A Gulay Lang Manong review by Manong Pepe
Gulay Lang Manong tackles various societal problems with an intelligent mix of humor, irony, and reality conveying a strong and urgent message.
This 105-minute full-length film, focuses on a farmer named Manong Pilo, starring Perry Dizon; his grandson, named Ricky, played by BJ “Tolits” Forbes; and a diligent and hardworking local cop Police Officer Ariel Lacson performed by famous rising star Cedrick Juan. The film also consists of interesting characters such as Razer, starring Ranzel Magpantay; Haring Damo — portrayed by the famous OPM singer and vocal cannabis supporter Dong Abay. The film was graced with notable celebrities such as the illustrious Lui Quiambao Manansala is also an avid supporter of medical cannabis as member of Seniors for Medcan eloquently portraying Senator Vivian Delmar; the multi award-winning actor Mr. Ricky Davao. Notable members of the cannabis community were also in the film such as Atty. Henrie Enaje, as the Newscaster of Balitang Talima and other extras and casts. This movie was truly a collaboration from different members of the community that aims to send a clear and strong message.
On Agriculture and Cannabis
Not only did the movie revolve around the story of Manong Pilo but also narrated different pertinent problems of society from multiple perspectives. From how farmers bring food to the table even if it means they don’t get a fair share due to different socioeconomic factors; or how law enforcement and justice could be complex and unfair by incarcerating people while others are not due to privilege; or how different people go their way to show love to their family, even if it means risking their life and freedom. The story reflects actual socio-economic and political challenges such as the war on drugs, economic sabotage, and corruption. These different social issues were clearly visible through the plot’s storyline. The film has presented these issues clearly and creatively by production screenplay showing how these were authentically drawn from actual stories from actual people.
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On Community Driven Filmmaking
What also makes the film even more remarkable is that it is a production with a close and authentic perspective. As an advocate, connoisseur, consumer, user, whatever you want to call it, you will definitely relate to every scene, every frame, every line, the visuals, how two people would just look at each other and laugh the fuck out. There is one scene in the film (spoiler-free guaranteed) where Ricky and Razer took a smoke and had to do a particular task, which was very familiar as a cannabis consumer and you would just laugh because “I’ve been there, it’s true”. The movie depicted, in a very local manner, how the cannabis culture here is. You know the production team has done their homework. This shows how much thought and effort has been given despite a modest independent production. (*shout out to Art Director Boogs Villareal for the excellent production set). The director, BC Amparado, had also expressed his artistic storytelling through compelling scenes that depicted strong messages.
Another reason to watch this film is how the story is well balanced from being a light stoner movie to tackling difficult issues, which led to them bagging the Cinemalaya 2024 Viewer’s Choice Awards. Gulay Lang Manong is considered a legitimate stoner film as it includes all the ingredients of being one: (1) a scene where the characters actively talk and share with the audience the basics of cannabis plants what is indica and sativa; (2) a scene with frames of strong psychedelic visuals inducing a visual high; and (3) scenes of the characters being in the influence of the cannabis plant, among many things.
This is really a new-generation stoner film because despite being light humor, it has delved away from the notion that it’s not just for laughs but to reflect deeply on societal problems that come alongside.
Closing.
Gulay Lang Manong is definitely worth watching, more than once actually, it will make you question both morality and society. This movie has provoked norms that have become ingrained in our lives. Despite stigma, misconception and ambivalence, the movie will make you realize — like how it was mentioned in the film — Gulay Lang Manong (it’s just vegetables, sir). 🌱
