A.NI.MAL (Cinemalaya 2026) Review
Directed by Dustin Celestino
Dustin Celestino’s A.ni.mal emerges as one of the funniest and most daring films Cinemalaya has produced in recent memory. Beyond the relentless humor, however, lies a sharp, timely piece of satire that confronts audiences with uncomfortable truths about Philippine politics, the politicians we elect, and the complex ways our own biases dictate our thoughts and actions.
At its core, the film acts as a mirror to our collective conscience, fearlessly exposing the mental gymnastics and excuses we make when evaluating moral failures happening around us. It confronts the jarring double standards we uphold, particularly how we extend endless empathy to those we are familiar with while remaining uncompromisingly harsh toward strangers. Most strikingly, A.ni.mal highlights how dangerously forgiving we tend to be with our politicians, constantly lowering the bar for ethical behavior.
The ensemble is fantastic! I think this is my first time watching Maxine Ignacio, and she feels like a total natural as a spoiled, self-absorbed nepo baby. Frances Makil-Ignacio and Jojit Lorenzo are always reliable whether they’re doing drama or comedy, but their dynamics and chemistry here make watching them such an easy joy. Bituin Escalante commands your attention the second she steps on screen—her reactions are just so natural and her comedic timing is spot on. It’s also great to see Anthony Falcon back; he really knows what he’s doing and delivers another impressive performance. Together, this stellar cast elevates the film’s chaotic energy, making every interaction feel sharp, engaging, and delightfully unhinged.
This sharp commentary creates a chaotic mix of emotions for the viewer, taking you on a ride from genuine laughter to deep frustration. Yet, beneath the absurd comedy, the film forces audiences into a quiet state of agreement regarding the grim realities of the Philippine political landscape. Even visually, the film embraces its chaotic nature. While the picture quality noticeably suffers during extreme zoom-ins, the technique somehow adds to the comedic rhythm rather than distracting from it, landing as intentionally funny visual beats.
Narratively, the film is not without minor missteps. The payoff at the end may not land as strongly as its brilliant foundation, and the script occasionally falls into the trap of over-explaining the social commentary it wants to raise. Despite a slightly over-explained resolution, A.ni.mal features some of the most uncomfortable, unhinged, and absurdly funny comedic moments seen in Philippine cinema in recent years. Pulling off a balance between laugh-out-loud comedy and sharp political relevance is an exceptionally difficult feat, but Celestino handles it with impressive effectiveness, delivering a wildly entertaining satirical triumph.
4 OUT OF 5 STARS
Watch ‘A.ni.mal‘ from August 6 – 18 at the Red Carpet Cinemas at Shangri-la Plaza, Gateway Cineplex 18 at Gateway Mall 2 and at Ayala Malls Cinemas Circuit Makati, Glorietta 4, Manila Bay, Market! Market! and TriNoma.