Nowadays, it can be difficult to choose which film to watch in the cinema. Some of the options are Marvel film “Venom”; a remake of the classic “A Star Is Born,” which has been getting rave reviews and a potential Grammy nod; horror “Hell Fest”; and “Liway,” a movie based on the life of a martial law victim. 

We understand that among all aforementioned movie titles, Liway may be at the end of your to-watch list. But there’s actually more to this film than meets the eye. In fact, you may find yourself pleasantly surprised if you watch this movie. 

Without spoilers, we are giving you five reasons to watch Liway.

1. It’s a Filipino-produced movie. 

We must admit that the local movie industry is thriving. Thanks to film festivals that encourage a new breed of filmmakers and allow industry practitioners to experiment with the platform, we’re getting success and well-loved titles, such as Ang Babae sa Septic Tank, Heneral Luna, and Kita Kita, to name a few. 

By supporting films such as Liway, you’re also supporting the production of local movies that attempt to veer away from the usual formula. And let’s all agree it’s a breath of fresh air.

2. Glaiza de Castro is a stunner. 

Sure, Glaiza de Castro has been in showbiz for years now, but her performance in Liway is undoubtedly one of her best. Her acting did not feel contrived, her mesmerizing singing was incorporated smoothly into the narrative, and you will find yourself empathizing with her character — and perhaps shed a tear. 

3. ‘Liway’ gives a fresh (and based on a true story) perspective of martial law. 

In a stressful social media climate, with polarizing opinions and the proliferation of paid trolls and keyboard warriors, the narrative on martial law almost always centers on the gravity of either the contributions or the atrocities of former dictator Ferdinand Marcos.

What Liway brings is a different take on the discussion. It doesn’t even matter whether you’re pro-, anti-, or neutral. More than being a narrative on the titular martial law victim, Liway shares the story of a family and how their lives were affected by the political situation at the time. 

4. There’s a tear-jerking surprise at the end of the film. 

Perhaps Marvel is most known for bringing surprises at the end of their films through the after-credits sequences that tease the next installment in the cinematic universe. Liway’s ending though weaves the story in the film with that of the reality of the narrative. It binds the essence of knowing our past, of living in the present, and of thinking about our future.

Very few films can do this well, and Liway, as a loving tribute of a child to a parent, achieves this effect. 

5. It may be out in cinemas soon. 

It’s undeniable that commercial films get the most viewership, and this poses a challenge to our local movie industry. But even if it’s just you, having read this, and your friend who would have changed your mind about your choice of film, then I guess the purpose of this article is served. 

Liway is superb — in cinematography, casting, direction, and dialogue. If you don’t watch it anytime soon, who knows when the next screening will be — or if there will ever be another.

And remember: if we don’t support indie cinema, there will be no Jerrold Tarog, Antoinette Jadaone, or even Brillante Mendoza. So go out and support Philippine films whenever you can.