‘Celestina: Burlesk Dancer’, a Vivamax original produced by Viva Films, has all the ingredients for an intriguing period drama: a captivating historical backdrop, a strong script by national artist Ricky Lee, and a talented cast.
Unfortunately, it doesn’t quite deliver on its potential, leaving audiences with a lackluster experience that fails to live up to the excitement promised by its premise.
The story follows Celestina (played by Yen Durano), a burlesque dancer who uses her body and charm as a spy during the Japanese occupation of the Philippines. The concept offers ample room for suspense and drama, but the film doesn’t fully capitalize on these elements.
The pacing is uneven, with scenes that feel overly rehearsed and a narrative that lacks the tension and excitement you’d expect from a spy thriller. Key moments, such as shootouts, fail to generate the chaos and drama one would anticipate, making them feel more tedious than thrilling.
Yen Durano, in her first major theatrical release, looks stunning on screen but struggles to bring depth to her character. While her physical beauty is undeniable, her performance as Celestina lacks the emotional intensity required for such a complex role. At times, you find yourself wishing she could dig deeper into the emotional core of her character, particularly in scenes where she is meant to portray the conflicted nature of a woman caught between duty and desire.
Despite this, she manages to keep up with her co-stars Aaron Villaflor and Sid Lucero, who give more grounded and compelling performances. Lucero, in particular, stands out with his commanding presence and depth, elevating the film whenever he’s on screen.
For fans hoping to be captivated by sensual scenes, the film delivers a version that’s more restrained than expected. While the R-18 version, available at select cinemas like Gateway, Fishermall, and Robinsons, offers a more mature viewing experience, it still doesn’t fully embrace the provocative potential of its premise.
The intimate moments are brief and toned down, leaving many viewers feeling underwhelmed. With the movie’s promise of burlesque and allure, the choreography and dance numbers are another letdown, lacking the energy and connection needed to captivate an audience.
The performances are more “showy” than seductive, failing to create the kind of tension that should accompany such a storyline.
Overall, ‘Celestina: Burlesk Dancer’ is a missed opportunity. While the historical context and the idea of a burlesque dancer turned spy are interesting, the film doesn’t fully capitalize on these elements.
The lack of chemistry between the lead actors, along with the absence of dramatic intensity in crucial scenes, makes the movie hard to recommend. Even with the strong script from Ricky Lee, the film’s execution falters, leaving audiences wishing for more substance and excitement.
Rating: ★★☆☆☆ (2/5)
