There is a distinct, hypnotic pull to Paul Soriano’s ‘The Fisher’. Filmed four years ago, the long-awaited project feels less like a traditional narrative and more like an immersive, eerie trance. It’s quiet yet moving—a psychological thriller that creeps under your skin and refuses to let go.
Shot on the parched, sun-baked shores of Suba Beach—the iconic location where Ishmael Bernal’s ‘Himala’ was brought to life—the setting itself becomes a crucial character. Soriano deliberately seeks out a landscape that feels dry, harsh, and exposed. The stark contrast between the arid coast and the vast, seemingly suffocating ocean creates an unsettling atmosphere where tensions quietly fester long before any words are spoken.
At the heart of the film is Mon Confiado, who delivers one of his most compelling performances. His commitment to his craft is evident; a full month before filming began, he immersed himself in the demanding daily life of a local fisherman. That dedication translates brilliantly on screen. Every line etched on his face, every calloused grip on a net, and every weary glance reflects a man tethered to the tide and wrestling with dark, unspoken burdens.
The film draws heavily on superstition and folklore, particularly ancient coastal beliefs, including taboos surrounding women bathing in the ocean during menstruation. These traditions frame a narrative rich in symbolism, prompting viewers to contemplate humanity’s fraught relationship with nature. Amid all the noise, paranoia, and tradition, the film raises a compelling question: What if we simply chose peace?
‘The Fisher’ is slow, deliberate, and undeniably intriguing, with powerful performances from its supporting cast, each bringing something distinct to their respective roles: Mercedes Cabral, Enchong Dee, Heaven Peralejo, Tommy Alejandrino, and Eula Valdes. The film sparks curiosity, drawing viewers deeper into its web as layers of allegory unfold. Yet, it is not a film designed to offer neat, satisfying answers.
By the time the final frame fades, audiences may find themselves divided. Those who appreciate folkloric, atmospheric storytelling may leave deeply satisfied, while others may walk away with a wave of haunting questions that linger long after the screening.
Ultimately, ‘The Fisher’ confronts viewers with a weighty moral and existential choice: Are you for the gold, or are you for the demon? It is a polarizing, unsettling piece of cinema that demands to be felt as much as it is interpreted.
Reviewed at the advance screening of ‘The Fisher,’ which is now showing in PH theaters. Thanks for the invite, Ten17P and Black Cap Pictures.
Leave a Reply