“Japino” (2023) is a compelling 1-hour and 11-minute Vivamax movie that delves into the lives of two Pinay bar dancers navigating challenges in the land of the rising sun. The film, directed by Freidric Macapagal Cortez, stars Ali Asistio, Angela Morena, Denise Esteban, and Vince Rillon.
The storyline weaves between Ayu’s quest to find her local father and Aki’s contemplation of abortion, creating a poignant narrative where their lives intertwine, influencing each other’s critical life decisions. The movie explores themes of identity, family, and choices against the backdrop of a foreign culture.
With a concise runtime, “Japino” manages to capture the complexities of the characters’ lives, thanks to the collaboration between director Freidric Macapagal Cortez and writers Brillante Mendoza and Rocky Christopher Fajardo. The performances of the cast, including Ali Asistio, Angela Morena, Denise Esteban, and Vince Rillon, contribute to the film’s emotional depth, making it a worthwhile watch for those interested in intimate and thought-provoking narratives.
