Masahista (2005) : distribution, intrigue et streaming

Released in 2005, Masahista is a drame and romance film directed by Brillante Ma Mendoza, running about 76 minutes. “Into thy hands, I commend.” — that tagline sets the tone.

What it’s about. Following the death of his father and a chance meeting with an abusive romance novelist, a masseur working in a gay massage parlor struggles to make sense of his unfulfilling relationships while simultaneously assisting his mother in preparing his father for burial. Twenty-year-old Iliac may not be the best masseur in the parlor, but when he catches the eye of a cold and calculating romance novelist looking for a cheap thrill, the icy indifference displayed by his paying lover does little more to warm the spirits than his sexually charged but emotionally distant girlfriend. Despite the resentment Iliac feels towards his late father for abandoning the family and embarking on a suicidal alcohol binge, the lovelorn youth nevertheless makes the journey home to be there for his grieving mother in her time of need.

Who’s in it. Masahista stars Coco Martin as Iliac, Jaclyn Jose as Naty, Allan Paule as Alfredo / Marina Hidalgo and Aaron Rivera as Maldon, among others.

How it landed. With an audience score of 5.8/10, Masahista has drawn a solid, mixed-to-positive response.

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

If you liked it. Fans of Masahista tend to enjoy Les Évadés, Le Parrain, La Liste de Schindler and Le Parrain, 2e partie.