“Life is more than food, and the body more than clothes.”
APAG is a family drama film directed by Brillante Mendoza, who is internationally known for films such as “Gensan Punch” (2021), “Mindanao” (2019), “Ma’Rosa” (2016), and “Kinatay” (2009). It stars Coco Martin, Cannes 2016 Best Actress Jaclyn Jose, Lito Lapid, Gladys Reyes, and Mercedes Cabral. Screenplay is by Arianna Martinez.
In APAG, prominent Kapampangan restaurateur Rafael (Martin) is making preparations for a feast when he figures in a vehicular accident that kills a tricycle driver. After escaping the scene in fear, his father Alfredo (Lapid) sacrifices himself to the law in order to save him.
Free but devoured by guilt, Rafael attempts to make amends to the victim’s widow Nita (Reyes) – but no secret remains uncovered for long.
“An accident that eternally changes the lives of two families brings forth a shared suffering between them. It is by that suffering that two families intertwine, and the exchanging of repentance and acceptance is laid on the table.
It is in this act that we see the bravest decision man can ever make – the ability to forgive. Despite any wrongdoings or secrecies, to transcend the desires of the flesh and to be able to forgive, gives freedom to those who are imprisoned in guilt – an act most similar to the Divine.” director Mendoza shared.
The film is about family, guilt, justice, and a human being’s capacity to sacrifice and forgive. It is also Mendoza’s tribute to Philippine culture, his own Kapampangan roots and refreshingly highlights local food, religion, and family values.
The cast also includes veteran stars Gina Pareño, Julio Diaz, Shaina Magdayao, Vince Rillon, Mark Lapid, and Joseph Marco.
“Apag” premiered at the BUSAN International Film Festival and has competed at Warsaw International Film Festival, World Film Festival of Bangkok, Vesoul International Film Festival, and Asian Film Festival (South Korea) from 2022 to 2023. The film is produced by Hongkong International Film Festival Society and Center Stage Productions.
“APAG” is an official entry to the first Summer Metro Manila Film Festival 2023 and opens April 8 (Black Saturday) in cinemas nationwide.
The Chikkaness 