Movie spotlight
Manila Kingpin: The Asiong Salonga Story
Mobster Asiong Salonga (ER Ejercito) rules the mean streets of Manila with an iron fist—until he is betrayed by a trusted friend. Manila Kingpin is based on the story of the notorious Tondo, Manila, gang leader Nicasio “Asiong” Salonga, whose true-to-life accounts had been portrayed in several movie versions since 1961 (starring Joseph Estrada). It is also the first Filipino major film produced in black-and-white in the 21st century as well as the returning action genre movie. Before the film was shown, Tikoy Aguiluz requested the producers, through his lawyers, that his directorial credits in the film and promotional tools be removed because the final version of the film can no longer be described as his after the producers made a reedit, re-shoot and music mixing without his involvement. He also demanded that he be allowed to make a director's cut of the film.
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Plot Summary
The film chronicles the life of Bienvenido 'Asiong' Padilla, a notorious gangster who rose to become a legendary figure in Manila's criminal underworld during the 1950s. It details his rise from humble beginnings, his reign as the undisputed kingpin of Tondo, and his eventual downfall. The story highlights his complex character, marked by both brutality and a sense of justice within his community.
Critical Reception
The film received generally positive reviews, lauded for its gritty portrayal of a historical figure and its impressive production values. It was particularly praised for its action sequences and the lead performance, though some critics noted pacing issues.
What Reviewers Say
Praised for its intense action sequences and compelling portrayal of a Filipino gangster.
Commended for its historical subject matter and strong lead performance by E.R. Ejercito.
Noted for its ambitious scope and detailed recreation of 1950s Manila.
Google audience: Information not available.
Awards & Accolades
Won 10 awards at the 2011 Metro Manila Film Festival, including Best Picture, Best Actor (E.R. Ejercito), and Best Director.
Fun Fact
E.R. Ejercito, who played the titular character, also served as the film's producer and was an actor before becoming a politician.
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