Malaya (2020) - full transcript

[song plays]

Malaya, did you find me

good leather today?

I want good leather

that’s soft, smooth, compact

and has a good smell.

I did, yes.

I suggest we use

this leather for the bags.

Very good, Malaya.

Good choice!

- You are learning fast.

- Thank you, Signora.

Daniela, we have to rush

to our meeting.

We're off now, Grace. Please

help Malaya around, okay?

- I’ll see you later.

- Yes, Signora.

Thank you, Malaya.

Thanks for the coffee, Grace.

You're welcome.

I'm really glad

she approved it.

Luckily,

we have similar tastes.

- You sure look happy.

- Yes.

I sure am.

Anyway, I have to go now.

Bye, Miss Grace!

[song playing]

- Miss.

- Oh, my god!

Bubbles.

Bubbles!

[giggles happily]

[giggles]

[moans playfully]

[laughing] Bubbles...

Your hair

still smells the same.

It smells like fruit.

Knock it off!

- Like overripe fruit!

- Stop it!

You're so mean!

And you look like you haven’t

showered in days.

You stink. You know?

- Do I?

- You really do...!

- See for yourself, then.

- [giggles uncontrollably]

- Here you go!

- Bubbles, no! Bubbles...!

[giggles uncontrollably]

You still stink!

Obviously, you guys

missed each other.

By the way Carlo,

this is my friend, Laya.

Hello, I’m Carlo.

A pleasure to meet you.

Hello, I’m Malaya.

- He's Carlo, Mama Rosa's son.

- I see!

How long have you

known each other?

Well, Laya is...

Go on.

Let’s put it this way.

You are

my best buddy here,

while Laya here is

my closest Filipina friend.

Are you kidding me, punk?

[teasing]

I'm serious,

Laya and I go way back.

Yeah, alright.

I’ll leave you two

to it, then.

I'll see you around, okay?

- Bye, dude. Behave.

- Bye.

See you, Laya.

- What?

- How are you?

I’m good.

How are you, Iago?

I’m alright.

You sure surprised me.

I sure did.

Never change, Iago.

Come in.

Don’t worry. Mom's not here.

She's sleeping over

at Signora’s house.

- Come in.

- Alright.

[scoffs]

Too bad, though...

She can't drive me

out of the house.

[scoffs]

[door closes]

Why does she hate me, anyway?

She doesn't like the way

you look at me.

She warned me about men

who can’t look you

straight in the eye.

“They have dark intentions,”

she says.

Well, "dark" is right.

But "dark intentions”?

Not really.

Wine?

Sure.

So...

You're actually a Blondie?

Silly.

This place belongs

to Mom's employer.

She was kind enough

to let us live here.

We don't have beer, sorry.

Mom's not a beer drinker.

But this wine from Signora

is pretty good.

I’m getting married.

[huffs]

[huffs]

Are you asking

my permission...

Or my approval?

What do you think?

[breathes sharply]

Why didn't you tell me

this sooner?

I want you...

...to be our bridal sponsor.

Very funny, you jerk.

[sobs]

[sobs]

[sobs]

[sobs]

[sobs]

[song plays]

[phone ringing]

Hello. Is this Santiago,

the mechanic?

Yes, this is Santiago.

Can you help...

...with uh, boat?

Do you understand? Boat.

[whispers]

Boat.

Boat.

- Yes.

- Wow, Mom!

You finally made bulalo.

I've been craving

for beef lately.

Laya's been here for six

months, and all this time,

we've had nothing but adobo.

Laya's employer is looking

for a mechanic.

Could you please help her

find one?

Go on, she needs to make

a good impression.

No. A part of...

I need a mechanic

to make sure that

the boat

is in good condition.

It's stationed at

Polignano a Mare port.

Yes.

Can you text me

the exact location?

Of course.

Yes.

Thank you!

[squeaks] Finally!

Did you hit your target?

[huffs]

No.

[huffs]

I have a long way to go.

I have to be able to make

around 3,000 euros

before I can get

my own place.

Why don't you go back

to your old man's?

It’s free rent!

We've all done stupid things,

but you know...

I'm not stupid.

Bye.

Hello. Good Morning!

I got fresh fish for you,

Mama Rosa.

I made orecchiette.

- Help yourself, Iago.

- Thank you.

Delicious!

Once you're done,

could you please take out

your laundry?

Papa,

can I borrow some tools?

Go ahead. They’re in

the toolbox over there.

Thank you.

Have you talked

to your father yet?

Not yet, Papa.

When do you plan to do it?

You have to talk to him,

Iago.

You have to be patient

with him.

Anyway, you're family here.

Stay as long as you like.

- Okay?

- Thank you, Papa.

- Good day, Laya.

- Good day.

Here’s the key to the boat.

You were highly recommended

by our Filipino helper.

I'm counting on you.

Do you understand?

I understand.

Okay...

[reads Italian aloud]

Good morning.

Good morning.

- You must be Santiago.

- Yes.

Nice to meet you.

Thank you.

I'm Laya.

Uh, I need help...

Uh, cracks...

in, the boat...?

I mean...

Well...

For tomorrow...?

Uh...

[phone rings]

Wait...

[phone rings]

- Can you hold this, please?

- [phone ringing]

[phone ringing]

Hello.

Maki, you said?

Nelson said

this guy's a Filipino?

But he’s an “I”!

A flat-nosed Italian.

Go talk to him, okay?

I'm going crazy right now.

Here...

Telephone...

Talk to the...

...him.

Sure.

I got this, don't worry.

Yes.

Uh, excuse me.

I--inside.

You, outside.

I, in. You, out.

I clean.

Got it.

Santiago?

[clears throat]

[snickers]

I’m starving.

[birds chirping]

[birds chirping]

Mmm...delicious!

[silly music plays]

You jerk!

You know how to speak

Filipino!

Stop laughing!

You knew I was having

a hard time, okay?

- [Iago snickers]

- It's not funny!

It's not funny, I swear!

Stop laughing!

Do you have any idea

how hard it is for me?

Forgive me.

My sincerest apologies.

I’m sorry, okay?

I just thought it was funny

and cute, that's all.

You even brought...

...an Italian phrasebook

with you.

But that's great.

You’re good.

Seriously.

Not many others

would do that.

Whatever.

But you needed that.

Just treat this

as real-world practice.

It's tough

making a living here.

Especially

if you can’t speak Italian.

Here in Italy,

whether you are flat-nosed,

as you pointed out awhile ago,

or chinky-eyed, doesn't

matter. If you speak Italian,

you're on equal footing

with everyone else.

Hah!

There's my lesson

for the day.

You weren't bad at all.

So, how did you learn

to speak Filipino?

I was born here.

My parents are both Filipinos.

Some of my relatives from

Batangas live here, too.

So there.

Peace?

I’m Iago, by the way.

I’m Malaya.

Malaya...to be free!

You are free.

Malaya is freedom.

Malaya.

[engine rumbles]

What the heck are you doing?!

- [engine rumbles]

- You'll get us in trouble!

- [engine rumbles]

- Trust me.

Don’t do this, Iago!

- Is this your first job?

- Yeah.

So don't jinx it.

Let’s do our best.

Don’t worry. I got your back.

No, thanks.

- I don’t want trouble.

- They won’t even know.

So this is what rich folks do

on a sunset cruise.

I don't want to work

as a nanny.

I graduated from college

to have better options.

But when I got here...

...I realized

my skills are useless.

Just believe in yourself.

Be street-smart.

Honestly,

you’re doing just fine.

Don’t get me wrong, okay?

I have nothing against

being a domestic helper.

My mom is one, after all.

Some of my aunts

and cousins are, too.

They worked hard, and saved up

for their own houses.

They practically have

a little Italy in Batangas.

It's so beautiful out here!

Beautiful.

[huffs]

Have a drink.

[music plays]

[phone rings]

[phone rings]

[phone rings]

[groans]

[phone rings]

Hello, love?

- [Where are you?]

- I'm still at work.

- I've been trying--

- Talk to you later, love.

Bye.

Thank you. Thank you

very much for everything.

[giggles]

You're thanking me as if

this is last time

we'll be seeing each other.

I don’t know about you,

but I still want

to see you again.

Sorry?

I don't understand.

Look it up.

Seriously.

Get some rest.

Thanks for today.

Thank you, too.

- Grandma is here!

- Hello!

- [How are you, dear?]

- [We missed you, grandma!]

- I missed you too, dear!

- We missed you, too!

I missed you so much,

grandma!

My love!

Hello, grandma!

Mom. Mom!

Come on, phone's ringing.

Give me a minute, okay?

I'm in the middle of a game.

Mom!

I heard your sister, Laya,

quit her job as a nanny.

She can't afford

to be picky with work here.

She said it was too

exhausting looking after kids.

More than that, she has

a Communication degree,

but she ended up

being a nanny.

She really wants to work

in media.

We got a winner!

Oh, that's great news.

She’ll be there at 8:00 AM

tomorrow.

Yes, at the port.

Thank you.

Signora's really impressed

with you.

Which is why she wants you

there again tomorrow.

8:00 AM sharp.

You can bring the person

who helped you out last time.

She really likes you.

Now, the next three months

will be crucial.

Just pray

that it turns out well

so that she takes you in

for good.

Who knows,

she might even promote you

as Executive Assistant.

That's great news, Laya!

Who knows,

you might get to hang out

with the producer's relatives.

You never know, right?

Can you give me the phone?

- This one?

- Yes.

Oh, come on!

I need to text Santiago, okay?

Come on!

Alright.

You're meeting up

with that guy again?

It’s not what you think.

- Shut up, Maki.

- Good for you, Laya!

Laya got a new job?

Mira, you should have

recommended Laya

to Signora Nicola.

That way, you'll be working

in the same place.

It’s your chance to catch up

with each other.

It's been 20 years, yes.

Our children are so lucky.

We all strived to build

the good reputation

of Filipino domestic workers

here in Italy.

And I think we've succeeded

in building our reputation

as a hardworking

and trustworthy people.

That's true.

I remember we arrived here

in Italy in March of 1996.

I started working

from that time.

We had no idea what kind of

employers we'd be getting.

Now, your mom here

had to hide in the trunk

of a car for seven days.

- Remember?!

- The trunk?

Yeah. So she can

cross the border safely.

You didn't tell her

about this?

I loaned 150,000 pesos

just to pay off the driver

so I can cross the border.

Mom, why did it take you

that long to cross the border?

We had to get across

the border at night

to avoid getting caught.

Luckily, they granted amnesty

to migrants in 1999.

Eventually...

I was able to get both

of you here in Italy.

If you only knew how hard

we had to work

just to be able to send enough

money to the Philippines.

The kids

who got left behind...

...had their own share

of sacrifices, too.

[music plays]

[winces]

Good morning.

Good morning.

I brought you something.

I know this is bad for you.

But whatever makes you sane,

I guess.

Thanks.

Thanks for

cutting my life short.

Here.

That’s yours.

I bought this for you.

Did you know that this

is one of my favorites?

Perfect.

Do you know what this is

in Italian?

No.

- Huh?

- Let me see...

[mimics Italian accent]

Po-me-gra-Na-Te?

[mimics Italian accent]

Po-me-gra-Na-Te.

It’s so good!

I miss you.

What does that mean?

Look it up.

Just wait until I get better

at this.

You look so messy already.

Sorry.

You look like a monkey.

God, you’re so mean!

How long did it take for you

to learn Italian?

- Pretty quickly.

- Shut up.

No, it's because

I was born here.

What did you take up

in college?

I didn't finish college.

I had to drop out of school.

Why?

Obviously, I had no money.

That, and my dad and I

didn't get along.

I had too much pride.

So I ran away.

Now, I’m still saving up.

Iago.

Give it to me.

Oh, it’s wet!

I’ll just put these here.

Do you need

to wash your hands?

- Cheers!

- Cheers!

[groans]

Was there a woman

who came here to see me?

Huh?

I said, was there a woman

who came here to see me?

Because I heard a voice.

She was whispering in my ear.

She said...

“I love you.”

There’s no one else

around.

Except me.

You look like my cousin.

I had a crush on her.

We’d better go.

Here.

Come on. Take it.

Thanks a lot. I could really

use extra money.

[cash register pinging]

So where do you live?

At your girlfriend's place?

No.

I'm staying over

at my friend's place.

They basically adopted me.

They’re really nice.

Who was calling earlier?

Was that your girlfriend?

Are you spying on me?

Is she an I?

Yeah.

What about you?

Do I have a girlfriend?

No.

I have a boyfriend.

An ex-boyfriend, that is.

We broke up just recently.

You know, I had a friend once

who bullied my cousin

who just arrived here.

He called him Chinese.

He was curious

about foreigners.

He wondered why they

didn't speak Italian.

So I told him off.

I said, “You stay away

from my cousin, you punk!"

“You mess with him,

you have to deal with me.”

[scoffs] That scared him off.

I never had anyone like that.

Someone to protect me.

All my life,

I got used to

just fending for myself.

You're pretty cool.

[phone rings]

[phone rings]

[phone rings]

She's probably

worried about you now.

The alarm went off.

I have a job interview.

[proudly]

As a Sous chef.

You know how to cook?

Of course not!

You’re crazy.

Fake it...

- ...until you make it.

- [Laya groans]

You need to go.

You'll have to be there early.

Good luck.

I know you can do it.

Of course.

See you.

Malaya.

Here.

Thank you.

See you.

"Guinti Marzocco Dictionary"

[camera shutter clicks]

- Miss.

- [Laya gasps]

You dumped me three years ago.

Oh, my god.

- Santiago.

- Iago.

Exactly.

I didn’t do that.

How can I dump you

when you already had

a girlfriend?

And you just vanished

into thin air...

...like bubbles.

Bubble.

Like a bubble.

Just one.

Single.

You weren’t even single then.

Okay.

You got me.

- Ouch.

- But it’s true, though.

You had a girlfriend then.

Listen.

Do you know what

I wanted then?

I wanted to meet a Filipina...

Who's as beautiful...

And as smart...

As you are.

Nice.

Nice one, bubble boy.

Look at you now!

Still as beautiful

as last time.

I’ve been watching you for

a while back on that train.

The dictionary's

a big help, right?

How are ya, banana?!

Idiot.

Hey.

Maybe...

...you could include this

for your #100happydays post?

I've seen your posts.

“Make every moment count.”

"Good vibes."

Hey, hold on.

Aren’t you happy to see me?

Because I am.

When I saw you again...

...I realized

I actually missed you.

Laying it on thick

with the flattery.

Nice going, Bubbles.

No, it's Bubble.

Alright then.

What’s my name?

Malaya.

Why the heck are you

even asking that?

Just checking.

Okay.

Okay, what’s my number?

327-782-0258.

Wow! Impressive memory.

Too bad it's wasted on you.

Is this still your number?

The last three digits are 327.

- That's why.

- [phone rings]

[phone rings]

That’s my number. Keep it.

Okay, smooth operator.

Why don't you...

...post this meeting

for your #100happydays posts?

Come on.

[camera shutter clicks]

- You're really something.

- Am I? Not really.

I live over there.

- Up there?

- Yeah.

You want to drop by?

I’ll introduce you to my Mom.

[snickers]

How about tomorrow?

Is that okay?

Or maybe some other time.

- Tomorrow?

- Yeah.

Why? Are you picking me up

tomorrow?

Yes!

My restaurant shift

starts in an hour.

I'll be getting off

by 11:30 PM.

- Okay, Bubbles.

- Come on.

Tomorrow.

I'll be here, promise.

Sure.

- Iago.

- Yeah?

- Thank you.

- Goodnight.

[music plays]

[doorbell rings]

Laya, is that you?

Yes, Signora.

My favorite gardener

is here now.

Offer him some coffee later.

A little reward for all

his splendid work.

Come here, kitty.

[cat meows]

[cat meows]

[cat meows]

There you go.

Good morning.

Good morning.

Hey! What are you doing here?

How...?

I'm here to visit you.

Seriously?

My family lives

around these parts.

I sort of grew up here.

I used to do errands

for Signora Anna as a kid.

She's up early,

so I had to be here early.

Guess what.

I just made her day.

How about you?

Did you get any sleep?

A bit.

I went straight to

my mom’s place last night.

- You don't look happy.

- It's not that!

[laughter]

[phone pings]

Malaya.

I'll be back later, okay?

Alright.

Why don’t you sleep here

anymore, Iago?

You weren't even here

for my birthday.

I slept here last night.

Don't worry, I'll sleep

in our room next time.

We missed you so much,

Santiago.

[huffs]

I have something for you.

[teasing happily]

[giggles]

What about me?

No money for me?

You guys can share it.

Ma.

Here.

Why don't you

hand it over to your dad?

Well, here you are.

Looks like

you’re earning a lot.

Just enough.

Now you know how hard

it is to earn money.

Just to put food on the table.

I’m saving up and working hard

so that I can--

What?

Get rich?

Yeah.

So that I'd never worry

about money again.

How? Knowing you?

I’ll save up. I can do it.

That's why I'm working hard.

Iago.

You’re just a lowly worker.

And you will always be

for the rest of your life

just like the rest of us!

I’m not some lowly worker.

Right now, yes.

But I will rise above this

someday.

I will become my own boss.

You think so highly

of yourself, don’t you?

I worked hard for that!

Oh, you're full of it!

You're not getting anywhere

in life!

Fuck it!

Iago.

This is my favorite spot.

Because I can see

everything from here.

How many Filipinos even

live here in Matera?

Just me and my family,

I think.

This place is far

from downtown.

I wonder what's going on

in that house.

You know, I’m actually glad...

...that my boyfriend and I

split up.

Otherwise,

I probably wouldn't have even

entertained the thought

of getting here.

Of reuniting

with my mom and Maki.

I wouldn't be here...

...if I didn't end things

with him.

Why the long face?

I was born with it.

What are you looking at,

anyway?

I'll show you. Come on.

Take those sunglasses off,

okay?

There.

Now, look.

Do you see what I see?

Someone’s taking a shower.

Is that

what you’re looking at?

- Someone’s taking a shower?

- Yeah. Look over there.

- Where?

- Over there.

Can you see the couple?

[snickers]

Oh yeah, you’re right.

"You're scrubbing too hard!"

[giggles]

Are you over him?

Yeah. A long time ago.

What about you?

Are you over her?

Yeah.

It wasn't so hard.

She's nothing

compared to you,

a true-blue classic Filipina.

Nice one, Bubbles.

Real smooth.

We better head out.

It's a long way ahead.

You’re right. We still

have a long way to go.

Let’s see where it goes.

It’s so beautiful here, Iago!

This reminds me so much

of home.

Want to go back to

the Philippines with me?

Sure.

I think it's nice

to be back home.

[song plays]

It's nice to have you around.

This is my first time

taking a girl here.

Usually, I come here alone.

Why?

No reason.

Maybe it's because...

...I didn't think someone else

would appreciate this.

Walking an unfamiliar path.

I think a person who

loves nature is special.

Even possibly a keeper.

A protector of Mother Earth.

Someone who recognizes

that the earth is our home,

and that we should preserve

it for future generations.

Let’s go.

Hello, everyone!

Malaya, meet my family.

Everyone, this is Laya.

It’s great to meet you,

Malaya.

Hi! Pleasure to meet

all of you!

How are you, Santiago? You

brought a friend along.

This is Laya.

I’m Donato,

nice to meet you!

This is one of my favorites.

He doesn’t charge me

for anything.

- Seriously? Lucky you.

- That’s why I'm always here.

- Thank you.

- Anytime!

- Thank you.

- Anytime, Santiago.

This is so good!

See that? That building with

the signage over there.

That’s where they make

my favorite beer.

Don't point at things!

Do you see it?

Stop pointing at things!

Bite your finger, quick!

- You do it.

- No, you should do it!

Go on. That one, the

finger you pointed with.

- This one?

- Yeah, that one.

I'm like an olive tree.

Because I have

a strong will to live.

We can live anywhere.

In cold or hot season.

Even in the desert.

We will still thrive and grow.

Malaya, please do

the bank deposits today.

Once you're done,

please hand this over

to my accountant.

- Yes, Signora.

- Thanks!

Cheers!

Someday...

I want to prove my dad wrong.

I want to prove to him

that I can be my own boss.

Anything's possible.

We Filipinos are known for our

strength of character, right?

My old man? Not so much.

For some reason, he didn't

rise above his circumstances.

Wouldn't that be hard, since

you didn't finish school?

I will, someday.

I believe...

...that we all need

is to trust ourselves.

That, and we have

to have courage.

Bubbles...

I'm scheduled

for a job interview.

I applied

as a sales assistant...

...to that leather shop

I've dreamed of working in.

Will you come with me?

- You don't have to ask.

- Really?

That's great, Laya.

Cheers to new beginnings.

- Thank you very much!

- Welcome!

Wow! That looks delicious.

Try some.

- It's good, right?

- It is!

It's really good.

Malaya.

Mom.

Iago, this is my mom.

Hello, Mom.

Mom, this is Iago.

Iago, this is my mom.

Good evening, Ma’am.

Santiago is the guy who helped

me clean up the boat.

Yes, that's right.

How are you, ma'am?

Why don't you go inside?

- Oh, thanks.

- He’s leaving in a bit.

He just walked me home.

Is he your boyfriend?

No, he’s not.

Good.

It's better to put it off

for the time being.

You should focus

on more important things.

Like building a career,

and helping me out.

I know he likes you.

But he won’t marry you.

I don’t like him, honestly.

He can hardly look me

straight in the eye.

Mom, he’s just probably shy.

Malaya, life here

in Italy is different.

As foreigners, we need

to work even harder.

We have to adapt

to everything here -

speaking their language,

knowing how to work a faucet.

We have to learn

to be like them.

And you can't do that

by starting a relationship

this early in your life.

Don't waste your chance

to have a better life.

Besides, there are plenty

other men out there.

You can choose...

...from so many men

from so many places.

But as far as money goes, you

have to work very hard for it.

Do you understand?

Do you understand, Laya?

Yes, Mom.

If you're meant to be,

then you're meant to be.

You have to make sacrifices

for the meantime.

You have nothing

to worry about, Mom.

I'm here to earn a living.

And to get our family

back together again.

Because I don't want us

to be apart again.

[frustrated]

Where are you, Iago?!

I don’t have

any retail work experience...

...but I am a fast learner.

[phone ringing]

[groans]

[phone ringing]

Hello, Signore.

Can you come early

for work?

Sure.

Right now?

Yes please, Santiago.

- Alright.

- Thanks.

[phone ringing]

The number you dialed cannot

be reached. Please try again.

The restaurant

is still closed, miss.

We're opening

in 10 minutes.

I’m looking for Santiago.

Santiago?

It’s his day off today.

This way, come on.

Yes, thank you.

Thank you, Signore.

Santiago lives there.

That’s the door

to his apartment.

You stood me up.

Laya.

Are you hungry?

Do you want to eat?

Come on, let's eat.

Come.

Welcome.

Here you go.

Santiago chose the best dish

for him and his lady.

- Thank you.

- Thank you, Simeone.

This is Malaya. She's

from the Philippines.

Pleasure to meet you.

Hello, beautiful.

Is she your girlfriend?

Well, then.

Please. Enjoy your meal.

Thank you.

Go on.

Eat.

You did that on purpose,

didn't you?

No.

It's not my fault

he assumed things.

I asked you for moral support.

But you flaked on me.

I’m really sorry about that.

I’m sorry.

Why were you not there?

Let’s not talk about it.

I asked you for

a simple favor, Iago.

All you have to do

was accompany me, that's all.

But you stood me up.

Why did you do that?

Do you know what I like

about you, Iago?

I like that I feel that

I count on you anytime.

That you got my back always.

I know I can depend on you

because you always find a way.

But now, you can't find

your way out of this.

Did you get intimidated

by my Mom?

Malaya.

You're putting me

on the spot, okay?

I can't always

be there for you.

I make mistakes, too.

You can’t depend on me

all the time.

That's just how I am.

I know you’re not perfect.

But I know you don’t just

leave people hanging.

I know you're a good person,

Iago.

And I know you can be better.

I'm really sorry, Laya.

I'm sorry for giving you

these expectations.

Do you know...

...that feeling of wanting

something so badly?

Of wanting

to achieve something

but feeling that something's

holding you back?

Of feeling like...

...nothing you’d ever do

will be enough.

Of having so many questions...

...yet not being able

to get any answers.

That feeling of not being

able to achieve anything -

like being shackled

to the ground.

Do you know

what that feels like?

Iago, you’re not alone.

We all have our struggles

in life to deal with.

Then don't be angry

anymore, okay?

Alright.

I'll make it up to you,

I promise.

You’re so annoying.

Did you like the pasta?

It’s delicious.

Hey, stop it.

- Why?

- Just stop it.

- What?

- Don't look at my feet!

- Your feet?

- Yes.

Just stop it, okay?

My ex once told me...

...that my feet look weird,

like hands.

Hey.

Do they?

Stop it.

- Nice to meet you!

- Cut it out!

You're such a jerk.

I know you're tired. You could

really use a massage.

[deep breath]

A month after I ran away

from home...

...I got myself a job.

I had to work

in order to survive.

My employer...

...was this huge, tall guy.

He treated me well.

So it was all good.

I did have a hunch

that he wasn't straight.

I felt that...

...he was attracted to me.

He lets me sleep

at the warehouse.

I think it happened twice.

One time...

...I woke up and my zip

was fully undone.

He was there.

Watching me.

I will never forget the way

he looked at me.

That fucking look

on his face.

I never told this to anyone...

...because I'm scared that

people might judge me.

I just tried to forget it.

To put it

at the back of my mind.

My ex...

...kicked me in the head.

I don’t remember...

...why, or how.

Or what happened.

But that feeling, that trauma,

stayed with me.

And then...

...he grabbed my neck.

He choked me...

...until I felt the air

being cut off from me.

Literally.

I was wide-awake...

...but I just

couldn’t breathe.

I looked at him...

I looked in his eyes.

And I saw anger.

I saw hatred.

It's like I wasn't there

gasping for life.

He was raging.

Was he angry at me,

at life itself?

I don’t know.

Is that what blacking out

from anger feels like?

As I gasped for air,

for dear life,

I thought to myself

I can’t die this way.

[exhales]

Do or die.

I don't even know...

...how I snapped out of it.

Did I shove him?

I don’t remember anymore.

All I can recall is...

The moment...

...I started

breathing in again.

After that,

he kept saying sorry to me.

From that moment on,

I knew it was all over.

I’ve never told anyone

about this, either.

I felt that

nobody else would understand

what I went through.

Until I met you.

Come on.

I'll show you something.

You're into film, right?

I'm sure you'll love this.

It’s a bit...

...risqué,

but that's what art is.

So there.

[moaning]

That means he wanted

to have sex with you.

Well, did you?

Of course not.

It’s my first time to watch

an R-rated film

with a guy who's not

my boyfriend.

You know I'm not comfortable

watching that, right?

I don’t want him to think

that I'm as promiscuous as

the women he's seen onscreen.

I'm a guy, and I know he's

sending out feelers to you.

That’s his subtle message.

I'm not the super-liberated

type, okay?

I can be liberal-minded

but I don’t make

the first move.

I don’t even know

if he really likes me.

He likes you.

That's his way of showing it.

What other proof do you need?

The thing is,

is he serious about me?

He should walk the walk

and talk the talk.

You need to keep your

expectations down a bit, Laya.

Reality check, okay?

For all you know, he might

already have a kid.

Or a girlfriend,

who knows.

Are you sure he's not

in a relationship?

No, he doesn’t have

a girlfriend.

I'm a guy, Laya.

So I know exactly

how his mind works.

I just don’t want you to get

the short end of the stick.

You know what Mom

would think of this, right?

- Sacrifice and all.

- Okay.

Just put that off for now.

Would you rather

choose your career,

or love?

[phone ringing]

Maki, can you take this call

for me?

I’m not ready to talk

to him right now.

Hello.

One moment, please.

It's from the leather shop.

Hello.

Yes.

I see.

That's great news.

Thank you.

- [shrieks] I got in!

- Congratulations, Laya!

Iago?

I’m quitting my job.

I want to be free.

I want to save up.

I want to explore, go places.

I want a fresh start.

I applied for work

at an olive farm.

An olive picker, to be exact.

I’ll be staying there

for three months.

Free food and lodging.

No deductions. I get to take

home my entire earnings.

I ran the numbers.

Turns out I can save

10,000 euros from that stint.

I want to fly!

[voice echoing]

Come with me, Laya.

Just the two of us.

Together.

You want to be with me?

You and no one else.

I got a job

in the leather shop.

I'm starting work

the day after tomorrow.

I can't leave Mom.

[huffs]

Iago.

I can't leave her,

not after all those years

of being away from her.

She wasn't there...

...for a good part of my life.

This is my chance to make up

for all the times

we've been apart.

Are you sure

about your decision?

I am now.

Mama doesn’t approve, either.

But I have nothing to lose,

right?

This is my life, after all.

[inhales sharply]

If it doesn't work out, then

I'll have to deal with it.

Iago.

Can we...

Can we sort out

our lives first?

For now, I need to focus

on my career.

We may have to live apart

for the time being.

But it'll work out for you.

I know it will.

Things are pretty

clear-cut with you.

But that's not how it is

for me.

[huffs]

[exhales sharply]

[song plays]

We'll miss you, Santiago!

Thank you.

Good luck, Iago.

Goodbye, Santiago.

We'll see each other again.

Put an even coat on, okay?

Good morning!

- Good morning.

- Good morning.

Your earrings are gorgeous.

Can I see it?

It’s made

in the Philippines.

How much is it?

It’s 10 euros.

I have another pair

for sale,

but I can give it yo you

for five euros.

I’ll buy it. Thanks!

[tree shaker buzzing]

[engine rumbling]

Hello.

I'm Santiago.

I’m Celeste.

[tree shaker buzzing]

Mom, look what I got you.

- Try it on.

- Wow. It’s beautiful.

It looks good on you.

You are so beautiful,

my love.

Thank you, my love.

[song playing]

I'm sorry.

[puffs cigarette]

She's the daughter

of the farm owner.

I don’t want to know

the details.

[exhales sharply]

Malaya, you know I don’t

keep anything from you.

I tell you everything

as much as I can.

Iago.

Can we make this night

about us?

Do you hate me?

I should, but I can't.

[song playing]

[shower running]

I love you.

- Have you heard?

- What??

Daniela's boyfriend

left her.

He broke up with her

and married another girl.

Poor, sweet Daniela.

But love can be

unpredictable sometimes.

I hope she finds

a better man.

Is there anything wrong,

Malaya?

Malaya?

Hey.

- [whistles]

- Yeah?

Are you feeling alright?

- I’m okay.

- What’s wrong?

Are you feeling alright?

Yes. Thanks.

We’re closing,

you can go ahead.

Good night.

Good evening.

This is my father, Rolan.

And my mother, Ging.

And these are my relatives.

Welcome to our home.

Here’s our bride-to-be,

Celeste.

Malaya, you’re here!

Come help me make

some orecchiette.

Malaya.

What’s wrong?

What happened to you?

Don’t you ever trust men.

Understood?

To Santiago and Celeste,

we wish for your union

to be fruitful and

prosperous.

To Rolan and Ging,

welcome to our family.

Cheers to Santiago

and Celeste!

- Cheers!

- Cheers!

Cheers!

I'm so happy right now.

You’re beautiful, Celeste.

And you are handsome.

Malaya, are you there?

Why are you sitting

in the dark?

Why did you leave me then?

What’s going on?

Nothing. I just want to know.

You brought Maki to Italy

when he was only seven.

What took you so long

to petition me?

I didn't want you

to end up

as a domestic helper.

I wanted you

to graduate from college

so that you'd have

options in life.

I took Maki at an early age

because younger kids adapt

more easily.

I left you behind because

I didn't

want you to leave

everything and start over.

I resented you for that, Mom.

Because for the longest time,

I was on my own.

Nobody helped me

with my school projects.

I had no one with me

on Parents' Day.

I had nobody to comfort me

when I need it most.

Did you know...

...that Grandma

was the one who bought

my first sanitary napkin?

Unlike grandma,

you were never there for me

for all those important

moments in my life.

I found it hard

to accept the fact that you

left your daughter behind...

All while you were out

in a foreign land

taking care of the children

of strangers...

Putting them to sleep

at night...

While I lied in bed alone...

...crying myself to sleep.

I know you left

in order to give us

a better life.

You're really lucky, you know?

Because I didn't end up

rebelling against you

like other OFW kids.

Please don't say these things,

Malaya.

You don’t know the sacrifices

I made for our family.

I had a very difficult time

earning money, making

ends meet, saving up.

But I endured all that

because I wanted a better life

for you and Maki.

Mom, I've done

everything you wanted

all this time, right?

I gave everything I can,

sacrificed everything I can,

for this family.

Love is so much more

than providing for us, Mom.

It's about being there

for someone.

And you weren't.

Not for me.

I’m sorry.

- But you have to make sacri--

- Make sacrifices?!

Mom, I've been through this

since I was two years old.

How much longer

am I supposed to do this?!

Can I even choose myself

for once?

Just this once, Mom?

I’m moving out.

Hello, guys and gals!

This is the Origami bag.

You can see

the intricate beadwork.

We're getting

lots of inquiries, Laya.

You're quite the salesperson.

Maki, do you think

there's a market

for olive oil

in the Philippines?

I have no idea. Why?

Okay.

Let’s keep this between us

for now.

It still a long process

to go through.

Okay.

I put up a bid

to be a distributor

in one of the country’s

major olive plantations.

Really?

So...

If they say yes, then...

...I can secure a distribution

deal with them.

That sounds great.

I want to export olive oil

to the Philippines.

But of course you can do it.

We'll make money from this.

That way, you can save

enough for your wedding.

Are you crazy? I don't even

have a boyfriend yet.

Unless you want to be

an old cat lady, that is.

You think I'd end up

being an old cat lady?

I know you've got

a number of suitors.

But you don't seem

to like any one of them.

They don’t have

what I’m looking for in a man.

Laya.

Don’t tell me you’re still

wishing to get back

with Santiago?

Wait, what did you

call him again?

Bully?

It’s Bubbles.

Because he pops in

and out so quickly.

Gotcha!

You're not over him at all.

Do you love him?

Too much.

Then why didn't you fight

to keep him?

Are you serious, Maki?

Of course I did.

I fought hard to keep him.

That's why I gave myself up

for him.

But it wasn't enough. That's

just how it is, I guess.

I can't resent him for that.

I think we should try

having a baby.

Maybe he was

looking for security

more than anything.

And I chose

to be with Mom.

Maybe he didn't know me

well enough.

Otherwise...

If he really did...

He would know...

...that I gave up every

single thing for him.

No one else. Just for him.

He should know that.

But Laya...

...what if

he really loves her?

Santiago and I argue

over so many things.

I don't think so.

I just know it.

But maybe I just have

to accept it.

That's life, right?

Wait 'til he sees you

right now, Laya!

I'm sure he'll regret leaving

such a beautiful woman

like you.

Hey, I don't go

for married men, okay?

What if...

...he ends up divorcing her?

Would you take him back?

Maki, that’s a whole new

different story.

[phone ringing]

Hello.

Malaya.

Hey.

What’s up?

Where are you now?

Uh...

I'm having breakfast

right now.

Can we meet up?

Today?

At 2:00 PM.

Hmmm...

Okay, sure.

Meet me at the Trani Church.

Okay.

Bye.

Laya, where are you now?

I’m on my way.

[phone ringing]

[phone ringing]

I’m here now.

I just found a parking slot.

I waited for a long time.

So I left already.

Wait.

I had to drive around

the parking lot

three times

just to find a spot.

Just tell me where

you are right now, okay?!

I told you, I already left.

Oh, for fuck's sake, Iago!

Did I just go all the way here

for nothing?!

You made me rush here

to meet you

and you couldn’t even

wait for me?!

Where the hell Ar--?!

You know what?

Fuck you!

You keep doing this to me.

Fuck you!

[bird caws]

[groans]

Iago, you fucking idiot!

[cries furiously]

[exhales sharply]

Fuck it.

I fall for it every time.

I'm such a fucking idiot!

Fuck!

Fuck you, Santiago.

Fuck you for putting me

through this!

Fucking asshole.

[song plays]

- Malaya.

- Fuck you!

Why?!

Why?!

Why do you keep

doing this to me?!

Malaya, I’m sorry.

I don't want to hear it!

Malaya, calm down.

I saved myself for you.

I was hoping that

you'd choose me in the end!

But you didn’t!

Now you tell me why!

[panting]

[sobbing]

- Malaya, I was wrong.

- Shut up!

She's too scared of things.

She's not good for me.

She doesn't care about me.

Malaya.

You get your

fucking hands off me!

You left me to be with her!

And yet

you still screwed it up?!

You just wasted

all the sacrifices

I made for you!

You think it was easy for me?!

Then why the hell

did you choose

to fucking leave me?!

I did what I thought

was right.

I chose not to

hurt everyone else!

Oh, did you?!

I chose

for the sake of my family!

That was what I did.

Is that why you chose

to hurt me?!

You and me.

I can't believe you're putting

me through this again!

We always end up like this.

And now

you’re leaving me again.

You better fix your marriage.

You chose a simpler life.

So you better

make things work.

[song plays]

We are honored to export

our product

to the Philippines.

But you'll have to speak

with my brother-in-law.

Sorry that he's a bit late.

Just as well, we can talk

for a bit more.

He accompanied his wife

to the doctor's.

They’re having

their first baby.

That's why he’s a bit late.

Oh, here he is.

Hello, Luca.

Santiago.

This is Malaya.

Did you know about this?

Excuse us, Luca.

I only learned about it

at the Board meeting.

I was really surprised

to see your name.

You had a solid business

plan. I'm so happy for you.

- I don’t feel the same way.

- Hey.

I did exactly

what you told me.

We both got what we wanted.

Celeste's having a baby,

and you're...

Getting the distribution deal.

Our paths keep crossing.

But things just never

seem to work out.

This is a huge project,

Malaya.

You deserve this.

Let me help you this time.

Just like how you

supported me back then.

Please let me do this for you.

You really are good at this.

You're a natural.

Do you think I'll succeed?

There’s nothing in this world

that you can't do.

All you have to do

is believe in yourself.

I will always support you

until you finally

reach your goals.

Alright, sure.

Yes.

Our dreams

are finally coming true.

Malaya...

...did you ever think

we'd meet again?

You know the answer to that.

I really hope things work out.

Just hope for the best.

If it doesn’t work out,

let’s proceed with plan B.

See?

You're really cut out

for this.

How did you learn the ropes?

Well, it wasn't too hard.

Good old Iago.

Humble as ever.

You haven't changed at all.

I told you I'd finish

my studies, right?

So I studied hard.

But getting a diploma is not

the answer to everything.

Money's great, sure.

But it won't make you happy.

It’s not working out.

The numbers look pretty good.

We're just too different.

Since when did you

start smoking?

Give it back.

I said, give it back

I asked you a question.

Months, years, I don't know.

What the heck, Iago?

You're a wet smoker?

[snickers loudly]

Hey!

It's not funny!

Wow.

Stop it already.

It was because of the tea.

My stomach was queasy.

Excuses, excuses.

Karma's a bitch, huh?

You’re so annoying.

Do you still have the bottle?

Remember this?

How can I forget?

To this day,

I'm still wondering

how that ended up in my bag.

If you didn't put it

in there...

...then I probably did.

Oh, of course you did!

No wonder there were ants

setting up a colony in my bag!

I accidentally left mine

inside the backpack once.

That kept me company

for three long months.

It reminded me of your

#100happydays posts.

It gave me comfort...

...throughout my stay

at the farm.

- Hey, Malaya.

- Hi, Luca.

I brought the documents

I discussed with you

this morning.

Here.

Here you can see the income

and the production data.

The machines that we use

are relatively new.

I hope this helps.

Iago, where you going?

Celeste called. I have to go.

I actually don’t have the

documents, Miss Malaya.

But Signor Iago did ask me

to assist you.

I’m sorry I can't help

with much else.

It's alright.

May I ask

why he's not here?

I’m sorry, Miss Malaya.

I have no idea.

I had to stay with Celeste

today, Laya.

Are you her nanny?

We are going through

something major right now.

[keys clacking]

Sorry for telling you this.

Honestly...

...your wife is beginning

to piss me off.

She doesn’t want you to shine.

Iago...

...you have such a great mind

for business.

And what does she do?

Instead of supporting you, she

just wants to cling to you.

Instead of letting you

explore your talents.

It's such a waste.

She's really selfish.

Malaya, I can’t do this

with you anymore.

Iago, this is by far

the most important project

I've been involved in

all my life.

You said...

...you wanted to make up

for everything.

Iago...

I don’t know anything about

the olive industry.

I don’t know anything

about exporting goods.

I had the confidence

to take on this

because you said you will

help me through this,

and that we will do this

together.

Now, you’re quitting on me

in the middle of the deal.

This is a very promising

project, Laya.

And it's all thanks to

your solid business plan.

I know it's going to be

a success.

You can do it.

I believe in you.

Luca will help you

along the way.

The permits have not

yet been approved.

Okay. Let’s work out

something, then.

[in tears] Mom.

Mom.

Malaya, what’s wrong?

It’s alright.

I love him, Mom.

I can't lie to myself anymore.

You're right, there are many

other men out there.

But he's the only man I want.

It's hard to find

someone like him.

A man who connects with you

on so many levels.

Someone who makes you

feel complete.

Why can’t I just find it

with another man?

I thought I'd find someone

else, but I just can't.

Am I wrong, Mom?

Am I wrong for not

wanting to let him go?

You said...

...if it's meant to be,

then it's meant to be.

I’m hoping that

things will finally work out

for Iago and me.

But it's as though

I'm waiting for nothing.

Laya...

...maybe fate sent him to you

for some other reason.

Sometimes, in life...

We cross paths with people...

...who would teach us more

about ourselves.

They're there to help us

find our inner strength.

Or to teach us the

true meaning of love.

Just surrender to it all,

Laya.

Just let things happen.

And make sure you find your

inner strength through it all.

Be strong, Laya.

Malaya.

I love you.

I love you with all my life.

I know you do, Mom.

I’m really sorry.

I tried my best, Dad.

Dad.

Please forgive me, Iago.

For everything I've done.

Thank you Santiago, for

agreeing to Celeste's request

to be by her side

until the baby is born.

Santiago,

thank you for this.

We can still be friends,

Celeste.

And I will always be

the father of our child.

Thank you.

Congratulations, Laya.

- Thank you, Mom.

- I’m so proud of you.

Cheers to Malaya’s

distribution deal!

One, two, three, smile!

[camera shutter clicks]

Thank you for agreeing

to meet me, Santiago.

See you later.

What’s this?

That’s you share.

You worked hard on the project

even if you didn’t finish it.

Coffee.

- Thank you.

- You’re welcome.

Can you stay a

little longer for coffee?

[water flowing]

I won't take you away

from your wife.

She needs your reassurance

on that.

If we can’t be

life partners...

...can we be professional

partners at least?

I don’t want

to lose you again.

We have gone through so

much through the years...

And it's clear to me now...

...that I will never find

another man like you.

Just like you will never find

another woman like me.

I know.

[huffs]

I can say these things now...

...because I know it’s over.

When you left me...

I didn't think I'd be

able to move on.

I was too stubborn

and stupid...

...to accept the situation.

But I had to learn

to be stronger.

If only being alone

wasn't so hard.

[song plays]

I need you.

Malaya.

I feel like my heart's

being torn apart.

Because I want you

to be a part of my life.

Not just because

you need me...

...but because you love me.

I love you.

[phone buzzing]

[phone buzzing]

- She's probably calling.

- [phone buzzing]

[phone buzzing]

[phone buzzing]

Laya...

Let's stay this way.

Us being this open

to each other.

Malaya, I have

just one last thing

to take care of.

My beloved Malaya,

You’re the first

and last Filipina

who left a mark in my life.

You changed

my outlook on life.

With you, I realized what

it's like to be loved.

Forgive me

for being too scared

to take that leap with you.

For doubting myself.

As the years passed...

...I realized all the more

that you're the only

woman I want to be with.

I was wrong for

choosing to leave you.

And I will keep on asking

for your forgiveness

until fate finally

brings us back together.

You made me feel

that I can do anything.

You believed that

I can be a better man.

And now, I'm ready to take

that leap with you, Laya.

You and I. Together.

There's no stopping us

this time.

Santiago

Don't worry, Miss.

You're not traveling alone.

[song plays]