2013 was a dark time for the Philippines. Those who survived Typhoon Yolanda, one of the largest typhoons ever recorded, were scarred by the loss of loved ones and livelihood—or scarred by their injuries. With this as a backdrop, the story follows TV host-turned-teacher Jaya (Rey "Jaya" Aclao), who, having lost their job, hopes to return to show business by winning the Miss Gay Sicogon Pageant. Without the support of their boyfriend, Cyrus (Ricky Gacho Jr.), Jaya begins the long trek to Sicogon alone. There, Jaya encounters a former student, Arnel Pablo (himself), who is trying to travel to a similar destination to confront his absent father about funding his mother’s memorial. The two travel together in a strange buddy movie/documentary that delves into the corruption that descended upon the islands most affected by the typhoon.
Asog is an incredibly well-crafted film in every aspect. Not only is the cinematography beautiful and the use of magical realism enchanting and vivid, but the blending of fiction and real life is masterful, both in the plot and in the film’s content. I’ve never seen such a success in any attempt to blend documentary activism with drama and comedy. Jaya brings a charming, paradoxical irreverence and reverence to the film, with persistent interjections of humor and perspective: Even when disaster strikes, humans remain human with all their complexities, competing desires, and biological functions. They are one of the few people featured in this film with previous performing experience, making Asog a must-see for lovers of guerrilla film and documentary. The lack of experience of most of the actors makes the film seem all the more real and allows the director to center the voices of those speaking against the corporate land grab that threatened their traditions and way of life. For its universal themes of grief, pain, and self-discovery alongside its creative storytelling and genre-bending documentary aspects, Asog is a must-see for anyone interested in films. Consider Asog this year’s Pride film series headliner. Highly Recommended. Editor’s Choice
What kind of film series would this narrative fit in?
Asog is a compelling fit for several types of curated film series. Most obviously, it belongs at the heart of any Pride Month programming as it centers queer identity and resilience through a heartfelt and humorous lens. Its hybrid format and social justice focus also make it an ideal choice for a social justice film series or a climate justice documentary series, especially when highlighting the long-term human impact of natural disasters exacerbated by corruption and neglect. Film studies departments would also benefit from including it in a hybrid cinema or experimental storytelling series, as Asog expertly blurs the boundaries between narrative fiction and documentary realism in a way that’s both groundbreaking and emotionally resonant.
What type of library programming could use this title?
Public and academic libraries could easily integrate Asog into several types of programming. For example, during LGBTQ+ History Month or Pride Month, it would be a standout screening choice followed by a discussion on representation and gender expression in the Global South. Academic institutions offering programs in Asian Studies, Gender Studies, or Anthropology could use Asog to spark interdisciplinary dialogue about the legacy of colonialism, corporate development, identity, and activism in the Philippines.
What is the pricing for institutional acquisition?
Institutions interested in acquiring Asog have several purchasing options depending on their needs. The DVD and Blu-ray editions are each priced at $150. For organizations looking to host public screenings or classroom viewings, Public Performance Rights (PPR) are available for $350. Those wanting a long-term digital solution can acquire a Digital Rights License (DRL) for $499. A bundled option that includes both PPR and DRL is also offered at $599. These licensing options make it accessible for a range of educational and public institutions to bring this unique film into their collections and programming.