(UPDATE) MANILA, Philippines: The ongoing 49th edition of the Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) has been a resounding success, with three movies emerging as the top grossers based on ticket sales. The films “Rewind,” “Mallari,” and “Gomburza” have captured the attention of audiences since the festival opened on Christmas Day, December 25, 2023.
One of the standout films of this year’s festival is “Rewind,” starring the real-life couple Dingdong Dantes and Marian Rivera. The movie revolves around a troubled marriage that takes an unexpected turn when the characters find themselves trapped in a time loop. Produced by Star Cinema, “Rewind” was anticipated as the couple’s comeback movie. Although it did not receive any awards during the Gabi ng Parangal on December 27, it has managed to captivate audiences with its unique storyline.
Another notable entry is “Mallari,” featuring Piolo Pascual in the lead role. The film tells the story of Fr. Juan Severino Mallari, the lone recorded serial killer in the 1800s. Pascual’s portrayal of Mallari has garnered praise for its depth and authenticity.
The historical biopic “Gomburza” is also making waves in the festival. The film sheds light on the lives of three Filipino Catholic priests, Mariano Gonnez, Jose Burgos, and Jacinto Zamora, who were executed by the Spanish colonizers in 1872 on charges of subversion. “Gomburza” offers a poignant glimpse into the struggles faced by these brave individuals during a tumultuous period in Philippine history.
While details about the ticket sales and rankings of the films are not readily available, the MMFF organizers have ensured fairness for all participating entries. The festival aims to provide a platform for Filipino filmmakers to showcase their talent and creativity, and it is encouraging to see the support from audiences.
Aside from the top grossers, there are other noteworthy films that are still showing nationwide until January 7. These include “Family of Two,” “(K)Ampon,” “Penduko,” “Becky and Badette,” “Broken Heart’s Trip,” “Firefly,” and “When I Met You in Tokyo.” Each of these movies offers a unique and diverse cinematic experience, adding to the richness of the festival.
The MMFF has been a tremendous success since its opening, with ticket sales reaching P700 million, as announced on the festival’s official Facebook page on Wednesday. The organizers express their gratitude to the public for their unwavering support and for joining in the celebration of Filipino cinema. The MMFF is not just a showcase of films; it is a testament to the resilience and creativity of the Filipino film industry.
It is worth noting that the MMFF has consistently broken box office records in the past. The 2018 edition, in particular, earned a staggering P1.060 billion, making it the highest-grossing film festival in its history. This record surpassed the previous highest-grossing edition in 2015 by P10 million.
The MMFF continues to be a significant event in the Philippine film industry, providing a platform for local filmmakers to showcase their talent and stories to a wide audience. The success of this year’s festival is a testament to the enduring appeal of Filipino cinema and the support it receives from the public.
As the festival draws to a close, it is evident that the Metro Manila Film Festival 2023 has once again proven to be a showcase of exceptional films and a testament to the talent and creativity of Filipino filmmakers. The success of the festival not only highlights the box office achievements but also the cultural significance of Philippine cinema.
Source: The Manila Times