REEL DEAL: Bwakaw REVIEW

Cinemalaya films are penetrating into the mainstream cinema because of the reception it got from its viewers. The first one was "Ang Babae Sa Septic Tank", and now comes "Bwakaw" starring Eddie Garcia. The Film is one of the Directors Showcase 2012 Cinemalaya Independent Film Festival and Competition 

Bwakaw is a drama-comedy about growing old, and everyone's fear of growing old alone. Rene is a gay man who came out of the closet at age 70. Ailing in his twilight years, he thinks it is now too late for love, even companionship, and that all there is to look forward to is Death. He has made a will, bequeathing his few possessions to his even fewer friends. Everything is packed and labeled, ready for distribution. He has even paid for a coffin, taking advantage of a funeral home's Summer Sale. Nowadays the only companion Rene has is Bwakaw, a stray dog that hangs around his house and follows him wherever he goes. As Rene waits for the day of his death, he gets the surprise of his life when it is Bwakaw who suddenly falls ill and is diagnosed with cancer. 

Other cast include Rez Cortez, Soliman Cruz, Bibeth Orteza, Joey Paras, Alan Paule, Beverly Salviejo, Soxie Topacio, Luz Valdez, Gardo Versoza, Ms. Armida Siguion-Reyna, Jonathan Neri, Ronaldo Bertubin, May-I Fabros and introducing Princess as Bwakaw. 

BUAKAW is brought to you by APT Productions and ABS CBN. Now showing this September 5, 2012.

Deliberation time kids! 

Show summary in 3 lines: Rene's Best Friend

Technical Effects: 3 out of 5 stars (Great cinematography)

Plot: 4 out of 5 stars (Though the story is located in the province, I was not a boring movie, actually there were a lot of great comedic scenes there. But of course it was also effective in drama)

Acting and Actors: 4 out of 5 stars  (I'm very impressed by Princess [Bwakaw] and also Eddie Garcia rarely plays a gay role) 

DVD worthiness: 4 out of 5 stars (I hope it comes with a puppy)

Music and Soundtracks:  3 out for 5 stars (simple and sweet)

Pros: Plot progression, actors, location, the house

Cons: some of the "extras" are too stiff, unnatural

Overall Rating: 4.0 out of 5 stars (So far, I loved the movie for interconnecting the lives of the characters and how it progressed. And most of all, I just love the dog itself, Bwakaw!)