Movie Review: Honor Thy Father

After years of financial struggle, Kaye (Meryll Soriano) and Edgar (John Lloyd Cruz) are finally on a roll. Kaye has made millions promoting her father's investment scheme to her friends and fellow Pentecostal parishioners at the Church of Yeshua. But their world unravels instantaneously one day when Edgar swings by his father-in-law's house to find the place ransacked and the old man gone. It doesn't take long for Kaye's friends to turn on the couple, who go to the fiery bishop for help. But he's not exactly generous, preoccupied as he is with raising money for a new temple (and with the promise of extravagant kickbacks). The parishioners continue to demand their money back, and Kaye and Edgar start receiving death threats. When the tension erupts in violence, Edgar decides to seek the aid of his criminally inclined family. 

Gripping, suspenseful, and brilliantly crafted, Honor Thy Father dramatize the plight of betrayal and retribution. What defines this film is its controversial depiction of reality, but what it unearths is much more harrowing and heroic than terrifying. With the skillful direction of Erik Matti and riveting performance of John Lloyd Cruz and Meryll Soriano, this film nailed the Best Picture, Best Actor and Best Actress award in this festival. A special mention also has to be made to Khalil Ramos that I can say will be the next important young actor in his generation. These socially-conscious film not only surprises us in its sporadically gripping screenplay but also in its richness and ability to touch one's heart. Honor Thy Father is a must see film in MMFF 2015 and one of this years' best local film.

My Verdict: 5/5

PHOTOS TAKEN AT THE SCREENING OF HONOR THY FATHER IN CINEMA ONE ORIGINALS 2015 OPENING NIGHT

PHOTOS TAKEN AT THE ADVANCE SCREENING OF HONOR THY FATHER IN DOLPHY THEATER