Lola

A grandson is stabbed to death for a cell-phone; the killer is also a grandson. These grandmothers have very hard lives: one of them trying to find cash for a funeral, while the other doing all she can to raise cash to free her grandson.

This film is much deeper than most Filipino offerings, especially due to superb performances by veteran actresses Anita Linda and Rustica Carpio. These ladies exhibit so such grace, humanity, and empathy for their characters, that you can easily discern the love they have for their families. But unlike television grandmothers, they are not all smiles and sweetness. Ms. Linda's character is also impatient and especially grouchy with her preteen grandchildren.

This is a very realistic look at the lives of those who barely get by, and insight into the Filipino culture.

This was a moving and beautiful film. I recommend it highly.