A mysterious TV transports her to a school for on-screen villains. There, a restaurant worker finds new purpose. She also finds a way to get back at her enemies.
Kontrabida Academy (2025) is not your usual comedy. Directed by Chris Martinez, the film starts with a wild premise. It turns into a sharp, funny, and surprisingly heartwarming story. The main character is a simple restaurant worker. After getting sucked into a mysterious TV, he ends up in a school designed to train villains. What follows is a mix of absurd comedy, clever writing, and relatable life lessons
Plot and Premise
The story begins when an ordinary worker, tired of being overlooked, stumbles upon a magical television. The TV doesn’t show her a way to escape. Instead, it pulls her into the strange world of Kontrabida Academy. In this place, being bad is the curriculum.
From there, she learns how villains think, how they fight, and how they create chaos. But instead of turning dark, the film cleverly uses the “villain training” as a tool for personal empowerment. It becomes a way for her to stand up against her enemies in the real world.
This creative setup makes the film both funny and empowering. It mixes slapstick humor with biting satire about TV dramas. It also addresses Filipino pop culture and society’s obsession with heroes and villains.
It’s time to be the Primera Kontrabida 💅 Tama na ang api-apihan era sa Kontrabida Academy, now playing only on Netflix!#KontrabidaAcademy #BarbieForteza #EugeneDomingo #JamesonBlake #XyrielManabat #YsabelOrtega #MichaeldeMesa pic.twitter.com/IypPGmQP9c
— Netflix Philippines (@Netflix_PH) September 11, 2025
Speeches na pamatay, stinging sampalan, schemes na puno ng kasamaan. It's good to be bad at the Kontrabida Academy with Barbie Forteza and Eugene Domingo 🤨
Alam kong enroll na enroll ka na on September 11. Visit https://t.co/OuZoHnn4TR para may matutunan ka naman.… pic.twitter.com/fYgrxHTPSg
— Netflix Philippines (@Netflix_PH) August 29, 2025
Performances
- Eugene Domingo is the life of the film. Her comic timing, facial expressions, and delivery bring the “academy” to life. She turns even simple dialogues into laugh-out-loud moments.
- Barbie Forteza plays the everywoman with charm and depth. Her transformation from a timid worker to a confident “kontrabida-in-training” is both hilarious and inspiring.
- Jameson Blake adds flair to the supporting cast, balancing humor with subtle emotional beats.
The chemistry between the cast makes every scene feel fresh and lively.
Direction and Writing
Chris Martinez, known for his witty style, crafts a film that never feels dull. The script is tight, packed with one-liners, parody moments, and unexpected twists. The runtime of 107 minutes flies by because the film keeps throwing new jokes and gags without dragging the story.
The writing cleverly engages with Filipino television clichés. It pokes fun at melodrama and the iconic kontrabida characters. These are the characters audiences love to hate.
JUST IN: Netflix has released the full trailer for its upcoming film, “Kontrabida Academy.” The film stars Kapuso multi awarded Filipino actress Barbie Forteza and comedy queen Eugene Domingo.
Congratulations Barbie!!
Streaming on Sept 11!
— Kapuso Things || May ABS pa ba? (@KapusoThingsPH) August 14, 2025
Highlights
- The unique setting of a villain academy feels fresh and original.
- Strong performances, especially from Eugene Domingo and Barbie Forteza.
- The balance of comedy and empowerment keeps the film relatable.
- Satirical takes on Filipino TV tropes will make viewers laugh and nod in recognition.
Verdict
Kontrabida Academy (2025) is a must-watch Filipino comedy that blends humor, satire, and heart. It’s more than just laughs. It offers commentary on how society views good and evil. Even “villain training” can empower someone to take control of their life.
Whether you’re a fan of Filipino comedies, sharp parodies, or simply want a lighthearted watch, this film delivers.
⭐ Rating: 4/5