Balota has our vote.
Related: Here’s Why Marian Rivera’s New Movie, Balota, Is More Important Than You Think
As is to be expected with Cinemalaya, Cinemalaya 2024 was packed with acclaimed and hard-hitting films that spoke to the many struggles and hopes of the Filipino people. And one of the most talked-about from this year’s festival was Kip Oebanda’s Balota. The story of a teacher named Emmy fighting for her life as she protects the last ballot box in a tight and violent mayoral election in the province was a crowd favorite, ultimately winning lead actress Marian Rivera a Best Actress award.
Now that the movie is finally playing in cinemas nationwide (and potentially debuting in streaming services down the line), the movie comes at an appropriate time when we’re once again heading to the polls soon for the 2025 elections. And from its poignant themes and messages, production, acting, and more, Balota has our vote. Here’s why.
MARIAN RIVERA… THAT’S IT
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Marian Rivera eating a role is not out of the ordinary. But she delivers a career highlight in Balota. One of her best performances to date sees the actress get down and grity as Emmy, a teacher who goes to hell and back to protect her assigned ballot box and her values. She gives Emmy this confidence and competence but also a vulnerability as she tries to make sense of her situation. Marian did what needed to be done, and her portrayal of Emmy is a roller coaster of human sacrifice and conviction.
IT’S A STRAIGHT-UP GOOD MOVIE
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Kip Oebanda has built a reputation for seamlessly combining competent storytelling with relevant themes and messages. And that continues with Balota. Oebanda’s direction keeps things brisk and engaging as we go deeper and deeper into Emmy’s plight. The tension and emotions will be felt here. Add to that an overall strong cast composed of seasoned veterans and rising Gen Z actors, Balota hits the marks as a solid indie drama thriller.
ESNYR AND SASSA GURL DELIVER
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Given the stacked cast Balota features, it’s a testament to their talent how Sassa Gurl and Esnyr stand out as one of the best parts of the movie. The two play small but memorable roles as two Gen Z protesting the injustices in their town that still retain their charisma, wit, and humor. They shine in every scene they are in and have us convinced that they need to be in another movie together, and not as supporting characters, but as leading roles.
IT HIGHLIGHTS THE IMPORTANCE OF TEACHERS (ESPECIALLY DURING ELECTIONS)
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It needs to be said the key role teachers play in our lives, both during elections when many of them put their lives in danger and in general. And that’s a theme Balota never fails to forget. Aside from showing Emmy’s bravery in the face of death and calling for an end to the threats teachers like her face during elections, the movie also showcases Emmy as a trusted and respected figure in her community who isn’t afraid to call right from wrong. Emmy’s actions have a ripple effect on many in her town, and it speaks to the kind of good that happens when we let teachers do their thing and give them the support they need and deserve.
ITS LESSONS RESONATE WITH ELECTIONS IN THE COUNTRY
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Balota is more than just a thriller, it’s a movie that has bite and isn’t afraid to put its convictions front and center. The film has something to say with many of its lessons applicable to today’s world. From the power of speaking up against injustice, the pitfalls of idolizing politicians, reminding us that all politicians have flaws and more, Balota goes there, and we love that for them.
While the movie does point to the seemingly never-ending cycle of every election being the same, it also leaves its viewers with a sense of hope that things can get better, so long as politicians have their service focused on the people, and we use our voice and vote to elect the right leaders. There are a lot of lessons to take from this with the 2025 elections around the corner.
Balota is still screening in cinemas nationwide. Students and teachers can also avail of a discount and get their tickets for only 150 pesos.
Continue Reading: Vote Wisely: 5 Tips For First-Time Voters For The 2025 Elections
