Metro Manila Film Festival 2016 entries announced

Eight feature films have been chosen as official entries to the Metro Manila Film Festival 2016.

The MMFF executive committee announced the “Magic 8” as follows:

— “Die Beautiful,” directed by Jun Robles Lana; starring Paolo Ballesteros

— “Kabisera,” directed by Arturo San Agustin and Real Florido; starring Nora Aunor, Ricky Davao, JC de Vera, Jason Abalos, Victor Neri and Rj Agustin

— “Saving Sally,” directed by Avid Liongoren; starring Rhian Ramos and Enzo Marcos

— “Seklusyon,” directed by Erik Matti; starring Rhed Bustamante, Phoebe Walker, Elora Espano, Neil Ryan Sese, Ronnie Alonte, Lou Veloso, Dominique Roque, John Vic de Guzman and JR Versales

— “Sunday Beauty Queen,” directed by Baby Ruth Villarama; starring Hazel Perdid, Maylyn Jacobo, Cherry Bretania and Leo Selomenio

— “Vince & Kath & James,” directed by Ted Boborol; starring Julia Barretto, Joshua Garcia and Ronnie Alonte

— “Ang Babae sa Septic Tank 2: Forever Is not Enough,” directed by Marlon Rivera; starring Eugene Domingo and Chris Martinez

— “Oro,” directed by Alvin Yapan; starring Joem Bascon

The short film entries are:

— “Birds” by Christian Paulo Lat

— “EJK” by Bor Ocampo

— “Manila Screen” by Roque Lee and Blair Camilo

— “Mga Bitoon sa Siyudad” by Jarell Serencio

— “Mitatang” by Argin Jezer Gagui

— “Momo” by Avid Liongoren

— “Passage of Life” by Renz Vincemark Cruz and Hannah

— “Sitsiritsit” by Brian Spencer Reyes

The competing eight full-length films were selected based on their story, audience appeal and overall impact (40 percent); cinematic attributes or technical expertise (40 percent); global appeal (10 percent); and Filipino sensibility (10 percent).

The MMFF opens on Christmas Day.  Clarizel Abanilla