60
An unusually low-key Filipino drama whose neo-realist air generally triumphs over the script's violent, tearful contrivances.
What are people saying?
What are critics saying?
70
In much the same fashion as Gregg Araki's "Mysterious Skin", Auraeus Solito's feature debut confronts the taboo of pre-teen sexuality with a startling mix of openness and sensitivity. No less than precocious Maxi, the film is alarming, endearing, and utterly unflappable.
80
Nathan Lopez, armed with a diva's slinky cat walk and determination, is absolutely fantastic as Maximo.
90
Los Angeles Times by Kevin Thomas
Sophisticated in its ease and spontaneity, it was directed with clarity and rigor by Auraeus Solito from Michiiko Yamamoto's acutely perceptive script.
70
The New York Times by Nathan Lee
Directed by Auraeus Solito from a screenplay by Michiko Yamamoto, Maximo has charmed film festival audiences from Sundance to Jerusalem with its refreshingly blasé handling of homosexuality, its amiable actors and its delicacy of milieu. Credit, above all, the talented Mr. Lopez, whose effortless charisma buoys the movie even when it goes heavy with contrivance.
60
The Hollywood Reporter by Richard James Havis
A neatly observed take on Manila street life. Pegged to a gay theme, it works best as a character-driven slice of social realism.
75
Preteen sexuality is a sensitive subject, but director Auraeus Solito handles it with dignity, never becoming exploitative.