The Trial (2014 film) | Movie review

About The Trial

The Trial is a 2014 Filipino family-drama film starring John Lloyd Cruz , Richard Gomez , Gretchen Barretto , Jessy Mendiola , and Enrique Gil. The film is directed by Chito S. Roño. Also, It's produced and released by Star Cinema for its 20th Anniversary.

Plot

Ronald (John Lloyd Cruz), a mentally handicapped student, is accused of raping Bessy (Jessy Mendiola), his tutor and school teacher. And when the school files a case against Ronald in an effort to throw him in prison, Ronald’s family is given precious few options in matters of legal defense. But as a 29-year-old grade seven student, Ronald is a “special case” in more ways than one.



Cast
John Lloyd Cruz as Ronald Jimenez Jr.
Jessy Mendiola as Isabelle "Bessy" Buenaventura
Richard Gomez as Julian Bien
Gretchen Barretto as Amanda Bien
Enrique Gil as Martin Bien
Sylvia Sanchez as Sampi Jimenez
Vincent De Jesus as Ronald Jimenez Sr.
Vivian Velez
Benjamin Alves as Paco

Movie Review

The Trial was just slightly better than an average episode of Ipaglaban Mo. It was competently directed as expected from a master like Chito Rono.
My biggest problem with the movie was its inconsistent treatment of such a sensitive subject matter. A possible rape case played for laughs? Cringe.
Even John Lloyd Cruz had difficulty with his character, his genuine emotions only shining through whenever he needed to cry.
And if you're still wondering how this movie would play in the end, never forget that this is still a Star Cinema flick.
Special mention to Sylvia Sanchez for her authentic portrayal of a pained lesbian mother. We need to see her in more movies.

Movie Star Rating :
★★☆☆☆

Written by Jason Javier