And the Breadwinner Is...

I am fond of good and heartwarming stories about family: 'Four Sisters And A Wedding', 'Seven Sundays' and 'Tanging Yaman'. 'And the Breadwinner Is' is certainly one of them for it delves deeper connections that are opulently gratifying and fulfilling especially the story is very special to my heart-about breadwinners.

A family story based on reality. The story is filled with characters that embodies typical Filipino practices, sensibilities, family issues, and beliefs such as love of one's family. Everywhere the story goes seems to show how representative the movie is of the Filipinos and the Philippine culture. Because the goal of the movie is to have a connection to its audience, and I was able to relate.

I was amazed with Vice Ganda's impeccable performance. This is the first time Vice steps out of her comedic comfort zone to showcase her dramatic chops. The Unkabogable Star's perfect balance of comedy and drama will leave viewers a lasting impression.

The exchange of dialogue in the intense confrontational scenes was filled with true to life emotionally charged statements and sentiments interwoven of the film's lead protagonist as a Breadwinner.

These heartfelt lines by Bambi in one heavy scene literally hit me hard:

"Hindi ka pwedeng magpahinga. Hindi ka pwedeng huminto para huminga..."

"Sabi nila breadwinner ako, pero bakit talunan ako ngayon?"

"Pu**ng ina! Sino ba'ng nagsabi 'pag breadwinner ka, dapat isa lang?"

Overall, 'And the Breadwinner Is' captures the complexness of family life and the struggles of breadwinners. Indeed, the best movie of Vice Ganda so far!

It's a story about a typical Filipino family - complete with extended relatives and all the drama that comes with it. It follows the struggles of an OFW breadwinner, Bambi, who's been working abroad for years. But when she finally comes home, expecting to see the house she's been sending money for... surprise! It doesn't exist. Turns out, her brother spent the money and even pawned the house.

The movie hits hard because it's so real. A lot of Filipinos with family abroad can relate to this. When you're working overseas, people just assume you're loaded. They keep asking for money until you're left with almost nothing for yourself. Sad but true. Not everyone's like that, but it happens more often than we'd like to admit.

It also highlights the tight-knit bond Filipino families are known for. Whether they're going through tough times or enjoying the good ones, they stick together no matter what. That's just how it is here.

As for the ending? Just be prepared - emotionally and with lots of tissues.

And the Breadwinner is a heavy drama with just the right touch of comedy, which I really enjoyed. The production value is quiet good and the soundtrack in the end? Chef's kiss - it's deep and meaningful. And of course, Vice Ganda totally nailed the role - no surprise there!

The story jumps from a struggling breadwinner to random Vice Ganda costume changes, with no connection whatsoever. Is it a drama? A comedy? A fever dream? Nobody knows. The wigs in this movie have more character development than the actual characters. The acting is OA, there are times in this movie I cringe so hard I was greatful I didn't see this in theaters. The jokes are either recycled from past Vice Ganda films or so outdated they make "It's Showtime" laugh tracks sound fresh.

In general, If you love chaotic, nonsensical, and over-the-top Filipino cinema, this might be "so bad it's good." But if you value coherent storytelling, run far, far away.

It's hard to explain how I felt while watching the movie, though, kudos to the movie casts and crews, and I want to thank those who wrote this masterpiece. For me, it's an eye opener for filipinos, that working abroad, away from your family is not an easy thing to do, especially if your whole family depends on you. As an OFW myself, I could say that some of the scenes where Vice is in Taiwan, is true. Even though I don't experience it myself, some of my co-workers would work day and night just to provide for their family, and it breaks my heart every time. I hope filipinos would realize someday that OFWs are not your ATM machines. Their money is not unlimited, their future is not promised too. Visas could expire and end anytime, and if that happens, who would be their for them?

The Philippines do know how to weave an emotional story. This is really a story of family, love, bonds, acceptance, perseverance, sacrifice and weathering all the storms life throws at us.

The first half is definitely more lighthearted and fun. The second half really delves into the more emotional side of family relationships. This is a good watch and even tho long it does keep the attention

The characters are well acted and tho diverse I did like and believe the family dynamic. The situations tho over the top in parts were still relatable. There is a tonal shift from being a more slapstick comedy to more of a dramedy in the second half. I will say the shift was done well enough that it did not feel jarring. I recommend.