Maxi, a boy on the cusp of his teens, is already comfortable with his homosexual feelings, with acceptance from his family. When Maxi is assaulted one evening, Victor, a police officer, comes to his aid. Maxi soon develops a crush on Victor, who shows a platonic affection for the young lad.
One of the finest Filipino films, shimmering with folkloric charm without softening its view of the harshness and injustice of a life of poverty.
– Kevin Thomas,
Los Angeles Times,
28 Sep 2006
fresh:
One of those all-too-rare films that handle preadolescent queerness with intelligence and unflinching honesty.
– Ernest Hardy,
L.A. Weekly,
28 Sep 2006
fresh:
Preteen sexuality is a sensitive subject, but director Auraeus Solito handles it with dignity, never becoming exploitative.
– V.A. Musetto,
New York Post,
22 Sep 2006
fresh:
The newcomer Nathan Lopez delights as the flamboyantly gay Maxi, the youngest son in a family of thieves who falls in love with handsome police officer.
– Nathan Lee,
New York Times,
21 Sep 2006
fresh:
A unusual and potent portrait of the Filipino undersoul.