In a nutshell, “Kaka sa Yawan” takes a simple idea and lets it breathe.

In his first Cinemalaya feature, director Alpha Habon follows the friendship between Niko, a young man from Manila, and Ayan, a Tadyawan Mangyan boy. Played by Beaver Magtalas and Benedix Ramos, with Queenay also in the cast, the two lead us into a story about friendship that slowly crosses the lines of culture and circumstance. They may come from very different worlds, but they share many of the same hopes, dreams and desire for a better life.

The film is at its best when it simply observes the two characters and their growing bond. Habon does not force the cultural differences into a lesson. He lets the relationship develop naturally, helped by restrained performances and Patrick Rodil’s beautiful but unshowy cinematography of Mindoro.

There are parts that could have been tighter, especially when the pace starts to drag. Still, the film’s sincerity carries it through.

What makes “Kaka sa Yawan” appealing is its simplicity. It finds something familiar in the friendship of two people who grew up in very different circumstances. There is warmth in watching them understand each other, and a quiet happiness in seeing their friendship take shape.

For a first feature, Habon has made a modest but thoughtful film, one that finds its strength in its characters and the bond they form.

“Kaka sa Yawan” is currently showing in cinemas as part of the 22nd Cinemalaya Philippine Independent Film Festival, running from August 7 to 16.