Aditya N
Aditya N
Verdict, a Filipino crime drama, was initially released in theaters in 2019 in three additional languages: English, Russian, and Tagalog. Now, after a span of six years, it is making its debut on CinemaWorld, an OTT platform. Verdict delves into the issue of domestic violence, portraying the plight of women who suffer abuse at the hands of their husbands and in-laws. This crime thriller is a poignant and impactful film in today’s society, shedding light on women’s struggles as they fight for survival.
Director Raymund Ribay Gutierrez, renowned for his short films, marked his feature film debut with Verdict. The crime thriller was nominated for the Philippines’ Best International Film category submission at the 92nd Academy Awards 2020. Verdict is set to premiere on CinemaWorld on May 12 at 11:30 am and May 20 at 1:30 pm. Additionally, the movie will be available on OTTplay Premium on the same dates. Verdict was initially released on May 4 at 10:50 am and May 5 at 3:30 pm in 2024.
Verdict’s story is about Joy, a woman who has been married and has had her spirit dimmed by years of domestic and mental abuse. She has finally decided to put an end to the unbearable suffering. The bruises, concealed beneath her clothing for so long, now torment her like a recurring nightmare. The excruciating pain she endures daily serves as a reminder of the cruelty she suffered at the hands of her alcoholic husband. Joy no longer hesitates. With a heavy heart, she takes a stand for herself, armed with a newfound determination for justice. The fear that once held her captive begins to crumble. This time, she is determined to seek justice for herself no matter what. However, the road to justice is far from easy. The legal system is riddled with lengthy procedures and numerous delays. Joy finds herself becoming yet another victim in the ongoing battle against doubts. Nevertheless, with each step she takes forward, her faith in herself grows stronger. The battle is not solely aimed at securing a mere retribution for her spouse; rather, it encompasses the restoration of Joy’s existence, her self-respect, and the fragment of her identity that had long been lost. It represents a struggle for a forthcoming era in which the name Joy will once more epitomize the woman she was destined to become. The film Verdict’s primary objective is to emphasize women’s strength and lawful entitlement to justice.
