“The Kingdom,” an official entry to the 50th Metro Manila Film Festival, dares to imagine a Philippines untouched by colonization, where a monarchy reigns supreme. This bold premise alone sets the stage for a thought-provoking cinematic experience.
Writer Michelle Ngu-Nario, APT executive Jojo Oconer, and director Mike Tuviera at the special screening
A World of What-ifs
The film’s narrative flows smoothly, drawing you into the world of “Kalayaan,” a kingdom steeped in tradition and intrigue. While the “what-if” scenario may raise questions, the film establishes its reality convincingly, requiring a willing suspension of disbelief on the part of viewers. The central theme of a monarchial Philippines is woven intricately throughout the story, exploring a lot of complexities like power, loyalty, and rebellion.
A Cast ‘Fit for a King‘
One of the film’s strengths lies in its star-studded and talented cast.
Vic Sotto as Lakan Makisig: The moment he greeted his imaginary countrymen in an interview with a foreign reporter at the beginning of the film, I sensed Sotto was fully into his character. Stepping outside his comedic comfort zone, he delivered a respectable performance as the reigning monarch. While I think that his portrayal could use a bit more punch, his performance is proof of his versatility. His usual charm as a comedian bleeded into his being a serious actor. I didn’t see Enteng Kabisote or Eat Bulaga’s Bossing Vic. Sotto rightfully owned being a lakan in this one by looking the part and showcasing different emotions as a father, a leader, and a friend.
Piolo Pascual as Sulo: Pascual, shedding his “Papa P” image, completely embodied the role of Sulo, a rebel with a cause. His performance is both nuanced and powerful, drawing me into his struggle and making it easy to empathize with his motivations.
Supporting Cast: The supporting cast, including the likes of Sue Ramirez, Sid Lucero, Cristine Reyes, Iza Calzado, and Ruby Ruiz, provided strong performances that elevated the storytelling. Ruiz’s presence as Babaylan is noteworthy and adds gravitas to the narrative. Even the brief appearances of Art Acuña, Nico Antonio, Cedrick Juan, and Arnold Reyes are impactful and well-integrated.
Visual Feast
Cinematography and Visuals
“The Kingdom” is visually stunning, with meticulous attention to detail in the costumes, sets, and overall aesthetic. The film effectively transports viewers to this imagined kingdom, with believable sets and thoughtfully designed symbols and artifacts. While the cinematography occasionally resembles that of a teleserye, it doesn’t detract significantly from the overall visual experience.
Watch out for these beautiful props:
Music and Dialogue
The film’s score complements the tone and scenes beautifully, enhancing the emotional impact. Although the dialogue, with its imagined language void of colonization, may feel slightly inconsistent at times, it adds to the unique flavor of this alternate reality.
Cultural Significance
Beyond its entertainment value, “The Kingdom” sparks important conversations about Filipino identity, the impact of colonization, and the timeless struggle between power and justice. It serves as a reminder that corruption and injustice can exist regardless of a nation’s history, and that ultimately, it’s the values of love, loyalty, and kindness that shape a nation’s fate. And that greed breeds hate and other ugly things.
Final Impression
While not without its minor flaws, “The Kingdom” is a commendable and thought-provoking film that deserves to be seen. It’s a refreshing addition to the MMFF lineup, offering a unique blend of historical fiction, political intrigue, and cultural exploration. This is a film that will prompt discussions and reflections on the Philippines’ history and even its future.
This Christmas Day, prepare to be transported to an extraordinary reimagined Philippines, untouched by colonization and ruled by a powerful monarchy. “The Kingdom,” an official entry to the 50th Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF 2024), invites audiences on an immersive cinematic journey that will ignite pride in Filipino heritage.
Leading the cast is Vic Sotto in a transformative role as Lakan Makisig, the monarch of Kalayaan grappling with the succession of his throne. This performance marks a departure from Sotto’s comedic repertoire, showcasing his dramatic range.
Joining him is Piolo Pascual in a milestone performance as Sulo, an outcast farmer whose destiny intertwines with the Lakan’s. The film also stars Cristine Reyes, Sue Ramirez, and Sid Lucero as members of the royal family caught in a web of power struggles.
Directed by Mike Tuviera, co-written by Michelle Ngu-Nario, and produced by a powerhouse team (DGPI, MQuest Ventures Inc, M-ZET TV Productions, and APT Entertainment Inc), “The Kingdom” will take you on a refreshing imaginary journey. This is rated PG (Parental Guidance) by the MTRCB.
Originally published on Random Republika.
