Parents as true heroes in ‘Wapakman’

By JUDE THADDEUS L. BAUTISTA


The value of appreciating parents is underlined in the film “Wapakman,” starring our Pambansang Kamao Manny Pacquiao.

Indeed, this film could’ve been just an action flick with a few laughs here and there, but the producers, wisely, ensured it was more than that. Plus, Manny’s close relationship with his own mother, now christened ‘Mommy D’ by the press, also proves the boxing champ walks the talk; more so, if one thinks that Manny in real life forgave his father who abandoned them to start a new family.

That said, fans who expect a slam-bang action movie with exciting fight scenes will love this film. The fight scenes were very professionally choreographed and a lot of kung fu moves were incorporated. You’ll see Manny Pacquiao kick, do somersaults, and throw a few punches in the course of battling giant crabs and other super nemeses.

A lot of families will also relate to the experience of Magdo Meneses’ (Manny Pacquiao) family. Ruffa Mae Quinto plays Magda, the sexy wife of Magdo who is an OFW working in Italy. She communicates regularly with her brood of five through webcam. The film is able to capture how technology is shaping family relationships.

That although they are able to see each other and talk, the distance between them puts a strain on the marriage. Magdo is left to fend for the kids, giving them baths, cooking, and washing their clothes. At the same time, he works hard as a plumber specializing in toilet drainage. His job is a source of embarrassment for his kids, especially during a ‘Parents Career Day.’

Magdo is part of a team much like the ‘Ghostbusters.’ Their boss is a Michelle Obama look-alike and their company is called the United Septic Association (U.S.A.). PBA superstar turned actor Benjie Paras is a wonderful addition to the cast as the wise and funny co-worker. Ditto with Onyok Velasco who is cast as a member of the U.S.A. team.

The film has the best child actors of today: Mica Torre, Edinburgh Kyle Balili, Jairus Aquino, Miguel Magalong, and Chacha Cañete. John Vladimir Manalo, especially, shone in playing the rebellious son trying to cope with the absence of their mom.

Bianca King who usually tackles dramatic roles shows her versatility in the action sequences as Agent Mystika. The controversial Krista Ranillo is the teacher who gains powers as Octavia. The handsome face of Polo Ravales was mostly hidden in the amazing visual effects as the human torch nemesis, Combust.

Any fan of Manny the fighter would enjoy watching “Wapakman,” even as anyone whose mom or dad works hard for the family will relate to the film’s message.

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