Kwento Ni Toto: Metro Manila Film Festival

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

2025/12/23

‘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.

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!

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.

2021/12/24

updates

Kun Maupay Man It Panahon, A Timely and Relevant Film Entry for the MMFF

Toto 12/24/2021 03:40:00 PM

Calamities happen and are uncertain, and this Kwento for today is about the tragedy that struck the Philippines, particularly the people of Leyte. This is an eye-opener for everyone!

With the recent news about the devastation brought by typhoon Odette hitting the headlines, the subject of the of Metro Manila Film Festival entry film Kun Maupay Man It Panahon (which opens in theaters nationwide on December 25) is as timely as ever. The globally recognized drama film starring Charo Santos, Daniel Padilla and newcomer Rans Rifol, tells of the aftermath of 2013 supertyphoon Yolanda. Kun Maupay Man It Panahon (English title: Whether the Weather is Fine) is inspired by director Carlo Francisco Manatad’s own experience of looking for his family in Tacloban because he could not reach them for days.

Carlo recalls what happened very vividly. “I tried to contact them but all reception and communication lines were damaged, and seeing the news then, one would think no one would survive the storm. Luckily, I was able to hitch in a plane carrying relief goods. I was the only passenger. When I arrived, my hometown was beyond recognition. All roads, structures, and any form of landmarks were gone. Mountains of dead bodies were scattered everywhere.”

After what seemed to be the longest day of his life, Carlo managed to find his loved ones—all 16 of them plus their family dog—alive and well. When the young filmmaker returned to Manila to resume work (he was doing film editing at that time), he could not shake off what he went through.

Those days in Tacloban have now led to an outstanding full-length feature (Carlo’s first) starring an acclaimed actress-producer, today’s most celebrated matinee idol, and a rising actress. All thanks to the persistence of Carlo and his collaborators, and the backing of 11 companies from five different countries. Kun Maupay Man It Panahon is truly an international movie as it is produced by Cinematografica (Philippines), planc (Philippines), House on Fire (France)| iWantTFC (Philippines), Globe Studios (Philippines), Black Sheep (Philippines), Quantum Films (Philippines), AAND Company (Singapore), KawanKawan Media (Indonesia), Weydemann Bros. (Germany), and CMB Films (Philippines).

The film had its world premiere at the 2021 Locarno Film Festival in Switzerland where it took home the Youth Jury Prize, and got raves at the Toronto International Film Festival. Canadian film critic Henry Tan of Universal Cinema hailed it for its two major feats: 1) using the dialect of Waray as the dialogue, and 2) bringing attention to how the Philippines responded to the aftermath of Yolanda. He wrote, “Carlo Francisco Manatad has done a great job in bringing awareness of this historical typhoon event in the Philippines. Whether the Weather is Fine… reminds the audience about the humanity in coming together to help the survivors move forward from a devastation.”

Kun Maupay Man It Panahon has traveled to 25 international film fests in a span of five months. During that time, it also won Special Mention by the Jury at the Guanajuato International Film Festival in Mexico and Best Director at the London East Asia Film Festival in the UK.

Carlo says, “Our team is thankful for the chance to bring our movie home as it tackles something we must live with. I feel it is important to discuss the reality of natural calamities in this generation we are in. A lot has been said about Filipino resilience especially in the wake of disasters--- both natural and otherwise---to the point that it has become cliché.

"Major typhoons have been happening more often so Odette's occurrence comes as no surprise... I think I speak on behalf of my co-filmmakers when I say that climate change and disaster preparedness are the more urgent issues. These should be addressed by everyone and not be 'masked' or neglected by the sentimentality of resilience."

2021/12/23

updates

"Love at First Stream” on Christmas Day

Toto 12/23/2021 09:04:00 AM

Celebrate Christmas this year with Star Cinema and kumu’s first ever collaboration movie “Love at First Stream,” an official entry to the 2021 Metro Manila Film Festival.

Topbilled by today’s rising stars Daniela Stranner, Anthony Jennings, Kaori Oinuma and Jeramiah Lisbo, “Love at First Stream” revolves around the new normal, where life is wildly digital. They are the Stream Team: the unstoppable dreamer Vilma (Daniela), the loyal lover boy Tupe (Anthony), the sweet girl-next-door Megumi (Kaori) and the bad boy heartthrob with a heart of gold Gino (Jeremiah).

Helmed by blockbuster director Cathy Garcia-Molina, the film showcases these young characters and how they experience romantic relationships, family and fight for their ambitions and dreams.

The film marks the first ever lead roles of Daniela, Anthony, Kaori and Jeremiah in a film after they were launched as artists of Star Cinema’s talent management arm, Rise Artists Studio, in 2019. Daniela first showcased her acting prowess in the ABS-CBN teleserye ‘Make it With You,’ opposite Anthony, who starred in Direk Cathy’s last project prior to this film, the digi-movie series ‘The House Arrest of Us.’ Kaori, a former housemate of ‘Pinoy Big Brother: Otso,’ has been in several television and digital series projects including the ‘Four Bad Boys and Me’ in 2020 and the phenomenal series ‘He’s Into Her’ early this year with Jeremiah, who’s also part of ‘Make it With You.’ Jeremiah also starred in the hit movie ‘Four Sisters Before The Wedding’ and recently topbilled an ‘MMK’ episode featuring the life story of ‘PBB’ ex-housemate Ralph Malibunas.

‘Love at First Stream’ also marks Direk Cathy’s first ever film to be part of the MMFF and her movie comeback after ‘Hello, Love, Goodbye’ in 2019. More blockbuster films under Direk Cathy’s helm include ‘Four Sisters and a Wedding,’ ‘The Hows of Us,’ ‘She's Dating The Gangster,’ and ‘My Ex and Whys.’

Since the announcement of ‘Love at First Stream’ in July, it has been an interactive and immersive project as search for other cast members and even singers to record the movie’s official soundtrack were done via kumu campaigns.

“We found a way to make kumu users part of [the movie],” said Paolo Pineda, kumu’s Chief Commercial Officer. “Not necessarily the big stars, but they can star in the movie, they can sing the song for the movie and a few more things. It’s all in the grand plan to make this a movie the Kumunity can be proud of.”

Joining the cast of ‘Love at First Stream’ are Agot Isidro, Hyubs Azarcon, Igiboy Flores, Melissa Gibbs, Pinky Amador, Almira Muhlach, RJ Ledesma, Gail Banawis and Vien King in their introductory roles, with the special participation of Tonton Gutierrez.

Nothing’s gonna stop us to DO MORE, DREAM MORE and LOVE MORE with ‘Love at First Stream.’ You may catch it in your favorite cinemas starting December 25 Christmas Day, following minimum health and safety protocols.
v For more details about ‘Love at First Stream,’ follow the official Star Cinema account (@starcinema). Also, be sure to subscribe to the social media channels of kumu (@kumu.ph) on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter now. You can also check out the kumu blog for all the latest happenings in the Kumunity.

Don’t have the kumu app yet? It’s easy! Download the app at Google Play or the App Store, and start adding to cart! Visit our website kumu.ph for more information and insights into the exciting world of kumu.

2020/12/18

Movie

Mang Kepweng: Ang Lihim Ng Bandanang Itim Takes Its Adventure This Christmas Day

Toto 12/18/2020 06:54:00 PM

If you've missed the square mustache and the red polka dot bandana, well, don't worry because they are back. It is definitely going to be the most awesome comeback of the year which will happen this Christmas Day, December 25 in ‘Mang Kepweng: Ang Lihim ng Bandanang Itim,’ an official entry to the Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) 2020.

From the success of its prequel ‘Mang Kepweng Returns’ in 2017, Vhong Navarro as Mang Kepweng takes on a new journey and challenges as villain Maximus Tolonges (played by Joross Gamboa) uses the power of the black bandana he stole from the kingdom of Engkadia to sow terror all over the place.

While only Mang Kepweng and his red polka dot bandana, the counterpart of the black bandana, can stop Maximus, the magic of the red polka dot bandana slowly diminishes due to his worsening attitude—he becomes boastful as he gets people’s attention because of his healing power. With the help of his new friends, Mang Kepweng finds the three ingredients that will bring back the power of his bandana but the journey becomes harder as they encounter the elements that try to stop them.

Will it be too late to realize that having such great power should come with great responsibility and humility? Will Mang Kepweng still be able to save the kingdom of Engkadia and the people from Maximus?

Directed by Topel Lee, ‘Mang Kepweng: Ang Lihim ng Bandanang Itim’ is a collaboration project between Cineko Productions and Star Cinema.

Completing the cast of the Pinoy fantasy horror-comedy film are Fumiya Sankai, Yamyam Gucong, Lotlot de Leon, Margo Midwinter, Alora Sasam, Rubi Rubi, Chad Kinis, Petite, Caloy Alde, Nikko Natividad, Lou Veloso, Mariko Ledesma, Kaladkaren, Patricia Roxas, Ritz Azul, Ion Perez, Ryan Bang, Benjie Paras, Barbie Imperial, and Ms. Jaclyn Jose.

It should be noted that ‘Mang Kepweng’ is a character that was popularized by the late comedian Chiquito in 1970’s to early 80’s. In previous interviews, Vhong expressed how proud he is to reprise the classic role.

“Isang karangalan na bigyang-buhay muli ang isa sa mga pinakasikat na karakter na ginampanan ni Papang (Chiquito),” he stated. “Sobrang proud ko dito.”

It’s time to unleash the ‘Mang Kepweng’ in every one of us this holiday season as ‘Mang Kepweng: Ang Lihim ng Bandanang Itim’ streams on http://upstream.ph beginning on December 25, Christmas Day. Using your GMovies account, tickets can be purchased as early as now on the site for only Php 250.00 each.

2019/12/19

of Love and Culture

Mindanao, A Story of A Mother, of Love and Culture

Toto 12/19/2019 01:29:00 PM

Mindanao is another movie created by one of the renowned director that portrays the reality of life and culture, Director Brillantes Ma Mendoza. As expected this new movie, that is part of the 2019 Metro Manila Film Festival, will definitely give you a glimpse of what is the culture of our fellow brothers and sisters in the south. It is also an eye-opener for every viewers that will watch or have watched this film, about the situation, the struggle, and the life everyone faces in Mindanao.

The movie Mindanao is starred by the Teleserye Queen, Judy Ann Santos-Agoncillo and Allen Dizon and some casts that will definitely bring you to a different perspective about the people and culture we don't usually see. A life of a mother, a wife and an individual living in Mindanao.

Just recently, I was able to attend the advance screening of the movie Mindanao, missed the press conference but was able to get a crisp of what is the movie all about. It is really hard to tell about the story of film to give your idea about it without spoiling the movie, but we will try to provide views that viewers can pick up and ponder.

The reality of life most of the time hits really hard and seeing the film Mindanao breaks my heart into pieces. This is probably what Director Brillantes aims as he creates the film to let you know, feel and realize that this is happening and he wants us to see life as how he sees it through his films. It may be a film but it's sad to know that there are characters in real life that is like them, fighting and coping what life has given them.

The character of Judy Ann shows not only how she embraces life and struggle but how a malong is given many ways of uses she pictures life as it is, how we all face life in different angle.

Vice Ganda and Anne Curtis in a Hilarious Film 'The Mall The Merrier'

Toto 12/19/2019 11:21:00 AM

It's another year to make the madlang people laugh. This is Vice Ganda's yearly devotion to fans and viewers. This year, under Star Cinema, Vice is bringing in hilarious antics from different comedians and she's rolling out the big gun, Anne Curtis, to make this year's film even more wackier than ever. Yes, Vice Ganda teams up with Anne Curtis in a family comedy film "The Mall, The Merrier".

Another plus, is the presence of Dimples Romana, still a villain but this time showcasing her funny side.

The Mall, The Merrier is about the rivalry of two sisters claiming ownership of a mall. Vice Ganda who plays Moira and Anne Curtis portrays Morisette, this is their first-time to co-star together. Then, their Tita Moody came and things get more complicated.

Soon, it becomes clear that Moody is looking to unearth a magical book for her evil plans, forcing the sisters to set aside their friction and team up against their common nemesis. The trailer also shows glimpses of fantasy elements, with headless mannequins, toy robots, and statues coming to life and joining a full-scale war inside the mall.

Watch our coverage of the press conference and some vids.

So, what will be the end of the film? Better watch it this Christmas Day, December 25.