Blue Room (2022)

the film had a statement to make!

what i liked

+ the story of this film shines light on the corruption that goes on with the authoritative figures of society

+ the actors were convincing in their roles. the cast nailed their characters

+ the setting of the film was giving modern coming-of-age. in scenes like at their gigs and the car ride leading up to the events but then it builds up and becomes intense yet still maintaining a somewhat cool tone. the film gives a glimpse of what could have gone wrong without becoming extremely disturbing if they did not have their said privileges (police brutality is way worse irl)


what i didn't like

- cussing was overused in my opinion and at times, it felt quite cringe because was it necessary to add "f*ck/ing" at certain dialogues? i get that they're supposed to be edgy and relatable to the youth today but the script writing could have been better in that aspect BUT i must say and slight spoiler coming ahead...

i'm paraphrasing here but it hit when jk said "kung hindi sa pangalan nya, makakalaya ba kami dito?" #shook

that was something that stuck with me at the end.

overall,

i recommend blue room. however, it is heavy and should not be watched around children.

blue room definitely had me pondering upon issues that our society faces when one becomes drunk with power.

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A Rockin' Ride into the Blue Room

In Blue Room, Rebel Rebel—a progressive rock band of privileged teens—faces a tough choice when they’re arrested for drug possession and taken to the “Blue Room.” Directed by Ma-an Asuncion-Dagnalan, the film features an impressive cast, including Elijah Canlas, juan Karlos, Harvey Bautista, Nourijune, Keoni Jin, and Soliman Cruz.

This movie is a masterclass in filmmaking, with Asuncion-Dagnalan delivering sharp direction, a tight screenplay, and standout performances. It’s a powerful, thought-provoking dive into the consequences of our actions, with moments that are equal parts disturbing and deeply uncomfortable.

Going into the film, I had certain expectations based purely on the poster—no trailer for context—but the story turned out to be something entirely different and surprising. The opening act delves into the band’s dynamics and privileged lives, painting a picture of a group on the brink of something big. However, about 20 minutes in, a police checkpoint encounter flips the narrative on its head. The first act’s privilege-heavy tone gives way to a gripping exploration of corruption, as everything the band stood for is tested.

The second and third acts are where the movie truly shines. The tension is palpable, with the claustrophobic atmosphere, stirring performances, and a haunting score coming together to create an unforgettable experience. Elijah Canlas and Soliman Cruz deliver as expected, but Harvey Bautista and Nourijune are real standouts, leaving a strong impression.

The film doesn’t shy away from confronting police corruption, portraying it with unsettling honesty. From fabricated charges to blatant abuse of power, the injustices are laid bare. One particular moment, where Soliman Cruz’s character hides suspects in a secret room, had me cringing at the audacity of the lies and cruelty depicted. While it’s not a blanket condemnation of law enforcement, the story feels all too real, offering a chilling reflection of societal issues.

Everything in Blue Room feels meticulously crafted, from the tight pacing to the emotional weight of the performances and music. It’s an exquisite blend of storytelling and social commentary, delivering a thrilling and thought-provoking cinematic experience.

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