Isa Pa with Feelings

Isa Pa with Feelings premiered in 2019 as a Filipino romantic drama film from Black Sheep Productions. Starring Maine Mendoza and Carlo Aquino, the film is directed by Prime Cruz and penned by Jenica Tan.

Maine Mendoza, known for her effortless comedic timing and genuine acting prowess, gives a luminous performance as Mara. Mara is an aspiring architect who has worked diligently to fulfill her dreams, yet at the dawn of her success, she encounters hurdles shaking her firmly grounded aspirations.

Opposite her is Carlo Aquino, a credible and skilled actor recognized for his captivating depictions of his characters. Aquino plays the role of Gali, a deaf teacher who strongly believes in living life with positivity despite his silent world. Together, these two inimitable actors set forth to create an unconventional love story that transcends language barriers, while simultaneously delving into the deaf community, a subject relatively unexplored in Filipino cinema.

The chemistry between Mendoza and Aquino is palpable throughout. Their on-screen romance accords a refreshing take on the exploration of love and companionship between two people living in two different worlds. The film exploits the idea of two characters communicating through sign language and expressing their deep sentiments inconspicuously, which serves as a beautiful underlying narrative to the story.

Isa Pa with Feelings dares to wander within the uncharted realm of Philippine cinema - the lives of the deaf community. It valiantly attempts to portray the struggles faced by members of these communities, providing a profound insight into their lives, rarely seen on the big screen. The sincere portrayal invokes a sense of understanding, sympathy, and respect among viewers for the often-overlooked disabled communities.

The story unfolds in a beautifully paced manner, gradually constructing the narrative, allowing the characters to develop at their own pace and resonate with the viewers. It cleverly makes use of metaphors and silent pauses, creating a visually-driven narrative that adds depth to the film and enhances the overall viewing experience.

One of the primary strengths of Isa Pa with Feelings is its authentic depiction of emotions. By relying on visual cues and minimal dialogue, it challenges conventional storytelling and allows viewers to connect with the characters on a profoundly personal level, breaking barriers along the way. The film embraces the silence – capturing the subtle nuances in each scene, thereby making each shared look, moment, and sign language communication a powerful connection that leaves a lasting impact on the audience.

Moreover, Isa Pa with Feelings is also visually stunning, with its crisp cinematography and thorough attention to detail. The colors and lighting used throughout the film add to its overall aesthetic, and there's a great use of symbolic imagery as well that adds layers to the story and the characters' development.

The film also boasts an impressive array of supporting cast members, including the veteran actress Lotlot De Leon, who breathes life into every scene she is part of. The rest of the cast complements the leading actors perfectly, enhancing the narrative and making the story more engaging.

Director Prime Cruz, along with writer Jenica Tan, indeed deserves credit for making a film that not only entertains but also enlightens and sparks thoughtful conversations. It does a commendable job portraying a love story, which is heartwarming yet realistic, and succeeds in remaining sensitive to its central theme without being exploitative or disrespectful.

In conclusion, Isa Pa with Feelings is a visually pleasing, beautifully crafted romantic drama film that strikes a perfect blend of love, humor, and heart-tugging moments. It raises a significant discussion about the differently-abled groups, breaking stereotypes along the way. It is unique, both culturally and contextually, differentiating it from typical Filipino rom-coms. It is a must-watch film for those who appreciate delicate storytelling and robust character development.