Cover This milestone 50th edition of the MMFF promises to be a celebration of creativity and the enduring magic of Philippine cinema
This milestone 50th edition of the MMFF promises to be a celebration of creativity and the enduring magic of Philippine cinema
1 / 1
This milestone 50th edition of the MMFF brings a fresh mix of genres, cultural explorations, and star-studded casts—a celebration of Filipino storytelling like never before
The holiday season in the Philippines isn’t complete without the Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF), a cherished tradition that has brought families and friends together in cinemas now for five decades.
As it returns this December, the 50th MMFF promises an exciting showcase of the best in Filipino filmmaking, with an array of films spanning genres that highlight the creativity and depth of the country’s film industry.
Several artists are exploring new creative directions this year, from theatre performers transitioning to the big screen to comedians delving into dramatic roles.
Here’s everything you need to know about this year’s festival, what sets it apart and the films you can’t miss.
New genres to explore
Above Stage actor and singer Aicelle Santos in the 2024 MMFF entry Isang Himala, a musical film adaptation of the 1982 classic Himala (Photo: CreaZion Studios)
Stage actor and singer Aicelle Santos in the 2024 MMFF entry Isang Himala, a musical film adaptation of the 1982 classic Himala (Photo: CreaZion Studios)
1 / 1
The 2024 MMFF lineup stands out for its variety of genres, ensuring every moviegoer finds something that appeals to their taste.
There’s drama in And the Breadwinner Is… starring none other than Vice Ganda. The film takes the spotlight with its heartwarming yet dramatic story of an Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW) caught between family expectations and personal sacrifices.
For fans of spine-chilling thrillers, Espantaho and Strange Frequencies: Taiwan Killer Hospital will have you on the edge of your seat. The latter, a meta-found footage film delves into ghost hunting in a haunted hospital—perfect for those seeking a thrilling mix of horror and mystery.
For those who love a twist on history, The Kingdom is an alternate reality where the Philippines was never colonised, starring Vic Sotto in a more dramatic role than his usual comedic antics. This film offers a fresh take on national identity and cultural evolution.
Star-studded casts
The 2024 MMFF wouldn’t be complete without the incredible talent of some of the Philippines’ most beloved actors. Expect to see:
- Star for All Seasons Vilma Santos, Aga Muhlach and Nadine Lustre in the highly anticipated thriller Uninvited
- Judy Ann Santos, Lorna Tolentino, JC Santos and Mon Confiado in drama-thriller Espantaho.
- Piolo Pascual and Sid Lucero joining Sotto in The Kingdom
Dennis Trillo and Sofia Pablo in the suspense drama Green Bones
Read more: 7 influential Asian leaders who dominated social media in 2024
Official entries and their themes
Above And the Breadwinner Is... is an upcoming Philippine family comedy drama film for the 50th MMFF, directed by Jun Robles Lana from a screenplay he co-wrote with Daisy Cayanan and Jumbo Albano
And the Breadwinner Is…
This film stars Eugene Domingo and Vice Ganda as an OFW navigating the complexities of family expectations and personal sacrifices. With a focus on the complexities of working abroad, the film explores themes of duty, love, and the price of success.
Espantaho
A chilling horror film featuring Judy Ann Santos and Lorna Tolentino, Espantaho takes audiences deep into local folklore, where fear of the supernatural intertwines with sinister family secrets. This dark tale explores how hidden truths and societal fears can haunt both the living and the dead.
Read more: ‘Hello, Love, Again’ shows us the struggles of being an OFW under the backdrop of a love story
The Kingdom
Starring Vic Sotto, this action-drama presents an alternate history where the Philippines was never colonised. The film explores themes of identity, nationhood, and the deep-rooted connection to cultural heritage, with an eye-opening reimagining of the country’s past.
Above This MMFF entry follows the story of an ex-special forces operative with PTSD attempting to save a woman who's being hunted by a corrupt police death squad for a drug cartel.
Topakk (also known internationally as Triggered)
Topakk pushes the boundaries of Philippine action cinema. Starring Arjo Atayde, this intense thriller follows a special forces operative attempting to save a woman on the run from a corrupt police death squad. Filled with violence and suspense, it promises to be an adrenaline-fuelled ride, suitable for mature audiences (R-16 or R-18).
Isang Himala
A musical film adaptation of the classic tale Himala, this film explores the themes of faith, miracles and community. With its emotional depth and cultural significance, it seeks to resonate with audiences, reflecting on the power of belief and the human spirit.
Read more: On Faith, Loss and Miracles: Aicelle Santos brings new depth to Elsa in ‘Isang Himala’
Strange Frequencies: Taiwan Killer Hospital
Prepare for a fresh take on horror with Strange Frequencies: Taiwan Killer Hospital. Led by Enrique Gil, this unscripted meta-found footage film marks the Philippines' first of its kind, offering an immersive and terrifying experience up close as it explores the supernatural horrors within a haunted hospital.
Above This MMFF entry promises to be the Philippines’ first horror movie of its kind.
Uninvited
A luxurious birthday celebration at a billionaire’s mansion turns into a thrilling night of secrets and socialite drama in Uninvited. As hidden truths emerge, the film invites viewers to dive into the complexities of wealth, power and human nature, all set against the backdrop of a glittering yet deadly soirée.
Green Bones
A gripping suspense thriller starring Dennis Trillo and Sofia Pablo, Green Bones follows a prison officer seeking justice after his sister and niece are brutally murdered by a soon-to-be-released felon. Directed by Zig Dulay, known for his award-winning work on Firefly, this film promises high-quality drama with powerful performances and a riveting storyline.
Read more: Filmmaker Zig Dulay is bringing Filipino soul to the global screen with depth and heart
Hold Me Close
Starring Julia Barretto and Carlo Aquino, Hold Me Close is a romantic fantasy that explores the intriguing concept of touch. Barretto plays a woman who has the unique ability to sense whether a person will bring happiness or harm into her life. This whimsical tale invites viewers to reflect on love, trust and the risks of following one's heart.
My Future You
This romantic comedy, starring Francine Diaz and Seth Fedelin, offers a refreshing take on modern relationships and online dating. The story follows Karen and Lex, whose connection sparks through a dating platform. Together, they navigate love and the complexities of time, even if it means changing the past to secure their future.
Read more: Is online dating the way of the future?
Unmissable activities
The Parade of Stars will be held in Manila on December 21, where fans will get the chance to meet the actors of this year’s lineup of entries. The parade will start at the Kartilya ng Katipunan and end at the Manila Central Post Office with a concert and series of performances.
Meanwhile, the Gabi ng Parangal (awards ceremony) will happen on December 27.
The MMFF 2024 runs from December 25 to January 7, with screenings in cinemas nationwide.
NOW READ
TJ Monterde on his evolution as an artist and how ‘Palagi’ changed the game
Syrah is Tatler Philippines’ Power & Purpose editor, where she spotlights extraordinary journeys shaping the Philippines and Asia. She covers business, innovation, impact, and culture—chasing the people, ideas and forces shaping how we live and think today.
