‘Elise’ to ‘Phantosmia’: 7 of Janine Gutierrez’s most iconic films

That same year witnessed Gutierrez’s breakthrough dramatic performance in Babae at Baril (The Woman and the Gun). This powerful narrative follows an unnamed department store saleslady who discovers unexpected agency when she finds a gun. Gutierrez masterfully portrays the character’s metamorphosis from a woman subdued by societal constraints to one who reclaims her power. Gutierrez received the Best Actress award at the 68th FAMAS Awards for navigating complex themes of gender politics and empowerment with profound sensitivity.

The 2021 release of Dito at Doon (Here and There) unveiled another dimension of Gutierrez’s artistic palette. Set against the backdrop of community quarantine, she portrays a political science major who develops an unexpected connection with a delivery driver after their initial online clash. The film examines whether virtual chemistry can withstand real-world complications. Gutierrez’s performance radiates charm and impeccable comedic timing. She won the Rising Star Award at the New York Asian Film Festival 2021 for this portrayal. 

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Also in 2021, Ikaw (You) presented Gutierrez with the challenge of embodying Anna, a woman caught in an emotional crossroads between past affections and present commitments. The narrative follows Anna and Ben as they navigate the unexpected resurgence of former feelings despite a complicated history. Her portrayal illustrates the delicate balance of desire and duty, revealing an actress capable of communicating profound internal conflict through nuanced expressions and restrained emotional delivery. 

Ngayon Kaya (Maybe Today) presented Gutierrez with the opportunity to explore a mature romantic context. As AM, who reunites with former flame Harold at a wedding five years after their separation, she conveys layers of unresolved feelings and contemplative “what-ifs.” Her portrayal captures the delicate balance of nostalgia, regret and lingering affection with remarkable authenticity.

Perhaps most indicative of Gutierrez’s artistic courage is her role in Bakit ‘di mo sabihin? (Why Don’t You Say?) from 2022. Her portrayal of Nat, a deaf woman navigating marital difficulties, demonstrates her willingness to embrace challenging roles that demand physical and emotional expressiveness beyond verbal dialogue. This performance highlights her commitment to authenticity and representation, transcending conventional acting boundaries.

Gutierrez’s most recent venture was as Reyna in a psychological thriller directed by award-winning Lav Diaz. The film was also part of the Venice Film Festival in 2024. The film portrays the unsettling narrative of Hilarion Zabala, a man tormented by phantom smells stemming from psychological trauma. Holding the key to his past and present, Gutierrez showcases fearlessness in exploring the darker recesses of the human experience.

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