Batch '81 [Blu-ray]

Batch '81 Blu-ray presents Mike De Leon’s 1982 Filipino drama in a 4K restoration commissioned by the Asian Film Archive and L'Immagine Ritrovata.

Freshman Sid Lucero is determined to join the Alpha Kappa Omega fraternity and submits himself to an increasingly punishing initiation process. What begins as a test of loyalty and endurance gradually develops into something darker as humiliation, obedience and group identity take on an authoritarian edge.

Made during Ferdinand Marcos’ Martial Law era, Batch '81 uses the rituals of fraternity life to examine masculinity, indoctrination, class aspiration and the ways power can disguise itself as duty, responsibility and brotherhood. Mark Gil stars in his breakout role in one of Mike De Leon’s most confrontational films.

directed by: Mike De Leon
starring: Mark Gil, Sandy Andolong, Ward Luarca, Noel Trinidad, Ricky Sandico
1982 / 105 min / 1.85:1 / Tagalog DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 / English Subtitles / Region A Blu-ray Limited Edition