Travis Kraft and Tuesday Vargas shine in Filipino movie Ang Turkey Man ay Pabo Rin

Ang Turkey Man ay Pabo Rin is a film like no other. This is probably the first, and only Thanksgiving Day movie to come from the Philippines. It is also probably the first Filipino movie where the main subject matter deals with a relationship between a Filipina and an American.

The story centers on the relationship between Matthew(Travis Kraft) and Cookie(Tuesday Vargas). When an American relocates to the Philippines for work, he meets a typical, lower-class Filipina off a dating website but the film focusses on their relationship after they are already living together. Because of cultural differences,  some problems and funny situations ensue.

Tuesday Vargas is a rollercoaster of emotions and a lot of fun to watch. She knows when to play for laughs but can be really touching in quieter, emotional scenes. Travis Kraft is just what this movie needed to work. He is the perfect choice and adds a lot of balance with his more natural and subdued acting style. He is a bit out of step with the rest of the cast which is a good thing because that is exactly how his character would be in real life if an American was thrown in with a crazy group of Filipinos.

The rest of the supporting cast are terrific and add plenty of comedy. This is the directorial debut of Randolph Longjas and it is an amazing first effort. I can't wait to see what else he directs.

Making- of
 

Trailer