‘Tuhog’ pulls off risky...

unhappy cookie ironically named “Fiesta” (Eugene Domingo). Her monumental dissatisfaction starts with her mother deserting her when she was a child, continues with her father’s alcoholism, and is further compounded by her young boyfriend’s (Jake Cuenca) deceptive ways.

All these low psychic blows conspire to convince Fiesta that she isn’t worth loving, so the weird accident could just possibly be the “best” thing that ever happened to her—or, could it?

The antic plot and its “crazy” mix of protagonists are difficult to keep in creative play, so filmmaker Velasco should be credited for pulling off the risky “juggling” act.

In addition, she enhances her storytelling with some effective “grace notes,” like the scene in which the new baker produces his first batch of burned but tasty pan de sal, and the tough bus conductress’ initial discovery of the orgasmic thrill of sex— and love .

Unfortunately, some of the juggled balls fall to earth now and then, so the film isn’t pitch-perfect. Still, it’s a relatively outstanding achievement, and should be cited more for the things in it that work, and less for its occasional sour notes.

Aside from the filmmaker, Martinez and Domingo should be singled out for their spoton and insightful portrayals. They stand out because they do more than simply make their assigned characters come believably “alive”—they understand their assigned functions in relation to vivifying the entire movie’s themes.

Other elements we appreciate about “Tuhog” are some of its supporting portrayals, including those turned in by Noel Trinidad as Fiesta’s alcoholic father, and the baker’s card-playing buddies—crusty characters, one and all!