Rent Metro Manila (2013)

Heartbreaking but classic movie - Metro Manila review by PV

This is a heartbreaking movie but one that shows a story which must be repeated for so many thousands of people in the poorer parts of the world.

All about the Philippines and its corruption, violence, poverty. As is usual, the massive exploitation of the very poor by those who are also not that rich is what happens - as it does in the UK with immigrants exploited by other immigrants to work the land.

Not a pleasant watch sometimes and quite violent - and in a way which may make some question their faith (the Philippines is a very devoutly Christian place).

After watching this, it's easy to understand why so many Philippine people want to work abroad - for example in the British NHS.

A superb film with decent subtitles.

5 stars

A thriller in Manila - Metro Manila review by TE

A well-made, absorbing story built around the desperation of life in the underbelly of society in the Philippines.

The film gives harrowing insights into the decisions that have to be made in a classic urban jungle. There are twists and turns, and the viewer soon becomes committed to rooting for Oscar and his family.

Both the acting and the cinematography are excellent. The only question mark is over the sheer speed at which the whole thing happens. The plot would make an ideal mini-series rather than a standard length one-off movie.

Heartbreaking realities - Metro Manila review by CH

A hard hitting film, a very hard watch.  Predators circle the unwary and naive new city dwellers, where human life is cheap and red in tooth and claw….everyone is dispensable prey in the Manila food chain.