TOPAKK (2024) Review
Directed by Richard Somes
The difficulty in mounting an action movie in the Philippines is high. Not just because of the logistics but because the audience are quite demanding when it comes to the genre. But that’s the goal of Richard Somes’ action thriller, ‘Topakk,’ which it delivered with flying colors.
An action-packed crime drama with abundance of thrills and violence, the Arjo Atayde-led film is what action genre fans are looking for. The story is straightforward, two siblings find refuge in an abandoned factory guarded by a retired military and all hell breaks loose when corrupt police officers found them.
You can feel the dirt, blood and sweat in every scene. From its explosive opening sequence to its finale, Topakk manages to be gripping and heart-pounding as you root for its main characters. It doesn’t get too dramatic so the focus won’t get sidelined from all the gun-shooting, knife-stabbing and explosions the film promises.
The story may seem thin but there’s more to the film than just its action scenes. Arjo Atayde portrays a man with post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) while fighting tens to hundreds of men with weapons, all happening in one night. His portrayal doesn’t scream acting but goes on a subtle and authentic representation. You will get exhilarated from the action scenes to worried of his condition when it attacks.
Julia Montes’ performance is also noteworthy because, how can you not get tired from all the things she has done in the film? From running to being tossed around to getting stabbed, Julia makes her struggles felt.
‘Topakk’ is not just for the fans of the action genre or fans of violence and gore. It’s for those who want underdog and redemption stories and punishing those who think they are above the law.
4 OUT OF 5 STARS
‘Topakk’ is an official entry to the 50th Metro Manila Film Festival. Now showing in cinemas nationwide from Nathan Studios, Strawdogs Studio and Fusee. Rated R-16 and R-18 by the MTRCB. #TopakkMMFF