"On the Job" is a 2013 Filipino crime thriller, directed by Erik Matti. The film is set in Manila and tells the story of two prisoners, Tatang (Joey Marquez) and Daniel (Gerald Anderson), who are temporarily released from jail to carry out political assassinations on behalf of corrupt Filipino government officials. The film begins with Tatang and Daniel being released from prison under the guise of attending a family funeral. However, they are soon picked up by corrupt detective Joaquin Acosta (Joel Torre), who enlists them for his own purposes. Acosta is part of a group of corrupt officials who use prisoners as hitmen to carry out their dirty work. They select their targets carefully, and the assassination plots are carried out with precision, making it look like the work of professionals.
As the story progresses, we learn more about the characters and their motivations. Tatang is a seasoned criminal who has been in and out of prison for most of his life. He is a pragmatic and ruthless killer who is willing to do whatever it takes to get the job done. Daniel, on the other hand, is a young and inexperienced criminal who is trying to provide for his family. He is desperate to prove himself and earn the trust of the more seasoned criminals.
Another key character in the story is Francis Coronel Jr. (Piolo Pascual), an idealistic journalist who is investigating the corrupt officials involved in the plot. He is determined to uncover the truth and bring the corrupt officials to justice. His investigation leads him to Tatang and Daniel, and he begins to unravel the web of corruption that has infiltrated the government and the police force.
Throughout the film, we see the various characters navigating their way through the murky world of crime and corruption. The plot is fast-paced and full of twists and turns, keeping the audience on the edge of their seats. The action scenes are intense and well-choreographed, with a gritty and realistic feel that adds to the overall atmosphere of the movie.
The film tackles several themes, including corruption, power, and justice. It highlights the struggles of those who are trapped in a system that is rigged against them, and the lengths they will go to in order to survive. It also raises questions about the morality of using prisoners as hitmen and the corrupt nature of those in power.
Overall, "On the Job" is a gripping and thought-provoking crime thriller that packs a punch. The stellar cast delivers powerful performances, bringing the characters to life and making the audience care about their fates. The film is a thrilling ride from start to finish, with plenty of action and suspense to keep audiences engaged. It is a must-see for anyone who enjoys crime thrillers or is interested in Filipino cinema.
