Filipina Dreamgirls (1991)

Several men from Wales travel to the Philippines on an arranged tour to meet Filipina women for romance and possible marriage. None of the women are the ideal Asiatic beauties the men imagined, but by the end of the tour, most of the Englishmen return with a new bride.

Movie Introduction
"Filipina Dreamgirls" is a British comedy-drama movie directed by Les Blair in 1991. The movie represents a sensible yet entertaining reflection of an Asian mail order bride phenomena, particularly spotlighting Filipino brides and British suitors.

Plot Summary
The story begins as four middle-aged Englishmen - Derek, Stan, Clive, and Brian, decide to escape their mundane life and frustrating romantic relationships. Looking for love and companionship, they set off on a journey to Manila, Philippines, drawn by the attraction of the 'Filipina Dreamgirls' that promise love and loyalty.

Character Descriptions
Derek, an outgoing, chatty cab driver, has a failed relationship back house. Stan, who works at a chip shop, deals with isolation after his mom's passing. Clive, a timid bank manager, has actually been single for a substantially extended period. Last is Brian, a factory worker, handling his divorce's bitter aftermath.

Story
Upon their arrival, the Britons go into a world extremely contrastive to what they are accustomed to. They stumble upon their prospective bride-to-bes during social gatherings organized by matchmaking firms. This chapter seems rather challenging as the girls appear desperate to marry the immigrants, chiefly to get away poverty.

Throughout the journey, the Brits recognize that relationships are not easy transactions. As their relationships with their potential bride-to-bes begin to progress, they grapple with communication spaces, monetary disagreements, and cultural differences.

Derek falls in love with the lovely and active Pilar but can't afford her dowry, resulting in their separation. Stan finds love in the submissive Teresa but deals with language barriers. Clive's insecurity begins when his bride-to-be Maria's takes more interest in Brian. In contrast, Brian remains anxious and paranoid, provided his past romantic debacle.

Climax and Conclusion
The climax, filled with anticipation and emotional turmoil, sees Clive and Maria getting married at a Manila church. Nevertheless, the situation rapidly turns into a fiasco as Maria runs away with Brian, leaving everyone disappointed.

As their adventure concludes, the males return home, dishelved, disheartened, and perhaps a little better. Derek, who was dumped by Pilar, fulfills her once again in England where she has married another Englishman. Stan returns alone however with a changed attitude, as he discovered some Filipino language and dance abilities - offering us a sense of personal growth. Clive, embarrassed and sad, retreats back into his shell. Finally, Brian, who got away the wedding with Maria, deals with an unsure future, matching the confusion he has felt throughout.

Movie Evaluation
"Filipina Dreamgirls" is an engaging commentary on the exploitative nature of mail-order bride industries. The film is smart, filled with dark humor, and does not avoid exploring the grim truth of stereotyping, commodification of women, and insensitivity towards various cultures. It lays bare the concept that love can not be brokered and exposes the possible disappointment, hurt and solitude that might follow when the structures of a relationship are developed on impractical expectations and desperation.

Top Cast

  • Bill Maynard (small)
    Bill Maynard
    George Trout
  • Charlie Drake (small)
    Charlie Drake
    Lionel
  • Lee Cornes (small)
    Lee Cornes
    Preston Scott
  • David Thewlis (small)
    David Thewlis
    Tim Shanks
  • Geoffrey Hutchings (small)
    Geoffrey Hutchings
    Carwyn Phillips
  • Ray Gravell
    Gareth (as Raymond Gravell)
  • Grace Amilbangsa
    Marietta Modestas
  • Angie Castrence
    Rosanna
  • Majesty Gaerlan
    Arquita
  • Max Phipps (small)
    Max Phipps
    Ray
  • Roxanne Silverio
    Rosie