ARWIN REVIEWS
Filipiñana poster

Filipiñana 2026

★★½
Reviewed by Arwin Edward Bagaslao · 2026-08-28
The framing feels like Wes Anderson’s style: tableau-like, theatrical, and mostly composed of static shots. It also helps show the power dynamics between the characters. I think there are some symbolisms that I didn’t fully understand, especially the ones given more focus, like the mango and the trees. I think this film is about socioeconomic imbalance. The elite are shielded from accountability for their wrongdoings, while the middle class and the rich don’t really care about the poor. They simply move on even if someone dies or is drowning in problems. The sound design is great, especially the brewing storm. It effectively signals the shift in the plot and atmosphere. The pacing is kind of slow, especially with a lot of shots being prolonged to immerse the audience in the frame. Visually striking, but the dialogue is boring.