SISA (2026) Review
Directed by Jun Robles Lana
More than the film being Hilda Koronel’s comeback, which is great, she’s exceptional in it, as always, but as the story progresses, I’m in awe of the performances of its ensemble as a whole. Koronel, with Eugene Domingo, Jennica Garcia, Angellie Sanoy, Barbara Miguel, Jorrybel Agoto, Kobie Brown and Tanya Gomez, the film boasts a plethora of talents, of course, including its director, Lana.
It’s a marvel to watch these talents portraying characters that are specifically written to present different types of people in society. From the restraint in their characters from the start, accepting their tragic fate at first, and then leading to how they break from their shackles and put matters into their own hands, the film becomes a one remarkable cinematic experience.
The cinematography is beautiful. Lana’s use of long shots is purposeful, and the change from a landscape to a square aspect ratio shifts the perspective, giving the story the intimate, raw feeling of found footage recorded by someone within that era. The framing of every scene is perfect to highlight not just the performances but also the dialogue the characters say.
I was surprised the film isn’t as slow-paced as Lana’s previous serious dramas. ‘Sisa’ is an entertaining, immersive and powerful drama that will leave you in awe because of its story, powerhouse cast and how it is told. This is Jun Robles Lana at his best, controlling how every scene is perceived and presented, and demonstrating a masterful command over its narrative that keeps the audience glued to the screen from start to finish.
4.5 OUT OF 5 STARS
‘Sisa’ is now showing in cinemas nationwide from The IdeaFirst Company, October Train Films, Quantum Films, CineKo Productions and CMB Films. Rated PG by the MTRCB.