Review of Metro Manila (2013) by Scubasteve Walter M — 01 Jun 2014

I've never seen anything like this. The usual drama of Manila is a cliche amongst audiences. promdi goes to Manila for a better life yet ended up far worse. However Ellis takes this story into another level. The usual drama is still there but he makes it into a crime drama instead. Even put up a heist component. The twist and flow of this unique story is amazing, capturing the thrills and attention of movie-goers. His cinematography is keen and beautiful in every scene. Even the slums look so good on-screen. John Arcilla delivered a powerful performance also, without him the story is lifeless.

Despite the strengths of the movie, there's some minor glitches to it. A non-Filipino would not notice this and the movie would be as awesome as it could be. Yet a Filipino can identify those details that are inconsistent such as the roads/location used, guns used by armored guards, GRO system in bars, etc. But considering Ellis never grew here in Manila, it's as close as it could be, but a Filipino consultant/researcher on those details wouldn't hurt either.