Named after Yasujiro Ozu’s custom-made, tatami-level, crab-like tripod, Kani is a new home video label dedicated to leveling the gaze and furthering the understanding of Asian cinema in North America. Focused on genre-defying films, Kani aims to expand the canon, bolster up-and-coming filmmakers and reintroduce repertory classics in context. Vinegar Syndrome’s sister company, OCN Distribution, is thrilled to be representing this diverse and unique home video line!
Investigating the murder of the young Hanzel (Yul Servo), shot dead one winter night on West Side Ave, police detective Juan Mijares (Joel Torres) plumbs the depths of the Filipino youth gangs of Jersey city who trade in shabu – crystal meth. Talking to the boy’s mother, remarried to an American; to his grandfather, an ex-soldier as well as to his American-born girlfriend, bigger questions emerge: what dark history has pushed so many Filipinos to migrate this wintry land? Why are these the conditions of their children? Out of what past does this detective emerge?
Shot on 16mm under duress at the freezing turn of the millennium by a young, fearless Lav Diaz (Norte, The End of History), Batang West Side remains a timeless epic about Filipino immigration over generations. Diaz’s sole film shot in the United States, and the longest film to be made by a Southeast Asia director at the time, Diaz does not shy away from the power of cumulative answers, revealed intricately over the course of the kind epic runtime and Dostoyevskian themes that would become hallmarks in the oeuvre of the Filipino master.
directed by: Lav Diaz
starring: Yul Servo, Joel Torre, Gloria Diaz, Priscilla Almeda, Art Acuña
2001 / 301 min (combined) / 1.85:1 / Tagalog, English DTS-HD MA 2.0
Additional info:
Overall rating: 4.8166666 / 5 from 60 reviews.
Batang West Side, a limited edition Blu-ray from Kani Releasing, is celebrated for its exquisite packaging and presentation. Customers highly praise the film, describing it as a rewarding and fantastic experience. The release includes insightful interviews and a booklet with archival writings and photographs, enhancing the viewing experience.
Review topics: ["packaging","depth","presentation","film","movie","release","kani","cinematography","transfer","artwork","drama","restoration","watch","dive","experience","story"].
"Batang West Side is an ambitious and deeply atmospheric crime drama that immerses viewers in its sprawling, melancholic world. The film’s deliberate pacing and richly detailed storytelling create a powerful sense of place and emotional weight. It stands as a haunting, masterfully crafted work that rewards patience with profound depth and resonance."
"I've been really impressed with the Kani releases I've found here, and their presentation of Batang West Side is another fine example of quality tangible art. Thhis film looks and sounds excellent. The directing, cinematography and, acting are all in proper form, and play out well in this very long film. Highly recommended 10/10"
"The highlight of this release is the restored version (w/ english subtitles) of the film which was at one point considered missing and only copies from an awards screener with burnt-in text kept it from falling out of public consciousness altogether. Also Kani's inclusion of a wealth of extras, interviews and booklet including writings should enhance the viewer's appreciation of the film. Glad to own this release for my collection."
"This was long but well worth the time and effort."
"Really long film and from somewhere different, really good and interesting. Cool slipcover if you can get it."
"Epic is an understatement here, but it's well worth it. Highly recommended."
"Never thought I'd see Lav Diaz films like this on blu-ray, keep them coming!"
"Stunning cinematography. It’s 5 hours long and for good reason. We sit there with the characters’ feelings. Compelling police procedural. Highly recommended."
"Finally got through this when I looked at more Lav Diaz interviews and he indicated it’s fine to watch this in chunks. One of the best Kani movies!"
"Beautiful cinematography"
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