Title: Kalakal
Year: 2025
Genre: Drama, Romance
Rating: 0
Cast: Aliya Raymundo, Gold Aceron, Jero Flores
Description: The stench of desperation clings to "Kalakal" like a second skin, a potent aroma that permeates every scene. Roman Perez Jr.'s direction masterfully captures the stark contrast between the filth of the dumpsite and the glittering façade of the high-class club, mirroring the internal conflict of Aliya Raymundo's captivating performance as the protagonist. Raymundo, alongside Gold Aceron and Jero Flores, delivers a raw and visceral portrayal of a woman wrestling with her past, trapped between the allure of a comfortable life and the bonds of loyalty. The film isn't just a story about a woman escaping poverty; it's a poignant exploration of self-worth and the heavy price of ambition. Perez Jr. expertly avoids moralizing, instead presenting a complex character grappling with difficult choices, leaving the audience to ponder the true cost of abandoning one's past. "Kalakal" is not for the faint of heart, but for those willing to confront uncomfortable truths, it's a rewarding and unforgettable cinematic experience.