di mo ako binigyan.” – Vilma Santos
"Simple lang naman ang hinihingi ko. Kung hindi mo ako marespeto bilang asawa, respetuhin mo naman ako bilang kaibigan. Kung hindi naman, respetuhin mo ako bilang tao." - Vilma Santos
32. Bagets - Teens (1984)
Directed By: Maryo J. De Los Reyes Story: Jake Tordesillas
Cast: William Martinez, Herbert Bautista, JC Bonnin, Raymond Lauchengco, Aga Muhlach, Eula Valdez, Jobelle Salvador, Yayo Aguila, Chanda Romero, Baby Delgado, Rosemarie Gil, Liza Lorena, Celia Rodriguez
This film is about experiencing the forbidden, experiencing rejection, hating your parents and hating the world around you. It is also about discovering what's hot, discovering what's cool, discovering your first true love and discovering who you are. The growing up years can be such a wild time but not when you've got the best guys to hang out with. Five chaste young men immerse themselves in the superficiality and superfluity of adolescence over the course of their last year in high school. But as they make their gradual transition from boyhood to manhood, they realize it is their formidable bond that stands as the real deal. It stars a generation that gave rise to a new youth culture.
This is definitely an iconic Filipino film that symbolizes the Filipino pop culture of the 80's. Due to its commercial success, the sequel immediately follows in the same year.
Directed By: Rory B. Quinto Story: Shaira Mella Salvador, Raymond Lee
Cast: Aga Muhlach, Claudine Barretto, Johnny Delgado, Liza Lorena, Jericho Rosales, Dante Rivero, Cholo Escaño, Nicole Judalena, Igi Boy Flores, Cris Villanueva, Rissa Mananquil-Samson, Gerald Madrid, Ces Quesada, Madeleine Nicolas, Jon Achaval
After being away for 17 years, New York-based chef Carl (Aga Muhlach) returns to the country to marry his supermodel fiancée, Chrissy, in her hometown of Albay. The bride-to-be, however, is still stuck in Europe for a photo shoot. Carl takes care of the preparations with Chrissy’s family and eventually falls for her sister, Lena (Claudine Barretto).
40. Saan Darating Ang Umaga? (1983)
Directed By: Maryo J. de los Reyes Story: Fanny Garcia
Cast: Maricel Soriano, Raymond Lauchengco, Nida Blanca, Jaypee De Guzman, Nestor de Villa, Chanda Romero, Flora Gasser, Angie Ferro, Angie Ferro, Alma Lerma
A family's source of joy becomes the cause of all their grief. After years of trying to have a son, a couple finally decides to adopt one. While Shayne their only child is receptive at first, she finds herself getting increasingly jealous of Joel who has become the couple's center of attention. Shayne realizes that her adopted brother is no threat at all when he demonstrates his affection for her. But just when harmony is restored in the family, tragedy strikes during a beach excursion. Acting on a dare by Joel, Shane's father drifts afar from the shore and drowns. Shane's mother suffers a breakdown and blames Joel for the tragedy. Albeit Shane tries to hold the family together, the mother becomes inconsolable and demands that she return the boy to the orphanage. Now, Shayne must make the painful choice whether to keep her brother or submit to her mother's wishes.
Famous Quote / Movie Lines:
"Wala sa damit, wala sa kulay ang pagmamahal, Nasa puso, nasa utak!" - Maricel Soriano
(Love is not in the dress nor in colors, it is in the heart, it is in the brain!)
41. Tuhog (Subtitle: Larger Than Life) (2001)
Directed By: Jeffrey Jeturian Story: Armando Lao
Cast: Ina Raymundo, Klaudia Koronel, Jaclyn Jose, Irma Adlawan, Dante Rivero, Nante Montreal, Raymond Nieva, Eric Parilla, Crispin Pineda, Frank Rivera, Desi Rivera, Celeste V. Lumasac, Albert Zialcita, Jessette Prospero, Russell Zamora
A movie production company wants to make a film based on a newspaper report of a man convicted of raping his granddaughter. The producer and director interview the girl and her mother, assuring them that the film will be tastefully done. But when the women turn up for the screening, they are dismayed to find their story turned into a sexploitation flick called "Lust for Flesh." They leave the cinema halfway, feeling they have been violated all over again.
33. Dekada '70 (2002)
Directed By: Chito S. Roño
Cast: Vilma Santos, Christopher De Leon, Piolo Pascual, Marvin Agustin, Carlos Agassi, Danilo Barrios, John Wayne Sace, Kris Aquino, Ana Capri, Dimples Romana, Jhong Hilario, Carlo Muñoz, Tirso Cruz III, Orester Ojeda, Marianne de la Riva
Dekada '70 is the story of a family caught in the middle of the tumultuous decade of the 1970's. It details how a middle class family struggled with and faced the new changes that empowered Filipinos to rise against the Marcos government. These series of events all happened after the suspension of the Writ of Habeas Corpus, the proclamation of Martial Law, the bombing of Plaza Miranda, the random arrests of political prisoners. The oppressiveness of the Marcos regime made people become more radical. This shaping of the decade is all witnessed by the female character, Amanda Bartolome, a mother of five boys. While Amanda's sons grow, form individual beliefs and lead different lives, Amanda awakens her identity to state her stand as a Filipino citizen, mother and woman. Dekada '70 introduces the new generations of Filipino readers to a story and a family of a particular time in Philippine history. Its appeal lies in the evolution of its characters that embody the new generation of Filipinos. It is the story about a mother and her family, and the society around them that affects them. It is a tale of how a mother becomes torn between the letter of the law and her responsibilities as a mother.
The Blossoming of Maximo Oliveros (Filipino: Ang Pagdadalaga ni Maximo Oliveros) is a 2005 award-winning Filipino coming-of-age film about a gay teen who is torn between his love for a young cop and his loyalty to his family. The film competed under 1st Cinemalaya Film Festival in 2005. The film was the official entry of the Philippines to the 79th Academy Awards. It holds the distinction of being one of the very few digital films released in 2005 to do well at the tills. It also made the rounds of international film festivals.
34. Kakaba kaba ka ba? - Subtitle: Does Your Heart Beat Faster? (1980)
Directed By: Mike De Leon
Cast: Christopher De Leon, Charo Santos-Concio, Jay Ilagan, Sandy Andolong, Boboy Garovillo, Johnny Delgado, Armida Siguion-Reyna, Leo Martinez, Moody Diaz, Joe Jardy, Danny Javier
Kakabakaba Ka Ba? (English: Does Your Heart Beat Faster?) is a musical-comedy film produced by LVN Pictures (in its last offering) in 1980, with Mike de Leon as director. The film revolves on two couples who found themselves in conflict with the foreign commercial giants that control the Philippine economy, the Japanese and the Chinese. Moreover, it involved the Catholic Church which has a stranglehold on the Philippine society itself. The film reflects on the Philippine economy and society being primarily controlled by other forces for their own benefits and become instruments in performing illegal activities. Actors Christopher de Leon, Sandy Andolong, Jay Ilagan and Charo Santos starred as main heroes in the story, while Johnny Delgado and APO Hiking Society's Buboy Garovillo portrayed as main villains.
Famous Quote / Movie Line:
"Siguro nu'ng nagbuhos ng katalinuhan ang Diyos, nakapayong ka." - Jay Ilagan
35. Ang Pagdadalaga ni Maximo Oliveros - Blossoming of Maximo Oliveros (2005)
Directed By: Auraeus Solito Story: Michiko Yamamoto
Cast: Nathan Lopez, Soliman Cruz, JR Valentin, Neil Ryan Sese, Ping Medina, Bodjie Pascua, Elmo Redrico, Ivan Camacho, Lucito Lopez, Jett Desalesa
The Blossoming of Maximo Oliveros (Filipino: Ang Pagdadalaga ni Maximo Oliveros) is a 2005 award-winning Filipino coming-of-age film about a gay teen who is torn between his love for a young cop and his loyalty to his family. The film competed under 1st Cinemalaya Film Festival in 2005. The film was the official entry of the Philippines to the 79th Academy Awards. It holds the distinction of being one of the very few digital films released in 2005 to do well at the tills. It also made the rounds of international film festivals.
Maxi (Nathan Lopez) is a 12-year-old effeminate gay boy who lives in the slums with his father and brothers who are petty thieves. The story primarily revolves around the conflict between his love for handsome young police officer Victor (JR Valentin), and his family's illegal livelihood. Neo-realist in orientation, the film is a tale of lost innocence and redemption amidst the poverty of Manila's slums.
Maxi behaves like a girl, wearing clips or hairband in his hair and bangles on his wrists and even wearing lipstick. He is teased by neighbors and former school friends. His sexuality is, however, fully accepted by his two brothers and by his father. One night he is accosted by two men who attempt to molest him, but is saved by the appearance of Victor. Victor does not have a girlfriend, and his sexuality is never revealed. He rebuffs Maxi's advances, and when Maxi's father and brother bogs' friends teaching Victor a lesson. Maxi came and rescues the pitiful Victor and he cleaned Victor's wounds and cooks breakfast for Victor and felt sorry to his friend. Victor became affectionately stoking Maxi's head even when the boy steals a kiss.
After Maxi's father is killed by Victor's boss, Maxi resists Victor's attempts to renew their friendship. The closing scene shows Maxi walking past Victor who has parked by the roadside on Maxi's way to school. He ignores Victor as he passes him, hesitates momentarily as he crosses the road, then goes on his way. This last scene is a homage to the final scene of "The Third Man".
Can a 12-year old lad who wishes he were a girl navigate the mean streets of Manila? Maxi cooks, cleans, and sews for his father and older brothers who are petty criminals. He's sweet, clever and hardworking, at ease with being gay, pinning a flower in his hair, swinging his hips when he walks, vamping with friends. He's seen adults hug and kiss and he's watched romantic movies, so on the verge of puberty, he develops a crush on Victor, a kindly young cop. Maxi's heart and loyalties are on a collision course: Victor is investigating crimes that lead him to Maxi's family. In the land of the morning, is there a place for this child of the sun returning?
Besides the main actors, the other people we see in the movie are the director's real neighbors.
36. Minsa'y Isang Gamu-Gamo - Once A Moth (1976)
Directed By: Lupita Aquino-Kashiwahara Story: Marina Feleo-Gonzales
Cast: Nora Aunor, Jay Ilagan, Gloria Sevilla, Perla Bautista, Eddie Villamayor, Paquito Salcedo, Lily Miraflor, Leo Martinez, Nanding Fernandez, Luz Fernandez, German Moreno, Carlos Padilla Jr.
Minsa'y Isang Gamu-Gamo, (Once A Moth) is a 1976 Filipino film. It concerns a Filipino nurse, Cora de la Cruz, who dreams of moving to America. When her brother was killed, her ideals change. The film criticizes American military presence in the Philippines.
The de la Cruzes and the Santos are two lower-middle-class families who live in Pampanga. Cora de la Cruz is a nurse who dreams of living in the United States. Her papers are ready and she seeks employment at an American hospital. She hopes to get a green card allowing her to stay, achieve immigrant status and then bring her family to America for a better life. Cora's mother and younger brother encourage her but her father, Ingkong disagrees. He believes that moving to America is a betrayal of their country, typical of an old colonial mentality. Bonifacio Santos is Cora’s fiancee. He intends to join the U.S. Navy so that he can be with Cora in America. His mother and their maid are saving to help him with the expenses. The families make no reference in their plans to instances of crime, including murder, committed by American soldiers in the Philippines who are indemnified against prosecution under laws of extraterritoriality. Bonifacio's mother works at a commissary at an American base. She is mistreated by a Filipino female guard, who strips Santos of her “smuggled” panties and waves them like a flag to the delight the American male guards. Santos takes the matter to court with no success and the guard retaliates by raiding her store. Bonifacio becomes disenchanted with America and abandons his plans. Cora is appalled at the failure of the Philippine courts to provide justice for Mrs. Santos but continues with her plans to leave for America. On the night of her despedida (farewell party), Cora's brother is shot dead by an American soldier while scavenging in the garbage dump of the American base. Cora stays to seek justice for her brother. She discovers that the case cannot continue as the soldier has been reassigned to another country.
Knowing that the administration of Pres. Ferdinand Marcos would not allow the public showing of any films criticizing the American existence in the Philippines, the producers tapped Nora Aunor to star in the film believing that the superstar has connection with the president and his wife Imelda Marcos. The film, despite being critical to the presence of the United States military bases, was indeed released due to this factor.
Famous Quote / Movie Line:
"My brother is not a pig! My brother is not a pig! Ang kapatid ko ay tao, hindi baboy damo!" - Nora Aunor
Sneaky Danny (Daniel Fernando) peeping through a hole in the steamy Scorpio Nights (1985)
37. Scorpio Nights (1985)
Directed By: Peque Gallaga Story: T.E. Pagaspas, Rommel Bernardino
Cast:
Orestes Ojeda, Anna Marie Gutierrez, Daniel Fernando, Eugene Enriquez,
Amanda Amores, Mike Austria, Pen Medina, Uro Q. dela Cruz, Lore Reyes, Rafael
Salonga, Caloy Balasbas, Carlito Abrasia
It is about a love triangle between a young
man, a married woman and her husband who is a police who first got tangled because of their uncontrolled
urge to make love. The release of the film became very controversial but played
a key role in defining the Filipino erotic films during its decade. This is the
story of a forbidden love affair between a college student (Daniel Fernando)
and an unfaithful housewife (Ana Marie Gutierrez).
In a crowded, multi-apartment house,
a young student peeps on his neighbours making love and subsequently develops a
steamy affair with the neighbour's wife. The affair slowly becomes an obsession
and spins out of control.
The film happened in a shabby
apartment where a student resides just above the room of a security guard and
his wife. Every day, the husband goes home, eats his dinner, washes the dishes,
goes straight to bed and makes love with his wife. The student plays peeping
tom to the two and every night looks through a hole in his floorboard. Not able
to control his urges, he goes to the room of the wife where he does the same
things that the girl's husband does to her with no resistance. The two perform
the act repeatedly until they fall in love with each other. The security guard
husband finds out that his wife is cheating on her when one day he walks in on
them while having sex and shoots both. He then shoots himself after. The film is
considered one of the most controversial and important films during its time.
Not only is the movie provocative but it is also commended for its social
relevance. It portrayed the chaotic economy of that year when Ninoy Aquino's
assassination was still very much talked about, towards the beginning of the
end of the Marcos regime.
In one sex sequence where Anna Marie
Gutierrez had to spit her saliva straight into the mouth of Daniel Fernando,
the actress did not utilize her own but of Karo syrup used for pancakes.
Korean film Summertime (2001)
directed by Jae-ho Park is based on this movie.
38. Ora Pro Nobis - Subtitle: Fight For Us (1989)
Directed By: Lino Brocka Story: Jose F. Lacaba
Cast: Phillip Salvador, Dina Bonnevie, Gina Alajar, Ginnie Sobrino, Abbo de la Cruz, Pen Medina, Joel Lamangan, Gerard Bernschein, Ernie Zarate, Jess Ramos, Obby Castañeda, Pocholo Montes, Bon Vibar, Raquel Villavicencio
The film title is a Latin phrase which means "pray for us" alludes to the lead character of the film which is a priest.
In 1985, in the obscure town of Dolores, the Orapronobis, a cult under the leadership of Kumander Kontra (Roco), murders a foreign priest who gave the last rites to an alleged rebel, who was also executed by the same group. At the success of the 1986 EDSA revolt, political detainees, led by Jimmy Cordero (Salvador), celebrate the fall of the dictatorship. All political prisoners are released, including Jimmy, an ex-priest-turned-underground revolutionary. Not long after Jimmy marries a human rights activist, Trixie (Bonnevie). Jimmy becomes an advocate of human rights. Despite Trixies protests, Jimmy and Trixies brother, Roland (Lorenzo), go with a fact-finding mission to Dolores to investigate the latest crime committed by the Orapronobis. Jimmy meets Esper (Alajar), his ex-girlfriend. He finds out that he has a son with her, Camilo (Herrera). They agree to keep Jimmys true identity a secret form the boy. Conniving with the military, the Orapronobis step up their acts of terror.
Jimmys group is forced to evacuate the townspeople to the town church, then later to Manila. Back in Manila, Jimmy turns down a friend's invitation to rejoin the underground movement. Later, he and Roland are ambushed. Jimmy survives, but Roland does not. He recovers and shortly after that, Trixie gives birth to their child. Soldiers raid the refugee center with a masked man who identifies several of the barrio folk as rebels. The refugees and the human rights activists complain to the government. Esper and her son are abducted by the Orapronobis who accuse Esper of helping the rebels. She is raped and beaten up by Kumander Kontra in front of Camilo. Fighting back, she shoots at Kontra. In a hysterical rage, Kontra goes on a shooting rampage, killing Esper, Camilo and the captured barrio men. Later, the military bring the casualties to the town where Jimmy weeps over the bodies of Esper and his son. The film ends with Jimmy contacting his old colleague from the underground.
The opening scene where Major Kontra killed a priest, was based on an actual incident in 1985 where cult leader Norberto Manero brutally murdered Italian Catholic priest Father Tulio Favali.
39. Kailangan Kita (2002)Directed By: Rory B. Quinto Story: Shaira Mella Salvador, Raymond Lee
Cast: Aga Muhlach, Claudine Barretto, Johnny Delgado, Liza Lorena, Jericho Rosales, Dante Rivero, Cholo Escaño, Nicole Judalena, Igi Boy Flores, Cris Villanueva, Rissa Mananquil-Samson, Gerald Madrid, Ces Quesada, Madeleine Nicolas, Jon Achaval
After being away for 17 years, New York-based chef Carl (Aga Muhlach) returns to the country to marry his supermodel fiancée, Chrissy, in her hometown of Albay. The bride-to-be, however, is still stuck in Europe for a photo shoot. Carl takes care of the preparations with Chrissy’s family and eventually falls for her sister, Lena (Claudine Barretto).
40. Saan Darating Ang Umaga? (1983)
Directed By: Maryo J. de los Reyes Story: Fanny Garcia
Cast: Maricel Soriano, Raymond Lauchengco, Nida Blanca, Jaypee De Guzman, Nestor de Villa, Chanda Romero, Flora Gasser, Angie Ferro, Angie Ferro, Alma Lerma
A family's source of joy becomes the cause of all their grief. After years of trying to have a son, a couple finally decides to adopt one. While Shayne their only child is receptive at first, she finds herself getting increasingly jealous of Joel who has become the couple's center of attention. Shayne realizes that her adopted brother is no threat at all when he demonstrates his affection for her. But just when harmony is restored in the family, tragedy strikes during a beach excursion. Acting on a dare by Joel, Shane's father drifts afar from the shore and drowns. Shane's mother suffers a breakdown and blames Joel for the tragedy. Albeit Shane tries to hold the family together, the mother becomes inconsolable and demands that she return the boy to the orphanage. Now, Shayne must make the painful choice whether to keep her brother or submit to her mother's wishes.
Famous Quote / Movie Lines:
"Wala sa damit, wala sa kulay ang pagmamahal, Nasa puso, nasa utak!" - Maricel Soriano
(Love is not in the dress nor in colors, it is in the heart, it is in the brain!)
41. Tuhog (Subtitle: Larger Than Life) (2001)
Directed By: Jeffrey Jeturian Story: Armando Lao
Cast: Ina Raymundo, Klaudia Koronel, Jaclyn Jose, Irma Adlawan, Dante Rivero, Nante Montreal, Raymond Nieva, Eric Parilla, Crispin Pineda, Frank Rivera, Desi Rivera, Celeste V. Lumasac, Albert Zialcita, Jessette Prospero, Russell Zamora
A movie production company wants to make a film based on a newspaper report of a man convicted of raping his granddaughter. The producer and director interview the girl and her mother, assuring them that the film will be tastefully done. But when the women turn up for the screening, they are dismayed to find their story turned into a sexploitation flick called "Lust for Flesh." They leave the cinema halfway, feeling they have been violated all over again.
42. Manila By Night - City After Dark (1980)
Directed By: Ishmael Bernal Story: Ishmael Bernal
Cast: Charito Solis, Alma Moreno, Lorna Tolentino, Rio Locsin, Cherie Gil, Gina Alajar, Orestes Ojeda, William Martinez, Bernardo Bernardo, Johnny Wilson, Jojo Santiago, Sharon Manabat, Mitch Valdez
Manila By Night also known as City After Dark is a 1980 Filipino Gawad Urian Award winning drama film directed by critically acclaimed director Ishmael Bernal and starred Gina Alajar and Charito Solis. Released at the height of the Marcos regime, the film uncovers the other face of Manila by depicting the ugly aspects of life in the city - unemployment, prostitution, drug addiction, and lack of decent housing. Considered as one of Bernal's masterpieces, it is an epic multi-narrative of people who have shady pasts and are trying to exist in an unforgiving world.
The hidden nightlife of ordinary people living in Manila unveils. Lovers and families' conflicts are radically pitted against each other as they live in the night streets rampant with drugs and prostitution. The outstanding narrative explicitly unravels the various characters and episodes. Actually named Manila By Night, this landmark film of Ishmael Bernal depicts the darkness of city life so vividly that it was once prohibited to use the word 'Manila' on its title thus it was named City After Dark instead.
The film's events take place in the course of several nights, involving various protagonists and the city itself. William Martinez plays a folk singer from a rich family who becomes addicted to heroin through the influence of lesbian pusher and pimp, Cherie Gil. Martinez's mother in the movie, played by Charito Solis, is herself a reformed prostitute who, like Lady Macbeth, is obsessed with cleaning her hands to remove the dirt of her past. She does her best to be respectable after marrying an ex-cop played by Johnny Wilson. Meanwhile, Cherie Gil's character is in love with a blind masseuse, played by Rio Locsin, with two illegitimate children. Locsin lives with Jojo Santiago, whose character fantasizes of earning American dollars while working in Saudi Arabia. Another character, portrayed by Alma Moreno, is a nurse who, in reality, is a call girl. Her live-in taxi-driver lover, played by Orestes Ojeda, is fooling around with a waitress played by Lorna Tolentino, who is the presumed girlfriend of a gay couturier played by Bernardo Bernardo. As dawn breaks over the city, the bizarre lives of the characters of Manila's nightlife seem like an alter-ego of the respectable, busy daytime world.
The fake nurse device of Alma Moreno's prostitute-in-nurse attire was taken from a real-life motel slaying case a year before the production of the movie.
43. Minsan Minahal Kita (2000)
Directed By: Olivia Lamasan Story: Ricardo Lee, Olivia Lamasan
Cast: Sharon Cuneta, Richard Gomez, Edu Manzano, Carmina Villaroel, Angel Aquino, Ciara Sotto, Rosemarie Gil, January Isaac Bodlovic, Marvin Agustin, Kristine Hermosa, Bonggoy Manahan, Ama Quiambao, Andrea del Rosario, Gabe Mercado, Patty Wilson
Experiening problems in their marriages, two people (Sharon Cuneta, Richard Gomez) unexpectedly meet and fall and love.
Cast: Sharon Cuneta, Richard Gomez, Edu Manzano, Carmina Villaroel, Angel Aquino, Ciara Sotto, Rosemarie Gil, January Isaac Bodlovic, Marvin Agustin, Kristine Hermosa, Bonggoy Manahan, Ama Quiambao, Andrea del Rosario, Gabe Mercado, Patty Wilson
Experiening problems in their marriages, two people (Sharon Cuneta, Richard Gomez) unexpectedly meet and fall and love.
Muro-Ami (1996) poster
44. Muro Ami (1999)
Directed By: Marilou Diaz- Abaya
Cast: Cesar Montaño, Pen Medina, Amy Austria, Rebecca Lusterio, Jerome Sales
Muro Ami (Reef-Hunters) is a Filipino film that depicts one of the worst forms of child labor in the illegal fishing system.
Fredo (Cesar Montano) is a fisherman who has endured more than his share of hardship in life; his wife and child both perished in a boating accident, and today Fredo approaches each trip to the sea with the angry determination of a man out for revenge. Fredo commands a crew of young people from poor families as he takes his rattletrap ship into the ocean in search of fish that live along the reefs, snaring catch with an illegal netting system. Not all of Fredo's youthful sailors are willing to put up with his abusive arrogance, however, and even his father Dado (Pen Medina) and close friend Botong (Jhong Hilario) have grown weary of Fredo's tirades. Fredo's body is beginning to betray him as well, and as he and his crew damage the sea's reef beds in search of fish, no one is certain how much longer he will be able to continue.
Maestro Fredo, a tyrant captain, fixates to claim the treasures of the sea -- no matter what, in whatever diabolical technique for as long as he profits. He employs dozens of men, mostly children, in his dangerous expeditions. Conditions aboard the ships are oppressive. Children are often overworked and his crew is furious with the way they are living. He blames the sea for claiming the lives of his family and he exacts revenge by plundering its depths.
45. A Love Story (2007)
Directed By: Maryo J. de los Reyes Story: Vanessa R. Valdez
Cast: Maricel Soriano, Aga Muhlach, Angelica Panganiban, Dante Rivero, Chin Chin Gutierrez, Bobby Andrews, TJ Trinidad, Baron Geisler, John Arcilla, Gerald Madrid, Marc Acueza, Bart Guingona, RS Francisco, Anita Linda, Eva Darren
Though he is already married to a devoted physician (Maricel Soriano), a man (Aga Muhlach) falls in love with a vivacious flight attendant (Angelica Panganiban).
46. Ama, Ina, Anak (1996)
Directed By: Jose Javier Reyes
Cast: Maricel Soriano, Edu Manzano, Angelica Panganiban, Boots Anson-Roa, Jolina Magdangal, Rico Yan, Jackie Lou Blanco, Cherry Pie Picache, Teresa Loyzaga, Subas Herrero, Nonie Buencamino, Stefano Mori, Mike Austria, Imelda Trinidad, Naty Mallares
A childless couple adopt a child, but problems arise when the wife become pregnant.
Dreamy Hilda Koronel shows her sweet demeanor while in idyllic Baguio City in Kung Mangarap Ka't Magising (1977)
47. Kung Mangarap Ka't Magising - When You Dream And Wake Up (1977)
Directed By: Mike De Leon
Cast: Christopher de Leon, Hilda Koronel, Laurice Guillen, Moody Diaz, Danny Javier, Boboy Garovillo, Bibeth Orteza, Briccio Santos, Oya de Leon
Filmed in Baguio and Sagada in 1977, it's the coming-of-age story of a young college student, Joey (Christopher de Leon) who has lost all sense of direction and meaning in life, waking up every morning to the same old day that went before; fruitless, senseless and lifeless. He's a carefree kind of guy who just bums around with his friends. The only thing that inspires him is music. The problem is, he has yet to finish writing a song, which turns out to be the movie's theme song, and the theme song of his awakening (hence, it's called "Joey's Theme", one of the reasons why I also love this film!)
Then Joey meets Ana (Hilda Koronel) and she immediately sweeps him off his feet. A very sweet friendship develops between the two. All of a sudden Joey's world is turned upside down, and his mornings are never the same again. It seems he's finally found the inspiration to complete his song.
But the inspiration soon turns into disillusion when he learns that Ana is married and has a child.
It was touted by many as the most romantic Filipino movie ever made.
48. Nasaan Ka Man (1995)
Directed By: Cholo Laurel Story: Ricardo Lee, Cholo Laurel
Cast: Claudine Barretto, Jericho Rosales, Diether Ocampo, Hilda Koronel, Gloria Diaz, Irma Adlawan, Dante Rivero, Jhong Hilario, Lovely Rivero, Neri Naig, Katherine Luna, Kathryn Bernardo, Sean Ignacio, Joshua Dionisio, Chiqui del Carmen
Two adopted siblings find themselves falling for each other and announce their decision to marry, much to everyone's initial chagrin.
Official theme song of the same title featuring some scenes in the movie Bituing Walang Ningning (1985)
51. Inagaw Mo Ang Lahat Sa Akin (You Took Everything From Me) (1995)
49. Bituing Walang Ningning - Star Without Shine - Lackluster Star (1985)
Directed By: Emmanuel H. Borlaza Story: Nerissa Cabral
Cast: Sharon Cuneta, Cherie Gil, Christopher De Leon, Jay Ilagan, Joel Torre, Tommy Abuel, Chanda Romero, Lorli Villanueva, Vicky Suba, Lito Pastrana
Aspiring singer Dorina Pineda (Sharon Cuneta) is a simple woman with big dreams from a poor family who idolizes the superstar singer Lavinia Arguelles (Cherie Gil). She sells sampaguita flower garland during the day to help her aunt who is taking care of her and also to save up to buy stuffs related to or attend events by Lavinia Arguelles. At one of her gig, she was discovered and was helped by Nico Escobar to be a singer to replace Lavinia who left for United States. Dorina is already popular and is making a name when Lavinia returned to the Philippines and was surprised to see her loyal fan becoming a singer. She put her to shame one time in one of her album launching much to the dismay of everyone most especially for the hurt and insult received by Dorina. From then on, she promised to revenge and surpass Lavinia her idol and make it big time. In the end, she chooses love over career while Lavinia chooses to be a superstar forever than love at the last concert of Dorina Pineda. This was the explanation of the song of the same title for Dorina Pineda.
Famous Quote / Movie Line:
"You're nothing but a second rate trying hard, copycat!” - Cherie Gil as Lavinia Arguelles
“Sinira mo lang ang kanta, binaboy mo! baliw ang nagsasabing isinilang na ang katapat ko. You'll never make it! You're nothing but a second-rate trying hard copycat!” - Cherie Gil
“Noong una hinangaan kita, pero nang makilala kita, sinabi ko sa sarili ko na hindi lang kita papantayan, lalampasan pa kita!” – Sharon Cuneta
50. Dahas (Violence) (1995)
Directed By: Chito S. Roño Story: Roy Iglesias
Cast: Maricel Soriano, Richard Gomez, Tonton Gutierrez, Efren Reyes Jr., Sheila Ysrael, Maila Gumila, Marita Zobel, Rez Cortez, Ray Ventura, Anthony Taylor, Gamaliel Viray, Nonie Buencamino, Mon Confiado, Gio Santos, Felindo Obach
Maricel Soriano, Richard Gomez and Tonton Gutierrez do the dance macabre in this thriller with a fine fetish for violence. Maricel is Luisa who gets raped by an unknown assailant, a few nights before she gets wed to Jake. When the latter discovers Luisa's prenuptial chastity in question on their first night, a whole new bizzare turn of events unfold -- something the poor Luisa reacts to in a chillingly weird way. Dreams become nightmares, love turns to rage.
51. Inagaw Mo Ang Lahat Sa Akin (You Took Everything From Me) (1995)
Directed By: Carlos Siguion-Reyna Story: Bibeth Orteza, Oscar Miranda, Carlos Siguion Reyna
Cast: Maricel Soriano, Snooky Serna, Eric Quizon, Tirso Cruz III, Armida Siguion-Reyna, Robert Arevalo, Jess Evardone, Marilyn Mortiz, Merle Suba, Yoly Unabia
Set in a quiet, rural Filipino village, tale revolves around a sibling rivalry between Jacinta (Maricel Soriano), a woman who appears to be the ultimate dutiful daughter and wife, and Clarita (Snooky Serna), her more beautiful sister, who left town a decade ago. Over the years, Jacinta has manipulated the entire community to believe that, despite being rejected by her father Arcadio (Robert Arevalo) and ignored by her mother Almeda (Armida Siguion-Reyna), she has sacrificed her life for her parents as well as for her own hubby Peping (Tirso Cruz III). Tension builds when the more suave Clarita returns with her husband to confront her past - and to come to terms with her jealous, resentful sister. Flashbacks reveal dark, shattering secrets that eventually tear the family apart.
Set in a quiet, rural Filipino village, tale revolves around a sibling rivalry between Jacinta (Maricel Soriano), a woman who appears to be the ultimate dutiful daughter and wife, and Clarita (Snooky Serna), her more beautiful sister, who left town a decade ago. Over the years, Jacinta has manipulated the entire community to believe that, despite being rejected by her father Arcadio (Robert Arevalo) and ignored by her mother Almeda (Armida Siguion-Reyna), she has sacrificed her life for her parents as well as for her own hubby Peping (Tirso Cruz III). Tension builds when the more suave Clarita returns with her husband to confront her past - and to come to terms with her jealous, resentful sister. Flashbacks reveal dark, shattering secrets that eventually tear the family apart.
52. Moral (1982)
Directed By: Marilou Diaz-Abaya Story: Ricardo Lee
Cast: Lorna Tolentino, Gina Alajar, Sandy Andolong, Anna Marin, Juan Rodrigo, Michael Sandico, Ronald Bregendahl, Lito Pimentel, Mia Gutierrez, Christopher Ng, Laurice Guillen, Dexter Doria, Claire de la Fuente
Joey, Kathy, Sylvia and Maritess are not only classmates — they are the best of friends. Joey is a drug user who sleeps around. Kathy is a mediocre singer who will stop at nothing to fulfill her dream of the big-time. Sylvia is a liberated woman who finds security in the love of her ex-husband who is now living in with another man. Maritess plays the role of a conventional housewife, who is reduced to a baby-making machine. In the span of three years — from 1979 to 1982 — the film traces the lives of these four women through their seemingly desperate but also interwoven experiences, and in their attempts to resolve their individual problems, are mirrored the different faces of the woman in our society today.
53. Maging Akin Ka Lamang (1987)
Directed By: Lino Brocka Story: Ric Aquino
Cast: Lorna Tolentino, Christopher de Leon, Dina Bonnevie, Jay Ilagan, Toby Alejar, Jaime Fabregas, Cecilia Garrucho, Subas Herrero, Koko Trinidad, Raquel Villavicencio, Ernie Zarate
The rich and beautiful Rosita (Lorna Tolentino) would do anything to win the love of the man she had become obsessed with. Still, neither her beauty nor all the money in the world gave her what she wanted.
The rich and beautiful Rosita (Lorna Tolentino) would do anything to win the love of the man she had become obsessed with. Still, neither her beauty nor all the money in the world gave her what she wanted.
54. Jologs (2002)
Directed By: Gilbert Perez Story: Ned Trespeces
Cast: Diether Ocampo, Patrick Garcia, Vhong Navarro, Onemig Bondoc, Dominic Ochoa, John Prats, Jodi Sta. Maria, Julia Clarete, Baron Geisler, Michelle Bayle, Assunta de Rossi, Mat Ranillo III, Jean Saburit, Bonggoy Manahan, Maribeth Bichara
Jologs portrays the intersecting stories of various working-class people who are all tied to one coffee shop and are struggling to make ends meet in the Philippines. One mother supports her family as a dancer in Japan, one college student tries to forge a relationship with his wealthy father, and one security guards tries to be a good father to his girlfriend's baby.
Story: Jose N. Carreon (segment "Baso"), Amado Lacuesta(segment "Pridyider"), Uro Q. dela Cruz (segment "Manananggal")
Jologs portrays the intersecting stories of various working-class people who are all tied to one coffee shop and are struggling to make ends meet in the Philippines. One mother supports her family as a dancer in Japan, one college student tries to forge a relationship with his wealthy father, and one security guards tries to be a good father to his girlfriend's baby.
55. Karnal - Carnal Desires - Subtitle: Of The Flesh (1983)
Directed By: Marilou Diaz-Abaya Story: Ricardo Lee
Cast: Charito Solis, Phillip Salvador, Vic Silayan, Cecille Castillo, Joel Torre, Grace Amilbangsa, Pen Medina, Joonee Gamboa, Rolando Tinio, Ella Luansing, Vangie Labalan, Gil de Leon, Rustica Carpio
Narsing and Puring, a newlywed couple, come home to the village of Mulawin to live in the ancestral house of Narsing's father, Gusting, a land owner. Puring, his city-bred wife, resembles Narsing's dead mother who had committed suicide after having been publicly shamed and punished by her husband for her romantic liaison. Doray, Narsing's, sister, has also been a victim of her father's authoritarian rule as she has been forced to marry a man not of her choice.
Puring, feeling rejected by the townfolk, seeks companionship with a deaf-mute who, like her, has remained an outsider. She begins to develop a tender, emotional relationship with him. Narsing, who works in the Kapitolyo, asks his father for his share of the inheritance. But the father prevails upon him to stay. The couple makes a plan to go back to the city.
One night, Puring, having overstayed in the deaf-mute's hut, is hunted and dragged home by his father-in-law who present her to her husband for punishment. Narsing, however, reacts to the father's brutality, especially after his wife informs him of the old man's attempt to make advances on her. In the ensuing fight, the son slays his own father. In prison, Narsing commits suicide. Meanwhile, Puring buries alive her infant son believing it to be the devil's off-spring. At the end, Puring goes back to the city while Doray seeks out her old sweetheart, with whom she later bears a daughter who acts as the writer-narrator of the story and who pieces together the episodes of the life of her forebears.
The film was inspired by "To Take A Life", a true legal story by Teresita Añover Rodriguez published in MR. and MRS. Magazine. The film was selected as the Philippine entry for the Best Foreign Language Film at the 57th Academy Awards, but was not accepted as a nominee.
56. Shake, Rattle and Roll (1984)
Directed By: Ishmael Bernal (segment "Pridyider"), Emmanuel H. Borlaza (segment "Baso"), (as Emmanuel Borlaza) and Peque Gallaga (segment "Manananggal")
Story: Jose N. Carreon (segment "Baso"), Amado Lacuesta(segment "Pridyider"), Uro Q. dela Cruz (segment "Manananggal")
Cast: Charito Solis, Herbert Bautista, William Martinez, Janice de Belen, Rey "PJ" Abellana, Joel Torre, Irma Alegre, Emily Loren, Arlene Muhlach, Mon Alvir, Peewee Quijano, Lito Gruet, Rosemarie Gil, Mary Walter, Tony Carreon
Shake, Rattle and Roll (1984) is the first installment in the Shake, Rattle & Roll film series composed of three episodes. Baso (glass) talks about the adventure of three friends who performed Spirit of the Glass and discovered the tale of a tragic love triangle. Pridyider (Frigidaire - a brand name for a refrigerator) revolves around a refrigerator that seemed to be "alive". Manananggal is about a teenager who courts a barrio lass without his knowledge that this lass is a monster. She eventually causes chaos to his family. It is the first of the series of the popular Filipino horror film. The film was an entry of the 10th Metro Manila Film Festival, with Herbert Bautista winning Best Actor.
Shake, Rattle and Roll (1984) is the first installment in the Shake, Rattle & Roll film series composed of three episodes. Baso (glass) talks about the adventure of three friends who performed Spirit of the Glass and discovered the tale of a tragic love triangle. Pridyider (Frigidaire - a brand name for a refrigerator) revolves around a refrigerator that seemed to be "alive". Manananggal is about a teenager who courts a barrio lass without his knowledge that this lass is a monster. She eventually causes chaos to his family. It is the first of the series of the popular Filipino horror film. The film was an entry of the 10th Metro Manila Film Festival, with Herbert Bautista winning Best Actor.
57. On The Job (2013)
Directed By: Erik Matti Writer: Michiko Yamamoto, Erik Matti
Cast: Gerald Anderson, Piolo Pascual, Joel Torre, Joey Marquez, Michael de Mesa, Leo Martinez, Angel Aquino, Vivian Velez, Shaina Magdayao, William Martinez, Rayver Cruz, Empress Schuck
A gritty film noirish about four men struggling to survive and a make living for themselves and their respective loved ones. Two are former prison inmates, hired as contract killers, and the two other are law enforcers and investigators, caught in the loop of corrupt government officials. Mario intends to go straight when he gets parole, and Daniel a younger inmate and Mario's apprentice, is set to replace him as hired killer. Joaquin and Francis are the police officers tangled in a moral conflict. The two groups inevitably collide.
Directed By: Erik Matti Writer: Michiko Yamamoto, Erik Matti
Cast: Gerald Anderson, Piolo Pascual, Joel Torre, Joey Marquez, Michael de Mesa, Leo Martinez, Angel Aquino, Vivian Velez, Shaina Magdayao, William Martinez, Rayver Cruz, Empress Schuck
A gritty film noirish about four men struggling to survive and a make living for themselves and their respective loved ones. Two are former prison inmates, hired as contract killers, and the two other are law enforcers and investigators, caught in the loop of corrupt government officials. Mario intends to go straight when he gets parole, and Daniel a younger inmate and Mario's apprentice, is set to replace him as hired killer. Joaquin and Francis are the police officers tangled in a moral conflict. The two groups inevitably collide.
58. Bayan Ko: Kapit Sa Patalim – My Country: Gripping The Dagger (1985)
Directed By: Lino Brocka Story: Jose F. Lacaba
Cast: Phillip Salvador, Gina Alajar, Venchito Galvez, Ariosto Reyes Jr., Bey Vito, Mona Lisa, Aida Carmona, Joe Taruc,Khryss Adalia, Louella, Gamay Arkoncel
Arturo and his wife, Luz Manalastas, both work in a printing press. After Luz becomes pregnant, Arturo ("Turing") is forced to ask for a raise. When he does so, his boss asks him to sign a waiver stating that he is not part of any Labor Union. Soon after, his friends inform him that they are starting a labor union and that they are inviting him to join them. Because of the waiver, he cannot. He is branded by his mates as a traitor, and is treated badly by them. Soon after, the printing press is closed down, and the hospital where Luz is confined will not let Luz go until Turing comes up with the money to pay them. This leads Turing to pursue a life of crime.
Turing Manalastas, a printing press worker, and his pregnant wife Luz, also a worker, can hardly make both ends meet. When a strike breaks at his work place, he refuses to join to protect his job, thus eliciting the ire of his fellow workers. His wife's pregnancy and eventually the enormous hospital bill he is forced to settle upon the birth of his first child compels him to turn to crime. At the end, having been driven to take matters into his own hands, Turing meets his tragic fate.
The story was loosely based on incidents that made news in the early 1970s before the Martial Law era, such as a strike that paralyzed Manila, the kidnapping of a businessman and the shoot-out between the kidnappers and police. Thus, the film made censors uneasy and its release was delayed with the intent of finding a way to keep the movie from being released. All rally scenes were ordered deleted, as well as the title song. Eventually, a few scenes portraying live sex shows were also cut out, and the film was released. The film was then smuggled into France and was shown at the 1985 Cannes Film Festival. A sensation was caused when Brocka announced to the international media that Bayan Ko was banned in his homeland for unexplained reasons. Due to this furor, the government realized that the film was highly critical of the current regime and ordered Brocka's arrest. He was eventually released.
59. Burlesk Queen (1977)
Directed By: Celso Ad. Castillo
Cast: Vilma Santos, Rosemarie Gil, Rolly Quizon, Leopoldo Salcedo, Roldan Aquino, Joonee Gamboa, Chito Ponce Enrile, Dexter Doria, Yolanda Luna, Celso Ad. Castillo, Estrella Kuenzler, Pat Ilano, Mervyn Samson, G.V. Misa, Rio Locsin
Burlesk Queen is a 1977 drama film directed by Celso Ad Castillo about a poor girl who found herself working in the world of burlesque performers in order to alleviate her family's poverty. The lead role is masterfully played by Vilma Santos, who sheds her good girl image for the first time in this role.
To support her paralytic father, Chato (Vilma Santos) works as a utility girl for a burlesque star Virgie Nite (Rosemarie Gil). But when Virgie gets drunk on the night of her scheduled show, Chato pitches in for her. And she becomes an instant sensation. Enthused by the initial acceptance of the audience, she defies her father's admonitions and presents herself to the manager and thus, becoming the new burlesque queen.
Mang Roque (Leopoldo Salcedo) Chato's father learns about the incident and declares that he will sell his soul to the devil but never her daughter's body. Chato however is exceedingly enthused by her acceptance of the theater audience she presents herself to Louie the theater manager and christens her Tzarina,the young goddess. Chato carries a young romance w/ Jessie a typical rebellious youth ignores his parents and elope w/ Chato. Their romance leads into a brief happy life and when his mother traces the couple and makes him choose between Chato and the parents he chooses the parents. Chato returns to the theater w/all the frustrations behind her. She succumbs into Louie's invocations of arts in order to make her dance again but she is a few months on the family way, when she makes the grand performance, it becomes also her last.
60. Ina Ka Ng Anak Mo - You're The Mother Of Your Child (1979)
Directed By: Lino Brocka Story: Jose Dalisay Jr. , Leticia Fariñas
Cast: Lolita Rodriguez, Nora Aunor, Raoul Aragon, Lorli Villanueva
Ina ka ng Anak Mo (lit. You Are the Mother of Your Daughter) is a 1979 Filipino film and an official entry to the 1979 Metro Manila Film Festival.
This is Lino Brocka's masterful melodrama about a husband who falls in love with his mother-in-law.
The story portrays the everyday life of Renata (Lolita Rodriguez) and her daughter Ester (Nora Aunor), who is married to Luis (Raoul Aragon). Unfortunately, Ester and her mother get into a heated argument resulting to Renata feeling emotional about it. She then confides to Luis about her problems, which results to one night of passionate union.
This is Nora's first movie under the direction of Lino Brocka and an entry to the 1979 Metro Manila Film Fest. It was also the first and the only collaboration and acting duel between two of the greatest actresses of the Philippine Cinema; Nora Aunor and Lolita Rodriguez.
This is a story of day-to-day living by Renata played by Lolita Rodriguez, her daughter Esther played by Nora Aunor and Esther's husband Luis (Raul Aragon). For his desire to have a better life, Luis would try to go to Saudi Arabia to provide a bright future their own families but it is against the will of Esther. When there is a dispute between the mother and daughter, Renata was so disappointed of Esther's behavior. One time, she poured to Luis her resentment to her daughter that cause temporary lapse in their own. The revelation of their infidelity made the relationship between the mother and daughter weaker.
Famous Quote / Movie Line:
"Hayop... Hayuuup... Hayuuuppp" - Nora Aunor
61. Mila (2001)
Directed By: Joel Lamangan Screenplay: Ricardo Lee
Cast: Maricel Soriano, Piolo Pascual, Princess Punzalan, Cherry Pie Picache, Kaye Abad, Serena Dalrymple, Jiro Manio, Angelica Panganiban, Luis Alandy, Noni Buencamino, Eva Darren, B.J. De Jesus, Kathleen Hermosa, Mel Kimura, Alfred Labatos, Don Laurel, Tony Mabesa, Mario Magallona, Bea Nicolas, Tom Olivar, Jim Pebanco, Caridad Sanchez, Florencio A. Pili
The film was based on the life story of Anita Pamintuan who died during her fight for proper wages and compensation for public school-teachers in the Philippines.
Famous Quote / Movie Line:
“ibang mundo... maraming tao... iba ibang mukha.... LAKAD NG LAKAD,,, HINDI NAMAN ALAM KUNG SAN PUPUNTA,,,, kung minsan maganda rin yung,,, hindi mo alam kung san ka papunta,,, MAGUGULAT KA NALANG NANDUN KA NA!” – Maricel Soriano
62. Sukob (2006)
Directed By: Chito S. Roño Story: Chito S. Roño
Cast: Kris Aquino, Claudine Barretto, Wendell Ramos, Boots Anson-Roa, Ronaldo Valdez, Bernarda Palanca, Liza Lorena, Maja Salvador, Raquel Villavicencio, Jhong Hilario, Maureen Mauricio, Glaiza de Castro, Cris Daluz, Neil Ryan Sese, Ku Aquino
A Filipino couple working overseas return to their hometown to get married; however, a deadly curse follows the couple based on the superstition that marriage should not take place within a year of the death of an immediate relative. Sandy (Kris Aquino) and Dale (Wendell Ramos) both overseas workers in Dubai are busy preparing for their wedding. Upon reaching her home, Sandy learns from her mother Tessie (Boots Anson-Roa) what happened to her friend Helen. A short time after Helen's father died, Helen proceeded with her wedding. A few weeks after the wedding, Helen's husband dies in a plane crash. As Helen goes to the crash site, she dies in a bus accident. A few weeks later, Helen's mother suddenly disappears inside her house. Their bodies have never been recovered. Sandy proceeds with her own wedding. During the ceremony, she suffers from nosebleed and starts seeing glimpses of a ghostly flower girl. It turns out that she is not the only one who saw it. Maja, a psychic and the daughter of her husband's cousin, also saw the flower girl. Hours later, Sandy and Phil learn that the van carrying some of the secondary sponsors met an accident. When they get to the site, the bodies of the victims could not be found. Instead, they see a bridal cord.
63. Brutal (1980)
Directed By: Marilou Diaz-Abaya Screenplay: Ricardo Lee
Cast: Amy Austria, Gina Alajar, Charo Santos-Concio, Jay Ilagan, Johnny Delgado, Perla Bautista, Joonee Gamboa, Nello Nayo, Boy Sabiniano, Robert Tongco
A woman after killing her husband and his friends goes into post-traumatic shock and withdraws from any form of communication. A feminist journalist becomes interested in the case and resolves to unravel the truth behind the murders.
64. Gumapang Ka Sa Lusak (1990)
Directed By: Lino Brocka Screenplay: Ricardo Lee
Cast: Dina Bonnevie, Christopher de Leon, Eddie Garcia, Charo Santos-Concio, Bembol Roco, Allan Paule, Francis Magalona, William Lorenzo, Perla Bautista, Anita Linda, Lucita Soriano, Timothy Diwa, Maureen Mauricio, Ernie Zarate, Ray Ventura
A teenage boy befriends a starlet who is having an affair with an ambitious mayor. As the elections are coming up, the mayor's wife wants him to get rid of his mistress. The starlet agrees to stop the affair on condition that the mayor help release her boyfriend from jail. The mayor does so, but wants the former jail-bird to kill his political rival.
65. Heneral Luna (2015)
Directed By: Jerrold Tarog Story: Henry Francia, E.A. Rocha, Jerrold Tarog
Cast: John Arcilla, Mon Confiado, Arron Villaflor, Jeffrey Quizon, Paulo Avelino, Joem Bascon, Archie Alemania, Arthur Acuña, Alex Vincent Medina, Marc Abaya, Alvin Anson, David Bianco, Jennifer Blair, Nonie Buencamino, Mylene Dizon, Edgar Ebro, Julia Enriquez, Ketchup Eusebio, Anthony Falcon, Kevin Limjoco, Dennis Marasigan, Leo Martinez, Lorenz Martinez, Japo Parcero, Allan Paule, Bing Pimentel, Brent Metken
Set during the Filipino-American war, Heneral Luna follows the life of one of Philippine history's most brilliant soldier General Antonio Luna as he tries to lead his countrymen against colonial masters new and old, and to rise above their own raging disputes to fulfill the promise of the Philippine revolution.
66. Kaya Kong Abutin Ang Langit (1984)
Directed By: Maryo J. de los Reyes Story: Via Hoffman
Cast: Maricel Soriano, Charito Solis, Ronaldo Valdez, Liza Lorena, Gina Alajar, Michael de Mesa, Arlene Muhlach, Francis Martinez, William Martinez, Robert Campos, Ramil Rodriguez, Jaime Fabregas, Yvette Quijano, Jennifer Sevilla, Tara Friño
A highly ambitious goddaughter abuses all her relationships to reach high society, crushing her integrity as she quenched her thirst for power and influence.
67. Kubrador - The Bet Collector (2006)
67. Kubrador - The Bet Collector (2006)
Directed By: Jeffrey Jeturian Story: Ralston Javier
Cast: Gina Pareño, Fonz Deza, Nanding Josef, Soliman Cruz, Joe Gruta, Domingo Landicho, Neil Ryan Sese, Miguel Castro, Nico Antonio
The Bet Collector (Tagalog: Kubrador) is a 2006 Filipino drama film that centers on an aging bet collector finds her mundane existence suddenly transformed by an unforeseen series of events and jueteng, the game of numbers dating back to the Philippines' Spanish colonial period from (1521 to 1898).
In this starkly realistic narrative, director Jeffrey Jeturian presents a captivating portrait of a once-proud woman, haunted by memories of a dead son and hounded by the police, and her fragile and lonely life as a "kubrador". An ordinary meaningless existence can suddenly be challenged by the perplexing game of life, luck and death.
Amelita or Amy is an aging jueteng kubrador (bet collector). Despite the regular crackdown on the illegal numbers game, she clings to the job she has known for more than 20 years. She walks around the poverty-stricken squatter’s neighborhood collecting bets from her regular patrons every day. Her husband Eli, who is equally aging, can only manage to help by manning their small sari-sari (variety store). Amy’s grown up children have all left home. Her eldest daughter Mona works as a domestic helper abroad. Her second daughter, Juvy, who is always pregnant, lives with her in-laws. Amy’s youngest son, Eric, a young soldier, recently died on combat duty in Mindanao.
68. Mga Munting Tinig - Small Voices (2002)
Directed By: Gil Portes
Cast: Alessandra De Rossi, Dexter Doria, Gina Alajar, Amy Austria, Bryan Homecillo, Pierro Rodriguez, Irma Adlawan, Malou Crisologo, Noni Buencamino, Tony Mabesa, Leilani Navarro
Melinda (Alessandra de Rossi) is a new substitute teacher at the Malawig Elementary School, located in a poor remote barrio. A young university graduate, her family expects her to look for work abroad, but in her idealism she takes on a challenging job in the provincial public school, which lacks resources and has corrupt personnel. The heavy monsoon rains and the nearby NPAs also add to her difficulties.
The children are indifferent to their studies, having been affected by the hopelessness around them. Melinda tries to motivate them by capitalizing on their interest and talent in singing. She takes advantage of a funding opportunity to enter them in a choral contest. She encounters some resistance, however, from the school administration and from the parents of her students. Furthermore, the death of one of the choral group’s members at the hands of the Armed Forces of the Philippines casts a pall on their once joyful preparations. Melinda, however, constantly tries to rise above these challenges.
It is the only Filipino film to be released by Warner Bros. Pictures.
69. Pahiram ng Isang Umaga - Lend Me One Morning (1989)
Directed By: Ishmael Bernal
Cast: Vilma Santos, Gabby Concepcion, Eric Quizon, Zsa zsa Padilla, Billy Crawford, Olivia Cenizal, Tita Muñoz, Gil de Leon, Dexter Doria, Subas Herrero, Cris Vertido
Pahiram Ng Isang Umaga revolves around Juliet (Vilma Santos) who found herself struggling against an ever-escalating series of problems. A determined single parent, she manages to raise a child while remaining successful in her career as an advertising executive. Everything in her life seems to go well until she is diagnosed with a terminal disease. For her son’s sake, and without revealing her condition, she is forced to resolve her most important life relations: rekindling first her connections with her parents, and then with the very man who fathered her son. In the twilight of her life, she meets and falls in love with a beleaguered artist Ariel (Eric Quizon) who is constantly depressed and perpetually contemplating suicide. She slowly loses her health but unknowingly reawakens Ariel desire to live, and they both engage in a meaningful affair – one that makes each day they live through together more meaningful than the last.
70. Batang PX (1997)
Directed By: Jose Javier Reyes Story: Jose Javier Reyes
Cast: Patrick Garcia, Zsa Zsa Padilla, Edu Manzano, Anna Larrucea, Nida Blanca, Cherry Pie Picache, Laura James, Eula Valdez, Piolo Pascual, Albert Martinez, J.R. Herrera, Gilleth Sandico, Joshua Spafford, Don Laurel
Former nightclub singer Tessie (Zsa Zsa Padila) is a single mother living with her son Christopher aka Amboy (Patrick Garcia), a teenager who longs to meet his American soldier father meanwhile Tessie firmly believes her new boyfriend Dante (Edu Manzano) is the right man for her.
71. Dahil Mahal Na Mahal Kita (1998)
Directed By: Wenn V. Deramas Story: Mari Mariano
Cast: Claudine Barretto, Rico Yan, Diether Ocampo, Jaclyn Jose, Isabel Rivas, Jan Marini, Lailani Navarro, Marita Zobel, Lito Legaspi, Farrah Florer, Donnie Fernandez, Lui Villaruz, CJ Tolentino, Dino Banzon, Rad Dominguez
Tenaciously straight-laced Miguel (Rico Yan) and campus bad girl Mela (Claudine Barretto) shock the people around them when they decide to go out, but they are too smitten with each other to notice any objection set against their union. The two eventually realize that it takes more than physical attraction to maintain a relationship, for their personality differences turn their initial sweetness into petty arguments and misunderstandings. Their respective bitter exes deal the final blow that sever any chance of reconciliation between the two, as the scheme leaves Miguel feeling cheated and Mela distrusted. Both, however, still feel that the only person who can fill the chasm created by their separation is each other--but how can they have a lasting relationship without trust?
72. Bagong Bayani: The Flor Contemplacion Story (1995)
Directed By: Joel Lamangan Story: Bonifacio Ilagan, Ricardo Lee
Cast: Nora Aunor, Amy Austria, Rita Avila, Ian de Leon, Julio Diaz, Kristine Garcia, Bennette Ignacio, Jaclyn Jose, Tony Mabesa, Ara Mina, Vina Morales, Frank Rivera, Caridad Sanchez
A true to life story of a Filipino domestic helper who is accused of murdering her fellow domestic helper Delia Maga and her employer's son in Singapore.
The Flor Contemplacion Story is a 1995 film produced by Viva Films about the story of the Filipina domestic helper who was hanged in Singapore for allegedly killing her fellow maid. The story was chronicled in a film which operates on various personal, social and political levels. Both controversial and critically acclaimed, it has brought Nora Aunor numerous citations for her intense portrayal as the fallen heroine of the story.
The Flor Contemplacion Story was screened and exhibited in different film festivals around the world. The film won the Princess Pataten Statue for best actress for its lead star, Nora Aunor and the film won the Golden Pyramid Award at the 1995 Cairo International Film Festival. The highest recognition a Filipino Film ever received. Aunor also swept all the best actress awards given by the different award giving bodies in the Philippines including the Best Performance by Male or Female, Adult or Child, Individual or Ensemble in Leading or Supporting Role given by the Young Critics Circle.
Just like many impoverished people, Flor (Aunor) thought that by working abroad she could give her family a better life even though it means sacrificing her own happiness. She decided to work as a domestic helper in Singapore thinking that this could be the answer to her problems. Unlike many other servants, Flor was well-treated by her employers.
However, in 1995, she was arrested and was falsely charged of killing her fellow Filipina, Delia Maga and the little boy that she was caring for. Unfortunately, all evidence points to Flor's innocence. After a hasty trial, the Singapore government finds Flor guilty and sentences her to death by hanging. Her predicament brings an outpouring of sympathy from Filipinos, who refuse to believe her guilt. There was also a national appeal for clemency and a re-investigation to be done. Even the office of the President appealed to the Singaporean Government. However, the Singapore Government remained steadfast with their decision.
Flor was executed in March 1995. The film also examines the effects of Flor's absence upon her family. Her husband, unable to stand the wait, begins an affair and then forces the two oldest girls to marry.
Famous Quote / Movie Line:
“I… did not kill… anybody!” – Nora Aunor
73. Pagputi ng Uwak, Pag-itim ng Tagak - When the Crow Turns White, When the Heron Turns Black (1978)
Directed By: Celso Ad. Castillo Story: Ruben Arthur Nicdao
Cast: Vilma Santos, Bembol Roco, Robert Talabis, Joonee Gamboa, Angie Ferro, Olivia O'Hara, Mona Lisa, Mario Escudero, Fred Panopio, Adul de Leon, Lito Anzures, Miniong Alvarez, Andres Centenera, Carpi Asturias, Feling Cudia
As a young woman born in a tradition-bound town but raised in the modernizing atmosphere of Manila, Julie gropes towards maturity without benefit of guidance from understanding elders. Home for the traditional town fiesta, she meets the poor boy next-door; Dido Ventura (played by Bembol Rocco) whose passion and impulsiveness rush her into an elopement but Dido’s family has a long-standing grievance against the Monserrats who, through fraudulence in the past, had grabbed the Ventura property. When the young lovers ask for permission to marry, Julie’s snooty aunts make her choose between her present status as a rich single Monserrat, and an uncertain future as housewife of Dido. In a moment of indecisiveness, Julie gives up Dido and goes back to her music studies.
At the university, Julie is visited by the elderly violinist from her hometown whom she idolizes. Maestro Juan Roque (Jonee Gamboa) has learned she is pregnant, and he has come to tell Julie that he is her father and then walks out on him. When she gives birth, against the wishes of her aunts, Julie decides to keep the baby and give the baby to its father. By this time, it has become impossible for the baby to have its father. Dido has joined the band of Huks headed by Kumander Salome (Lito Anzures). Driven by the desire to help his daughter out, Maestro Juan Roque goes to the Huk hide-out to effect reconciliation between Dido and Julie. A quick night visit for Dido is arranged, and the lovers rediscover each other. Too late, for government agents have learned of the presence of the Huks, and a bloody shoot-out affirms the nihilism of the film’s title.
74. All My Life (2004)
Directed By: Laurenti M. Dyogi Story: Mia Concio, Laurenti M. Dyogi,
Cast: Aga Muhlach, Kristine Hermosa, Ricky Davao, Ces Quesada, Dimples Romana, Bernard Palanca, Carla Martinez, Bonggoy Manahan, Ku Aquino, Gigette Reyes, Lui Villaruz, Pia Wurtzbach, Maris Dimayuga, Angel Jacob, Cris Daluz
In the wake of a tragedy, two lovers reconsider their decision to be together. Sam and Louie meet on a cruise and become friends. Later they meet again and recognize their love for each other.
75. Dahil May Isang Ikaw (1999)
Directed By: Joyce Bernal Story: Mel Mendoza del Rosario
Cast: Aga Muhlach, Regine Velasquz, Aileen Damiles, Gloria Romero, Gloria Diaz, Kim de los Santos, Dino Guevarra, Rufa Mae Quinto, Berting Labra, Philip Lazaro, Polly Cadsawan, Allan Garcia, Rico Miguel, Blakdyak, Earl Ignacio
Anya (Regine Velasquez) accidentally bumps Andrew's (Aga Muhlach) car while backing up. Both were arguing whose fault it was. Later Anya discovers that Andrew is her client and she apologizes. She offers to treat him out to dinner but everything went a bumpy ride from there.
76. Eskapo (1995) *
Directed By: Chito Roño
Cast: Christopher De Leon, Richard Gomez, Dina Bonnevie, Ricky Davao, Armando Goyena, Mark Anthony Fernandez, Eric Fructuoso, Farrah Florer, Paula Peralejo
This is a true to life story about the Lopez-Osmeña great escape from the Marcos Martial Law prison. Serge Osmeña (Richard Gomez) and Geny Lopez (Christopher de Leon) are among the political prisoners of the Marcos Regime. They are wrongly accused of plotting to assassinate Marcos. The Osmeña and Lopez clan virtually surrenders their economic empires to the Marcos Regime in exchange for their son's freedom but to no avail. Thus, Osmeña and Lopez were left with no choice but plan for their great escape.
77. A Very Special Love (2008)
Directed By: Cathy Garcia-Molina Story: Raz de la Torre
Cast: John Lloyd Cruz, Sarah Geronimo, Dante Rivero, Rowell Santiago, Johnny Revilla, Bing Pimentel, Daphne Oseña-Paez, Al Tantay, Irma Adlawan, Arno Morales, Miles Ocampo, Andre Garcia, Matet de Leon, Gio Alvarez, Joross Gamboa
Laida (Sarah Geronimo) has a huge crush on Miguel Montenegro (John Lloyd Cruz) since college. As soon as she graduates, she immediately applies as an Editorial Assistant at Miguel’s newly established men’s magazine Bachelor with the hopes of getting close with her long-time crush. Laida gets the job and learns that Miggy is an ill-tempered boss who cares for nothing but to get his magazine at the top disregarding the feelings of his people. Laida, however keeps her faith that someday Miggy will learn to be more laidback. Meanwhile everyone else around them is scared of her Prince Charming. Turns out that Miggy is rooting for something deeper; he yearns for his older siblings favor. Most of all, he yearns for his father’s attention. He desperately strives to get his clan’s approval. Laida offers everything she could to help Miggy at the expense of sacrificing quality time with her tightly-knit family. Will Laida and Miggy ever figure out the right combination to solve their problems in business and personal lives? Or will their mismatching personalities, despite their common interests and goal keep them from ever figuring out their perfect pair?
78. Mano Po (2002)
Directed By: Joel Lamangan
Cast: Maricel Soriano, Richard Gomez, Kris Aquino, Ara Mina, Eddie Garcia, Tirso Cruz III, Eric Quizon, Cogie Domingo, Jay Manalo, Gina Alajar, Amy Austria, Boots Anson-Roa, Maxene Magalona, Allan Paule, Jim Pebanco
During the Chinese Revolution in 1949, young Chinese copra trader named Fong-Huan marries Elisa, a young and pretty Filipina. The couple’s children, Daniel and Linda, were raised in a mixture of Chinese and Filipino-Hispanic tradition. These richly cultured people are the ancestors of a dysfunctional third-generation family whose daughters tell their own stories of joy, struggle, and the complex realities in the life of Filipino Chinese families.
79. Pila Balde (1999)
Directed By: Jeffrey Jeturian Story: Armando Lao
Cast: Ana Capri, Marcus Madrigal, Harold Pineda, Allen Dizon, Estrella Kuenzler, Becky Misa, Jess Evardone, Engelbert de Ramos, Darylynn Dajao, Amaya Meynard, Rina Rosal, Lawrence Roxas, Jan Gomez, Justin Moreno, Charissa Pascual
A slice of daily life in the slums of the Philippines. Gina (Ana Capri), a poor but honest young girl sells banana slices. She lives with her grandmother and her younger brother and sister, her father being in jail. Nonoy, a water boy, delivers water up six floors to the rich Mrs. Alano (Becky Misa). Nonoy (Marcus Madrigal) is in love with Gina, but she desires her classmate Jimboy (Harold Pineda), a handsome flirt who is the son of Mrs. Alano.
80. Blue Moon (2006)
Directed By: Joel Lamangan Story: Allan Tijamo
Cast: Eddie Garcia, Christopher de Leon, Dennis Trillo, Boots Anson-Roa, Mark Herras, Jennylyn Mercado, Paulee n Luna, Polo Ravales, Tin Arnaldo, January Isaac Bodlovic, Vangie Labalan, Christine Bersola, Pinky Amador, Reggie Curley, RJ Rosales
Can a love that bloomed under a Blue Moon truly last forever? At a quiet home in Boston, Massachusetts, an elderly Filipina named Corazon is writing a love letter. Knowing she doesn't have much time left, Corazon is writing to every man named Manuel Pineda who's listed in the Philippine directory, identifying herself as his long-lost love. In the Philippines, an elderly man named Manuel Pineda is diagnosed with cancer, and told he only has a few months to live. Manuel decides that before he dies, he wants to find the woman he loves most, whom he hasn't seen in decades: Corazon. "Blue Moon" follows Manuel's daunting search for Corazon all over the Philippines. He's joined by his emotionally distant son Rod and recently-separated grandson Kyle. As Rod and Kyle accompany Manuel in his search for his lady love, they discover that there were actually two ladies named Corazon in Manuel's life: the nurse whom Manuel married after World War 2, and the spunky girl who was Manuel's first love.
Sources:
https://store.abs-cbn.com/hihintayin-kita-sa-langit-dvd.html
http://oggsmoggs.blogspot.com/2008/09/milan-2004.html
https://starcinema.abs-cbn.com/movies/ang-tanging-ina
https://tfc.tv/episode/details/30347/dahil-mahal-na-mahal-kita-1998
https://starcinema.abs-cbn.com/movies/a-very-special-love
