The Child

Rory B. Quintos's 2000 Filipino film follows Josie, returning home after years working abroad. She sent money for years; on her return she finds her family has come apart and that her eldest daughter in particular will not speak to her. The subject is the unseen cost of migrant labour. Josie left in order to support her family, but her absence meant abandonment to her children and the money did not make up for it. The narrative fully vindicates nobody. Vilma Santos and Claudine Barretto lead. The film was widely discussed in the Philippines for addressing the situation of millions working abroad. The tone is close to melodrama and the music steers the emotion openly. Who it's for: those who like Filipino family drama and migration narratives. Who it's not for: viewers looking for a measured emotional register; the film openly reaches for tears towards the end.