Following “Billie & Emma” (2018), Filipino director Samantha Lee has been on Gen Zs' lips for her genuine and sweet portrayal of sapphic youth. Last year, she returned with her third feature “Rookie”, greeted with the same enthusiasm. Since then, the film has been a tour de force in many international festivals, bringing Filipino same-sex love stories to audiences around the globe.
Rookie is screening at UdineFar East Film Festival 2024
Written by Lee and Natts Jadaone, “Rookie” focuses on two apparent rivals in an all-girls Catholic school during their junior years. Due to her height, laid-back newcomer Ace (Pat Tingjuy) is recruited by Coach Jules (Agot Isidro) for the San Lorenzo Angels volleyball team. Ace finds the opportunity frustrating as she used to be a basketball player at her previous school. Being, in fact, a “rookie” in the new team and not knowing anything about volleyball, she earns the ire of Jana (Aya Fernandez), the team captain. Jana is an overachiever, constantly stressed out by her parents' expectations. But getting to know each other better, their differences drift apart and make room for love.
Lee's new feature is far from being an average cheesy romantic comedy. Its narration of first love's wonders stands out as it depicts specific elements, including shared circumstances of either Filipino queer people or sapphics all over the world. Although presenting aspects particularly close to a local audience, the film offers a universal and relatable experience of teenage crushes and self-identity. Not only that, but it calls attention to significant women's issues, such as sexual abuse in school contexts and the expectations of gender stereotypes.
The film's portrayal is bold and authentic, breaking out the heteronormativity of mainstream rom-coms, especially in the Philippines. In fact, “Rookie” challenges the stereotypes concerning the sports world and gender roles, as basketball is usually a male-only game, and girls are supposed to wear dresses or look feminine. The story also calls out the Catholic school policies that prohibit gendered uniforms and prom wear or state that having a same-sex relationship is a sin. In one particular scene, when a Catholic priest declares this, it leads to a collective outcry from the audience. However, the resolution of these issues is carried out lightheartedly. Or, as Ace would put it, in a “fun-fun lang” way.
Fernandez and Tingjuy bring incredible performances on the screen thanks to their charm and chemistry. In the beginning at odds with each other, their characters eventually give in as they fall in love. Their relationship is realistically depicted and easy to follow despite the fast pace the story presents. Along with the sweetness of the screenwriting, “Rookie” is characterized by colorful photography and calming music. By doing so, the film feels like a warm blanket while perfectly conveying the feeling of a teenage love story. As it focuses on uncomplicated narratives for a specific audience, the technical aspect presents simple shots and lighting for the messages intended. In fact, the narration doesn't hold big expectations to follow and effortlessly reaches its goals.
The director's career has always emphasized the importance of LGBTQI+ representation, especially for the youth. And this project is no exception in her filmography. Samantha Lee's “Rookie” is a treat for the inner child of many queer girls and women. Its tender approach to love and teenage issues sets the mood for a comforting story accompanied by light humor and a few dramatic moments. Although the themes are not as complex or subtle as in the previous “Billie & Emma”, the film undoubtedly represents a noticeable comeback for the director, which, again, doesn't fail as to audience impact.
