PADAMLAGAN

Padamlágan (Cinemalaya 2025)

Directed by: Jenn Romano

From visuals to sound, this movie is technically beautiful. Transitions between photos and videos are seamless. The musical scoring is compelling. Together with the warm color grading, the cinematography is pleasing to the eyes.

But can a film truly succeed

without emotional connection?

Lacking feelings and expressions, the lead character is being overshadowed by his surroundings. There are moments that could have been intense and heartbreaking, but they just fall flat.

Nagagalit ang bida, pero hindi mo nakikita ang kanyang mukha. Mas pansin pa ang hitsura ng opisina. Nagkakagulo ang mga tao, pero ang linis nilang tingnan. Mas ramdam ang formation kesa sa gulong nangyayari.

Mas nangingibabaw parati ang mga shots. Mas may nasasabi pa ang mga larawan. Mas umaangat ang mga bagay sa paligid kesa sa mismong tao.

Magandang tingnan ang mga eksena,

pero hindi siya nakakadala.

Overpowering cinematography and an underwhelming lead performance are not a good combination.

Despite taking place in 1972, the story remains relevant today. From infrastructures to governance, it’s depressing to think that these issues turn out to be timeless. Ironically, the movie doesn’t make you feel the weight of them.

For what it’s worth, it gives a reminder that not much has changed in our country over the years. However, when you have a full-length movie starring an iconic artist at an independent film festival, much more is needed than beautiful visuals and gentle reminders.

𝑷𝑨𝑫𝑨𝑴𝑳𝑨𝑮𝑨𝑵

Cast: Ely Buendia, Sue Prado, Floyd Tena

Also Starring: Milan Fabon, Ivan Gioceff, Papa Frank Peñones

Special Participation: Rodante Pabillar Jr.

Screenplay: Ivan Villacorta Gentolizo & Jenn Romano

Presented by: Cinemalaya, 901 Studios

Release Date: October 4-11, 2025 for Cinemalaya 2025

A Movie Review by: Goldwin Reviews