‘THE KINGDOM’ AND BEYOND: WHAT PINOYS ARE WATCHING THIS MMFF 2024
I spoke with moviegoers from different walks of life to hear their thoughts on this year’s entries and what excites them most about Filipino cinema today.
The Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) celebrates its 50th year with a grand lineup of films and activities leading up to its opening on 25 December.
As part of the pre-festival buzz, a grand media and fan conference was held on 6 December at Gateway 2, showcasing the excitement surrounding this milestone edition. I spoke with moviegoers from different walks of life to hear their thoughts on this year’s entries and what excites them most about Filipino cinema today.
Vic Sotto in ‘The Kingdom.’
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF APT ENTERTAINMENT
FILMS SPARKING INTEREST
The Kingdom, directed by Michael Tuviera, has emerged as a crowd favorite among this year’s lineup. CJ Boado, a freelance nurse and content creator from Taguig, explained, “It’s the first time we’ll see Vic Sotto in a serious role.” CJ also shared interest in Vice Ganda’s And the Breadwinner Is..., calling it “a refreshing drama-comedy,” as well as Green Bones and Himala: Isang Musikal, which he called “dark horses with exciting stories and genres.”
For government employee Queen Portes from Manila, And the Breadwinner Is... is the perfect pick for some light entertainment.
Dennis Trillo in ‘Green Bones.’
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF APT ENTERTAINMENT
“I just want to laugh and relax while enjoying a bit of drama,” she said. Queen also expressed interest in Green Bones, adding, “I’m curious about what prisoners go through.” Watching MMFF films, Queen shared, is one of her stress relievers, something she enjoys with her 17-year-old daughter.
CSR and music producer Kurt Vincent Argana from Marilao shared similar enthusiasm for The Kingdom, describing it as “great to see Vic Sotto in a serious role alongside Piolo Pascual.” Kurt also praised Jun Lana’s direction in And the Breadwinner Is..., calling Vice Ganda’s involvement “a refreshing departure from his usual comedies.”
Consultant Jayvee Carlo Hermocilla from San Juan shared his take on The Kingdom: “It feels like an alternate universe of the Philippines — what our government might look like if we weren’t colonized.” Jayvee also highlighted Chito Roño’s Espantaho, which he praised for exploring “traditions and mythical beliefs” through its intriguing myth-based storyline.
