Small Voices (2002): cast, story & where to watch

Released in 2002, Small Voices is a drama film directed by Gil Portes, running about 109 minutes. “She gave them a reason to sing.” — that tagline sets the tone.

What it’s about. Melinda is a new substitute teacher at the Malawig Elementary School, located in a poor remote barrio. A young university graduate, her family expects her to look for work abroad, but in her idealism she takes on a challenging job in the provincial public school, which lacks resources and has corrupt personnel. The heavy monsoon rains and the nearby NPAs also add to her difficulties. The children are indifferent to their studies, having been affected by the hopelessness around them. Melinda tries to motivate them by capitalizing on their interest and talent in singing. She takes advantage of a funding opportunity to enter them in a choral contest. She encounters some resistance, however, from the school administration and from the parents of her students. Furthermore, the death of one of the choral group’s members at the hands of the Armed Forces of the Philippines casts a pall on their once joyful preparations. Melinda, however, constantly tries to rise above these challenges.

Who’s in it. Small Voices stars Alessandra de Rossi as Melinda, Dexter Doria as Mrs. Pantalan, Gina Alajar as Chayong and Amy Austria as Luz, among others.

How it landed. With an audience score of 7.0/10, Small Voices has been warmly received by audiences.

Where to watch. Streaming options change often. See the full, country-by-country breakdown on our where to watch Small Voices page.

If you liked it. Fans of Small Voices tend to enjoy The Shawshank Redemption, The Godfather, Schindler's List and The Godfather Part II.