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I was able to catch this one during the yearly Pista ng Pelikulang Pilipino (2020). "Ang Damgo ni Eleuteria" is like a compelling stageplay only better told since not only does it play out in a single take this forboding tale of a mail-ordered bride, it also boasts these seemingly unrehearsed and very natural performances that occur not on stage but out in the sun where the emotions are blistering real.

Definitely had a unique viewing experiece with this one and is one of the movies that really stood out in the recently concluded online film festival.

The movie is a brief but entertaining depiction of the different personalities in the women that work as prostitutes who are in a perplexing scenario. They are both disgusted by the extremes they encounter with their customers, distraught by the unequal percentages they receive from the head mistress, and disappointed in the first place for having to sell their body. At the same time they are bound to their profession because it promises them a more secured and easier chance to buy their way out to a better life.

Most of the movies made with similar topic of prostitution end up with a flat out negative outlook which satisfy local moviegoers as most are conservative. But what about the unpopular liberal perspective? What is unique about the movie is that it attempts to show not just the bad side to a mean and an end but also the beneficial which could also yield good in a way. This is a brave move considering unfavourable reactions from religious groups are likely. It succeeds by being particular with the role of the head mistress (played by Raquel Villavicencio). By examining the character, you can spot the main idea of the story. Mother Xedes is a serious business woman, edges her workers on percentages, can only provide the same kind of food over and over, and on top of that she exploits the women for profit. But on the other hand, she also takes good care of her women, feeds them enough (more than enough in one woman's case) gives them useful advice, shoulder their education, and she is contrite for carrying on this kind of business.

When it comes to the technical aspect of the movie, it is actually, like every Matti helmed movie, stylised with its production design and cinematography. An avid movie goer might recognize the influence of Wong Kar Wai's films (mostly from In the Mood for Love, release a year prior) on the look of the film and tackling of a troubled romance.

"Prosti" as a movie is very engaging with a balance of humor and drama. Unlike the sexy film image the poster and other advertisements would suggest, It is actually insightful on the topic of prostitution as it tries to give a balanced perspective, with both the good and the bad. The attempt ends up being refreshing and at the least, intriguing and thought provoking.

Pa-Siyam is a about the gathering of a recently deceased woman's sons and daughters for the funeral and to carry out the traditional 9 days of prayer. In that time, a haunting begins to take place and deep family secrets are unburied.

This is Erik Matti's first effort in the horror genre and I was brought to it after watching his short films, Vesuvius and I is for Invincible, and feature length movie, Seklusyon. All of which I consider not only some of the best horror movies but also some of the best productions in Philippine Cinema. What the three have in common are: They have relentlessly terrifying sound designs, immersive cinematography, and tight storylines, the three aspects that make these horror flicks stand out.

While Pa-siyam has a unique story and culturally rooted, it is dulled by the deterioration of the technical aspects and doesn't quite dazzle now, as it probably did back then when it was first shown. As recorded, it was nominated for the Gawad Urian (a distinguished award giving body in the Philippines by critics) Award for Best Production Design by Richard Somes, for Best Sound by Ramon Reyes, and Best Cinematography by J.A. Tadena in 2005 but viewing the movie now (2018) its hard to appreciate its achievement.

Fortunately, despite of the fuzziness of the existing copy, a few bits withstand the damage, and have caught my attention One is the acting of Roderick Paulate as the stern, eldest sibling. It is a rarity to see him in such a role as he is known mostly in comedy and as a lively host in a long running noon time show. Nevertheless, he does a very good job disappearing into the character. Another is the climax, which shocking nature has only been slightly diminished by quality loss.

These beg the question "What if it is in its pristine condition?" I believe if does get picked up for restoration, it would be a mighty fine discovery of a gem of a film. Otherwise, its just an okay movie with its potential denied of exhibition.