Movies Review , Habal 2025 – A Dark and Realistic Ride Through Davao’s Underworld

Movie Review: Habal (2025)

Genre : Thriller, Crime, Drama

Duration : 1h 43m

Country : Philippines

Director : Ralston Jover

Stars : Athena Red, JD Aguas, Karen Lopez, Queenie De Mesa, Jhon Mark Marcia

VMX Beauties Athena Red and Karen Lopez star as the objects of a virgin's desire. Danilo is a virgin motorcycle taxi driver who is often teased by his roommates for his lack of "experience". Until finally his passenger Erika and her best friend Lara lead him into his s333xual passion.

Biography :

Athena Red is known for Undergrads (2024), Kabitan (2024) and Secret Sessions (2024).

JD Aguas is known for Butas (2024), Bedspacer (2024) and That Kind of Love (2024).

Karen Lopez is known for Habal (2025).

Queenie De Mesa is known for Ang pamumukadkad ni Mirasol (2025), Habal (2025) and Family Feud Philippines (2022).

Jhon Mark Marcia is known for Mga mata sa dilim (2019), Shake Rattle and Roll Fourteen: The Invasion (2012) and Triangle (2024).

Synopsis :

Habal dives into the gritty world of illegal motorcycle taxis in the streets of Davao City. The film centers on Marvin, a struggling habal-habal driver who gets lured into the criminal underworld after accepting mysterious delivery jobs to support his family.

What begins as a desperate attempt to make ends meet slowly pulls him into a dangerous web of drugs, police corruption, and street violence. As Marvin descends further into this life, he must face the moral consequences of his choices.

Impression and Analysis

One of the film’s strongest points is its raw portrayal of urban poverty and survival. The documentary-style cinematography adds a sense of realism, making viewers feel like they’re right there with Marvin in the chaotic alleys and dark corners of the city.

The lead actor delivers a powerful, emotionally layered performance. His portrayal of Marvin is both heartbreaking and compelling, showing the inner turmoil of a man torn between survival and conscience.

The story starts off slowly but gradually builds up tension, leading to a gripping climax. There are no over-the-top dramatic twists; instead, the film uses silence, subtle choices, and realism to deliver its message.

Beyond the crime elements, Habal offers a social commentary on injustice and how systemic issues push ordinary people into desperate paths. It forces us to question what we would do in similar situations.

Conclusion

Habal (2025) is a haunting, thought-provoking film that blends social realism with a tense criminal narrative. It’s not just a story about crime—it's about survival, identity, and the quiet tragedies faced by those society often overlooks. If you appreciate slow-burn dramas with real-world themes, this film is definitely worth watching.

🎬 Today’s Personal Note

🇬🇧 English:

Sometimes, we just want a quiet life, but the world demands more. This film made me think: how far can we go without losing ourselves?

🇵🇭 Tagalog:

Minsan gusto lang natin ng payapang buhay, pero maraming hinihingi ang mundo. Napaisip ako sa pelikulang ito: hanggang saan tayo lalaban nang hindi nawawala ang sarili?

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