About The Nightcrawlers

"The Nightcrawlers" (released in 2019) is a gripping documentary that offers a raw and uncensored look into the Philippines' controversial campaign against illegal drugs. This war, spearheaded by the country's polarizing leader, President Rodrigo Duterte, has reportedly claimed over 27,000 lives. The film documents the realities of the drug war not through politics but through the lens of photojournalists — dubbed 'Nightcrawlers' — who risk their lives nightly documenting the bodies fallen in this war.

Plot and Summary

The movie tracks the real-life experiences of audacious photojournalists on their nighttime forays into the city's dangerous underbelly. Their mission: to expose the gruesome consequences of Duterte's hardline strategy against illegal drugs. The film serves as a chilling testament to the lives claimed by this bloody war and the brave Nightcrawlers who are dedicated to bringing the truth to light.

Making / Production

Directed by Alexander A. Mora and produced in conjunction with National Geographic Documentary Films, the movie faced numerous challenges - from operating under threats from authorities to navigating the ethical complexities of covering such a violent and sensitive issue. Despite these obstacles, the filmmakers managed to produce a deeply moving and thought-provoking documentary.

Actors

• Photojournalists (As themselves): The main 'characters' in this documentary are the photojournalists themselves. Their profound dedication and relentless pursuit of truth are powerfully portrayed throughout the film.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• The Nightcrawlers are named after the nocturnal earthworms, symbolizing their nightly work in the dark streets of Manila
• "The Nightcrawlers" marks Alexander A. Mora's directional debut for a full-length documentary

Music, Soundtrack

• The atmospheric score of The Nightcrawlers is composed by Brian McOmber, adding an emotive layer to the already striking film

Quotes

• "We are beyond politics, we are journalists, all we want is the truth."
• "In this war, there's no safe sides."

Awards

As of this time, the documentary has not yet been recognized with specific awards. However, it has been widely acclaimed for its daring storytelling and journalistic bravery.