Set in Singapore during the financial crisis of the late 1990s, this is a simple yet touching film. A couple, Hwee and Teck, employ a Filipino nanny Terry to look after their young son Jialer, and to perform various household chores. Not long after her employment starts, Hwee loses his job (though doesn’t tell his wife) and their financial woes take grip. There isn’t a lot else to the story, but this is mostly charmingly presented with a fascinating insight into a particular time and place. It also features a fabulous performance by Angeli Bayani as the warm and conscientious Terry.
Unfortunately some inconsistent characterisation prevents this from being amongst the best films of the year. Teck is cold and unkind for much of the film but softens towards the end for no apparent reason. The delinquent Jialer initially hates Terry but then becomes very close to her, a change which doesn’t feel realistic at all. Also some subplots, such as Terry’s life back in the Philippines and her second job at a hairdressers are introduced but do not go anywhere.
Despite that, this is an involving movie, though it could have been so much better.
Rating: 6.5 out of 10