Balota

In every frame, Marian Reverá's BALLOT proves that a vote is far more than a simple checkbox-it's the very pulse of democracy. With masterful direction and a narrative rich in raw emotion, Reverá draws us into an intimate exploration of individual power and collective change. This film artfully captures the struggles and victories of everyday citizens, illustrating how a single vote can spark a transformation that reverberates throughout communities. BALLOT is not only a cinematic masterpiece but also a stirring call to action. It challenges us to embrace our civic duty, to see each decision as a step toward a more inclusive, empowered future, and to realize that every act of participation writes a new chapter in our shared democratic story. This movie redefines what it means to be engaged in today's world, urging us to listen to the heartbeat of our society and respond with informed, passionate action.

Without knowing what I was getting into, I sat down to watch the 2024 Filipino drama "Balota" (aka "Ballot"), as I was given the chance to do so here in 2025. And I figured with a rating of 6.3 here on IMDb, at the time of me watching the movie, I figured that there must be something worthwhile to the movie.

Writer and director Kip Oebanda put together a script and storyline that certainly had a lot to tell, and also showcased the corruption that is deeply embedded into the politics game of the Philippines. But at the same time, it was also a storyline that struggled to stay afloat, given its problematic pacing. And I have to say that a lot of the things that went on in the movie just felt like filler.

I was not familiar with the cast ensemble in the movie, except for Felix Petate, but the actors and actresses definitely put on good performances.

"Balota" is a movie that doesn't cater openly to the wider audience at large, as it is somewhat of a niche movie. You need to have a hefty interest in politics and the corruptions that stem from having the wrong men and women in seats of influence and power.

Watchable, for sure, but it wasn't a particularly entertaining movie. And it definitely is not a movie that I will ever return to watch a second time.

Now, the movie is also listed as a comedy here on IMDb, a genre that it most certainly doesn't fall into. So that was very misleading.

My rating of writer and director Kip Oebanda's 2024 movie "Balota" lands on a five out of ten stars.

Like Sound of Freedom, it is known why a man wants to fight against human traffickers in the world and even the Philippines, by rescuing their children back to their parents. It is what you get here about Tim Ballard (Jim Caviezel) and that is why the movie is non-political and considering Jim Caviezel's portrayal about Ballard is an example of separating the art from the artist.

While the 2024 presidential season is approaching in the United States, and the Philippine Midterms is coming in 2025, the movie "BALOTA" shows, why this Cinemalaya film considered as the election movie of the year.

"BALOTA" shows Emmy (Marian Rivera) holding the last ballot box to protect it from stealers and it is what she needs it to protect the election integrity by keeping the ballot box.

"BALOTA", is considered as the "SOUND of FREEDOM" of elections. This is what it should be a "wake-up call" for Filipinos and even Americans, who will vote for in the 2024 US presidential elections, and the 2025 Philippine midterm elections, respectively.

Balota is a cinematic triumph, anchored by Marian Rivera's most compelling performance to date, cementing her status as the Philippines' premiere actress. Her nuanced portrayal resonates deeply, drawing raw emotion from the audience. The film's social commentary is sharp yet gracefully delivered, never veering into preachiness. Will Ashley and Royce Cabrera deliver standout performances, adding depth to the ensemble's already formidable presence. This is a profoundly moving and essential work for 2024, offering a story so vital and beautifully executed that it left me ugly crying at countless moments. Every bit of it demands to be seen, felt, and remembered.

The movie is electrifying to the bones and my soul oh oh oh my soul. I love the message, I hope the government too. I like the everything but the government. I don't hope anymore for the betterment of the system politically. Even so with these intricate and meticulous details, nothing and no one will change. It's just a dream yeah sana all. That's why I will vote no one in the upcoming election char. I hope all of us do...not vote hhahahah. Yeah because politics and governance nowadays is business for crocodiles. Yeah so I will change my rate if there's an impeachment to happen and a change in the system. Yeah that's all. Happy vashing qqqqqq.

Yeah #boycott the government. No more hypnosis but paralysis char.