Movie

Controversial

“It's what the gossip's all about – Now see it on the screen!”

★ 6.5(2)19811h 56m

Controversial isn't available to stream, rent or buy in United States right now. Availability changes often, so check back soon. Availability checked 12 June 2026.

Where to watch Controversial

🇺🇸 United States

No streaming, rental or purchase options are listed in United States right now. Availability changes often — try switching your region in the header.

Good to know

Director: Lino Brocka
Release date: 1981-03-20
Runtime: 1h 56m
Language: Tagalog
Status: Released
Country: Philippines
Studio: Four Seasons Films International

About Controversial

Controversial is a 1981 movie in the Drama genre, directed by Lino Brocka, starring Gina Alajar, Charo Santos and Phillip Salvador. It has a runtime of 1 hour 56 minutes. It holds an average rating of 6.5/10 from 2 viewers. Below you can see where to watch Controversial in United States — across streaming, rental and purchase options — along with the full cast, trailer and viewer reviews.

Synopsis

Brocka's potboiler about the rise of a starlet is the quintessential rags-to-riches, prey-turned-predator story, brimming with true-life anecdotes and an authentically acerbic sense of the seamier side of show business.

Cast

Gina Alajar

Teresa / Karina Daluz

Charo Santos

Mers Madsen

Phillip Salvador

Alain Soriano

Eddie Garcia

Mauro Dizon

Rez Cortez

Eddie Randal

Joe Fabregas

Dick Conrado

Ariosto Reyes Jr.

Sonny

Soxy Topacio

Fedora

Joey Luna

Dading

Nina Lorenzo

Assistant

Beth Mondragon

Assistant

Mike Accion

Mike

Themes & keywords

philippinesgossiprise to famedark side

Frequently asked questions

Where can I watch Controversial in United States?+

Controversial is not currently listed on any streaming, rental or purchase service in United States. Availability changes often, so check back or switch your region.

Is Controversial on Netflix?+

Controversial is not on Netflix in United States right now.

How long is Controversial?+

Controversial has a runtime of 1 hour 56 minutes (116 minutes).

Who stars in Controversial?+

Controversial stars Gina Alajar, Charo Santos, Phillip Salvador, Eddie Garcia and Rez Cortez.

When did Controversial come out?+

Controversial is a 1981 movie directed by Lino Brocka.

What genre is Controversial?+

Controversial is Drama film.

Who directed Controversial?+

Controversial was directed by Lino Brocka.