It's been years since multi-awarded director Joel Lamangan helmed a social drama and if only for that reason, "Fatherland" should be on the radar of Pinoy moviegoers, especially the cineast.
Bankrolled by Bentria Productions and Heaven's Best Entertainment, the movie opening in theaters soon on Black Saturday, is about Fil-Am Alex in search of his father from whom his mother abducted him at seven years old.
The story takes interesting turns once the young man arrives in the Philippines. He inadvertently learns in the course of the search that his father has multiple personalities (named Philip, Fayez and Teban); each coming to fore when cast in three disparate societal ills involving land grabbing, Muslim separatism and illegal Chinese immigrants.
Making the movie an even more compeling watch is the decision to include the young man in the flashbacks.
Fortunately for "Fatherland," the cast delivers in spades. Allen Dizon as the father perfectly delineated the requirement of each role he played as per circumstance and space. Inigo Pascual, the young man in the story, is a revelation in several scenes, particularly that one highlight near the conclusion. Both father and son can make you laugh, but also cry so be sure to be ready for a rollercoaster ride of emotions.
We only laughed at first when Cherry Pie Picache playing Mayor Chen, spoke with an accent. Her performance is so believable that a few minutes more with her and we completely saw the actress as one of Chinese descent, like, totally! We're sure the final scene of her character will have the audience cheering.
It's refreshing to see Mercedes Cabral as one of the good guys, Vice Mayor Gwen. Bagay din pala---at kaya din talaga!
Others in the cast of "Fatherland" who all gave marked performances too are Ara Mina, Angel Aquino, Richard Yap, Max Eigenmann, Jeric Gonzalez, Yasser Marta, Bo Bautista, Abed Green, Kazel Kinouchi, Ara Davao, Jim Pebanco and Rico Barrera.
We applaud the producers for offering something such as "Fatherland." They obviously trust the taste and intelligence of today's moviegoer who not only look out for stellar cast but good and timely narrative to capture the hearts of whatever generation.
"Fatherland" will not only make you feel, but think about certain things happening around us. As one publication puts it, "What begins as a search for family quickly unravels into a web of secrets, identity struggles, and danger, ultimately leading to a heartbreaking reunion in the midst of violence."
Seeing "Fatherland" on the big screen on April 19 with friend or family or both is best. Make it a date!
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