Drama

Islands (2022): Cast & Ratings

Name: Islands
Genre: Drama
Released: 2022-04-12
Duration: 1 h 34 min
Cast: Beverly Inniss, Bianca Yambanis, Isys Szuky, Jeff Cheong, Maximus Szuky

Islands is a 2022 drama directed by Martin Edralin, starring Beverly Inniss as Co-worker, Bianca Yambanis and Isys Szuky. It runs 1 hour 34 minutes. Critics gave it 91% on Rotten Tomatoes and 77 on Metacritic.

Rotten Tomatoes: 91%
Echo Score: 78
Metascore: 77

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Watch the trailer

Released: April 12, 2022
Runtime: 1h 34m (94 min)
Director: Martin Edralin
Genre: Drama
Original language: English
After the credits: No No extra scene

The story

What Is Islands About?

The premise of Islands without spoilers.

A quiet Filipino immigrant finds himself balancing the responsibilities of caring for his elderly parent with the unexpected experience of first love. The film explores themes of identity and family as he confronts the difficulties of caregiving and discovers connection in a new place. It's a moving story about navigating tradition, finding belonging, and the complexities of human relationships.

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Cast & crew

Islands Cast & Characters

Beverly Inniss leads the cast as Co-worker, with Bianca Yambanis as Liz and Isys Szuky as Isabel. Directed by Martin Edralin; 10 actors are credited in all.

Director Martin Edralin

Beverly Inniss as Co-worker
Bianca Yambanis as Liz
Isys Szuky as Isabel
Jeff Cheong as Exercise tv show host

Also Starring in Islands

· 6 more

From the director

Islands Reviews & Ratings

Critics gave Islands 91% on Rotten Tomatoes and 77 on Metacritic. Our Echo Score gives it 78/100, strongest in character & emotion (85) and weakest in rewatch factor (70).

78 /100

Islands Echo Score Breakdown

Islands presents a quietly resonant debut that leans on restraint and modest ambition. Critics note the director’s effective use of limited resources, a gentle narrative that culminates in an earned poignancy, and performances that feel naturally aligned. While the script’s predictability and minimalist pacing draw some mixed reactions, the film’s sincere tone and cultural texture sustain its appeal. Consequently, the movie lands as a solid, life-affirming work with modest but lasting impact.

Our own 0–100 rating, built from five aspects: art, character, story, the sensory experience and how well a film rewatches.

Art & Craft 82

ART focuses on Edralin’s direction and the film’s visual restraint. Reviewers commend the deliberate pacing, composed framing, and economical production design that convey a sense of scope despite limited resources. The cinematography’s understated palette and restrained editing reinforce the minimalist tone, though no standout visual flourishes are noted. Overall, the craft is proficient and purposeful, supporting the film’s quiet ambition.
Character & Emotion 85

CHARACTER examines the performances and relational dynamics. Critics highlight a “cheerful pragmatism” among the ensemble and praise the natural chemistry between the director and lead actor Balagtas. The portrayals are described as nuanced and emotionally resonant, evoking a calm, soulful cadence. While the restrained approach may feel muted to some, the overall character work contributes significantly to the film’s heartfelt tone.
Story & Flow 75

STORY addresses the film’s narrative structure and thematic focus. Reviewers note the minimalist arc that traces Joshua’s gradual shedding of familial and cultural constraints, offering an optimistic view of life’s uncertainties. Although some critics find the script predictable and the pacing slow, the overall progression is seen as purposeful and emotionally rewarding, culminating in a poignant, life-affirming conclusion.
Sensory Experience 70

SENSORY evaluates the film’s auditory and visual ambience. Though specific commentary on sound design is limited, critics reference the gentle rhythm of scenes, the subtle musical cues that underscore cultural settings, and the restrained visual style that mirrors the story’s quiet tempo. The understated sensory choices reinforce the film’s meditative mood without drawing overt attention, resulting in a cohesive but low‑key sensory experience.
Rewatch Factor 70

REWATCH reflects the film’s lingering appeal and suitability for multiple viewings. Critics suggest that the deliberate pacing and subtle emotional beats reward patient audiences, likening the experience to an Ozu‑style meditation that deepens over time. While its slow tempo may deter casual re‑engagement, viewers attuned to its quiet nuances report a satisfying, contemplative repeat value.