Respeto

Respeto is a profound and thought-provoking 2017 Filipino film directed and co-written by Treb Monteras II. Reverberating with the sounds and rhythms of the Manila underground rap battle world, this movie presents a compelling fusion of dynamic musical flourishes and gut-wrenching drama. Its ensemble cast includes Abra, Dido de la Paz, and Loonie, who all deliver standout performances, infused with authenticity and raw emotion.

The film tells the story of Hendrix, played by Filipino rapper and songwriter, Abra, who dreams of making a name for himself in Manila's underground hip-hop scene. Hendrix is struggling to make ends meet and to escape from the cycle of poverty and violence that engulfs his life in Pandacan, Manila. An aspiring wordsmith fueled by passion and frustration, Hendrix finds solace and expression in rap battling – a popular form of verbal sparring characterized by improvised, rhymed verses that are meant to insult or praise the opponent. The film uses this platform to delve into Hendrix’s world, offering not only exciting and lively battle rap sequences, but also providing a profound commentary on the larger societal issues surrounding his life.

One day, Hendrix crosses paths with Doc, a grumpy old poet portrayed by Dido de la Paz. This meeting evolves into an unlikely mentorship. Doc becomes a grounding force for Hendrix, introducing him to the world of traditional Filipino poetry and the power of words outside the realm of rap battling. Their relationship becomes a cornerstone of Hendrix's growth as he learns valuable life lessons, not only about the strength of his words but also about the realities he battles daily.

In the character of Doc, we also see a glimpse into the past - an older generation still haunted by the brutalities of Martial Law era. Through the intertwined narratives of Hendrix and Doc, Respeto mirrors the cyclical nature of violence, oppression, and resistance, with the context of historical and contemporary Filipino society.

Loonie, another mainstay of the Filipino hip hop scene, plays Breezy G, Hendrix's loyal friend. He supports his friend wholeheartedly in his quest to make a name for himself, showcasing the strength of their loyalty and camaraderie amidst the tough circumstances they confront each day.

"Respeto" is more than just a story about rap and poetry; it’s a commentary on the socio-political landscape of the Philippines and the enduring power of words as a form of protest. The film tackles themes like poverty, drug trade, political violence, and systemic oppression which are all too real in the lives of many Filipinos. This is not lost in Monteras' storytelling as he crafts a film that feels authentic to the streets of Manila whilst exploring the inherent political nature of hip-hop and the undeniable hope that words can evoke.

As the film takes you through the grim realities of Hendrix and Doc's worlds, the vibrant and pulsating background score keeps you engaged. Notably, the movie's soundtrack, an intermix of raw hip-hop and traditional Filipino sounds, helps drive the film's message home. This underscores the profound statement the movie makes about music being a transformative tool in times of turmoil.

The cinematography in Respeto is yet another aspect that impresses. The raw, colorful, and gritty depiction of Manila's street culture is captured beautifully, creating an atmosphere that is both compelling and poignant. From panoramic cityscapes to intense, handheld shots of the electrifying rap battles, the film manages to visually envelope the viewer in its world.

In conclusion, Respeto is a film that successfully merges the worlds of music, poetry, and hard-hitting social drama. The perceptive narrative and the compelling performances of its cast, particularly Abra and Dido de la Paz, skillfully bring to life the poignant textures of life in Manila's underbelly. This film does not shy away from showing the harsh realities of life in the Philippines, making it a meaningful and ultimately essential viewing.