Marcial Balagtas
Beware! This film is a mere spoof of Agent X44. For younger Filipino generations who may not be aware, X44 is the code of iconic Philippine Secret Agent Tony Falcon of the 60's and 70's which this film is based. Contrary to this movie version and sadly current misconception Tony Falcon is a suave, intelligent, resourceful and courageous agent. Altho admittedly inspired from James Bond (the sexy women and gadgets) Tony Falcon is unique because his Filipino/Asian, and obviously more proficient in karate thanks to Bruce lee's popularity. Overall tonality is also similar to 007--action, spy thriller. In the 70s due to changing fashion, Falcon is seen more sporting civilian clothes instead of tux -shades and jeans!To fully appreciate X44 I recommend you watch first the original and earlier movie versions of Tony Falcon. This include Sabotage (1966), Specialist (1968)Secret Witness (1972) and "Ang Agila at ang Falcon" (literally translated : The Eagle and the Falcon)- wherein Toni Falcon is paired with a real legendary police officer Mediavillo(played by Philippine King of cinema Fernando Poe Jr.). I believe due to his longevity, popularity and cult following Tony Falcon/X44 is Filipino's and perhaps even Asia's ultimate answer to James Bond. He is an icon not a spoof. Its a shame that instead of updating X44 to present Pinoy generation --which what the Broccoli's did to 007 with "Casino Royale in 2006"-- Star Cinema and Director Joyce Bernal instead opted to commercialized and parodied the venerable action hero. It shows how detached or how much they don't respect the source material, or how much they underestimate the intelligence of Filipino audience and finally how Star Cinema is incapable of producing an action thriller.
