After making waves overseas, Filipino action thriller “Topakk” is back home. Directed by Richard Somes, the film, also known internationally as “Triggered,” made its mark at prestigious venues such as the Cannes Film Festival, Locarno Film Festival, and Fantastic Fest in Austin, Texas. This year, it takes a proud spot as an official entry to the 2024 Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF), coinciding with the event’s 50th anniversary.
For the filmmakers and cast, “Topakk’s” inclusion in the MMFF is a dream fulfilled.
“Topakk has come full circle. At the same time, we are bringing Topakk home. Filipinos deserve to see Pinoy action films once again, and I think this is the stepping stone for the revival of pure Pinoy action cinema in the Philippines,” director Somes said during the film’s press conference.
‘Topakk’ is centered on Arjo Atayde’s character Miguel, a former special forces operative battling PTSD whose path intersects with a brother and sister both on the run from criminal forces. PHOTOS FROM NATHAN STUDIOS
“Topakk” tells the gripping story of Miguel (Arjo Atayde), a former special forces operative battling post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) whose life collides with two siblings fleeing from dangerous criminals. The film delves into themes of redemption, corruption, and mental health, all interwoven with high-octane action and emotional storytelling.
According to Somes, the film’s concept was rooted in the emotional toll of the pandemic, when people were contained, bombarded by news about death, war, and famine.
“At the same time, looking back at the script I wrote, I realized it was my own topak [craziness] after all. I was writing about my own ghosts and fears. I realized I needed to put that into a film,” explained Somes.
Drawing inspiration from classic Filipino action films, he crafted a story about an oppressed individual who triumphs against the odds.
“When I finished the script and Arjo and Julia came into the picture, everything became history. Both of them were revelations to me. They brought the characters I wrote to life,” he continued.
While action remains at the heart of “Topakk,” its underlying focus on PTSD, an often-overlooked issue in Filipino society, sets it apart.
“PTSD in the Philippines is not as widely discussed compared to other countries. Of course, we have it here, and we have medical practices studying PTSD. But Filipinos are known as a resilient people — we are known for being strong,” explained Somes.
“When we have problems, we are used to gathering with family or friends, and somehow, we feel okay. We are very family-centered, unlike in other countries where people are accustomed to living independently. For us, it feels like we can push through anything. But eventually, we realize there are deeper causes and effects that need to be addressed,” he furthered.
The cast of ‘Topakk,’ an official entry to the 2024 Metro Manila Film Festival.
The inclusion of a psychologist during the film’s first screening further validated its portrayal of PTSD, particularly in Atayde’s performance.
Montes echoed this sentiment and shared it was one of the main reasons why she took on her role.
“I’m sure many of us have moments when we feel our hearts racing or a sense of loneliness, even when nothing specific has happened to trigger it. But we feel something. For Filipinos, we’ve grown up hearing from older generations, ‘Just sleep it off,’ or we’re not listened to when we try to express something,” she continued.
She then expressed hope that the film would encourage viewers to be more empathetic and understanding of others’ struggles.
“Let’s be kinder to those we interact with because we don’t know the struggles they face daily or if there’s someone actually listening to them,” added Montes.
Meanwhile, Atayde, who portrays the lead character, immersed himself in understanding the realities of PTSD.
“The whole process was very difficult, to be honest. There’s very little dialogue in the film, so it’s really action-packed from the moment the guns start firing until the very end — it’s nonstop,” Atayde admitted.
“But what was truly challenging was maintaining and ensuring we didn’t go overboard with the portrayal of PTSD. With the guidance of the production team and our director, we made sure to approach it with the right balance and sensitivity,” he added.
Produced by Nathan Studios, Fusee, and Strawdogs, “Topakk” also stars Sid Lucero, Enchong Dee, Kokoy de Santos, Levy Ignacio, Bernard Palanca, Paolo Paraiso, Vin Abrenica, and Cholo Barretto, among others.
“Topakk” premiers Dec. 25 as part of the 2024 Metro Manila Film Festival.
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