In ‘Outside de Familia’, director Joven Tan delivers his most heartfelt and relatable work to date, proving that family isn’t always about blood—it’s about love, loyalty, and the people who choose to stay.
The film follows Lena (Ruby Ruiz) and Glenda (Sheila Francisco), best friends since their high school days who, despite living very different lives, find themselves leaning on each other in their senior years. Glenda enjoys financial stability but suffers from an emotionally distant son (Adrian Alandy), while Lena struggles with an aimless daughter (Gelli de Belen) and the weight of raising her grandson (Dwayne Garcia).
Together, the two women face the loneliness, regrets, and fragile joys of old age.
The strength of the film lies in its performances. Ruby Ruiz, always dependable, shines with sharp humor and emotional depth, while Sheila Francisco exudes grace in every scene. Gelli de Belen, Adrian Alandy, and the younger cast add texture to the story, while even short appearances by Matet de Leon and Rey “PJ” Abellana leave an impression.
What makes ‘Outside de Familia’ stand out is its sincerity. Despite not having the budget of mainstream productions, the film makes up for it with a rich, well-woven narrative that resonates with universal truths—aging parents being taken for granted, reunions tinged with nostalgia and loss, and the need to pretend success in the face of life’s struggles.
The script is seamless, the pacing steady, and the themes deeply relatable. A touching rendition of George Canseco’s ‘Kailangan Kita’ further elevates the emotional weight of the story.
It isn’t flawless—some makeup choices are distracting on the big screen—but the film’s heart and authenticity outweigh its minor flaws. More importantly, it shows a maturity in Joven Tan’s storytelling that critics and audiences alike will appreciate.
‘Outside de Familia’ is a reminder that the bonds we nurture, not just the ones we inherit, make life meaningful. For a debut outing by Gridline Film Production, it’s a surprisingly strong entry—one that deserves attention and support.
LionhearTV‘s Verdict: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5)
A touching, relatable drama carried by stellar performances and a story that proves friendship can be just as powerful as family.
