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Cavite is a riveting and intense independent thriller film directed by Ian Gamazon and Neill Dela Llana. Released in 2005, it was shot entirely in the Philippines and premiered at the Sundance Film Festival the following year. The film follows the story of Adam (played by Ian Gamazon), a Filipino-American living in San Diego, who returns to his hometown in Cavite, Philippines after the sudden death of his father. However, soon after his arrival, he receives a threatening phone call from an anonymous person who reveals that his mother and sister have been kidnapped and will only be released once Adam follows a series of instructions.

Initially skeptical of the caller's intentions, Adam soon realizes that the situation is more serious than he imagined when he is forced to carry out a series of dangerous and violent tasks throughout the city of Cavite. The caller seems to have intimate knowledge of Adam's life in the United States, and as the night progresses, he is plunged into a terrifying and brutal game of cat and mouse that threatens to unravel his world completely.

As he races through the unfamiliar, bustling city, Adam discovers the harsh realities of life in the Philippines, from the extreme poverty and squalor of the slums to the harsh brutality of the country's drug war. Along the way, he meets a cast of colorful and complex characters, from street vendors and beggars to corrupt police officers and powerful drug lords.

The strength of Cavite lies in its ability to convey a sense of dread and unease that never lets up throughout the film's running time. Shot with a handheld camera and without any music or score, the film feels raw and immediate, as if the events are unfolding in real-time. The use of natural lighting and cramped, narrow spaces gives the film an intimate, claustrophobic feel that adds to its sense of tension and urgency.

The story also explores themes of identity, displacement, and cultural differences, offering a nuanced and complex portrayal of the relationship between the United States and the Philippines. As Adam struggles to come to terms with his Filipino heritage and the harsh realities of his homeland, he is forced to confront the deeply rooted issues of corruption, poverty, and violence that plague the country.

The performances in Cavite are outstanding, particularly Ian Gamazon in the lead role. He brings a vulnerability and authenticity to the character of Adam, making his descent into darkness all the more compelling. The supporting cast is equally impressive, with Edwin Lagda and Edgar Tancangco delivering powerful and nuanced performances as key players in Adam's journey.

Overall, Cavite is an intense and gripping thriller that packs a powerful punch. It's a thought-provoking exploration of Filipino culture and a powerful commentary on the harsh realities of life in the Philippines. Anchored by strong performances, taut direction, and a relentlessly gripping story, it's a film that's not to be missed.

Cavite is a 2005 thriller with a runtime of 1 hour and 20 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.0 and a MetaScore of 64.