The Flip Side

This movie was hilarious. Much better (real, funny and NOT syrupy) than "American Adobo" or "Debut." The previous critique of the acting is a bit harsh. It is a indi flick, after all. And frankly, the actors seemed more real than similar movies. I wish it was on DVD. Writing and situations were quite real. To this day I have a friend that jokes that she is "hawaiian." And the entire wannabe basketbawler story of the brother trying to dunk (on a shorted goal) is hilarious and very true. The lead character's story was a bit preachy. and I kept expecting something else to happen (like him being gay, or something....am not suggested he is, just saying, it would be real and might may a better story).

Director Rod Pulido is a helluva dedicated man. Completely funding this movie himself, writing the script himself, and getting it into Sundance is one big step for Filipino-cinema everywhere.

But with that one big step, take two giant steps backwards. This little-indie-that-could was fun-filled with a whole lotta CAN'TS:

The actors in this film CAN'T act, The cinematography CAN'T be any better than a high school kid experimenting with his new home video camera, The storyline CAN'T be any more dull, and the dialogue CAN'T be any more contrived.

The movie in a nutshell: A minority feels need to connect with his past through bad acting, another minority is brainwashed into hip-hop culture, another into caucasian culture, some stereotypes ensue, and the end credits roll.

but hey, its a foot in the door for aspiring Filipino/Asian Filmmakers everywhere. 3/10