Attorney Ferdinand Topacio has criticized the movies of TV host-comedian Vice Ganda, expressing his doubts about their significance.
During a press conference, Topacio announced that his production company, Borracho Films, would be producing several films with the assistance of foreign backers.
He explained the challenges of producing films in the Philippines, citing various factors.
“Gumastos kami ng 33 million para sa ‘Mamasapano.’ Ang hirap bawiin because of the climate of the local film industry. Dominated kasi ‘yung local industry ng foreign films. Yon ang number one,” he said.
“Number two, ‘yung mga movies na walang katuturan. Katulad ng mga movies ni Vice Ganda. ‘Yon ang namamayagpag e,” the lawyer added.
Whether part of the Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) or not, Vice Ganda’s movies consistently perform well at the box office. Moviegoers continue to support his films despite criticism. Vice Ganda’s talent in comedy and drama is undeniable, which contributes to the success of his movies.
“To be candid, ano ba ang naitutulong ng mga pelikulang iyon sa pagtaas ng antas ng pelikulang Pilipino? Wala naman e!” Topacio remarked.
‘Mamasapano: Now It Can Be Told’ was one of the entries in the recent MMFF 2022, but it was one of the lowest-grossing films, earning only 5 million throughout the festival’s two-week run.
Topacio also argued that Filipino films wouldn’t be able to compete with South Korean cinema if movies like Vice Ganda’s were the norm in theaters.