MMFF completes 2024 lineup with diverse film entries

MMFF completes its 2024 lineup of movies. INQUIRER.net/ Faith Argosino

The Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) has unveiled the second batch of its entries, completing its lineup for this year with movie offerings starring crowd-drawers such as Vilma Santos, Vice Ganda, Vic Sotto, Nadine Lustre, and Julia Barretto.

The announcement was made by Metro Manila Development Authority chairman Don Artes, who heads the annual film festival devoted to screening only Filipino films from December 25 (Christmas Day) to the first week of January of the following year.

“The final five films, chosen from a pool of numerous high-quality submissions, highlight the festival’s commitment to presenting a diverse array of stories – from heartwarming tales and comedies to thought-provoking dramas and epic adventures, ensuring a rich cinematic experience for audiences of all tastes,” the MMFF said.

The MMFF, which is celebrating its 50th year with the theme “Sinesigla sa Singkwenta,” received 70 film entries, though only 10 made the cut.

Among the second batch of movies that will be screened during the festival run are the following:

• “My Future You,” a romance starring Francine Diaz and Seth Fedelin, or jointly called “FranSeth.” The movie is directed by Crisanto Aquino.
• “Uninvited,” a horror directed by Dannie Villegas, starring Aga Muhlach, Vilma Santos, Mylene Dizon, and Nadine Lustre.
• “Topak,” an action movie directed by Richard Somes, featuring Julia Montes and Arjo Atayde.
• “Hold Me Close,” a romance movie starring Julia Barreto and Carlo Aquino.
• “Espantaho,” a horror film by Chito S. Roño featuring Judy Ann Santos and Lorna Tolentino.

Here is the list of the first batch of MMFF entries announced last July:

• “And the breadwinner is…,” a drama-comedy starring Vice Ganda and Eugene Domingo, directed by Jun Lana.
• “Green Bones,” starring Dennis Trillo and directed by Zig Dulay.
• “Strange Frequencies: Haunted Hospital,” starring Jane de Leon and Enrique Gil, directed by Kerwin Go.
• “Himala: Isang Musikal,” is a reimagine musical by Pepe Diokno, starring Aicelle Santos and Bituin Escalante.
• and, “The Kingdom,” starring Vic Sotto and Piolo Pascual

“As we commemorate our 50th year, we look back with pride at the growth and achievements of the MMFF. But more importantly, we look forward to the future it helps to shape – one where Filipino cinema continues to thrive and inspire,” said Artes.

Meanwhile, the annual Parade of Stars will resume on December 15, while the Gabi ng Parangal will be held on December 27.