Sisa, an unfortunate victim of the Philippine-American War, harbors a secret which she intends to use to enact her revenge.
(C) The IdeaFirst Company
While it has a distinct visual style unusual for casual moviegoers, the film is actually accessible to everyone. With a powerful message in store, writer and director Jun Robles Lana ensures you know where things will lead—sometimes to a fault. There’s no mistaking what it suggests, though this can be a little distracting given the film’s more subdued approach.
Some story beats also feel familiar, as it plays more like a mastery exercise of a genre we rarely explore rather than something forward-pushing. But in the end, the result remains impactful and relevant.
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| (C) The IdeaFirst Company |
Hilda Koronel, in her comeback film, really anchors the story—from the thrills to what the film ultimately wants to say. Sisa doesn’t talk much, but Koronel still provides a lot of depth and character to the iconic name.
Sisa is a successful entry into our slowly growing catalog of historical films. Served well, there’s a lot to appreciate here. We need more of her more than ever. 3.5/5 ⭐️
