Kwento Ni Toto: MMFF

Showing posts with label MMFF. Show all posts

2025/12/23

Vice Ganda, Nadine Lustre reunite in MMFF 2025 entry “Call Me Mother”

Toto 12/23/2025 10:08:00 PM

Vice Ganda and Nadine Lustre reunite on the big screen in Call Me Mother, a comedy-drama that explores the joys and pains of motherhood. The film is an official entry to the 51st Metro Manila Film Festival and opens in cinemas nationwide on December 25.

The movie marks the highly anticipated reunion of Vice and Nadine, who last worked together years ago in the fantasy-comedy film Petrang Kabayo. Their return to the screen together has drawn strong interest from fans, highlighted by the film’s official trailer, which reached 20 million views in just over 24 hours across social media platforms. The hashtag #CallMeMotherFullTrailer also became the top trending topic nationwide following its release on December 2.

Directed by award-winning filmmaker Jun Robles Lana, Call Me Mother tells a heartfelt story about unconditional love, sacrifice, and commitment. The film looks at motherhood beyond biology, showing how love and responsibility can take many forms.

The story centers on two mothers with very different lives. Twinkle, played by Vice Ganda, is a former beauty pageant coach who becomes a devoted queer adoptive mother to Angelo, portrayed by Lucas Andalio. Twinkle believes that being a parent is a choice rooted in love, care, and daily sacrifice.

In contrast, Mara, played by Nadine Lustre, is Angelo’s biological mother. Once a teenage pageant star, Mara grows up to become a high-fashion model. She lives with deep regret after abandoning her child years earlier to chase her dreams.

Their paths cross again when Twinkle reaches out to Mara to finalize Angelo’s adoption. Twinkle plans to bring the child abroad for a new job, but Mara agrees to sign the papers only under one condition: Twinkle must help her win the biggest beauty pageant in the country.

As Twinkle reluctantly agrees, tensions rise. Mara slowly grows closer to Angelo, forcing Twinkle to confront his fears, insecurities, and what it truly means to be a parent. The film asks whether love is proven by blood or by the willingness to stay, sacrifice, and put a child first.

The cast also includes Pinoy Big Brother Celebrity Collab housemates Klarisse De Guzman, Mika Salamanca, Brent Manalo, Esnyr Ranollo, River Joseph, and Shuvee Etrata. They are joined by veteran and supporting actors Chanda Romero, Carmi Martin, Ces Quesada, John “Sweet” Lapus, MC Muah, Iyah Mina, Jennifer Sevilla, Robert Ortega, Tanya Gomez, and Divine Tetay.

Call Me Mother is produced by Star Cinema, The IdeaFirst Company, and Viva Films. Blending humor with emotional depth, the film aims to offer a warm and relatable story for families this holiday season.

The movie opens in cinemas nationwide beginning December 25. For updates, follow Star Cinema on Facebook, X, Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok, and @abscbnpr on major social media platforms.

updates

‘Love You So Bad’ Puts a Fresh Spin on a Familiar Love Triangle at the 51st MMFF

Toto 12/23/2025 09:42:00 PM

Love triangles are nothing new in Filipino films. The woman caught between two men, each willing to do anything for her love, is a story audiences have seen many times before. Yet “Love You So Bad,” an entry in the 51st Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF), finds new energy in the familiar by letting each character bring a distinct style of love, choice, and growth.

Starring Bianca de Vera, Dustin Yu, and Will Ashley, the film is a youthful romance that leans into longing, confusion, and self-discovery. Directed by Mae Cruz Alviar and written by Crystal San Miguel, “Love You So Bad” is a co-production of Star Cinema, GMA Pictures, and Regal Entertainment.

Set to premiere on December 25, 2025, the film officially joined the roster of the 51st MMFF on October 10, when it was announced as part of the festival’s second batch of entries at the University of Makati Performing Arts Theater.

At the center of the story is Savannah, played by Bianca de Vera. She is sassy, confident, and unapologetically herself—a college senior determined to live life on her own terms. But her carefully drawn lines begin to blur when she finds herself torn between two very different men.

One is LA, portrayed by Dustin Yu, a bad boy and undeniable chick magnet who fuels Savannah’s wild side. The other is Vic, played by Will Ashley, a principled and ambitious young man who challenges her to grow and look beyond her comfort zone.

“Sassy, confident and unapologetically herself, college senior Savannah (Bianca de Vera) is determined to live life on her own terms,” the film’s synopsis reads. “She finds herself torn between two very different men… As old wounds resurface and difficult choices confront her, she must decide who she really wants to be and who she dares to love.”

The love triangle may sound cliché, but what makes it compelling is how LA and Vic pursue Savannah in their own ways—one with charm and reckless confidence, the other with quiet sincerity and purpose. Each brings out a different side of her, forcing Savannah to confront not just who she loves, but who she wants to become.

Excitement around the film has steadily grown in the months leading up to its release. On December 1, Star Cinema unveiled character posters of Savannah, Vic, and LA, designed in a playful slam book style that gave fans a glimpse into each character’s personality.

A week later, on December 8, the cast and creative team gathered at the Dolphy Theater for the film’s Press & Party media day and official trailer launch. De Vera, Yu, and Ashley, along with Alviar and San Miguel, shared personal and heartfelt responses to questions from the media, adding depth to the story they are bringing to the screen.

The official teaser offers a closer look at the film’s emotional push and pull. In one key scene, Savannah stands in the middle of a crowded party as time seems to stop. She locks eyes with LA—then Vic. The moment captures the heart of the film: attraction pulling her in two directions at once.

Set to the mellow track “Sikulo,” sung by Angela Ken, Maki, and Nhiko, the teaser shows Savannah moving closer to LA before cutting to Vic, equally stunned and drawn in. A warm smile, a gentle embrace, and the question of who she is holding linger in the air.

The tension builds until Savannah suddenly faints. As both men carry her to what appears to be her pink bedroom, they are caught off guard by her intimate request: “Dito ka lang.” Whether she is speaking to one man, both, or to a deeper need for comfort is left unanswered.

Almost-kisses, whispered words, and glimpses of LA and Vic’s contrasting courting styles fill the teaser, hinting at the emotional stakes ahead.

“Love You So Bad” marks the big-screen collaboration of the three stars, following their appearance in “Pinoy Big Brother: Celebrity Collab Edition.” The film also stands as Star Cinema’s second MMFF entry this year, joining “Call Me Mother,” starring Vice Ganda and Nadine Lustre, and directed by Jun Robles Lana.

As the MMFF lineup for 2025 is completed, “Love You So Bad” stands out not for reinventing the love triangle, but for embracing it—showing that even the most familiar stories can still feel fresh when told with heart, honesty, and well-drawn characters.

“Love You So Bad” opens exclusively in Philippine cinemas on December 25.

2025/03/15

updates

‘The Kingdom’: A Metro Manila Film Festival Entry That Reimagines Philippine History

Toto 3/15/2025 11:05:00 PM

Here's my late review of the MMFF entry "The Kingdom"

What If History Took a Different Turn?

The Kingdom, one of this year’s standout entries in the Metro Manila Film Festival, dares to explore an intriguing question: What if the Philippines had never been colonized? The film presents an alternative reality where the country remained under the rule of pre-colonial leaders—Lakans and Rajahs—across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao.

With a powerhouse cast led by Vic Sotto, The Kingdom transports audiences into a visually striking world that reimagines the nation’s cultural roots. It breathes life into long-forgotten traditions—gestures like pagmamano (a sign of respect for elders), ritual handwashing before meals, the influential role of babaylan (spiritual leaders), and pagtutunggali, a form of combat used to settle disputes.

The Cast and their Roles

The movie is indeed a powerhouse cast, with each actor bringing their character to life in an interesting way. Here are the actors and their played characters. In addition is some of their quotable lines.

Vic Sotto - Lakan Makisig Nandula
"Sa tanda kong ito, hindi pa rin ako sanay sa bigat ng ginto sa'king ulo."

Piolo Pascual - Sulo/ Sulayman Tagum
"Mahirap makita ang katotohanan kapag nasa itaas."

Sue Ramirez - Dayang Lualhati Nandula
"Ngiti ang kabilang mukha ng pighati."

Sid Lucero - Magat Bagwis Nandula
"Magkabangga man tayo ng paniniwala, lahat tayo kung hindi man kapatid, anak."

Cristine Reyes - Dayang Matimyas Nandula
"Balang araw, ipapahamak ka ng bulag mong katapatan."

Nico Antonio - Tarek
Iza Calzado - Rosa
arthur acuña - Carpio
Ruby Ruiz - Silayan Hil-um
Zion cruz - Felipe

The Portrayal, the Picture, and What Stands Out

Throughout past Metro Manila Film Festivals, Vic Sotto has been a staple in the comedy genre, rarely venturing into other territories. This time, however, he takes on a different challenge. Despite aging gracefully, his performance remains top-notch, bringing depth to his character. Of course, true to form, he still manages to slip in a few well-timed comedic lines—effortlessly and naturally.

Sue Ramirez delivers a convincing portrayal of a Dayang betrothed to a foreign prince. Her performance, much like her previous roles, is simple, sincere, and engaging. She brings an air of authenticity that makes her character believable and relatable.

Piolo Pascual steps into the role of Sulo (Sulayman Tagum), a character shrouded in mystery and consumed by deep-seated rage. He embodies the role with intensity, reminiscent of his performances in Dekada ‘70 and other films that explore similar themes of anger and inner turmoil. His presence alone adds weight to the film’s narrative.

Cristine Reyes takes on a particularly challenging role, balancing two contrasting personalities—an angelic, dutiful daughter seeking her father’s approval and an ambitious, power-hungry woman who believes she is destined for the throne. Her performance keeps the audience intrigued, making us wonder what more she has to offer in future roles.

The supporting cast also deserves recognition, as each actor brings authenticity and energy to their respective characters, contributing to the film’s immersive atmosphere.

If there’s one aspect where the film could have done more, it’s in executing large-scale battle scenes. The grandeur of war sequences could have been better managed, with more dynamic camera angles and choreography to elevate the intensity of these moments.

A Deep Dive into Forgotten Traditions

One of the film’s greatest strengths is its dedication to reviving ancient Filipino customs. It reminds viewers how deeply our ancestors valued respect, honor, and community. Even the intricacies of royal succession and burial rites are carefully depicted, offering a glimpse of a heritage that could have evolved differently without foreign intervention.

However, while The Kingdom excels in storytelling and cultural representation, its fight choreography could have been more gripping. The action sequences, though pivotal to the plot, sometimes lack the intensity expected of epic battle scenes. Despite this, the film’s exploration of socio-political themes remains its strongest asset.

Themes That Resonate Today

Although set in a fictional pre-colonial era, The Kingdom subtly mirrors modern Philippine society. The film tackles themes that remain relevant today:

Power Struggles – The battle for control among leaders reflects the political rivalries that still shape the nation.
Sibling Rivalry – The tension between royal heirs vying for power is a reminder of family disputes over authority and inheritance.
Class Divide – The stark contrast between the elite and the common folk highlights social inequalities that persist to this day.
Corruption – Even in an imagined ancient society, the ruling class struggles with corruption, making the story feel all too familiar.
Tradition vs. Reform – The Lakan’s internal battle between upholding traditions and embracing change echoes today’s cultural debates.
Family and Honor – At its core, the film underscores the Filipino values of dignity, honor, and loyalty to family, even in the face of adversity.

A Reflection on What Could Have Been

The Kingdom challenges audiences to consider an alternate history. How would the Philippines have developed without colonization? Would its people have forged a stronger, uninterrupted cultural identity? The film doesn’t provide definitive answers, but it sparks meaningful reflection.

Thoughts About the Whole Film

The film may not be as perfect as most of us expects based on western big film companies, The Kingdom is a compelling blend of historical speculation and cultural appreciation. It doesn’t just entertain—it educates and inspires. By reimagining the country’s past, the film offers a fresh perspective on what it means to be Filipino.

For those eager to explore an alternate history of the Philippines, The Kingdom is a must-watch. It reignites pride in pre-colonial traditions and reminds us that our identity is shaped as much by what we have lost as by what we still hold dear.

Catch The Kingdom in theaters during the Metro Manila Film Festival, and immerse yourself in a world of what-ifs and what-could-have-beens.

For more film features and entertainment updates, visit www.kwentonitoto.com.

Rating

2024/12/14

updates

Bound by Fate, Separated by Time: 'My Future You' Shines This Christmas Season

Marco Polo Demo 12/14/2024 10:40:00 PM

FranSeth’s love team is set to make their big-screen debut this Christmas at the 50th Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) with "My Future You", a heartwarming romantic-family drama from Regal Entertainment.

The film, starring Francine Diaz and Seth Fedelin, premieres on December 25, 2024, as part of the MMFF’s golden anniversary lineup. It follows two individuals connected by a mysterious comet and a dating app that bridges their timelines—2009 and 2024. As they work to rewrite the past to create a brighter future, their decisions spark unexpected twists along the way.

Joining FranSeth (as their love team is fondly called) is a stellar cast, including Almira Muhlach, Christian Vasquez, Peewee O’Hara, Bodjie Pascua, Mosang, Marcus Madrigal, Vance Larena, Izzy Canillo, Angelica Lao, with special participation by Alex Calleja and Donna Cariaga.
v With its once-in-a-blue-moon Rated G classification from the Movie and Television Review and Classification Board (MTRCB), 'My Future You' is indeed the best choice for a feel-good, family-friendly movie this Christmas — perfect for viewers of all ages!

Official Synopsis

In 2009, Lex (Seth Fedelin) discovers a dating app that inexplicably links him to Karen (Francine Diaz) in 2024. As their connection deepens, Karen asks Lex to help her change moments from her past to prevent her parents’ separation. But every change brings unintended consequences, reshaping their lives in unpredictable ways. As they approach their final chance to fix everything, Lex and Karen must decide whether their love can withstand the forces of time.

Filmmaker's Vision: Parallel Journeys, One Destiny

Writer-director Crisanto B. Aquino, winner of Best Screenplay in MMFF 2019, shares the inspiration behind 'My Future You': While stuck in his apartment, a conversation with a friend sparked the idea: “What if two people, bored and lonely, connect through a random chat—only to discover they live in different timelines?”

Direk Cris describes the journey of creating the film as one of resilience and patience. The project evolved and grew over the years. Finally, in 2024, everything aligned for it to be brought to life with the emerging Kapamilya love team.

He reflects on FranSeth being part of this project, “May plano talaga ang Diyos sa lahat. Alam niya ang right timing. Tiwala lang at patience. (God really has a plan for everything. He knows the right timing. Just trust and have patience.)

"This movie taught me to believe in my work, my worth, and my talent.”

This rom-fam drama also showcases Aquino’s meticulous attention to detail in aligning the two timelines. Working closely with production designer Ericson Navarro and director of photography Jeyow Evangelista, Direk Cris ensured that while 2009 and 2024 were distinct in tone and design, their visual parallels reflected the characters’ shared journey toward love and purpose.

FranSeth’s First Film Together

'My Future You' marks the highly anticipated big-screen debut of the pairing of Francine Diaz and Seth Fedelin. First captivating fans in the hit ABS-CBN teleserye Kadenang Ginto, the love team now brings their chemistry to a greater height, building expectations and challenges for the two.

Director Crisanto Aquino recalls being impressed by their professionalism and commitment to their roles. “From our first table read, I knew I had found my Karen and Lex. Their dedication and natural connection brought the story to life. It’s their time, and they didn’t disappoint.”

The pair’s natural charm and “kilig” moments are sure to delight their fans while staying humble to the emotional core of the film.

The Regal Legacy Continues

As part of the 50th Metro Manila Film Festival, Regal Entertainment Inc. upholds its legacy of delivering films that resonate deeply with Filipino audiences here and abroad. From classic dramas to groundbreaking festival entries, Regal has shaped generations of moviegoers and continues to do so with “My Future You.”

Executive producer Roselle Y. Monteverde reflects on the film’s message: “For decades, we’ve been part of your Christmas traditions—making you laugh, cry, and believe in love. ‘My Future You’ celebrates everything we hold dear: family, love, and hope for a brighter tomorrow. This is a perfect gift to all Filipinos.”

The film’s official theme song, Eliza Maturan’s “Museo,” perfectly captures the longing and magic of the story. It’s a film everyone can enjoy together with lessons to bring and discuss even after the credits roll. The story explores universal struggles tied together by a unique and magical concept.

As the writer-director puts it, “I hope the audience will realize how to value the people around them, especially their family and loved ones. Sometimes, we search so hard for love, not realizing it’s already there.”

Executive produced by Lily Y. Monteverde †, Roselle Y. Monteverde, and Keith Monteverde, Regal Entertainment's entry to this year's MMFF is in line with the heart of its legacy — beating strong as it embraces fresh, innovative storytelling.

This Christmas, gather your loved ones and rediscover the magic of connection, hope, and belonging. Catch 'My Future You' in cinemas nationwide starting December 25, 2024 and make this holiday season unforgettable and magical as always!

2024/11/25

updates

Aga Muhlach, Nadine Lustre, and Vilma Santos Star in MMFF Thriller Uninvited

Toto 11/25/2024 10:08:00 PM

Philippine cinema’s top talents unite for Uninvited, a gripping thriller-drama set to captivate audiences at this year’s Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF). The film adds excitement to the festival's 50th-anniversary celebration.

The powerhouse cast is led by Aga Muhlach, Nadine Lustre, and the iconic Vilma Santos. They are joined by RK Bagatsing, Mylene Dizon, Lotlot de Leon, Gabby Padilla, Elijah Canlas, Ketchup Eusebio, Gio Alvarez, Cholo Barretto, Ron Angeles, and Tirso Cruz III, completing an impressive ensemble.

Produced by Mentorque Productions, known for the award-winning horror film Mallari, Uninvited promises another milestone for Filipino cinema. The film is distributed by Warner Bros. Pictures, a key partner in last year’s MMFF success. Adding to its pedigree is the involvement of Project 8 Projects, marking their first collaboration with Mentorque.

Prepare for a cinematic experience that’s set to leave audiences on the edge of their seats.

"Hindi Lang 'To Basta Party!"

The tagline “Hindi lang ’to basta party!” (“This is no ordinary party!”) teases the gripping mystery at the heart of Uninvited. What are the real stories and secrets behind the characters, and how are they connected?

Directed by Dan Villegas in his comeback directorial film after six years, Uninvited showcases an unforgettable collaboration of some of the most celebrated actors in Philippine cinema, with a screenplay written by Dodo Dayao.

Official Synopsis

Eva Candelaria (Vilma Santos) has been waiting for this day for the last ten years—the birthday party of Guilly Vega (Aga Muhlach), the billionaire who brutally murdered her only daughter a decade ago and escaped justice.

Disguised as a socialite, Eva attends the opulent event with a single goal: revenge. As the night unfolds, she carefully stalks each person involved in her daughter’s murder, inching closer to her ultimate target. But who is the true villain of her story? Is it Guilly or his daughter Nicole (Nadine Lustre)? Unarmed and without a concrete plan, Eva must make life-or-death choices as her options dwindle. Will she fulfill her mission, or will the night claim her life instead?

A Gift to Filipino Audiences

In celebration of MMFF’s 50th anniversary, Uninvited stands as a testament to the unparalleled excellence of Filipino filmmaking. Mentorque Productions, following the massive success of the MMFF 2023 entry Mallari, teams up with Project 8 Projects to craft a movie that guarantees a meaningful and unforgettable experience for viewers.

“We understand the challenges Filipinos face today,” shares Mentorque CEO John Bryan Diamante. “Watching a movie in theaters is a luxury, so we made sure this is worth every peso.”

It’s indeed a full cinematic experience in theaters this Christmas!

Filipino Talent on Full Display

Guilly Vega’s ominous line in the teaser—“Hindi lang ’to basta party!”—emphasizes the film’s deeper themes. Behind the mysterious story and lavish setting lies a gritty, thought-provoking message.

Mentorque’s growth in the industry speaks volumes about its dedication to Filipino talent. From modest beginnings to producing festival-worthy films, the company remains steadfast in its mission to highlight local stories and bring them to the global stage.

Mark Your Calendar!

Uninvited hits theaters nationwide starting December 25, as part of the highly anticipated 50th edition of MMFF. With its gripping story, stellar cast, and visuals rivaling Hollywood blockbusters, the film is a Christmas gift to Filipino moviegoers and a celebration of the resilience and artistry of Philippine cinema.

Not just an ordinary party, it’s a grand cinematic experience created by Filipino artists for Filipino audiences of all walks of life. Don’t miss this thrilling ride on the big screen!

2023/12/21

updates

Dingdong Dantes and Marian Rivera: A Heartfelt Reunion on the Big Screen

Toto 12/21/2023 11:01:00 PM

Dingdong Dantes and Marian Rivera, known as DongYan, are back together in a new film. While we often see this celebrity couple in their daily lives, watching them collaborate on-screen adds a unique touch.

Following their previous movie, "You To Me are Everything," the couple returns with a Christmas treat – a film that will warm your heart and make every moment worth cherishing.

Penned by Enrico Santos, the movie is a family-oriented story that everyone can relate to. Santos emphasizes that the narrative is tailor-made for Dingdong and Marian, aiming to showcase their chemistry.

The trailer reveals emotionally charged scenes, ensuring that if you remain unmoved after watching, you might be as tough as stone.

Set to hit cinemas nationwide this Christmas as part of the 49th Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF), "Rewind" follows John (Dingdong), attempting to reconcile with his family after a tragic accident claims his wife's life.

With unexpected assistance from Pepe Herrera's character, Lods, John gets a chance to rebuild his life and repair relationships. However, this opportunity comes with a hefty price tag.

Dingdong and Marian express their joy and gratitude for being part of Star Cinema's official MMFF entry, co-produced with APT Entertainment and Agosto Dos Pictures.

Dingdong shares, "From the first day we read the script, we were thrilled to bring it to life. We feel fortunate to be chosen for the MMFF. I guarantee that viewers, whether part of a family or a group of friends, will relate."

Marian adds, "It's a proud moment for me to fulfill a dream of making a film. I always look forward to working with Dong, and to this day, I still love being onscreen with him."

Director Mae Cruz Alviar and writer Enrico Santos commend Dingdong and Marian for their poignant performances, highlighting that their roles perfectly suit DongYan and will bring tears to the audience.

Mae shares, "Having DongYan portray John and Mary is a significant factor. The genuine love they feel translates into the material."

Enrico emphasizes, "We've been dreaming of a DongYan movie for the longest time. We wrote this for them. When the material is such a perfect fit, why wait? Dingdong and Marian were the unanimous decision."

The film boasts a stellar cast, including Sue Ramirez, Joross Gamboa, Lito Pimentel, Ina Feleo, Ariel Ureta, Pamu Pomerada, Mary Joy Apostol, Via Antonio, Chamyto Aguedan, and Coney Reyes.

Don't miss "Rewind" in the upcoming MMFF 2023, showing in cinemas nationwide from December 25. For film updates, follow ABS-CBN Films on social media platforms.

For more news, follow @abscbnpr on social media or visit www.abs-cbn.com/newsroom.

2023/12/08

updates

From Fear to Horror to MMFF: Discovering the Secret of Mallari

Toto 12/08/2023 12:15:00 AM

“Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it.” This famous quote from the writer-philosopher George Santayana is a fitting introduction to my story about this year's Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) entry from Mentorque Productions. What makes it even more interesting is that this film creates history in both the MMFF and the Philippine film industry. In essence, this film is a historical journey in every aspect of its MMFF entry.

The MMFF has become a part of Filipino culture during the yuletide season, offering a unique way for Filipinos to celebrate Christmas day—by enjoying the festival of Filipino films.

For those who are avid fans of the MMFF, it's noticeable that horror or suspense films have always been a staple in the film selections. There's something about horror films that Filipinos seem to enjoy watching during the Christmas season.

In 2023, Mentorque Productions presents a one-of-a-kind horror film titled 'Mallari,' inspired by the true story of Fr. Mallari, a parish priest in the 1800s who committed a shocking crime, killing 57 people. He was believed to be the first Filipino serial killer and, notably, the first Filipino priest to be executed.

Mallari Makes History

Mentorque Productions has indeed made history with its MMFF 2023 film entry, 'Mallari.' It marks the first Filipino movie distributed by Warner Brothers Pictures. To create a buzz about the film, Mentorque, in cooperation with Cleverminds Incorporated, organized the biggest and grandest media and fan conference last December 1 at The Music Hall of SM Mall of Asia, Pasay City. This event served as the kick-off for a month-long journey leading up to the December 25 release of MMFF 2023.

'Mallari' features the Philippines' ultimate heartthrob, Piolo Pascual, portraying Fr. Juan Severino Mallari, the first Filipino priest executed by the Spanish colonial government. Alongside Piolo, the movie boasts a talented cast that adds depth and intrigue to the story.

The media conference saw the presence of key figures, including John Bryan Diamante, President of Mentorque Productions; the main cast - Piolo Pascual, Janella Salvador, JC Santos, Gloria Diaz, and Ron Angeles; director - Roderick Cabrido; and writer - Enrico Santos.

Mallari: Partly Fiction and Partly True-to-Life

According to Director Roderick Cabrido and Writer Enrico Santos, 'Mallari' is a gripping blend of fiction and a true-to-life account inspired by the shocking story of Fr. Mallari. The film revolves around a Parish Priest in the 1800s who committed a heinous crime, becoming the first and only recorded Filipino serial killer, predating Jack The Ripper by more than 60 years.

Santos shared their experience of gathering recorded data about Fr. Mallari. Due to the scarcity of information, they even reached out to Madrid for additional details. As a result, the story was crafted to be partly fictional but set in a Filipino context.

Mallari Piques Warner Brothers Picture's Interest

Crafted and developed in 2018, this outstanding story and its production excellence caught the attention of Warner Brothers Pictures, leading to it being the film's distributor. 'Mallari' takes pride in its high-quality production and a team of exceptional caliber, promising to be the scariest movie this Christmas season during the MMFF 2023 run in cinemas nationwide.

Under the direction of Derick Cabrido, the film was shot in various historic locations in the Philippines, including a village built specifically for the project to recreate an authentic setting. Notably, it incorporates three timelines, blending retro horror with the immediate relatability of current terrors.

Mallari: A Film to Watch This December 25

With numerous entries in the 2023 MMFF, it will be interesting to watch them all. However, if there's a "first movie to watch," it undoubtedly should be 'Mallari.' If the trailer entices you, catching it on the big screen this coming December 25 would be a great choice.

For more information and updates, visit its Facebook page at facebook.com/mentorque and Instagram at @mentorqueproductions.