Sugar Baby (2023) Movie Review: A Disappointing Dive into a Familiar Narrative
“Sugar Baby,” directed by Christian Paolo Lat and released by Viva Films in November 2023, attempts to explore the complexities of sugar dating but falls short in execution. Starring Azi Acosta, Robb Guinto, Mon Mendoza, and Josef Elizalde, the film is another addition to Vivamax’s growing list of titles that prioritize sensationalism over substance.
Plot Overview
The film follows the life of Jennifer (played by Azi Acosta), who is forced into becoming a sugar baby due to financial struggles. Her husband, Spencer (Ralmon Mendoza), is a problematic figure, spending his days gambling and accumulating massive debts. Meanwhile, their child, Alex, suffers from leukemia, requiring expensive medical treatments. With no other options, Jennifer, encouraged by her high school friend Rica (Robb Guinto), enters the world of sugar dating to settle her husband’s debts and fund her child’s medical care.
What starts as a seemingly straightforward narrative quickly unravels as the plot jumps erratically, introducing subplots that are neither well-developed nor resolved. The film’s exploration of sugar dating is minimal, often overshadowed by extended sex scenes that do little to advance the story.
Strengths
One of the few strengths of “Sugar Baby” lies in its attempt to tackle a relevant social issue—sugar dating. The premise of a woman driven by desperation to enter a morally ambiguous arrangement could have provided a rich narrative ground. Additionally, the performances by Azi Acosta and Robb Guinto are commendable, particularly given the limited material they had to work with. Acosta’s portrayal of Jennifer captures the character’s internal struggle, though the script fails to fully flesh out her journey.
Weaknesses
Unfortunately, the film’s weaknesses far outweigh its strengths. The narrative takes an excessive amount of time to reach the core topic of sugar dating. When it finally does, the subject is treated superficially, with rapid character changes and decisions that lack depth or believability. The film seems more interested in showcasing explicit scenes than in genuinely exploring the complexities of sugar dating or Jennifer’s moral dilemma.
Moreover, the dialogue is often awkward, with lines that feel more like fillers than meaningful conversation. Subplots are introduced only to be abandoned, leaving viewers with a fragmented story that never fully comes together. The relationships between characters are poorly developed, making it difficult for the audience to connect with or care about their struggles.
Opportunities
“Sugar Baby” had the potential to be a compelling drama that examined the ethical and emotional implications of sugar dating. Had the film focused more on character development and less on sensationalism, it could have delivered a powerful message about the lengths people go to in times of desperation. Streamlining the plot and giving more attention to the psychological and emotional aspects of Jennifer’s decisions would have significantly improved the film’s impact.
Treats
Despite its flaws, “Sugar Baby” does feature some redeeming moments. The performances of Azi Acosta and Robb Guinto are notable, with both actresses showing dedication to their roles. Acosta, in particular, manages to convey Jennifer’s desperation and conflicted emotions, even when the script does not fully support her character’s development. These performances offer brief glimpses of the film that might have been, had it focused more on storytelling and less on sensational content.
Audience Reception: A Mixed Bag
Reactions to “Sugar Baby” have been mixed, with many viewers expressing disappointment in the film’s lack of coherence and depth. The film has been criticized for its disjointed narrative and for failing to effectively address the theme of sugar dating. Some viewers have noted that the film’s emphasis on explicit scenes detracts from its potential to tell a meaningful story.
Vivamax and Its Struggles
“Sugar Baby” is indicative of a broader issue with Vivamax films, which often seem content to rely on explicit content rather than developing compelling narratives. While Vivamax has carved out a niche for itself in producing provocative films, there is growing concern that this focus on sensationalism is limiting the platform’s ability to grow and attract a more diverse audience.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, “Sugar Baby” is another missed opportunity from Vivamax. While it had the potential to explore a relevant and provocative topic, the film instead falls into familiar patterns, prioritizing explicit scenes over substantive storytelling. The narrative’s lack of coherence, underdeveloped characters, and abrupt shifts make it difficult to engage with or appreciate the film’s intended message.
Where to Watch “Sugar Baby” Online in the U.S.
For those interested in watching “Sugar Baby,” it is currently available on Vivamax, a popular Filipino streaming platform. In the United States, Vivamax can be accessed through its website or app, offering both subscription.
Conclusion
“Sugar Baby” serves as a reminder of the challenges facing Vivamax as it attempts to balance sensational content with meaningful storytelling. While the film may appeal to those seeking provocative material, it ultimately falls short of delivering a compelling narrative. For those interested in exploring the topic of sugar dating, this film may leave you wanting more substance and less spectacle.
