Stars of "Sinagtala." Photo by Josh Mercado

Some people find healing and inspiration in every phrase written in a song and every sound spoken straight to their ears.

And if life is too noisy and you're out of sync, you cling to the most basic yet powerful gift: music. Every period of life has an anthem, and each anthem holds hope.

In Mike Sandejas' latest film, "Sinagtala," which opened in cinemas on April 2, music plays a vital role, synchronizing each character's fall story and finding a common beat that bonds them together in gaining clarity in life.

The movie introduces Reggie (Rayver Cruz), June (Rhian Ramos), Paola (Glaiza de Castro), Isko (Matt Lozano), and Carla (Arci Muñoz). They share a passion for music and attempt to revive their band Sinagtala, but are unsure of what lies ahead.

Reggie, who was once addicted to drugs, sees music as the one thing that links him to his daughter, who refers to him as a rock star. He smashes every song he sings, but he's always concerned about the future, particularly for her daughter.

Cruz's portrayal of Reggie reveals a vulnerable side of himself, and his acting has a lot of groove. He does not let the noise bother him and instead does what the director tells him to do.

While Reggie strives to spend time with his daughter, June struggles to bond with his adopted father and searches for her biological father, played by Ricky Davao.

In the film, Ramos transforms into her character June, exemplifying what it means to be an artist. From head to toe, the It Girl tones down as she portrays the band's drummer. Ramos has never played a character like this before, and she exceeds expectations.

With the character of de Castro, who plays Paola, the band's main vocalist, the movie becomes heartbreaking as she struggles with her health. Paola realizes that while the band needs her, she also needs to let go, and that by doing so, she achieves true peace.

De Castro, a versatile actress, ensures that her short scenes stand out by performing simply but truthfully.

Stars of "Sinagtala." Photo by Josh Mercado

Lozano, a newbie actor, plays Isko, who struggles to hide his true identity. As someone who avoids reality, he finds every day difficult. His father (Benjie Paras) urges him to start a family, but Isko has his own way of life.

His scene with Muñoz is well-applauded, and despite being a new artist, he manages to blend in nicely. That scene is incredibly honest and emotional, with excellent comedic timing, and will undoubtedly make viewers tear and laugh.

Finally, Muñoz's performance is outstanding in the film. In the movie, she plays Carla, a prostitute who works to support herself and her special child. Her characterization of a prostitute, as well as the director's execution of it, is tasteful.

Muñoz's portrayal of Carla in every scene is masterful, conveying strength, rage, rawness, and credibility. The film will increase viewers' appreciation for Muñoz's acting abilities.

All of the characters find themselves in situations that make them question their faith and hope. Life is usually like that—a melancholy melody—but painful moments do not last. As the movie demonstrates, music may save lives, so viewers should always heed to the voices that tell them to "rise above."

"Rise Above" is one of the original songs in the film. “Sinagtala” is produced by Sinagtala Production and directed by Mike Sandejas.

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