Call Me Mother is easily one of Vice Ganda’s most surprising and rewarding films to date. Unlike her usual comedy-driven projects—this film leans heavily into drama, with humor used sparingly and, for once, effectively. The result is a more grounded emotional ride that fully commits to its story and characters.
At the center of the film is Twinkle (Vice Ganda), whose journey as a parent anchors the narrative. Vice delivers a restrained and believable performance, proving she can finally carry emotional scenes without undercutting them with jokes. For the first time, the comedy doesn’t interrupt the drama – support lang. They are well-placed, never cringe, and serve as breathing room rather than distractions. This feels like Vice stepping fully into her acting era.
Nadine Lustre is, as expected, excellent. Her confrontations with Vice’s character, especially the emotionally charged scenes involving social workers and the later face-offs are some of the film’s strongest moments. There’s real tension, pain, and vulnerability in these exchanges, and neither performance feels forced.
But the true standout of Call Me Mother is Lucas Andalio. Simply put, he steals the film – grabe! Many viewers may find themselves crying not because of Vice or Nadine, but because of him. Lucas doesn’t just recite lines—he listens, reacts, and conveys emotion far beyond his years. His micro-expressions and timing make every scene feel authentic, and dare I say that he is the film’s strongest actor.
The supporting cast also plays a big role in the film’s success. John Lapus and the rest of the ensemble provide much-needed comic relief, helping balance the heavy second half without breaking its tone. Their limited screen time works in the film’s favor, keeping the focus on the more emotional conflict.
While the story itself isn’t groundbreaking, what makes Call Me Mother special is that you can feel the care in the performances, the direction, and the pacing. The drama in the latter half carries the film leading to moments of desperation, confrontation, and release that feel earned. Some scenes may even feel like emotional “rage bait,” but they’re effective nonetheless.
Ultimately, Call Me Mother is an emotional ride that proves Vice Ganda is capable of more than his usual comedy. Even if you’re not a parent, the film finds a way to hit close to home. If this is the direction Vice Ganda continues to take—drama-first stories told with sincerity and restraint—then this is a direction worth seeing more of.
Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
Director: Jun Robles Lana
Cast: Vice Ganda, Nadine Lustre, Lucas Andalio, John Lapus, Iyah Mina, Brent Manalo, Mika Salamaca, Klarisse de Guzman, Esnyr, River Joseph, MC Muah, Shuvee Etrata
PADDYLAST INC. 