Showing posts with label Metro Manila Film Fest. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Metro Manila Film Fest. Show all posts

2025/03/15

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

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












2023/12/21

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

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.

2021/12/24

Eight Films To Watch This December 25 from Metro Manila Film Festival

12/24/2021 07:41:00 PM

 

Good day mga KaToto! Here's a heads up for all movie buffs! The Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) returns to cinemas this year, with eight official entries to watch.

Here is the list of the films shortlisted for the 2021 lineup:


1. "A Hard Day" (Viva Communications, Inc.)
Starring: Dingdong Dantes and John Arcilla
Directed by: Lawrence Fajardo


2. "Big Night" (Cignal Entertainment, Ideafirst Company, Octobertrain Films, and Quantum Films)
Starring: Christian Bables
Directed by: Jun Robles Lana


3. "Love At First Stream" (ABS-CBN Films Productions, Kwentolabs, Inc.)
Starring: Anthony Jennings, Jeremiah Lisbo, Daniela Stranner, Kaori Oinuma
Directed by: Cathy Garcia Molina


4. "Kun Maupay Man It Panahon (Whether The Weather Is Fine)" (Cinematografica, Plan C, House on Fire, etc. )
Starring: Daniel Padilla and Charo Santos
Directed by: Carlo Francisco Manatad


5. "Nelia" (A and Q Production Films)
Starring: WynWyn Marquez, Raymond Bagatsing
Directed by: Lester Dimaranan


6. "Huwag Kang Lalabas"
Starring: Kim Chiu, Beauty Gonzales, Aiko Melendez
Directed by: Adolf Alix Jr.


7. "The Exorsis" (TinCan)
Starring: Toni and Alex Gonzaga
Directed by: Fifth Solomon


8. "Huling Ulan sa Tag-Araw" (Heaven's Best Entertainment)
Starring: Ken Chan and Rita Daniela
Directed by: Louie Ignacio

Organizers said the eight entries were selected out of 19 films evaluated. The films were chosen based on the following criteria: artistic excellence (40%), commercial appeal (40%), Filipino sensibility (10%), and global appeal (10%).

Genres of the movies range from social drama, horror, action, suspense, romance, to comedy, the MMFF said.

Since theatres are now open to the public, we as viewers should also be mindful and follow the rules and protocols established by the IATF for our safety. 


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