The Girl Who Left Home

The Girl Who Left Home is a musical drama film released in 2020, which was written and directed by Mallorie Ortega. An emotionally rich experience that seamlessly blends music, drama, and comedy, it captivates with its poignant narrative and powerful performances, particularly by its lead actors Emy Coligado, Paolo Montalban, and Haven Everly.

At the heart of the movie is Christine, the titular girl who left home, played by Haven Everly. She's a well-rounded and relatable protagonist with hopes, dreams, and responsibilities that teeter on the brink of overwhelming her. Despite being an aspiring actress, Christine finds herself juggling various occupations to support her struggling immigrant Filipino family.

She's split between honoring her responsibilities to her loved ones and pursuing her passion, reflecting a dilemma that is all too familiar to those caught in the struggle of supporting their families while nurturing their aspirations. This dilemma is intensified by the juxtaposing realities of stage life and family life. Christine's yearning for a life on stage full of glamour, fame, and creativity clashes fiercely with the demands of stalwart familial obligations.

Emy Coligado, best known for her role in Malcolm in the Middle, plays the character of Mama Santos – Christine's mother. Coligado's portrayal of Mama Santos brings a depth of emotion and warmth, capturing the struggles of immigrant parents who strive to provide better opportunities for their children. Despite the language barriers and cultural differences, Mama Santos is a determined, relentless, and loving mother who encourages her daughter's dreams while also subtly expressing her worries about her future.

Paolo Montalban, remembered for his role as Prince Charming in the TV movie adaptation of Cinderella, plays the character of Kuya, Christine's older brother. He carries the weight of expectations and is equally affected by the family's financial struggles. Montalban seamlessly captures the stiff and hard exterior of Kuya while subtly hinting at his underlying softness and vulnerability.

The music of The Girl Who Left Home is central to its narrative. The film delicately weaves musical numbers into its tapestry to progress the narrative and encapsulate the raw emotions of the characters. It is through song that the characters express their deepest desires, their greatest worries, and their unexpressed emotions. Not only is the score enchanting and original, but it helps to construct a more intimate atmosphere in the narrative.

Director Mallorie Ortega's skilful storytelling uses the backdrop of the Filipino-American immigrant experience to discuss broader themes of dreams, familial bonds, and personal struggles. There are moments of light-hearted comedy, tearful hardships, and heartwarming acts of love and sacrifice that are certain to strike a chord with a wide audience, regardless of their cultural background.

Complimenting the great performances and direction, the film is visually compelling. Beautifully shot scenes provide a colorful and dynamic backdrop, recreating the Filipino-American community with great detail and authenticity. As for the stage scenes, they perfectly capture the anticipation, thrill, and buzz of live theatre.

The Girl Who Left Home is an emotionally resonant film that explores the intricacies of dreams and responsibilities, embedded in the journey of an immigrant family. It reflects on the idea of home not just as a physical place, but as a place of belonging, harmony, love, sacrifices, and dreams.

A film that tugs at your heartstrings while capturing a sense of joy and optimism, The Girl Who Left Home is a win-win for fans of drama, music, and captivating stories infused with culture, love, and aspiration. This film truly portrays the spirit of perseverance and the raw, beautiful chaos of life, making it a must-watch for film enthusiasts from all quarters.