‘Mang Kepweng: Ang Lihim ng Bandanang Itim’

Vhong Navarro

(We are running this guide to help you plan your holiday movie-watching activity during the pandemic. The 46th Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) Christmas Edition runs from Dec. 25 to Jan. 7, 2021. Tickets are available online via https://upstream.ph/mmff/.)

Directed by Topel Lee; stars Vhong Navarro, Jaclyn Jose, Joross Gamboa, Lotlot de Leon, Barbie Imperial, Ritz Azul, Fumiya Sankai, Yamyam Gucong, Ryan Bang; produced by Cineko Productions and Star Cinema

Scene from “Mang Kepweng: Ang Lihim ng Bandanang Itim”

In this second installment of “Mang Kepweng’s” modern reimagining, Vhong returns as the titular hero—the beloved, quirky faith healer—which was originally popularized by the legendary comedian Chiquito in the late 1970s.

“It’s a big honor to bring to life once more a classic pop-culture character played by Chiquito. I’m proud of this,” the actor-television host said.

The more fame and success Mang Kepweng enjoys, the more arrogant and individualistic he becomes. And this, in turn, leads to the deterioration of his power source—the magical red polka dot bandana.

As it happens, Maximus Tolonges (Joross), steals the equally powerful black bandana from the kingdom of Engkadia and uses it to sow terror. And in his efforts to regain his power and stop the villain, Mang Kepweng reconnects with his friends, and rediscovers the importance of humility and camaraderie.

Vhong, who first played Mang Kepweng in 2017, said reprising the role in this sequel is an achievement.

“This time, a movie of mine—where I play the lead role—had a Part 2. I find it heartening because it means that the public and producers liked the first, enough to entrust the role to me again,” he said. —ALLAN POLICARPIO