Now showing in theaters is “Mujigae,” a heart-warming drama that delves into an abundance of complications that should be familiar to many Pinoys.
It all starts with a husband and father who is only too happy and content living a simple, bucolic life.
This will not sit well with his wife who would ultimately abandon him and their children, both girls.
The two would grow up imagining a life away from the rustic sameness. Like their mom, they want to spread their wings.
One of them will able to do so, only to succumb to an early death, leaving a child.
The other, already frustrated with the idea of being trapped with her father and his monotonous subsistence, would go on to hate her life even more being thrust into the role of nanny to her orphaned niece.
It doesn’t end there.
The niece, still reeling from the death of her mom, now has to contend with a sudden change of environment.
Not only that. She would also bear the brunt of her aunt’s pain and anger.
But where is her father?
It could’ve been overwhelming but film director Randolph Longjas showed mastery weaving it all together in one cohesive piece, doing so in a thoughtful, languid manner allowing for a narrative that is both engrossing as it is stimulating.
The film’s cast should be credited for their outstanding effort.
Ryrie Sophia, the girl who plays Mujigae is quite the find. We wouldn’t be surprised if she goes on to carve a place among today’s brightest.
Alexa Ilacad’s performance is finely nuanced but relatable, authentic.
Ditto Kim Ji Soo who is quite effective as Mujigae’s penitent father.
“Mujigae” is rated PG (Parental Guidance) by the Movie and Television Review and Classification Board (MTRCB).
