11-years-old Blanka survives alone in Manila begging and stealing from tourists. One day, an absurd idea pops up: if she could buy a mother, she could have a good life. But she has to make countless efforts in order to collect enough money. An opportunity arises when she meets Peter, a 55 years old blind street musician, who teaches Blanka how to sing, a skill out of which she can make money. However, concerned about Blanka’s future, Peter decides to take Blanka to an orphanage. When she finds out, she runs away and the nightmare starts again.
Acting
Cydel Gabutero's raw, unschooled performance carries the entire film.
Cinematography
Manila's chaos captured with documentary-like immediacy.
Director
Kohki Hasei
Trivia, insights & behind the scenes
Cydel Gabutero was an actual street child discovered during location scouting in Manila; this was her only film role.
The 'mother for sale' premise reflects real Philippines black markets where impoverished women rent themselves as fake relatives for visa applications.
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