FAMILY HISTORY (2019) Review
Directed by Michael V
Most Filipino films today are targeted for the female audiences. That even if the main characters are male, the themes and how it was showcased, it still feels like from a point of view of a female. Not that there’s anything wrong with that, especially women are spending more money on movies than men. That is why Michael V’s Family History feels different and has a distinct view of how its story is being told.
Michael V’s directorial debut is warm, funny and has life lessons. Family History is a must-see for its fresh take on a Filipino family, on marital problems and on realizing you’re less than what you think of yourself.
The film could work more on its visuals though. The shots and production design feels ungenuine and that affects the overall feel and look of the film.
The actors, on the other hand, are all great. Michael V has been absent on the big screen for too long. Maybe that’s one of the reasons why the film feels a bit outdated? But nevertheless, I admit that I miss seeing him on the big screen and he’s doing more than just acting. Dawn Zulueta puts the needed gravity for drama for the film. Even though she’s beautiful and charming at some scenes, you know its serious when Dawn is on the screen. Bianca Umali and Miguel Tanfelix felt like they were underused. While they are only supporting characters in Family History, it also feels like they could have showed more for the film’s other angle which is the side of the youth.
The film could use a lot of work, but the core of the story is admirable and should be applauded. This is a family movie that’s more sensible on the father’s journey and that’s not usually what we can see in commercial cinema these days.
‘Family History’ is now showing in cinemas from GMA Pictures and Mic Test Entertainment, Inc. Rated PG by the MTRCB.