Movie No. 46 (Cinemalaya 2018): SMALLER AND SMALLER CIRCLES

Smaller and Smaller Circles (2017)
Director: Raya Martin
Cast: Nonie Buencamino, Sid Lucero, Carla Humohries, Christopher De Leon, Gladys Reyes, Ricky Davao
In Tagalog, with English subtitles

Based on the acclaimed novel of the same title by F.H. Batacan, the movie is about two Jesuit priests, one of whom has training in forensic pathology and psychological profiling, assisting the investigation of (possibly) a serial killer who dumps his victims in Payatas dump site.

There are elements in the narrative that may not appeal to non-Filipino audience because of insufficient details presented. We may find such details in the novel. While the major characters (the Jesuits priests, the TV journalist) are well characterized, some important characters are stereotyped. The screenplay is plagued with too much dialogue. The only memorable visuals are those of mutilated bodies of the murder victims. Such close up shots, in my opinion, are not necessary. Despite these observation, I still find the movie engaging.

The film was screened as out-of-competition in the recent 2018 Cinemalaya Independent Film Festival earlier this month.

Rating: 3.0/4.0

Date seen: August 5, 2018