Movie No. 17 (2014): ON THE JOB
OTJ (On The Job) (2013)
Director: Erik Matti
Cast: Gerald Anderson, Piolo Pascual, Joel Torre, Joey Marquez, Leo Martinez, Michael De Mesa, Angel Aquino
The premise is familiar: prison inmates are contracted through a middleman to kill for high-profile politicians. The movie is centered on two prisoners: Tatang is about to "retire" from his "job" because he'll be released from prison soon, ironically due to parole; Daniel is currently training "on the job" to learn the ins and outs of the "trade" under Tatang's supervision. Of course, this can only happen because of clear and obvious corruption in the prison, which mirrors corruption the Philippine society.
Director: Erik Matti
Cast: Gerald Anderson, Piolo Pascual, Joel Torre, Joey Marquez, Leo Martinez, Michael De Mesa, Angel Aquino
The premise is familiar: prison inmates are contracted through a middleman to kill for high-profile politicians. The movie is centered on two prisoners: Tatang is about to "retire" from his "job" because he'll be released from prison soon, ironically due to parole; Daniel is currently training "on the job" to learn the ins and outs of the "trade" under Tatang's supervision. Of course, this can only happen because of clear and obvious corruption in the prison, which mirrors corruption the Philippine society.
The movie is not perfect. I have problems with some of the (minor) characters. However, the movie still stands out because of it's compelling storytelling, stylish editing in some scenes, effective but dizzying use of in-your-face cinematography, and A-rate acting of the principal cast. Joel Torre's performance is infectious, even in scenes when he's silent, but supposedly deeply thinking. Joey Marquez is a revelation.
Rating: 4.0/4.0
Date seen: February 10. 2014
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