Asog

Directed by Seán Devlin
Film Movement
2023
101 Minutes
Canada, Philippines, USA
Tagalog, Filipino
Comedy, Drama, LGBTQIA2S+
Not Rated
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Jaya is a comedian whose job hosting a late-night television show ended due to a natural disaster that devastated the Philippines. In the aftermath they returned to their career as a school teacher. In a last ditch attempt at finding fame, Jaya decides to travel across the country in hopes of winning a beauty pageant and the prize money that comes with it. But before they can leave, a chance encounter with Arnel, a student going the same way in search of family, complicates their solitary plans. As they travel seemingly countless miles together on foot, bike, and boat, the unlikely duo find themselves forever changed by each other and those they encounter on their journey.

Director & Cast

  • Director: Seán Devlin
  • Starring: Jaya
  • Starring: Arnel Pablo
  • Starring: Raul Ramos
  • Starring: Amelia De La Cruz

Where to Watch

Trailer

Photos

Reviews

  • "Asog is essential viewing as queer cinema, as political cinema and as climate cinema. It’s a story about grief, of trauma and of injustice, but also of community, love, joy and laughter. It is moving and funny, informative and dream-like; an all-around fantastic blend of reality and fiction."
    Niina Doherty, EasternKicks.com
  • "Jaya is a comedian first and foremost and the film honors their sense of humor, the impulse to laugh as a break from crying."
    Drew Gregory, Autostraddle
  • "A remarkable and beautiful film that is part documentary, part fiction, and entirely extraordinary..... [T]his is a truly special, one-of-a-kind film."
    Queer Street
  • "Takes you down a funny road but also makes you really see it, potholes and all. In this regard, it’s a rousing success."
    Emily Wheeler, Film Inquiry
  • "Devlin's docufiction offers a unique and genuine perspective of political and national history, tackling diverse subjects with uncensored and brave commentary. "
    Federica Giampaolo, Asian Movie Pulse
  • "[A]n irreverent, and sometimes very beautiful mix of magical realism storytelling and necessary truths about the hard parts of life."
    Andrew Hebden, Queerguru
  • "“Asog” makes its audience laugh and cry in equal measure. The plot infuses elements of drag, Filipino folklore and magical realism to package a story that expands on numerous themes with deft precision."
    Annapoorna Shruthi, The Vancouver Arts Review
Official Selection
Tribeca Film Festival
Official Selection
NewFest
Winner
Best Film
Hawaii Int'l. Film Festival
Winner
Outstanding Screenwriting
L.A. Outfest
Winner
Audience Award
Vancouver Int'l. Film Festival
Winner
Frameline Completion Fund
Frameline Int'l. LGBTQ Film Festival
Official Selection
BFI London Film Festival
Nominated
Free Spirit Award
Warsaw Int'l. Film Festival
Nominated
Best Picture
São Paulo Int'l. Film Festival