Movie Review: Manila's Finest

Manila’s Finest is a gripping MMFF 2025 crime thriller that transports audiences back to the turbulent 1970s during the First Quarter Storm. Set against a politically charged pre–Martial Law era, the film follows principled Manila Police Captain Homer Magtibay (Piolo Pascual) and his young partner Billy Ojeda (Enrique Gil) as they investigate the murders of troubled teenagers in the slums—an investigation that gradually exposes deeper corruption involving powerful figures, systemic decay, and the widening divide between the rich and the poor.

One of the film’s greatest strengths is its exceptional production design and cinematography, which truly recreate the atmosphere of 1970s Manila. Every frame feels carefully crafted—almost like a moving painting—as the story slowly unfolds. It’s a top-tier showcase ofperiod filmmaking, immersing viewers in an era defined by unrest, moral conflict, and silenced dissent. The visual storytelling alone makes Manila’s Finest one of the most striking films in this year’s MMFF lineup.

Performance-wise, the film is powered by a powerful acting showcase. Piolo Pascual delivers a commanding yet deeply human performance as Captain Magtibay, embodying a good cop struggling to uphold integrity within a broken system. Enrique Gil proves his range and maturity, fully justifying his role and holding his own opposite Piolo. He is not overshadowed at all—their acting showdown is one of the film’s highlights and a must-watch. Together, they feel like strong contenders come awards season. 

A standout emotional core of the film comes from Ashtine Olviga, who delivers a heartfelt and promising performance. She shines in her scenes with Piolo, particularly in their father-and-daughter moments, which are consistently powerful and emotionally resonant. Their chemistry is undeniable, and their scenes genuinely move the audience to tears. This film proves that Ashtine is an actress to watch—one who truly deserves her breakthrough. 

Dylan Menor also impresses as the newbie policeman, effectively representing innocence and moral uncertainty in a corrupt system. His portrayal feels grounded and sincere. Meanwhile, the ensemble cast all get their moments to shine. Rica Peralejo, in her comeback role, proves she still has it—graceful, captivating, and memorable on screen. Jasmine Curtis-Smith once again shows why she is a dependable and scene-stealing actress. 

The presence of veteran actors Ariel Rivera, Joey Marquez, and Soliman Cruz adds weight and prestige to the film, their performances reinforcing the story’s seriousness and depth. A pleasant surprise is Rico Blanco, who turns out to be a strong and effective actor. His role is intriguing, and he delivers it with confidence and nuance, making him another unexpected scene-stealer.

Beyond its technical excellence and strong performances, Manila’s Finest encourages reflection on Philippine history—on good cops versus bad cops, the abuse of power, and the gradual takeover of systems during a dark chapter of our past. Despite being set in the 1970s, its themes remain painfully relevant today.

Overall, Manila’s Finest is one of my MMFF favorites so far this year, thanks to its high production value, powerful performances, and an intriguing story rooted in our history. It delivers a strong crime thriller experience while offering a layered and significant look at its historical setting.



My Verdict: 4.5/5