A back to back treatment of a malaise which has shocked Philippine society for the past so many years: the mysterious disappearances and killings of Filipino journalists and activists. The film focuses on a hard-hitting radio commentator and his conflict with a former classmate who is a suburban town mayor. The radioman’s story runs parallel to the tale of a student-activist on the run with his activist-girlfriend. These parallel stories are interwoven with a third story, that of the former military man , now their would-be assassin. This killer’s unexpected obsession with his wife leads to a climax of murder and mayhem.
Acting
Gomez's radioman burns with righteous exhaustion.
Direction
Chionglo weaves three threads into one suffocating noose.
Writing
Parallel stories that refuse to let you look away.
Director
Mel Chionglo
Trivia, insights & behind the scenes
The title 'Bente' refers to the 20 peso bounty allegedly placed on activists' heads during the Arroyo era.
Chionglo filmed during the actual Maguindanao massacre trials, using real journalist fear as ambient research.
PH
