Underplayed Gems

Balota (2024)

Balota poster
Genre
political thriller film
Country
Philippines
Rated
MA 15+
Rating
8.4 of 10 from 5 voters
Elsewhere
IMDb
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How it feels

A teacher in the Philippines gets caught in a dangerous situation during a heated local election. She must navigate threats and pressure to protect herself and her community.

tenseurgentgroundedsuspensefulgrittyseriousintenseprovocative

What happens

Balota (lit. 'Ballot') is a 2024 Philippine political thriller film written and directed by Kip Oebanda. The film stars Marian Rivera as Emmy, a teacher who is thrust into a dangerous situation during a volatile local election, with Will Ashley, Nico Antonio, Royce Cabrera, Raheel Bhyria, Sue Prado, Sassa Gurl, Esnyr, Donna Cariaga, Joel Saracho, Gardo Versoza, and Mae Paner in supporting roles. It was produced by GMA Pictures, GMA Entertainment Group, and the Film Development Council of the Philippines. Balota premiered at the 20th Cinemalaya Philippine Independent Film Festival on August 3, 2024, before its international theatrical release on October 16. During its theatrical run, the film became one of the notable box office performers among Filipino films released in 2024. The film received generally positive reviews, with particular acclaim for Rivera's performance. It also received several accolades, including winning Best Film at the 2026 Philippine Arts, Film and Television Awards. (from Wikipedia, CC BY-SA)

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