A Review: And the Breadwinner is...: A Hilariously Heartbreaking Rollercoaster
A Review: Breadwinner is..: A Hilariously Heartbreaking Rollercoaster
Vice Ganda's And the Breadwinner is... isn't your typical tearjerker; it's a dramedy that expertly blends gut-busting humor with surprisingly poignant moments. The plot itself is straightforward, a simple tale of family, struggles, and unexpected love. However, the film's charm lies not in its narrative complexity, but in its wonderfully chaotic cast of characters and their unpredictable interactions.
The story unfolds with a cast of characters that initially feel a bit disjointed. Eugene's sudden appearance felt a little abrupt, leaving me with more questions than answers about her motivations and backstory. Despite this, the actor's performance was undeniably captivating – a masterclass in understated brilliance. The Maris and Anthony love team, however, presented a more problematic aspect. Their on-screen chemistry was somewhat hampered by the off-screen cheating scandal, making certain scenes feel a little cringe-worthy. Via's character, unfortunately, felt underutilized, serving more as a plot device than a fully fleshed-out individual. Kokoy's character arc also felt somewhat underdeveloped, leaving me wanting more depth and exploration of his internal struggles.
But amidst these minor shortcomings, And the Breadwinner shines brightly thanks to the performances of Jhong and Gladys. Their on-screen dynamic is electric, their comedic timing impeccable, and their portrayal of familial exasperation and affection is utterly relatable. They truly steal the show, embodying the film's emotional core with infectious energy.
Vice Ganda himself delivers a strong performance, though there were moments where his delivery felt a bit rushed or unclear, leaving me momentarily confused. While his comedic timing remains sharp, I was surprised by the relative scarcity of emotional depth in his portrayal. I only recall seeing him cry once, despite the film's emotionally charged moments. This might be due to the film's attempt to balance humor and drama, resulting in a somewhat uneven distribution of screen time and emotional weight among the cast. A more even distribution of spotlight could have allowed each character to truly shine.
The film's greatest strength, however, is its ability to seamlessly blend laughter and tears. It's a rollercoaster of emotions, taking you from uproarious laughter to heartfelt sadness in the blink of an eye. This unexpected juxtaposition of humor and drama is both refreshing and effective, creating a unique viewing experience that's both entertaining and emotionally resonant. The film's success in our local cinemas is a testament to its ability to connect with the audience on multiple levels. The seemingly unrelated jokes, while sometimes distracting, ultimately serve to lighten the mood and prevent the film from becoming overly sentimental.
In conclusion, And the Breadwinner is a flawed but ultimately enjoyable film. While some characters feel underdeveloped and certain plot points feel rushed, the film's strong comedic performances, its unique blend of humor and heart, and its ability to evoke both laughter and tears make it a worthwhile watch. It's a film that understands its audience, embracing its strengths while acknowledging its limitations. It’s a movie that will leave you both laughing and crying, and that’s a testament to its undeniable entertainment value. #AndTheBreadwinner #ViceGanda #FilipinoMovie #Comedy #Drama #Dramedy #MovieReview #mmff2023
