Playfully called as a Taiwan and Philippines mashup. "Pinoy Sunday" chronicles the adventure of Manuel (Quizon) and Dado (Agbayani), as they traverse the many streets of Taipei while trying to subjugate the loneliness they feel. Working as factory workers, earning a meager salary, and living in a dull apartment. The two only dream of comfort while being far away from home. So when an abandoned couch appears, the determination to bring it home feels like a dream come true.
A poignant yet, surprisingly, tender film. Director Ho Wi-ding draws inspiration from Roman Polanski's 1958 short "Two Men and a Wardrobe" to create this rather lighthearted story of longing. Though unlike Polanski's short, the sofa that Dado and Manuel carry around rather symbolizes the illusion of comfort working abroad. Wi-ding's clever use of symbolism and proper pacing resulted in a movie that doesn't feel so overbearing despite the sensitivity of the issues discussed.
"Pinoy Sunday" is an enjoyable story because it's light yet deep. It's a movie that, despite being made back in '09, still holds up as the funniest OFW movie. Additionally, the casting of Agbayani and Quizon is perfect. Their chemistry is pure and their performance is impressive and convincing.
In conclusion, I recommend checking "Pinoy Sunday" out on Netflix. Ho Wi-ding might not be born as a Filipino, but through this film, he illustrates that you don't need to be a Filipino to understand what OFWs go through.
3.5/5
