Batang West Side Blu-ray Arrives June 24 with New 2K Restoration

Batang West Side (2001), directed by Lav Diaz, receives a Blu-ray release from Kani scheduled for June 24, 2025. This release presents a 2K restoration of the film and marks Diaz's only work shot in the United States.

The film follows police detective Juan Mijares (Joel Torres) as he investigates the murder of Hanzel (Yul Servo), a young Filipino involved with gangs in Jersey City. The story explores themes of immigration, community hardships, and generational struggles within the Filipino diaspora.

This release includes several new interviews from 2024 with key contributors: Lav Diaz (13 minutes), actors Joel Torre (20 minutes), Gloria Diaz (10 minutes), Art Acuña (15 minutes), and Priscilla Viduya (8 minutes). These interviews provide contemporary reflections on the film and its production.

Supplemental materials include a booklet featuring archival writings by critic Alexis Tioseco and writer Gil Quito, complemented by archival photographs by Cesar Hernando and new artwork by Tom Estrera III.

Kani offers this edition to audiences interested in rigorous cinema preservation and Southeast Asian film history, delivering detailed insight into one of Lav Diaz's foundational works.

Release Contents:

• 2K Restoration: High-quality digital restoration of the original film print.
• Interview with Lav Diaz: Director discusses the film's context and themes (13 mins).
• Interview with Joel Torre: Insights from the lead actor (20 mins).
• Interview with Gloria Diaz: Actor interview reflecting on her role (10 mins).
• Interview with Art Acuña: Actor commentary (15 mins).
• Interview with Priscilla Viduya: Actor perspective (8 mins).
• Booklet: Archival writings by Alexis Tioseco and Gil Quito with photos by Cesar Hernando.
• New Artwork: Created by Tom Estrera III.

Release Date: June 24, 2025