Watch Walwal

Walwal is a 2018 Filipino coming-of-age movie directed by Jose Javier Reyes, known for his works such as Kasal, Kasali, Kasalo and Ang Tanging Ina. The film features Elmo Magalona, Kiko Estrada, Donny Pangilinan, who play the central characters of Bobbie, Ace, and Joey, respectively. The movie follows the lives of four teenage friends, who are in their final year of high school, as they navigate their way through love, friendship, and growing up.

At the beginning of the story, the boys are first introduced partying in a friend's house while getting drunk and talking about their respective problems. Bobbie, who is the most laid-back of the group, is trying to dodge his mom's demands of deciding what course to take in college because he still has no idea. Ace, the leader of the group, is preoccupied with his bad grades, putting his scholarship at risk. On the other hand, Joey, the most sensitive of the bunch, is dealing with a recent heartbreak and trying to move on. Their fourth friend, Enzo, is still MIA but later introduced in the story.

As the movie goes on, we see the boys face different challenges that lead them to re-evaluate their lives and relationships. Bobbie meets the girl of his dreams, played by Devon Seron, but struggles to overcome his insecurities and approach her. Ace gets involved with the school's athlete, played by Jane de Leon, who is dealing with a personal issue that brings out a sensitive side of Ace. Joey, who had been avoiding his ex, finally confronts her, played by Kisses Delavin, and finds closure.

The friendship between the boys is tested several times when they discover secrets and lies that threaten to tear them apart. Enzo's arrival, who is the complete opposite of the group's personalities, adds a unique dynamic and deeper conflict to the storyline.

One of the most significant themes of the movie is the idea of "walwal," a Filipino colloquial term that refers to a night of drinking and partying. The concept is prevalent in the movie's advertising and even included in the title. However, the movie does not solely depend on this idea as its central conflict but instead uses it as a backdrop to the bigger and more profound issues the characters face.

As the movie draws to a close, each of the characters goes through significant growth and understanding, mostly regarding their relationships with each other. The movie leaves a fulfilling message about the importance of cherishing your friends and making the most out of what college life has to offer.

Walwal is an endearing coming-of-age film that captures the highs and lows of adolescence, showcasing the struggles of the four friends in a relatable manner. Reyes' directing does an excellent job of creating an approachable tone that enhances the audiences' connection to the characters. The actors also stand out, with standout performances from Elmo Magalona, Kiko Estrada, and Donny Pangilinan.

Overall, if you're looking for a feel-good movie that explores the complexities of friendships and growing up, Walwal is definitely worth checking out.

Walwal is a 2018 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 43 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.6.