Barber's Tales (2013)

"Sana noon pa tayo nagkakilala para nahawa ako sa katapangan mo.” - Cecilia

In the Filipino culture, barber’s tales or mga kwentong barbero are exaggerated stories people tell but this movie is nothing to exaggerated. The 2013 film is an internationally acclaimed independent film written and directed by Jun Robles Lana. It stars Eugene Domingo as Marilou, wife of the town barber. Although Domingo is commercially known as a comedian, her portrayal in this heavy drama film was truly moving.

Set in a provincial town in the year 1975 during the Martial Law, it was able to touch several social issues that were not only prevalent during that period but even until now. One of the issues that was sure to make a statement and is also the main issue tackled in the film is that about feminism. In a time were women are simply for household work, Marilou proved, in her timid yet courageous self, that a woman does not depend on a man. Aside from that, the film showcased several realities that many are aware of yet not much dare talk about it – it became a voice for the people.

Not only was the plot worth watching because it’s cinematography was also a big aspect to the film’s brilliance. The faded, warm tone of the film added the feel the story was trying to convey. All throughout the film, I have nothing but praises. It’s definitely one of those films that knows how to hype up an audience so if you’re looking for a film that will make you feel all kinds of feels, don’t hesitate to add this to your list.

Watch the trailer here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B6BNuVMrljY