David Licauco’s latest movie, Samahan Ng Mga Makasalanan, is GMA Pictures’ Black Saturday offering. Co-produced by Lonewolf Films and Chavit Singson, the movie is directed by Benedict Mique with a script penned by Aya Anunciacion.

The movie tells the story of Reverend Sam (David), who was assigned to stay in the town of Sto. Kristo. The challenge for Sam comes when he finds himself in chaos because of its townspeople’s morally corrupt way of living. He then makes it a mission to lead them to the path of redemption by forming a group called “Samahan ng mga Makasalanan.”

As he goes on with his mission, Reverend Sam also faces his own temptation when he meets the character of Sanya Lopez.  

The film is already controversial in itself because of its title’s shock factor. On a personal note, this was not even the plot that I was expecting until I saw the teaser; it actually talks about faith and changing ways, and the film did not pretend to cover its intention—to inspire, bring hope, and enlighten its audience.

David Licauco suits the role of Reverend Sam. While there were moments that could have been better in terms of his stance and posture, David’s acting is commendable as he showed conviction in delivering his lines, especially those that take a stand and inspire the people–not only the characters but the moviegoers.

It was a breath of fresh air not to see him in romantic scenes compared to his past roles, and just play a serious yet feel-good character despite not having many comedic parts.

One favorite scene is David’s pivotal scene with Soliman Cruz in front of the church. Without spoiling too much, David delivered the right emotion that will bring moviegoers to the edge of their seats. But the scene ends in a beautiful, cathartic moment that solidifies Reverend Sam’s mission in their town.

The movie wasn’t all preachy and was still grounded in reality. There was even use of expletives in some scenes and shocking scenes depicting how “makasalanan” the townsmen of Santo Kristo are. While I think this could have been lessened, one can understand that this is part of the film’s intention to use comedy to deliver the film’s message. What’s good is that this became a device in depicting change in these people’s ways.

Comedy and inspiration blend well in Samahan Ng Mga Makasalanan. There were enough comedic scenes to elicit laughter from the audience, but there were mostly touching scenes that may bring moviegoers to tears. A favorite scene was one of David and Sanya’s scenes towards the end when they had to make a decision for themselves. It was simple, not over-the-top, but definitely a good highlight.

One striking part was a scene where Reverend Sam was talking about opening the church to the sinful townsmen of Sto. Kristo, highlighting the truth that the church is a hospital for sinners. This gives the movie’s title a deeper meaning—not just to incite controversy or spark discussions, but just talking about that truth—that we are all sinners, but we are all saved, we can help each other, and that there is always hope to change our ways and turn our situations around even with the resources that we currently have. At a time when there are people who get intimidated by going to church, this is one truth we can all embrace—that we are welcome in this place and that our God is a God of mercy, hope, and forgiveness.

At a time when themes of violence are prevalent in filmmaking these days, Samahan Ng Mga Makasalanan does a good job in bringing not just good vibes, but most importantly, imparting inspiration, hope, and valuable lessons that truly matter in living life to the fullest.

Ed’s Note: The REWINED REVIEW carries the views of individual reviewers, and does not necessarily reflect the views of the whole team.