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Acclaimed Filipino film 'Balota' premieres on Netflix on Jan. 31

Published Jan 22, 2025 11:19 pm

At A Glance

  • One of the featured full-length films during the 20th edition of Cinemalaya, "Balota" was a box-office hit. Its popularity led to a successful five-week commercial theatrical run due to public demand. 
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Marian Rivera (Facebook)

"Balota," the highly-acclaimed film from GMA Pictures and GMA Entertainment Group, will stream globally on Netflix beginning Jan. 31. 

 Written and directed by Kip Oebanda, the film stars Kapuso Primetime Queen Marian Rivera, whose outstanding performance garnered much praise and earned her the Cinemalaya Best Actress Award. 

Blending suspense, thriller, and comedy, “Balota” is a satire that shines a light on the dedication of teachers to safeguarding the public's votes during elections. It narrates the story of a land-grabbing tycoon and a former male sexy actor who are locked in a tight race for the mayoral seat of a small town in the Philippines.

One of the featured full-length films during the 20th edition of Cinemalaya, "Balota" was a box-office hit. Its popularity led to a successful five-week commercial theatrical run due to public demand. 

Apart from its critical acclaim, “Balota” has been lauded for its powerful portrayal of teachers and the critical role they play in upholding the democratic integrity of elections. 

"Balota" is produced by GMA Pictures, GMA Entertainment Group, and Kip Oebanda.  

Watch "Balota" on Netflix beginning Jan. 31. 

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