Beautifully-acted and precisely observed, ILO ILO is an amazing debut, full of heart and intelligence

Beautifully-acted and precisely observed, ILO ILO is an amazing debut, full of heart and intelligence

ILO ILO, directed by Anthony Chen, is a critically acclaimed film that has been praised for its beautifully-acted performances and precise observations of human relationships. The film follows the story of a Filipino maid, Teresa, who comes to work for a Singaporean family during the Asian financial crisis of the late 1990s. The film explores the dynamics between Teresa, the mother of the family, and their young son, Jiale, as they navigate the challenges of their respective roles within the household.

The performances in ILO ILO are truly outstanding, particularly those of the lead actors, Angeli Bayani and Koh Jia Ler. Bayani brings a quiet strength and vulnerability to her role as Teresa, capturing the character's resilience and determination in the face of adversity. Koh, in his debut performance, delivers a nuanced and emotionally resonant portrayal of Jiale, a troubled young boy who finds solace in his relationship with Teresa. The chemistry between Bayani and Koh is palpable, and their interactions are both heartwarming and heartbreaking to watch.