Mujigae (2024) Review
Directed by Randolph Longjas
What better way to heal from our longingness of someone who already passed than to share it with someone dealing with the same pain.
Mujigae or Rainbow translated in English tells the story of a A Kopino (half Korean, half Filipino) kid who goes back to the Philippines with her grandfather after her mom died of cancer. Her presence
Probably one of director Randolph Longjas trademark in his films is how he showcases his films’ characters in a heartwarming story. From ‘Ang Turkey Man ay Pabo Rin’ to ‘Star na si Van Damme Stallone,’ Longjas never fails in providing a story that can be understood universally – and that is familial love. But in Mujigae, Longjas also presents how to cope with loss and how to heal from the longingness we have from the ones that left us.
One of the film’s strengths is its casting. From Alexa Ilacad, Kim Ji Soo, Cai Cortez, Donna Cariaga, Kate Alejandrino and the impressive Ryrie Sophia, their characters’ struggles are relatable and what’s more relatable is how we cling on to the people around us for support, and the negative and positive results of it.
It might need some trimming and faster pacing at times but when you watch a film that has a lot of heart and its heart is in the right place, there’s so much it could give to the audience. May it be entertainment, a lesson or two, or maybe even a reflection or wake up call on one’s life. That’s what Mujigae will leave its audiences.
You’ll laugh, you’ll cry, and be amused at the talents of its cast. Heartwarming is an understatement of how Mujigae can affect its audience, it’s the type of film that you’ll remember how it made you feel even years after watching.
3.5 OUT OF 5 STARS
‘Mujigae’ is now showing exclusively at SM Cinemas from Unitel Straightshooters. Rated PG by the MTRCB.