23rd New York Asian Film Festival

July 12-28, 2024

Photo: © Hero Hito Film Production Corporation

North American Premiere

Granny Prostitutes

Lola Magdalena

They've been kicked to the curb, cast aside by an uncaring society that treats them like human detritus. But these bawdy broads aren't going gently into that good night - not on your granny's life! In Granny Prostitutes, a deliriously inappropriate yet oddly touching rallying cry, a motley crew of unstoppable elderly courtesans fight tooth-and-toenail to save their home from capitalist encroachment. This rousing, episodic cry against inequality and ageism finds the feistiest gang of aged sex workers since...well, ever; cussing up a blue storm yet defiantly retaining their humanity against a world determined to disrespect them. Gleefully pinballing between shameless hijinks and melodramatics, director Joel Lamangan guides his marvelous cast through a gloriously overripe emotional gamut. One minute you're doubled over from their lewd antics, the next reaching for the Kleenex as they tug the heartstrings. It's a campily bizarre yet refreshingly humanizing portrait, inspired by true stories of woe and wonton resilience. Lamangan effortlessly pushes all the right hot buttons, crafting an irresistible outsider's tale. By its gratuitously sentimental final act, you'll be a blubbering mess...and maybe visiting grandma more often.

Director: Joel Lamangan
Cast: Sunshine Cruz, Perla Bautista, Gloria Diaz, Pia Moran
Languages: Tagalog with English subtitles
2023; 108 min.

SCHEDULE:

Saturday July 20, 6:30pm
LOOK Cinemas W57

Intro and Q&A with writer Dennis Evangelista