Filipino cinema is set to shine as the 2024 Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) prepares for its annual Gabi ng Parangal, taking place on the evening of December 27 at the Solaire Grand Ballroom, Parañaque City. This year marks the 50th anniversary of the festival, which has become synonymous with excellence in local filmmaking.
The Gabi ng Parangal is one of the festival's highlights, where awards are bestowed upon the best films, performances, and technical contributions. Categories like Best Picture, Best Actor, Best Actress, and technical awards such as Best Cinematography and Best Production Design will be contested this evening. The event gains added excitement as it will be livestreamed on the official MMFF Facebook page, allowing fans to join virtually.
This year’s festival features ten highly anticipated film entries, each vying for accolades. Notable entries include "Uninvited," directed by Dan Villegas and starring Vilma Santos, who is favored to take home the Best Actress award for her role as Lilia, seeking vengeance for her daughter’s tragic murder. The all-star cast also includes Aga Muhlach and Nadine Lustre.
Among the other notable films is “And The Breadwinner Is...,” led by Vice Ganda, which explores the pressures of family expectations and the sacrifices of breadwinners. Directed by Jun Lana, the film is a significant departure for its star, positioning her within the dramatic genre rather than her typical comedic roles.
“Espantaho,” another entry, directed by Chito S. Roño, finds Judy Ann Santos as Monet grappling with family secrets unraveled during mourning rituals. The horror-drama promises to captivate audiences with its blend of eerie storytelling and performances from seasoned actors.
Vic Sotto also makes his much-anticipated return with "The Kingdom," which presents as an imaginative panorama of the Philippines had it never been colonized. This fantasy drama sees Sotto as King Lakan Makisig, embroiled in conflicts over succession.
Other entries include “Green Bones,” “Isang Himala,” “Strange Frequencies: Taiwan Killer Hospital,” “My Future You,” “Topakk,” and “Hold Me Close.” Each film contributes to the varied narrative spectrum represented at the festival, showcasing everything from thriller to heartfelt drama.
The festival opened on December 25 and runs until January 7, 2025, encouraging the public to flock to cinemas and support Filipino filmmakers. Anticipation surrounding the awards night intensifies as fans and film critics alike engage on social media, speculating over who will take home the coveted trophies.
Given the public buzz, some frontrunners emerge for both Best Actor and Best Actress categories. Online discussions suggest heavy competition for Best Actress between Santos and fellow nominees such as Judy Ann Santos and Julia Montes. Meanwhile, Arjo Atayde, Dennis Trillo, and Aga Muhlach are highlighted as strong contenders for Best Actor.
Meanwhile, industry experts note the festival’s emphasis on local cinema's cultural significance, highlighting the challenges faced by smaller films seeking visibility amid the glitzy productions of major players. This year's festival boasts collaborations with student filmmakers, integrating fresh creative talents within the expansive cinematic community.
Dynamic performances during the Gabi ng Parangal will feature leading Filipino artists, such as Rachelle Ann Go and Apl de Ap, heightening the celebratory atmosphere. Hosts for the night, including Robi Domingo and Gabbi Garcia, are expected to bring their charm to the proceedings, guiding the audience through the event as winners are announced.
This year also bears witness to notable sentiments surrounding the MMFF, with producers and filmmakers expressing hopes of increased audience turnout to support their work. Bryan Diamante, the producer of "Uninvited," expressed his excitement about the film's reception, stating, "I’m very, very happy. It’s overwhelming… the reviews, they were overwhelming!" His remarks reflect the optimism swirling around his film’s box office performance as they compete head-to-head with other entries.
With 2024 MMFF acknowledging the diverse talent and the artistic drive of the filmmakers, the event encapsulates not only film artistry but also the community spirit surrounding it. Regardless of who secures trophies, the festival remains a singular moment of pride and celebration for Filipino cinema.
The Gabi ng Parangal promises to be no exception, highlighting the creativity and hard work of many behind the lens, invigorated by audience enthusiasm and participation. It’s more than just awards; it’s about the shared stories and experiences crafted on screen, reflecting Filipino culture and perspectives.
