Let the MMFF 2021 fever begin!
The countdown towards the Yuletide season is set on the clock. It’s time to recall vivid and momentous family traditions. Aside from attending nine days of Misa de Gallo and capturing the vivid blinks of Christmas lanterns, queuing for MMFF movies is no exception.
This year, the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) announces the resumption of the most awaited film festival, the 47th Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF). Following strict guidelines from the government agencies, the festival will run from December 25, 2021, to January 7, 2022.
Due to the pandemic, the 2020 MMFF Summer Film Festival was put to a halt. On the other hand, the previous edition was pushed through via online streaming.
The entries were chosen based on the following criteria: Artistic Excellence – 40%; Commercial Appeal – 40%; Filipino Sensibility – 10% and Global Appeal – 10%.
Handpicked from a total of 19 entries, let’s take a look at the official lineup of the MMFF 2021!
1. A HARD DAY
Lawrence Fajardo‘s A Hard Day, produced by Viva Films, is a top hit you should never miss! Moreover, the film stars the icons Dingdong Dantes and John Arcilla.
This film narrates the story of Villon, a detective whose hardships begin as he runs off a man. The pinnacle of adversities blows following his mother’s funeral and a spat with a fellow officer. Moreover, it is also the local adaptation of the 2014 South Korean action flick with the same name.
2. BIG NIGHT!
If you’re looking for a dark-comedy plot, added with the touch of real societal conflicts, this Jun Robles Lana film would be the perfect movie for you. Additionally, the actors behind the masterpiece are Christian Bables, Nico Antonio, John Arcilla, and Ricky Davao. Cignal Entertainment, IdeaFirst Company, October Train Films, Quantum Films are also behind the productions.
How far would you go to clear your name? This is the question that will spark your mind as you meet the role of Dharna, a gay beautician. Eventually, he figures out that he is part of Oplan Tokhang’s watch list.
3. LOVE AT FIRST STREAM
The third pick is the creation of the well-known Cathy Garcia-Molina, which for sure will lead you to another remarkable line. ABS-CBN Productions’ Love at First Stream is also set to feature the actings skills of Daniela Stranner, Anthony Jennings, Kaori Oinuma, and Jeremiah Lisbo.
Direk Cathy spilled a bit of hint about the romance film. In order to escape reality, a streamer, a student, a breadwinner, and a heartthrob pursue love and friendships online.
4. “KUN MAUPAY MAN IT PANAHON” (WHETHER THE WEATHER IS FINE)
Starring Daniel Padilla, Charo Santos-Concio, and Rans Rifol, Kun Maupay Man It Panahon will make you recollect the tragic memories of the supertyphoon Yolanda. It is also produced by Cinematografica, Black Sheep, Dreamscape Entertainment, Quantum Films, iWant, and Globe Studios.
This movie portrays the repercussions brought by the strongest recorded typhoon in the Philippines. Particularly, it highlights the story of Norma, her son Miguel, and her daughter Andrea.
5. NELIA
A and Q Films Production presents a suspense-thriller film centered in a hospital setting starring Winwyn Marquez and Raymond Bagatsing. For real, watching Lester Dimaranan‘s work will definitely make you afraid of your own shadow.
Nelia is a film that depicts the suspense and thrilling mystery taking place in a hospital where the titular character works. Following her curiosity, it will lead her to uncover her aroused instincts.
6. HUWAG KANG LALABAS
You do not need to ask whether Kim Chiu is an iconic horror film icon or not. Her stellar rattling skills had dubbed her as the “Millenial Horror Queen.” Along with Beauty Gonzales, Aiko Melendez, and Jameson Blake, Huwag Kang Lalabas will make your bloon run cold. Moreover, Director Adolf Alix, Jr. and Obra Cinema are behind the creation of this horror trilogy.
7. THE EXORSIS
Now, if you’re looking for a fan of thriller, comedy, or something in between this MMFF season, Toni and Alex got you! The Gonzaga sisters will bring you chills and laughter this holiday season. Directed by PBB-alumnus Fifth Solomon, The Exorsis will give you the right amount of emotion you need. Furthermore, the film is also under Toni’s production company, TINCAN.
8. HULING ARAW SA TAG-ARAW
Lastly, it’s time to wrap up the entries with GMA stars Ken Chan and Rita Daniela. Stans of Rit-Ken are surely excited to see the love team’s first-ever film, produced by Heaven’s Best Entertainment. Moreover, the public will feel the romantic excitement with an unprecedented twist in Louie Ignacio‘s masterpiece.
In an interview, its producer shared the plot of the story, wherein a sexy dancer falls in love with her best friend who is about to enter priesthood.
There you have it! MMFF 2021 is a lineup brimmed with diverse genres from horror, drama, comedy, and romance.
This Christmas, let us show our support for our own films. Together, we should promote and enhance the preservation of the Philippine cinema
Among the MMFF 2021 films, what piqued your interest?
