Watch Mondomanila

Mondomanila is a 2012 Filipino independent film directed by Khavn De La Cruz. The movie stars Timothy Castillo, Marife Necesito, and Jim Rocky Tangco. The film is a dark and gritty depiction of life in Manila's slums, filled with surreal and shocking moments that both captivate and disturb the viewer. The movie follows the journey of Tony de Guzman (Timothy Castillo), a bizarrely dressed and eccentric man who is the lead character of the story. He dwells in the slums of Manila, where poverty and suffering go hand in hand with everyday life. Tony dreams of a better life, constantly seeking ways to fulfil his fantasies and desires. However, his attempts are frequently interrupted by the harsh realities of life in Manila.

Tony's world is filled with bizarre and unusual characters, including his mother (Marife Necesito), a former prostitute and drug addict who loves to force people to play Russian roulette, and Erning (Jim Rocky Tangco), Tony's friend who is a talented musician but who also has unresolved mental health issues.

The film takes the viewer on a journey through the slums of Manila, providing an unflinching look at the poverty, corruption, and violence that plague the area. From the squalid alleyways filled with garbage and rats to the dark and seedy brothels run by ruthless criminals, the film presents a bleak picture of life on the streets.

Mondomanila explores various themes, including poverty, crime, family, and mental illness. The film depicts the harsh realities of life in the slums of Manila, portraying the desperation and hopelessness that its characters face every day. Despite this bleak backdrop, the movie's characters nevertheless retain a sense of humanity, with each trying to find meaning and purpose in their lives.

The film's surreal and often shocking moments are a testament to the director's unique artistic style. Khavn De La Cruz creates a world that is both fantastical and realistic, blurring the line between dreams and reality. The director uses vibrant colours, frenetic camera work, and surreal imagery to create a truly immersive experience for the viewer.

The movie's score, composed by Khavn De La Cruz, is another highlight of the film. The music piece blends Eastern and Western influences, combining traditional Filipino music with contemporary sounds to create a unique and compelling soundtrack. The music adds to the film's surreal and dream-like quality.

Overall, Mondomanila is an intense and gritty film that offers a thought-provoking look at life in the slums of Manila. Its unique style and powerful performances from the cast create a powerful depiction of the human condition, with all its flaws and beauty. While the film can be disturbing at times, it is ultimately a rewarding and thought-provoking experience that is not easily forgotten.

Mondomanila is a 2015 crime movie with a runtime of 1 hour and 15 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.2.