Monday, January 06, 2014

Ilo Ilo


One of the many characteristics of Singapore is the presence of live-in maids in the houses of the affluent. Being a constant presence in the family the maid becomes part of the family persona whether one likes it or not. This film set during the Asian financial crisis in the late 90s, takes a stab at exploring this inter-family relationship. Teresa, a young Filipina reaches Singapore as the maid for the Lim family of three. Her presence while being a help in the day to day household activities puts a strain on the family. However, slowly a deep bond forms between the young troublesome son, Jiale and Teresa. Throw in the onset of the financial crisis and you are left with a random graph of inter-familial tension that is captured quite well in the film. But yet there is something intangible that holds this film back from breaking through to the audience.

Rating: * *

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