
Set in a dystopian futuristic Philippines, Viktor—a son of a working class family—was abducted for being mistaken as the leader of an anti-government resistance group called KUMAG sa Bayan (Movement Against Nation). Forced to clean up yet another mess, Viktor’s abductors tortured him into admitting that he is indeed the KUMAG leader, and later killed Viktor to cover their mistake.
The social issues The Half of it takes on are handled well, between the antagonization brought on to Ellie for her race and the conflict that arises from her being gay. Both aspects of her character are built up over the course of the film and don’t seem abrupt or rushed. The film shows racism towards Ellie and her and father in varying levels, from having her schoolmates specifically address her as "Chinese girl” to the fore mentioned way her Dad is treated due to language barriers. The same can be said about Ellie being a lesbian. While she never truly “comes out” in the narrative, that does not undermine her journey of self-discovery from being meaningful. These ideas aren’t thrust upon the viewer in a preachy manor, the scenarios that occur feel believable given the rural setting. The film presents watchers with problems whom those like Ellie may face, and leaves us to sit with them and reflect.
The original series is now on Netflix, you should definitely give it a watch. And if you’ve already seen it, watch it again.
The sparks of a dangerous conspiracy ignite a mystery in this sequel based on the mysteries of Sherlock Holmes.
The original Mothra is a fun monster movie that has way stronger lore, music, and special effects than most of its contemporaries.
Hustlers was meant to be a film about female empowerment. And it was, to a certain extent. I expected and wanted this to be a kickass and complex film of sexy women who use their confidence, skills, and wits towards a brilliant plan to get revenge on the Wall Street guys who wronged them.