“Sayang sa pera.”
“…mesmerizing from start to finish.”
Some Nights I Feel Like Walking’s recent debut has once again divided the internet into two camps: those who hail the release as one of the greatest this year, and those who deem the film as a complete waste of time and money. While I wouldn’t be caught ever saying such hurtful words (at least I hope so!) about any Petersen Vargas release, I’d have to say that I am rather disappointed with how this one turned out.
Short summary, Some Nights I Feel Like Walking is a Filipino drama that follows a group of young, male street hustlers in the gritty urban landscape of Manila. The film centers on Uno, a seasoned hustler, and Zion, a wealthy runaway who has recently joined their ranks. Their tenuous bond strengthens after one of their friends, Miguelito, dies from a drug overdose.
Let’s watch the trailer first.
What Worked
Only a handful of filmmakers can brag about capturing Manila the same way that Vargas did in Some Nights I Feel Like Walking. Every frame was shot very artistically. From the locations to the lighting and the way that the camera moved through various subjects, the film expertly captures the distinct vibe of the city without any exaggeration.
Then there are the actors themselves. Jomari Angeles, Miguel Odron, and Tommy Alejandrino’s performances are *chef’s kiss*. Even Gold Azeron, who had significantly less screen time compared to the other boys, really delivered.
Sure, there are lines in the film that would make you question if that particular character would say that, but that aside, these boys were really ready to show the world what they can do.
Where the Film Failed to Meet Expectations
Let’s start with my biggest disappointment—the plot itself. The film started out really strong. In fact, I was already preparing myself to bawl my eyes out. At one point I even messaged my friends and said, “Feeling ko sasampalin ka dito ng harsh reality about buhay ng mga batang lalaki na nasa laylayan.” But boy, was I mistaken!
In an effort to not reveal too much (after all, the film is still showing in cinemas), all I can say is that I found myself asking, ‘What was the point of that? ’ after the film ended. A quick Google search told me that Some Nights I Feel Like Walking was meant to show how one can find love, acceptance, and a sense of belongingness in a chosen family. My (and a couple of other people I talked to) two cents—that did not really come out in the narrative.
The whole film also felt very rushed. There were a lot of aspects that were very unclear or even downright questionable. What was the point of Zion’s ex? What value did he add to the storyline? What was the whole point of the scene with the drag queens? Because honestly, it felt really forced. Like they were included in the film for the sole purpose of representation and not really to add any value to it. Why was Zion’s life at home reduced to mere context clues when the whole conflict with his dad could’ve been the one thing that would paint the contrast of his relationship with his biological family and chosen family?
Why was Uno (who seemed like the most grounded among all the characters) so bent on “chasing love” considering that one of his closest friends very tragically just passed away? Yes, I understand that this is perhaps part of the film’s overall theme of how outcasts are forced to keep moving forward regardless of circumstances, but it greatly undermines the reality of human nature.
I will end this review by saying that I really wanted this film to do well, and for those who loved it and felt represented by it, I am genuinely happy for you.
-Movie review contribution by Joel Quizon.
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