When high-schooler Jane (Charlie Dizon) traveled to her idol's mall show, her only intention is to see the actor. Only to find herself spending the whole night with him after she stows away at the back of his car.
The idol is Paulo Avelino, a movie star whose wink can make any girl swoon in kilig. Jane has been obsessing over him since the start, and she knows every little detail about him. Like his birthday, his pets, and his first teleserye.
Enthralled by this once-in-a-lifetime close encounter with him, she daydreams of one day to be his real-life leading lady.
But things aren't what it seems. Paulo drives his pick-up to a remote barrio where a lot of surprising things happened. It turns out that the actor is far different from who he was on-screen. And Jane is the only unlucky girl to witness it.
"Fan Girl" is Antoinette Jadaone's latest project. The film first premiered in Japan at the 33rd Tokyo International Film Festival. It was also the only Filipino film of the 24th Tallinn Black Nights Film Festival held in Estonia. The film is part of this year's Metro Manila Film Festival and is already in contention for many awards.
Behind its already impressive resume, "Fan Girl" captures the attention of many for its daring story. The movie thrives with its straightforward narrative about a fangirl who meets his idol. Only that, this is not a cheesy and corny love story. This movie is a critique of the many forms of abuse towards women and misogyny.
The term "never meet your heroes" make sense now as Jadaone breaks down all the reason why. Trivial information is not equal to personality and what's on-screen is different in real life.
The film throws shades on die-hard fans that justify their heroes' wrongdoings. It's a slap on blind fanatics that chooses to stare at their idol's faux light and credo. Rather than question and be critical about it.
"Fan Girl" is a standout film this year, kudos to Charlie Dizon and Paulo Avelino. Both did not hold back in showcasing their talents.
Dizon's performance solidifies her as the young artist to look out for in the coming years. Her bold portrayal of Jane is on-point and convincing. Honestly, there is no other more suited for the role than her. The same goes for Avelino. He defies all expectations with his impeccable acting.
In summary, "Fan Girl" is the must-watch film of 2020. It's a film that everyone should see not only for the performance but for the story's relevance and message.
5/5
