Area

In Angeles City in the Philippines, a neighborhood referred to as "Area" has become known for its bargain-priced brothels. These establishments service poor men who can't afford the expensive luxuries of the red-light district. Many of the prostitutes in these brothels are past their prime and out of shape. They're desperate for clients and even willing to trade sex for needed household items. They eat scraps and leftovers from their pimp's family. It's a depressing existence, one that severely lacks hope or promise. Most of the ladies have accepted their fate - except Hillary, a kind woman who also looks after some of the younger girls. She's been saving up for a plane ticket to America in the hopes of being reunited with her son. Everyone around her thinks she's crazy, constantly teasing her for what they see as an impossible feat. Can she and the rest of the women escape the hell they're trapped in? Area is a fictional tale, but its characters represent real life archetypes. The film portrays them honestly but never casts judgment. (Cleveland International Film Festival)