WARNING: Spoilers ahead.
'And the Breadwinner Is' tells the story of Bambi Salvador (Vice Ganda), a Filipino working in Taiwan to provide for her family. When she finally returns home to Arayat, Pampanga, she's filled with excitement to see the dream house she's been working tirelessly to build. But to her dismay, she finds that their dream house still exists only in their imaginations.
I was incredibly excited to see this film for two key reasons. Firstly, it marks the long-awaited collaboration between Vice Ganda and Jun Robles Lana. We've been eagerly anticipating this partnership, as we've always felt that Vice deserved to work with such a renowned and prolific director. Secondly, as a gay breadwinner myself, I deeply connected with this story. I was eager to see how the screenplay would delve into the realities of being a gay individual who shoulders the financial responsibilities for their family.
The film opens with a barrage of Vice Ganda's signature brand of comedy: over-the-top humor, exaggerated characters, and rapid-fire jokes delivered with her trademark energy. This initial burst of absurdity, while undeniably entertaining for her loyal fanbase, may feel familiar and potentially overwhelming for viewers seeking a different kind of comedic experience.
Given Jun Robles Lana's own proclivity for absurdist humor, which often requires audiences to suspend their disbelief, it was unsurprising to see him embrace and even amplify Vice Ganda's signature brand of comedic chaos in this film.
Watching 'And the Breadwinner Is...' is like waiting for that singer in karaoke to hit the money note. The film builds towards the familiar Star Cinema confrontation scene, the kind that has become iconic in Filipino cinema. While the build-up might feel a bit drawn out, just like waiting for the singer to find their voice, the emotional climax is ultimately worth the anticipation.
As a fan of one-shot filmmaking, I was thrilled to see Jun Robles Lana utilize this technique in the film's pivotal confrontation scene. This is where Vice Ganda truly shines, delivering a powerful performance that left me completely captivated. I was so engrossed in the emotional intensity of the scene that I lost track of how long the unbroken shot lasted. It was executed with such masterful precision that one couldn't help but wonder how much of that raw, emotional performance was improvised.
I can't remember the last time I sobbed so uncontrollably in a theater, and I even found myself wanting to continue processing those emotions long after leaving. The film resonated with me deeply. While being a breadwinner carries its own set of challenges, the film poignantly explores the unique struggles faced by LGBTQIA+ individuals who shoulder that responsibility. It felt like a powerful love letter, acknowledging our experiences, validating our exhaustion and frustrations, and reminding us that we are seen.
The film beautifully captures the subtle complexities of being a breadwinner. For example, there's this wonderful scene where Vice Ganda's character expresses gratitude for her family's efforts in putting up festive lights, but then playfully quips, "Mukhang malakas 'to sa kuryente," ("This looks like it'll use a lot of electricity"). It's a small moment, but it perfectly encapsulates the constant balancing act breadwinners face -- wanting to provide for their loved ones while also being mindful of their finances.
The cast delivered solid performances, though they arguably shone brighter in the more dramatic scenes than in the comedic ones. Eugene Domingo, as always, was a delight to watch. I particularly appreciated her evident effort to support Vice Ganda and allow her to take center stage.
'And the Breadwinner Is' pays homage to the quirkiness of Vice Ganda's previous films, which, depending on your perspective, can either be a messy breather or a fun way to let loose. However, whenever Jun Robles Lana took the material seriously and took it home, it almost always took my breath away, both figuratively due to awe and literally due to uncontrollable sobbing.
Bring tissues.