THE KINGDOM

The Kingdom (MMFF 2024)

Directed by: Michael Tuviera

Naipakita ng pelikulang ito kung ano ang magiging hitsura ng Pilipinas kung hindi ito nasakop. Magkaiba ng hitsura, ngunit parehas ng kinahinatnan.

Despite being set in an alternative universe, this film still shows comtemporary Philippine issues. Political dynasty is present, coinciding with family conflicts. There’s a wide gap between the rich and poor. The lines are striking and poetic, eloquently describing the characters’ situation.

Merong nasa ibaba at merong nasa itaas. Kapag nagsasalita ang mga mahihirap tungkol sa kanilang sitwasyon sa buhay, nagkakaroon ng laman ang mga eksena. Kapag may usapan tungkol sa alipin at makapagyarihan, doon lumalabas ang tunay na kinang ng pelikula.

The first scene instantly sets the bar high. Afterwards, the world-building gets weaker. The setting seems majestic but the cinematography and production design fall short in highlighting it. Editing is off. Sense of emergency is not felt—even if it’s already happening. Scenes tend to be anticlimactic.

At some point, the story concentrates on being a family drama—instead of tackling the society as a whole.

Piolo Pascual is excellent—both in his action and dramatic scenes. Cristine Reyes’ acting performance is inconsistent. Sue Ramirez fits the role. Both Iza Calzado and Sid Lucero are effortless. All eyes and ears to Ruby Ruiz whenever she’s around. In a matter of seconds, Cedrick Juan is able to release intense emotions that demand everyone’s attention.

Vic Sotto’s portrayal lacks emotion and impact. His fight scene is not convincing due to his stance and movements. Nonetheless, it’s still his most significant film to date. His wide reach and platform are used well to ignite important discussions.

The overall concept of this film remains to be promising. The nation’s biggest 𝘸𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘪𝘧 is here.

The title presents an intriguing paradox.

On the facade, we have a kingdom that seems powerful compared to other countries. But on the inside, it’s crumbling. For whenever there’s a king, there’s always a slave who works for him.

Kaya ba talaga nating pagsamahin

ang kapangyarihan at ang kalayaan?

𝗧𝗛𝗘 𝗞𝗜𝗡𝗚𝗗𝗢𝗠

Rating: 3/5

Cast: Vic Sotto, Piolo Pascual, Cristine Reyes, Sue Ramirez, Ruby Ruiz, Sid Lucero

Written by: Michelle Ngu-nario

Presented by: ATP, MZET, MQuest

Release Date: December 25, 2024 in Philippine cinemas nationwide

A Movie Review by: Goldwin Reviews

POSSIBLE NOMINATIONS:

• Best Screenplay

• Best Actor (Piolo Pascual)

• Best Supporting Actress (Ruby Ruiz)

• Best Supporting Actor (Cedrick Juan)

• Best Themesong