‘And the Breadwinner Is...’ on Netflix: A must-watch Filipino film that will break and heal your heart

Vice Ganda’s bold OFW role is redefining Filipino cinema — and turning heads worldwide

Last updated:
Manuel Almario, Senior News Editor
3 MIN READ
And the Breadwinner Is... doesn’t just entertain — it heals, confronts, and uplifts. It’s a tribute to those who sacrifice everything for family, often with nothing left for themselves.
And the Breadwinner Is... doesn’t just entertain — it heals, confronts, and uplifts. It’s a tribute to those who sacrifice everything for family, often with nothing left for themselves.
Insta @memeviceganda

Dubai: I’ll admit it — I’m not really a fan of Filipino movies. I’ve seen too many of the same old formula: boy meets girl, third-party drama, messy breakup, and a cheesy reconciliation at the end. It’s predictable. It’s overdone. So when my friend told me she cried watching And the Breadwinner Is..., I honestly didn’t expect much.

But then she said, “It’s not like the others — it’s about us, about OFWs.”

That got my attention.

Streaming now on Netflix, this 2024 family dramedy by Jun Robles Lana stars Vice Ganda in a role like you’ve never seen before — raw, real, and deeply emotional. The film was part of the 50th Metro Manila Film Festival, and honestly? It deserves every bit of the hype.

The plot that hits home

After 15 years working as an OFW in Taiwan, Bambi Salvador (played by Vice Ganda) comes home to surprise her family — only to find heartbreak. Her mother no longer remembers her, her house is falling apart, and her hard-earned savings have vanished.

Things take a wild turn when she’s mistakenly declared dead — and her siblings suggest keeping up the lie to claim her life insurance. Crazy? Maybe. But for Bambi, family comes first. Even if it means attending her own wake.

Through tears, laughter, and painful truths, And the Breadwinner Is... becomes more than just a film — it becomes a mirror for every Filipino who’s ever carried their family’s hopes and dreams on their shoulders.

Breadwinners don’t get to rest

This line from Bambi hit me like a punch to the gut. “Sabi nila breadwinner ako... pero bakit talunan ako ngayon?”

Breadwinners don’t get to rest. They’re expected to be strong, selfless, and silent — and this movie finally puts their silent battles into the spotlight. From emotional confrontations to hilarious chaos (including being mistaken for a ghost at her own funeral), the film balances drama and comedy beautifully.

The confrontation scene with Vice Ganda, Eugene Domingo and Gladys Reyes? That alone made me cry. It felt too real — especially for OFWs like me and my friends who know the sacrifices behind every remittance sent home.

Vice Ganda like never before

Vice Ganda’s performance is a revelation. No punchlines, no flamboyant gimmicks — just raw, honest acting that earned her the Special Jury Citation at the MMFF, Movie Actor of the Year at the Village Pipol Choice Awards, and Film Artist of the Year at the Platinum Stallion National Media Awards.

This film proves she’s more than a comedian — she’s an artist.

A must-watch for every OFW — and every Filipino family

And the Breadwinner Is... doesn’t just entertain — it heals, confronts, and uplifts. It’s a tribute to those who sacrifice everything for family, often with nothing left for themselves.

As someone who usually doesn’t finish Filipino movies, I sat through all two hours — and didn’t even notice the time. That’s how powerful it was.

Final thoughts: Breadwinner is a box office winner — and a heart-winner too

This movie has completely changed how I see Filipino cinema. It’s bold, funny, heartbreaking, and ultimately hopeful. If you’ve ever loved an OFW — or been one — this film will speak to you.

So yes, I’m eating my words. Filipino films can be powerful and meaningful.

And now, I’m officially on the hunt for more local movies on Netflix.
If you haven’t seen And the Breadwinner Is..., watch it. You might just cry, laugh, and love Filipino cinema again — like I did.

Manuel Almario
Manuel AlmarioSenior News Editor
Manuel has been with Gulf News for 24 years, currently serving as a Senior News Editor and a vital member of the team. From managing social media platforms and crafting viral content to shooting and editing videos on various topics such as weather, gold prices, and traffic updates, Manuel ensures news is not just timely but engaging. He also moderates reader comments and keeps the digital space respectful and impactful. Formerly the Community Editor for the Readers section, Manuel helped residents resolve issues with banks, telecom providers, utilities, and government agencies—giving people a voice and driving accountability. “I’m proud that, with the cooperation of companies, I was able to help people get the answers they needed,” he says. Beyond the newsroom, Manuel is driven by a passion for human interest stories—amplifying voices that often go unheard. “From rags-to-riches journeys to the quiet resilience of people with special needs, I believe these stories restore hope in humanity,” he added. “In every story I tell,” Manuel says, “my goal is simple: to inspire hearts, inform minds, and make a real difference in people’s lives. Whether it’s a viral video, a quiet act of resilience, or a voice that needs to be heard, I believe every story has the power to connect us—and sometimes, even change us.” Manuel’s impact goes far beyond the newsroom—he’s been honored as one of the 300 most influential Filipinos in the Gulf Legacy Edition 2020 by Illustrado. His dedication to telling powerful stories, along with his influence in community, culture, and human interest, has earned him a well-deserved place on this prestigious list.
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