Belyas (2025) tells the story of Josefa, a housewife trapped in a controlling marriage. Her life takes an unexpected turn when two young prostitutes, Ara and Vilma, rent their apartment. As Josefa grows closer to them, she starts to admire their sense of sexual freedom and independence, which challenges her own views on love, desire, and liberation.
Director & Writers
- Director: G.B. Sampedro
- Story: G.B. Sampedro & Marvic Kevin Reyes
- Screenplay: Marvic Kevin Reyes
Cast
- Audrey Avila as Josefa
- Dani Yoshida as Ara
- Denise Esteban as Vilma
- Matthew Francisco as Ian
- JD Aguas as Customer #1
- RJ Zozobrado as Customer #2
Original Language: Tagalog
Belyas (2025) is a Filipino drama directed by G.B. Sampedro with a screenplay by Marvic Kevin Reyes. The story dives into repression, longing, and the search for freedom. At the center is Josefa, a housewife trapped in a controlling marriage who suddenly discovers new possibilities when two young women enter her life.
Josefa’s Struggle
Josefa, played by Audrey Avila, lives under the shadow of her demanding husband. Her routine is repetitive, filled with silence and duties that leave no space for her dreams. Although she keeps smiling on the outside, deep inside she longs for change. Instead of joy, her marriage has become a chain that binds her spirit.
The Turning Point
Things begin to shift when Ara (Dani Yoshida) and Vilma (Denise Esteban) arrive. These two young prostitutes rent an apartment from Josefa and her husband. At first, Josefa treats them with distance. However, curiosity soon overcomes hesitation. Unlike Josefa, Ara and Vilma live with boldness and independence. They choose their own paths and embrace their freedom without apology.
Friendship with Ara and Vilma
Gradually, Josefa forms a connection with the two women. What starts as a landlord-tenant relationship grows into friendship. Through conversations and shared laughter, she sees a different way of living. Instead of judgment, she begins to feel admiration. Yet admiration soon evolves into something deeper. She envies their courage and wonders why she cannot claim the same freedom.
Conflict and Awakening
Meanwhile, Josefa’s husband notices the change in her. He grows suspicious as she spends more time with Ara and Vilma. Tension rises inside their household, and arguments begin to surface. For Josefa, the conflict becomes a turning point. Influenced by Ara and Vilma, she starts to question loyalty, duty, and even her identity.
Therefore, the choice before her is clear yet painful. Should she remain in a marriage that suppresses her or take the risk of freedom? Every encounter with Ara and Vilma brings her closer to the truth she has long avoided. Eventually, she is forced to confront her desires and face the cost of breaking away.
Themes and Symbolism
The film does more than tell a story of sensuality. Above all, Belyas (2025) speaks about empowerment, choice, and the right to self-expression. By following Josefa’s journey, viewers are invited to reflect on tradition, morality, and what it means to live authentically.
At the same time, Ara and Vilma challenge stereotypes. Society may judge them for their profession, but their independence and honesty make them powerful in Josefa’s eyes. Through their example, she realizes that freedom is not given—it is claimed.
Cast Performances
- Audrey Avila portrays Josefa with nuance, shifting from repression to awakening with emotional depth.
- Dani Yoshida as Ara embodies defiance and charm, making her character both inspiring and real.
- Denise Esteban as Vilma balances vulnerability with strength, adding complexity to the trio’s dynamic.
- Matthew Francisco plays Ian, Josefa’s controlling husband who represents societal authority.
- Supporting roles from JD Aguas and RJ Zozobrado enrich the world of the film, grounding it in realism.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Belyas (2025) is a bold exploration of love, desire, and self-discovery. Josefa’s transformation mirrors the struggles of many women who live between duty and personal freedom. Moreover, the film asks difficult questions: Should sacrifice define marriage? Can true happiness exist without authenticity?
By blending drama with social commentary, Belyas (2025) delivers a story that is intimate yet universal. It is not only about sensual encounters but also about courage, awakening, and the price of choosing oneself.
