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