This year’s Metro Manila Film Festival felt extra special! After a long hiatus from watching MMFF films, I finally got to experience the magic again, especially with my brother-in-law, Vic Robinson, being part of n ‘Isang Himala‘ as Pilo. ❤️ Our family came in full force watching it on the first day last Christmas day.

Isang Himala‘ truly shone, earning 5 awards including 4th Best Picture Award during the MMFF50GabiNgParangal even with only 9 cinemas showing it that day. 👏 A powerful reimagining of a classic, it proves that Filipino stories deserve to be retold for every generation. Elsa loves you, but is it enough to save you?Vice Ganda‘s And The Breadwinner Is was a powerful and moving performance especially for all breadwinners that resonated his experience. 👏 Her foray into drama was impactful, but thankfully, her comedic touch still shone through. I’d also want to tap in the shoulder all the “Boy’s” in the family who feels that they are a burden in the family and wanted to help, just that luck is not on their side.

Hold Me Close was a delightful surprise! ✨ The quirky chemistry between Julia Barretto and Carlo Aquino was undeniable. Their characters, Lynlyn and Woody, perfectly captured the complexities of love – lighthearted on the surface, but carrying deep-seated emotional baggage. It’s a reminder that love always involves risk, and that the journey itself, with all its uncertainties, is what truly matters

Green Bones‘ deservedly won Best Picture, offering a poignant commentary on the justice system and a beautiful story of redemption. Sino nga ba ang mabuti at sino nga ba ang masama? PS. Sienna Stevens is so 👍👍👍👍👍

The Kingdom was a thought-provoking exploration of a non-colonized Philippines, showcasing as well a Vic Sotto outside-of-the-box.

Uninvited was a thrilling and chilling experience, with Aga Muhlach delivering an unforgettable villainous performance. Ate Vi is well, Ate Vi and Nadine is Nadine.

Espantaho piqued my curiosity but a horror film that definitely left an impression. I enjoyed the story overall, though I found the revelation of how the “real pest” knew what will happen was left unanswered.

I wanted to watch the other 3 films – Strange Frequencies, My Future You and Topakk but unfortunately, they are not in most cinemas already. I’ll just wait for them to be available in Netflix soon? 🎬 Anyway, this year’s MMFF is a fantastic reminder of the power of Filipino cinema. 🙌 Thank you Vic for my MMFF50 Festival Pass! I enjoyed my movie marathon! #MMFF50 #MMFF