Watch at Home 04.11.2025

Asog

Directed by Seán Devlin
Film Movement
2023
101 Minutes
Canada, Philippines, USA
Tagalog, Filipino
Comedy, Drama, LGBTQIA2S+
Not Rated

In the aftermath of Typhoon Yolanda, TV Host-turned-teacher Jaya leaves their job and unsupportive boyfriend to pursue their passion for drag in hopes of winning the “Ms. Gay Sicogon” Pageant. Before leaving, they run into their former student, Arnel, heading in the same direction in hopes of finding his father. Banding together, the unlikely duo’s difficult yet cathartic journey is marked by a series of encounters with victims of the recent environmental devastation.

“Essential viewing as queer cinema, as political cinema and as climate cinema,” (Eastern Kicks) Seán Devlin’s ASOG emphatically reiterates the importance of resistance and companionship in a world of environmental, economic and social precarity.

Director & Cast

  • Director: Seán Devlin
  • Starring: Jaya
  • Starring: Arnel Pablo
  • Starring: Raul Ramos
  • Starring: Amelia De La Cruz

Where to Watch

Trailer

Photos

Reviews

  • "Asog is essential viewing as queer cinema, as political cinema and as climate cinema. It’s a story about grief, of trauma and of injustice, but also of community, love, joy and laughter. It is moving and funny, informative and dream-like; an all-around fantastic blend of reality and fiction."
    Niina Doherty, EasternKicks.com
  • "Jaya is a comedian first and foremost and the film honors their sense of humor, the impulse to laugh as a break from crying."
    Drew Gregory, Autostraddle
  • "A remarkable and beautiful film that is part documentary, part fiction, and entirely extraordinary..... [T]his is a truly special, one-of-a-kind film."
    Queer Street
  • "Takes you down a funny road but also makes you really see it, potholes and all. In this regard, it’s a rousing success."
    Emily Wheeler, Film Inquiry
  • "Devlin's docufiction offers a unique and genuine perspective of political and national history, tackling diverse subjects with uncensored and brave commentary. "
    Federica Giampaolo, Asian Movie Pulse
  • "[A]n irreverent, and sometimes very beautiful mix of magical realism storytelling and necessary truths about the hard parts of life."
    Andrew Hebden, Queerguru
  • "“Asog” makes its audience laugh and cry in equal measure. The plot infuses elements of drag, Filipino folklore and magical realism to package a story that expands on numerous themes with deft precision."
    Annapoorna Shruthi, The Vancouver Arts Review