On the Job (2013)

A Brilliant Conflict

While it doesn't offer any answers, it both thrills and makes you think.

The film's masterful storytelling did its job. The message was clear. No need to overdo.

The storyline feels a little thin and moth-eaten in parts but this sequel is plenty of fun.

I have heard such positive reviews about this movie and I have been wanting to watch it but never had the time.Anyway, when I finally did, it was way better than expected.On The Job clearly plot was really heavy and with a hint of violence so please make sure no kids watching. The actors played out their roles perfectly. The movie was sad for me yet very much true especially in its realistic aspects. It has an easy-to-follow story which showcased corruption and greed thrown in the lives of prisoners, policemen, and the military.It started with a "job" done by the older Tang and backed-up by a younger, Daniel. After accomplishing the job, they were then sent back to prison (where they were originally from) until another job comes along. Tang taught Daniel how to kill: with a gun or a knife. He reminded Daniel to blend in with the crowd; pay attention to details. Eventually, Tang received news he was given parole hence Daniel would take his role.

This movie is beautiful despite the fact that it depicts the dirtier aspects of our country - geographically, politically, socially speaking. Seriously, this movie is a must-see for everybody. I wish I see more of this in mainstream Pinoy cinemas. Everything is well put together, the music is exciting, the editing and cinematography is professionally done, the story is tight, the camera-work is engaging (a work of art, a labor of love. It's that good), the opening scene captures your attention, and the ending leaves you satisfied (or wanting more). It's perfect. read my full review on Blogger: http://strangereview.blogspot.com/2014/01/on-job- 2013.html#sthash.GKoXwyiy.dpuf

I am surprised to see this movie is just 6+ here on IMDb as it's definitely an 8+ movie. It's full of action. They movie has good acting, good story and good speed. It's never boring and is made well. There is lots of action and it's done very well. The actors are well cast and their acting is good too. There is a story and we get to see the life in Manila. The shooting is realistic and so are the action scenes.See the trailer before you decide to skip this movie as that will change your mind. Don't go by the rating here as this is definitely skewed (I am not sure why?)This movie is way better than that and lot's of Hollywood action movies. If you like action movies this is for you and it will keep you on edge right through.

On The Job has some intriguing stuff, it's a story about four lives connected in one conspiracy behind the law. What's going on is as many as its moral ambiguities. It is a heavy story, but it consistently delivers thanks to the people who are involved. The craft is excellent for giving an absorbing quality with pure tension. The stellar cast brings plenty of life within the characters. Beyond the surfaces, the film is already fascinating itself, but it's a very ambitious picture. OTJ is a rare modern Filipino film that has an actual engaging story to tell in a brilliantly slick and exhilarating way.The subjects of the film are the realities of crime and moral ambiguity. Even though the lead character's motivation is good, it won't make his job look any less terrible. It never glosses anything about what they do and that's the interesting part. There are no actual heroes and a dirty work will always be a dirty work, which provides absolute danger within the surface. The film is best at tension, every set piece is like a ticking bomb, it gets louder and louder until it fires to an unpredictable shock, then more action. It's amazing stuff. When there's no blood and gunshots, the film explores the characters. They are in fact not bad people after all. They have their own problems and only do those things to provide for their loved ones, though there's a fear that they might bring their work into their personal lives, but that just makes it human.Tatang is mostly ruthless, but Joel Torre gives all the humanity which balances the character's depth and criminal side. Gerald Anderson shines remarkably. His greatest feat is the arrogance he brings, makes his character feel more threatening. Piolo Pascual surprisingly has something beyond his typical charms. My favorite among is Joey Marquez, who gives the cop a natural rage and fear that can be relatable and somehow enjoyable to watch.The film never depicts Metro Manila as pleasant, it's like hell on earth where violence may happen anytime in the city. Well it is in fact one of the rotten places of the country. Other than that, the film has most the best things in a classic crime thriller: noir feel, anxiety filled action, twisted dark humor, and a cinematography that glamors around the filth. Director Erik Matti keeps everything interesting and magnetic.OTJ is a great surprise among the local blockbusters today. We don't usually get a well made Filipino movie like this nowadays unless it's an independent film. Otherwise, it's a compellingly grim crime drama that may possibly stuck in your mind in a while. Personally, I think this is the best film I've seen this year so far. Since it's not really the greatest ever, I think this is what we need. It has a lot of what's missing in most modern blockbusters. It also has the craftsmanship and down-to-earth performances that would impact more to the audience. With all the merits, OTJ is easily recommendable.