TAMPIPI

Tampipi (VMX 2025)

Directed by: Bobby Bonifacio Jr.

At last, the first decent Vivamax movie this year has finally arrived. It’s nowhere near spectacular or groundbreaking, but it’s a sign that there’s still hope for Philippine erotica.

In 𝘛𝘢𝘮𝘱𝘪𝘱𝘪, sex is an integral part of the story. The main characters are a married couple navigating the challenges of long distance relationship. Faith, hunger and loyalty come into play. The plot twists add depth and realism to the narrative.

Sa paglipas ng panahon, nagbabago ang pakikitungo ng mag-asawa sa isa’t isa. Naipapakita nila iyon sa tuwing sila’y nagtatalik. Ang kanilang lambingan, tampuhan, hidwaan hanggang sa kapatawaran ay naging bahagi ng kantutan.

Not only do the characters evolve,

but the intimate scenes also progress.

Nakatulong ang magandang musical scoring ni Dek Margaja upang mas maging malagkit ang mga eksena.

Sahara Bernales' acting is inconsistent, veering between believable and emotionally-flat moments. Victor Relosa has the tendency to make himself look unnaturally pitiful to gain sympathy. But generally, his expressions are good. He has a way delivering lines that sound sincere. The chemistry of these two leads starts off weak but gradually increases throughout the film.

Stephanie Raz isn’t a good fit for the role, struggling to deliver a convincing performance. With a room for improvement, Jovy Angel has the potential to be the next VMX leading man. Ma. Christina Simon can get theatrical and unnatural, but on certain moments, she can deliver.

The instant girl-to-girl action is very unnecessary and distasteful. Intentional and deliberate lack of discussions are felt just to provide more conflict. Wife’s reactions are sometimes inappropriate and reckless, holding little to no accountability. Other characters offer lousy excuses to cheat.

The insertion of Filipino handmade products to the storyline is appreciated. Similar to an MMK episode, the title 𝘛𝘢𝘮𝘱𝘪𝘱𝘪 is fitting as it sparks significant memories to the lead characters.

Likewise, this Vivamax movie fits inside a cherished 𝘛𝘢𝘮𝘱𝘪𝘱𝘪—serving as a reminder that sex and story can still coexist.

𝗧𝗔𝗠𝗣𝗜𝗣𝗜

Rating: 3/5

Cast: Sahara Bernales, Victor Relosa, Jovy Angel, Stephanie Raz, Horace Mendoza, Jodi Garcia, Hanna Ortega, Ma. Christina Simon

Written by: Bobby Bonifacio Jr., Joseph Abello

Presented by: 3 Clubs Entertainment Inc.

Release Date: April 20, 2025 on VMX (Vivamax)

A Movie Review by: Goldwin Reviews