With Bakwit Boys, director Jason Paul Laxamana crafts a simple yet heartwarming story about dreamers and underdogs that is sure to tug at your heartstrings. The story follows a group of aspiring musicians who struggle to get their songs heard on the radio when they are faced with the harsh realities of the local music industry.
The film is set after the devastating effects of super typhoon Trudis on the town of Divilacan, Isabela. The disaster forced the four Datul brothers—Philip (Nikko Natividad), Elias (Vance Larena), Sonny (Mackie Empuerto), and Joey (Ryle Santiago)—to evacuate and live on their grandfather’s farm in Pampanga. When the opportunity to perform at the town’s fiesta comes, they take it to earn some extra money. The foursome, dubbed “Bakwit Boys” by the local host, play an original song that caught the attention of rich city girl Rose (Devon Seron), who offers to help get their songs on air. However, along the way, tension among the brothers brews as self interest and personal conflicts arise to test the unity of the family.
The siblings’ chemistry is palpable on-screen. With the actors’ consistently magnetic and realistic performances, it’s easy to find yourself rooting for the group every step of the way. Standing out among the group is Vance Larena’s Elias. Larena’s range shines as he transforms Elias from a stern and rough older brother into a soft and caring father figure to Sonny, their youngest brother. Nikko Natividad, on the other hand, proves that he is more than just a pretty face in his first major film role. Portraying the frustrated Philip, Natividad manages to convincingly depict the struggles of a producer who cannot sing his own songs.
Cinematographer Mai Calapardo does an outstanding job of creating a cohesive overall look for the film. The Instagram-like filter added to the homey, rustic aesthetic effectively enhances the beauty of the Pampanga countryside vistas. Moreover, the low-contrast and slightly muted colors give Bakwit Boys a look akin to a vintage postcard, perfect for the film’s sentimental vibe.
However, the real star of the show is the film’s soundtrack. Bakwit Boys is not a musical in the strictest sense—characters don't spontaneously burst into dance numbers—but the original songs (composed by Tarlac-based Jhaye Cura) performed by the group never fail to resonate with their story of endurance. While most of the songs in the soundtrack are catchy, you’ll likely end up humming Cura’s Ligtas Ka Na as you make your way out of the theater. With an upbeat sound and a reassuring message about strength, the song is sure to help you power through any difficult day.
Overall, the film’s parts weaved together seamlessly. Nothing felt forced, and the themes of family, privilege, and love for music, may touch even the coldest of hearts. It’s a story every underdog can relate to. A feel-good movie to its core, Bakwit Boys will inspire you to keep dreaming in the face of every adversity.
Photo retrieved from the Pista ng Pelikulang Pilipino Facebook page.