Metro Manila is a 2013 British-Filipino independent drama film directed by Sean Ellis. The movie tells the story of Oscar Ramirez (played by Jake Macapagal) and his family who move from their impoverished life in the rice terraces of Banaue to Metropolitan Manila. In the city, the family struggles to survive in the harsh, unforgiving environment until Oscar is offered a job with an armored truck company.
The film portrays the challenges and dangers of living in the city and showcases a range of societal issues such as poverty, corruption, and crime. As Oscar settles into his new job, he soon discovers that it's not the safe haven he thought it was. He finds himself caught up in a world of danger and intrigue, as he tries to navigate the criminal underworld and protect his family from harm.
The movie features stunning cinematography and a powerful soundtrack that adds to the gritty and intense atmosphere of the film. The performances of the actors were praised, particularly Macapagal's portrayal of Oscar, which earned him numerous awards and nominations.
Metro Manila was a critical and commercial success, winning the Audience Award at the Sundance Film Festival, Best British Independent Film at the British Independent Film Awards, and Best International Film at the Edinburgh International Film Festival. The film was lauded for its compelling storyline and realistic portrayal of life in the city, and it remains a must-watch movie for anyone interested in independent filmmaking and Filipino cinema.