MARIA - Deadly, Brutal, Violent, And We Love It!

I love that action films are getting a revival like Buybust, and I think it is time that they will push Philippine cinema further. I was excited to know that Viva Films will be offering another action movie with Maria. Directed by Pedring Lopez and stars Cristine Reyes, and co-production with BlackOps Studios Asia and Psyops8.

Though its simple name for a title, it has an interesting story that leads to a complicated and gritty network of violence. Maria is a revenge story of an assassin who is out for blood when her family gets caught in a war that involves politics and drugs. But she does not do revenge peacefully, because of her past she is built to fight and it will get really violent.

It was a wise choice to have Cristine Reyes to play Maria because she is into martial arts, fitness, and also a mother. Features that makes her fit to do the strenuous work needed to do as she fights her way to all her enemies.

The movie was revealed to incorporated Filipino martial arts in the fight scenes. The fight scenes were choreographed by Sonny Sison who also also worked in Buybust. The fights were also intense and can be at par with international action films.

Maria stars Cristine Reyes, Kc Montero, Ivan Padilla, LA Santos, Jennifer Lee, Freddie Webb, and Ronnie Lazaro.  Directed by Pedring Lopez, showing in cinemas March 27, 2019.

Deliberation time kids! 

Film summary: Never mess with a retired assassin

Quotable quote: “Patay na si Lily, Ako si Maria” - Maria

Technical Effects: 3 out of 5 stars (fight scenes gets a real as it gets though some sfx may need some refinement.)

Plot: 4 out of 5 stars (It is a potential franchise that can be expanded with many potential plots.)

Acting and Actors: 4 out of 5 stars (Cristine Reyes showed how powerful and versatile she is here, Ronnie Lazaro also steals the show with comic relief.)

Pros:  hardcore action, Filipino martial arts, cinematography
Cons: special effects may need more refinement

Music and Soundtracks:  4 out for 5 stars (Cool set of songs and score, though wonders if they have a playlist available on spotify) 

Overall: Rating 4.2 out of 5 stars (The film leads the way for the rise of leading women of action in Pinoy films, it is empowering to action genre, women, and Filipino martial arts.)