Movie Review: Isla Babuyan

The movie embraces camp to the fullest—if you’re a fan of afternoon teleseryes, you’ll definitely enjoy it. But beyond the melodrama, what struck me most was the film’s use of symbolism. Isla Babuyan itself becomes a metaphor: a place where people are burdened with sin and judgment. The pig (“baboy”) is another key symbol—representing filth, lust, and moral corruption. In the film, pigs are shown reproducing openly, which mirrors how characters like Lotlot de Leon’s Rose and eventually Geraldine Jennings’ Anastacia are harshly judged by the island community, not for their actions alone but for their very identities.

At its core, the story follows Anastacia, who returns to Isla Babuyan after almost fourteen years to reunite with her mother, Rose. What begins as an attempt to reconnect soon unravels into painful truths: Rose is despised by the townspeople, branded as the island’s mistress and whore, and runs the only bar in the area. As mother and daughter rebuild their ties, they are pulled into a web of conflicts that test their love for each other and shape the fragile bond they both long to rebuild.

Lotlot de Leon, as expected, is a dependable and commanding actress. It’s bold of her to take on this role, and she delivers with strength and nuance. Geraldine Jennings, a newcomer, is impressive—her emotions come across clearly, and her chemistry with Jameson Blake is palpable. Their presence on screen feels cinematic, almost like watching a Hollywood romance set against an island and beach backdrop.

Among the supporting cast, Paolo Gumabao stands out the most. His role feels tailor-made for him. His delivery is precise and natural, to the point that you almost forget he’s acting. He embodies his character fully, commanding every scene with conviction. Another standout is Nathalie Hart, who embraces her kontrabida role with relish. She’s so effective that you’ll find yourself genuinely frustrated with her character—a testament to her strong performance. Paired with Gumabao’s presence, their scenes bring an extra layer of intensity to the film.

Isla Babuyan is ultimately a worthwhile watch, especially for those who appreciate bold emotional stories, layered performances, and atmospheric settings. While not without flaws, it’s sincere, heartfelt, and unafraid to confront uncomfortable truths about judgment, morality, and family. The island setting itself is rendered with grit and haunting beauty, adding authenticity and mood that linger even after the credits roll.

 

My Verdict: 3.5/5