Let’s dive into the cosmic oddity that is Kokey—a film that boldly goes where no alien movie should, straight into the annals of “so bad it’s almost good” PH cinema. Directed by Romy Suzara, Kokey is a textbook case of missed potential wrapped in an extraterrestrial package that will have you questioning the very fabric of Filipino cinema. If you’re a fan of the genre’s train-wrecks, then buckle up, because this ride is nothing short of a glorious disaster.
Here’s our friendly little alien’s Wikipedia Page
The Storyline: E.T. Phoned, Kokey Can’t Even Text
Imagine a movie where you blend the heartwarming charm of E.T. with the sheer absurdity of a soap opera, and you get Kokey. The plot revolves around siblings Bong (Carlo Aquino) and Anna (Ani Pearl Alonso) who stumble upon Kokey, a crash-landed alien with a penchant for mischief. Instead of alerting the authorities or calling in the experts, they decide to keep Kokey hidden. Because nothing says “responsible alien management” like a secretive, glowing extraterrestrial in your backyard.
While E.T. tugged at heartstrings with its emotional depth and captivating storytelling, Kokey seems to be on a mission to pull your patience to its limits. Kokey’s interactions with the family turn into a series of increasingly ridiculous escapades. It’s like watching a sitcom where the laugh track is missing, and the only sound you hear is the collective groan of disbelief.
Kokey: Friend or Unfortunate Prop?
Screen grabbed from ABS-CBN Film Restoration: Kokey Restored Teaser. © Star Cinema
Let’s get to the star of the show—or rather, the star of the bizarre puppet show. Kokey, portrayed by the late Mahal, is an alien design that might make you wonder if the costume department was having an off day. With his oversized eyes and an expression that seems to perpetually scream, “What am I doing here?” Kokey resembles a rejected mascot more than an extraterrestrial. His heartwarming moments are undercut by his appearance, making him seem like a plush toy that should have stayed on the store shelf.
Kokey’s emotional moments, where he looks longingly at the sky, could have been poignant if only they weren’t so unintentionally hilarious. His attempts at endearing the audience with his homesickness come across as more of a tragicomedy than a tear-jerker.
Supporting Cast: Human, but Barely
The film features a roster of talented Filipino actors, including Carlo Aquino, Ricky Davao, Cherry Pie Picache, and Paquito Diaz. However, their performances seem to be in a different movie entirely. Aquino’s portrayal of Bong is earnest to a fault, given the ludicrous premise. Davao’s role as the father, a miner struggling with financial issues, feels like an attempt to anchor the film in some form of reality, but it’s ultimately lost in the chaotic mix.
Cherry Pie Picache, playing the mother Trining, does her best to bring some depth to the role, but even her considerable talent can’t rescue the film from its own absurdity. And then there’s Paquito Diaz as Marcial, the villain who wants to kidnap Kokey. Marcial’s plans are as misguided as they are underdeveloped, making his pursuit of the alien feel like a subplot that was half-heartedly thrown in.
A Masterpiece of Missed Potential
Kokey is a film that makes you wonder where it all went awry in the landscape of PH cinema. Was it the bizarre costume design? The formulaic plot? Or perhaps the film’s overambitious attempt to blend family drama, sci-fi, and comedy into a concoction that’s more confusing than entertaining? It tries to tug at your heartstrings with Kokey’s tears for his alien family, but instead, it leaves you feeling like you’ve been emotionally swindled.
The cinematography by Ben Lobo is competent but doesn’t exactly elevate the film’s lackluster script. The overuse of close-ups on Kokey’s face, especially during emotional scenes, feels excessive and only accentuates the film’s shortcomings.
Final Verdict: So Bad, It’s Almost Genius
Is Kokey the worst Filipino movie ever made? It’s certainly in the running, but it’s also something of a peculiar gem—a “disasterpiece,” if you will. Its earnestness in embracing its own ridiculousness is both baffling and endearing. The film’s unintentional comedy and its place in 90s PH cinema make it a must-watch for aficionados of cringe-worthy cinema.
I’d rate Kokey (1997) a solid 3 out of 10 pandesal. It scores points for being a memorable part of “so bad it’s good” cinema and for its unintentional hilarity. But it loses those points for its awkward alien design, predictable plot, and the vast potential it squandered. A film best enjoyed with friends, some snacks, and a healthy dose of disbelief.
| Criteria | Rating (out of 10 Pandesal) | Comment |
|---|---|---|
| Memorable “So Bad It’s Good” Factor | 7 | A standout in PH cinema for its unique brand of absurdity. |
| Unintentional Hilarity | 6 | Provides laughs through its sheer ridiculousness. |
| Alien Design | 2 | Looks like a rejected mascot—disturbingly awkward. |
| Plot Predictability | 1 | So predictable it’s practically a blueprint for alien clichés. |
| Squandered Potential | 1 | Misses the mark on every front, from drama to comedy. |
| Overall Enjoyment (with friends and snacks) | 3 | Best enjoyed with a side of disbelief and plenty of snacks. |
Final Rating: 3 out of 10 Pandesal. Enjoy for its unintentional comedy and place in PH cinema, but prepare for a bumpy, cringe-worthy ride.
If you’re up for a movie that will make you laugh while questioning your life choices, Kokey is your ticket to an unforgettable cinematic experience. And who knows? You might just find yourself searching for a support group for survivors of this particular slice of PH cinema.
Thanks for reading our first review in Pinoy Media Spot. Click here if you haven’t read our welcome article yet.
