Everyone Knows Every Juan (2025) Movie Review: One Shot Wonder
Going into Everyone Knows Every Juan with zero expectations, we were completely caught off guard by its ambitious one-shot format, reminiscent of films like One Cut of the Dead and 1917. Impressively, the film never lets the technique feel like a mere gimmick. Instead, it becomes a seamless storytelling device that immerses viewers in the layered relationships and complicated dynamics of the Sevilla family. Revelations unfold, drama abound, and unexpected bursts of comedy make this a film that lingers long after it ends.
On the first death anniversary of their mother, the Sevilla siblings reunite at their childhood home to commemorate her passing. Tensions quickly rise when one of the sisters reveal the discovery of their mother’s last will and testament which leaves all her assets, including the house, to their adopted sibling, the family’s longtime gardener. Confused and hurt, the siblings begin to question the decision, wondering whether manipulation played a role in their mother’s final wishes.
Pulling off a family dramedy in a one-shot format is no easy feat, but Alessandra de Rossi impresses both behind and in front of the camera. The transitions are fluid, and aside from one noticeable moment, the illusion of a continuous take is executed remarkably well. That said, the film’s real-time structure does come with limitations. With events unfolding in a single continuous stretch, some conflicts arise and resolve too quickly, resulting in narrative beats feeling surface-level. There’s a sense that a few of the deeper issues could have benefited from more breathing room.
Performance-wise, the veteran cast delivers across the board. The chemistry among the Sevillas feels authentic, capturing the messy, affectionate, and often chaotic nature of real sibling relationships. The comedy is another standout with its quirky, raw, and refreshingly unfiltered script providing genuine laugh-out-loud moments. Everyone Knows Every Juan is a bold and technically impressive take on the Filipino family drama. While not every emotional thread is explored as deeply as it could be, the film’s ambition, strong performances, and well-executed one-shot format make it a compelling and memorable watch.
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