Sarap Mong Patayin (2021) Movie Review: A Critical Look at Darryl Yap’s Controversial Film
Sarap Mong Patayin, directed and written by Darryl Yap, is a 2021 Filipino film that delves into themes of deception, mental health, and violence. Produced by Viva Films and Vivamax, this movie has sparked significant debate due to its provocative content and execution.
Plot Summary
The film follows a convoluted plot involving a gay man and a woman who conspire to lure unsuspecting men into a fraudulent romance scheme. When they target the wrong person, the situation quickly spirals into a deadly confrontation. The narrative explores issues like catfishing and psychological disorders but struggles to present these themes in a meaningful and engaging way.
Performance and Characters
The cast includes Lassy, Ariella Arida, and Kit Thompson, among others. Lassy uses Ariella Arida’s identity to seduce Kit Thompson, leading to a series of dramatic and gory events. The film heavily features Kit Thompson’s physical appearance, often reducing his role to showcasing his body rather than developing his character. The portrayal of the characters lacks depth and believability, with the actors appearing as mere instruments to advance a sensationalized plot.
Technical Aspects
- Director and Writer: Darryl Yap’s dual role as director and writer results in a film that feels disjointed and lacks cohesion. The attempt to integrate catfishing and mental health themes appears superficial.
- Cinematography: Rain Yamson’s cinematography captures some striking visuals but does little to redeem the film’s overall execution. The scenes often feel over-the-top and gratuitous.
- Editing: Vincent Asis’s editing choices contribute to the film’s erratic pacing, with excessive use of rewind effects and music video-style sequences that detract from the narrative.
- Production Design: Ericson Navarro’s production design features symbolic decorations that add a layer of drama but fail to enhance the story’s credibility.
- Soundtrack: Andrew Florentino’s score attempts to amplify the film’s dramatic elements but often feels melodramatic.
Critique
Sarap Mong Patayin has been criticized for its focus on sensationalism over substance. The film’s portrayal of mental health and catfishing is marred by its excessive emphasis on gore and provocative imagery. The narrative feels forced and lacks genuine emotional resonance, leaving audiences with a sense of dissatisfaction.
The movie’s attempt to cover complex themes is undermined by its lack of sincerity and coherence. Instead of offering a thought-provoking commentary, it relies on shock value and sensationalism, which detracts from its intended message. The overall execution is perceived as a failed attempt at creating a meaningful film, resulting in a product that feels fabricated and unconvincing.
Where to Watch
Sarap Mong Patayin was released on August 13, 2021. For viewers in the United States, the film can be streamed on Vivamax, which is the primary platform for accessing this Filipino movie. Check for availability on other digital rental or purchase services if needed.
Conclusion
Sarap Mong Patayin is a polarizing film that attempts to address serious issues through a sensational lens. While it offers striking visuals and a bold concept, its execution leaves much to be desired. The film’s reliance on shock tactics over genuine storytelling results in a disappointing viewing experience for those seeking a deeper exploration of its themes.
