Actors with Down syndrome headline MMFF 2025 entry ‘I’mPerfect’

Two actors with Down syndrome take on leading roles in this year’s Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) entry film “I’mPerfect,” a romantic drama that has drawn early praise online for its focus on inclusivity in Philippine cinema.

Produced by Nathan Studios Inc. and directed by Sigrid Andrea P. Bernardo, “I’mPerfect” was selected as an official entry to the festival’s 51st edition.

Its teaser, which features the line, “When the world says they can’t… They’ll show us they can,” went viral and sparked online discussion upon its release, with netizens praising the film for spotlighting underrepresented communities.

The film follows Jiro (Earl Jonathan Amanda) and Jessica (Anne Krystel Daphne Go), whose chance encounter leads to a story of affection, independence and acceptance.

Bernardo, who’s best known for her work “Kita Kita,” said the film marks the culmination of a project she has been developing for 15 years. 

“I am thankful to Nathan Studios for making my vision come to life. After 15 years, finally, our story will be shared to the world with the aim of bringing inclusive voices to life,” she said in a statement.

The cast also includes Sylvia Sanchez, Janice de Belen, Lorna Tolentino, Tonton Gutierrez, Joey Marquez and Zaijian Jaranilla.

While actors with Down syndrome have appeared in local films before, “I’mPerfect” places their experiences at the center of its narrative, especially in a major film festival like MMFF.

“I’mPerfect” opens on Dec. 25 as part of the 2025 MMFF. The other entries to this year’s festival include “Rekonek,” “Call Me Mother,” “Manila’s Finest,” “Shake, Rattle & Roll: Evil Origins,” “Love You So Bad,” “Unmarry” and “Bar Boys: After School.” /ra