In 2005, a ground-breaking independent film titled "Ang Pagdadalaga ni Maximo Oliveros" (The Blossoming of Mximo Oliveros) was released in Philippine theatres. It was directed by Auraeus Solito with the script written by Michiko Yamamoto. The film has been regarded as neo-realist and depicts the coming of age of young Maxi who is torn between love for his family who is involved in drugs and crime, and his love for a young policeman. The film marks the growth of a new cro of young filmmakers who are not afraid to tackle controversial topics such as sexuality, poverty, and social injustice. They are in direct contrast to old, established filmmakers who resort to formulaic, Hollywood-style films
