Blossoming of Maximo Oliveros (The)
Gay | Out at the Movies: A History of Gay Cinema | Comedy | Teddy Award Winner | Teddy Award 2006 | 2005
Original Title
Ang Pagdadalaga Ni Maximo Oliveros- Director: Auraeus Solito
- Writer: Michiko Yamamoto
- Producer: Raymond Lee; Michiko Yamamoto
CGiii Comment
An enthralling glimpse into another culture.
The complete acceptance of a young gay boy by his criminal brothers and father is as refreshing as a dip in a Polar plunge pool.
A far-reaching story that would have had audiences suffering from abject shock and horror if Hollywood dared produce even a watered down version of this hugely commendable film.
A film that simply presents questions and gives answers on love - regardless of age or social class.
Spirited and astounding.
Trailer...
The(ir) Blurb...
Can a 12-year old lad who wishes he were a girl navigate the mean streets of Manila? Maxi cooks, cleans, and sews for his father and older brothers who are petty criminals. He's sweet, clever and hardworking, at ease with being gay, pinning a flower in his hair, swinging his hips when he walks, vamping with friends. He's seen adults hug and kiss and he's watched romantic movies, so on the verge of puberty, he develops a crush on Victor, a kindly young cop. Maxi's heart and loyalties are on a collision course: Victor is investigating crimes that lead him to Maxi's family. In the land of the morning, is there a place for this child of the sun returning?
Cast & Characters
Nathan Lopez as Maxi;
Soliman Cruz as Paco;
J.R. Valentin as Victor;
Neil Ryan Sese as Boy;
Ping Medina as Bogs;
Bodjie Pascua as New Sergeant;
Elmo Redrico as Sarge;
Ivan Camacho as Art;
Lucito Lopez as Pulis;
Sir Jett Desalesa as Leslie - Maxi's friend;
Anastacio Cruz as Nar - Maxi's friend;
Raychell Torre as Monique - Maxi's friend;
Peter Anthony Tombasa as Peter - Maxi's friend;
Claudine Najera as Janet; Pepe Smith