PARE, MAHAL MO RAW AKO (2016) Review
Written & Directed by Joven Tan
While gay-themed films aren’t new to Philippine cinema, Joven Tan’s “Pare, Mahal Mo Raw Ako” is a mixed of serious and light take on the theme. There’s a pool of gay-themed films in the Philippines but they’re either too comedy or too serious, or the most popular, satirical. But since the trend today in Philippine cinema is the use of “hugot” lines in romantic films, Pare, Mahal Mo Raw Ako jumps in that craze.
Edgar Allan Guzman’s performance is commendable, the subtlety of his actions that expresses repressed feelings for his best friend is done decently, couth and with grace. The chemistry between the two leads is undeniably strong, that rooting for the two might just be something the audience would do. Michael Pangilinan plays as effective in his role, still being manly even with the confused situation.
There’s grace is their performances, the story while tackling a sensitive theme, doesn’t go careless. Pare, Mahal Mo Raw Ako may be predictable and too cheesy but some of its points are sincere and it presents a side of the gay community that is hardly seen in mainstream movies. The story might not be new or well-written but when it confronts the issues it wants to tell, it mostly hits.
2 OUT OF 5 STARS
“Pare, Mahal Mo Raw Ako” opens June 8, 2016 in Philippine cinemas, distributed by VIVA Films. Rated R-13 by the MTRCB.