MANILA'S FINEST

Manila’s Finest (MMFF 2025)

Directed by: Raymond Red

The film is set in 1969, a pivotal year in Philippine history when Martial Law appeared to be the only “solution” to the nation’s crises. It should depict a time of political unrest, economic instability, and growing military threats. However, none of these truly come through on screen.

There’s no action, thrill, or drama unfolding. World-building is weak, with scenes jumping from one to another without establishing context. Progression drags, taking far too long for the story to move forward. Poor editing choices stretch the runtime unnecessarily. The camera loves to linger on uneventful moments, flaunting its visual richness.

Indeed, the visuals shine beautifully, like treasures from a supposed golden era. Yet beneath the gloss lies decay, a country on the brink of collapse.

Behind the vibrant cinematography lies a lifeless direction. The longer you watch, the more forgettable the movie becomes—a bitter irony for something that should never be forgotten.

While impressive, the production design often feels like an exhibition of period props rather than elements seamlessly woven into the narrative. The action scenes looks like a choreographed chaos. They look clean and staged, killing any ounce of tension.

A large ensemble is on display. They are merely ornaments in the background. Even those meant to be significant vanish after a scene or two. Relationships barely evolve into something deeper. When a character dies, it hardly makes any impact. Regardless, the actors try to make the most out of their limited screentime.

Having few speaking lines is not a problem for Cedrick Juan, who conveys everything he needs through nuanced facial cues. Enrique Gil may have limited scenes, but each of his action carries weight—shaping decisions of other characters and pushing the plot forward. Ethan David entertains with his accent.

Rico Blanco delivers a VIP-level performance. It’s animated, engaging, and impossible to ignore. Dylan Menor carries the aura of a matinee idol. Even with short lines, his presence leaves a lasting impression. Despite brief appearance, Ashtine Olviga ensures she is noticed through her bold expressions.

Piolo Pascual’s timeless appeal and credible acting skills shift your attention away from his character’s imperfections to his true intentions.

The film boasts the finest materials—from the ensemble and production design to cinematography. Yet when assembled, they fail to create something truly fine.

Kung ano man ang ipinaglalaban ng ating bansa o ng pelikulang ito, hindi mo siya mararamdaman. Imbes na magalit, kakalma ka pa.

𝐌𝐀𝐍𝐈𝐋𝐀’𝐒 𝐅𝐈𝐍𝐄𝐒𝐓

Cast: Piolo Pascual, Enrique Gil, Rica Peralejo, Jasmine Curtis-Smith, Cedrick Juan, Ashtine Olviga, Kiko Estrada, Paulo Angeles, Joey Marquez, Soliman Cruz, Ariel Rivera, Dylan Menor, Tyke Sanchez, Boaz Mariano, Inday Fatima, Pearl Gonzales, King Gonzales, Achilles Ador

Written by: Michiko Yamamoto, Moira Lang, Sherad Anthony Sanchez

Presented by: Cignal, MQuest Ventures

Release Date: December 25, 2025 in Philippine cinemas nationwide

A Movie Review by: Goldwin Reviews

Sino ang inaabangan mo sa MANILA'S FINEST?

• Piolo Pascual
• Enrique Gil
• Cedrick Juan
• Dylan Menor

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