An Unsolicited Review of Sisa, directed by Jun Robles Lana

By: Christian Bables

I recently had the opportunity to watch Sisa, directed by Direk Jun Robles Lana , and I have to say, this is yet another powerful and thought-provoking work from a filmmaker who has consistently proven his mastery of storytelling.
What struck me immediately about the film is the clarity of its narrative. Sobrang linaw ng pagkakakwento. From the very beginning, the film establishes its emotional and thematic direction with precision. There is no confusion about what the film wants to say, and yet the storytelling never feels heavy-handed. Instead, it unfolds in a way that allows the audience to reflect on a truth that has existed in our society for generations.
At its core, Sisa confronts a painful reality in our culture: Filipinos pulling down fellow Filipinos instead of lifting one another up. The film exposes the deep-rooted presence of crab mentality, something that has haunted our society for decades. But what makes the film particularly powerful is that it doesn’t simply present this reality, it also presents the possibility of change.
The film reminds us that progress is possible if we learn to work together, lift each other up, and move toward a shared goal. It is a message that feels both timeless and urgent.
Another striking element of the film is its portrayal of the strength and courage of women. Sisa powerfully illustrates that women are never “just women.” In many moments, they are the ones who possess the courage to stand for what is right. The film shows how far women are willing to go to fight for justice, dignity, and survival. At times, they display even greater bravery than the men around them. In this story, the women are not merely characters, they are forces.
Visually, the film is also remarkable. The cinematography by Direk Carlo Mendoza beautifully complements Direk Jun Lana’s vision. When these two artists collaborate, their sensibilities clearly amplify each other. The storytelling is already clear and emotionally resonant, but Direk Carlo’s visuals elevate the experience even further. Through his framing and composition, we are pulled into the psychological and emotional landscape of the characters. Nadadala tayo sa kabaliwan ni Sisa. Nadadala tayo sa kabaliwan ng bawat karakter sa pelikula. The camera work does not simply observe, it immerses us.

Now, the performances.
Ms. Hilda Koronel is Ms. Hilda Koronel for a reason. Her artistry remains timeless. If there is one role forever associated with her in Philippine cinema, it is the legendary Insiang. That performance has long been etched in the history of our films. But after watching Sisa, I honestly believe that her portrayal here may very well stand beside it as another defining role in her career.
If Insiang is already immortal in Philippine cinema, her Sisa has the potential to become just as iconic. In every glance, every pause, and every emotional shift, you see the depth of a woman carrying unimaginable pain. Makikita mo sa mga mata niya ang laban ni Sisa. Her performance is careful, deliberate, and deeply layered. As an actor watching her, you can clearly see the discipline, restraint, and emotional intelligence behind every choice. She holds onto the pain of the character with such conviction that you feel it with her.
Ate Eugene Domingo is, simply put, brilliant. Every line she delivers carries weight. Every nuance reveals something deeper about the character’s internal world. What I love most about her portrayal is that even within the heaviness of the narrative, she never lets the character lose her humanity, and that includes humor. Because the truth is, life without humor can feel unbearable. Ate Uge balances heartbreak and wit with remarkable skill, allowing us to laugh with the character even as we feel the weight of her struggles. There is a particular scene involving her child that is deeply affecting, one of those moments in cinema that lingers long after the film ends.
Jenica Garcia also delivers a compelling performance. What stood out to me was the emotional volatility she allowed herself to explore within the character. There is a certain madness in her portrayal, not chaotic, but rooted in longing and emotional wounds. Her character carries a hunger to be loved, to be seen, to be valued. Jenica embraces that vulnerability fully, making the character feel painfully real.
Then we have Angelie Sanoy
I’ve known Angelie as an actress for quite some time and have seen her in several projects, particularly from IdeaFirst Company. But her portrayal of Nena in Sisa is a powerful reminder of just how capable and versatile she is as a performer.
The innocence she brings to Nena feels genuine and deeply felt. Sobrang na-embody niya ang pagiging inosente ng karakter. At the same time, she gives Nena a quiet courage, a beating heart that grows stronger as the story unfolds. The character carries a coming-of-age arc, and Angelie makes it incredibly believable. Knowing her real age makes her performance even more impressive 😉. She disappears completely into the role.
And then we have TANYA GOMEZ, BARBARA MIGUEL, JORRYBELL AGOTO, and JANINA MENDOZA.
My God, they are extraordinary.
Napakahuhusay nilang mga aktres. They are essential to the emotional architecture of the film. Each character feels distinct, alive, and grounded in truth. Bawat isa may puso, may sariling buhay, at may sariling kuwento.
Because of them, the world of Sisa feels fuller and more immersive. Their portrayals allow the audience to dive deeper into the narrative and connect with each character’s journey. Without them, the emotional impact of the film would not have been as powerful.
Ultimately, Sisa is a film that speaks loudly about society, humanity, and the painful realities we continue to face as a nation. It is emotionally gripping, visually striking, and filled with performances that demand to be seen.
Direk Jun Robles Lana once again proves why he is one of the most important storytellers in Philippine cinema today. With Sisa, he delivers a film that is not only artistically compelling but also socially resonant. It is a work that challenges us, moves us, and reminds us of the power of cinema to reflect who we are as a people.
Dapat niyo mapanood Sisa.
This is another remarkable masterpiece from Direk Jun Robles Lana, and it deserves to be experienced on the big screen.
Now showing in cinemas nationwide. Please don’t miss it.