The Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) has always been a staple of the holiday season, but let’s face it — past editions have been a mixed bag. There have been films that made you wonder how they got in. But this year, something feels different. The 2024 lineup isn’t just passable: it’s actually solid.
Running until Jan. 7, this year’s festival offers a diverse slate of 10 films spanning action, horror, drama and even musicals. And for those who’ve become a bit jaded about local cinema, here’s a tip: Give this year’s entries a shot.
Special shoutout to Cebuano director and fellow watch enthusiast Kerwin Go, who helms “Strange Frequencies: Taiwan Killer Hospital.” The found-footage horror film dives into the spooky and the absurd, featuring a cast of influencers and thrill-seekers navigating a haunted hospital. It’s the kind of genre experiment we don’t see enough of in mainstream Filipino cinema.
But Go’s work is just one highlight in a lineup that feels more thoughtfully curated than usual. Here’s a quick look at the films:
“And the Breadwinner Is…”
A comedy-drama that gives voice to the sacrifices of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) while keeping its humor intact.
“Espantaho”
A deeply Filipino horror story set during a family’s pasiyam, exploring cultural rituals and dark secrets.
“Green Bones”
A morality drama with gripping performances, questioning how far people can go to seek redemption.
“Hold Me Close”
A romantic fantasy that challenges the way we think about fate and connection.
“Isang Himala”
A musical reimagining of the classic Himala, offering both nostalgia and innovation.
“The Kingdom”
A grand alternate history of a Philippines untouched by colonization, wrapped in action and intrigue.
“My Future You”
A time-travel romance that examines the intricacies of love across different decades.
“Strange Frequencies: Taiwan Killer Hospital”
A bold entry into the horror genre, playing with the found-footage style to chilling effect.
“Topakk”
An action thriller addressing PTSD, offering depth alongside its high-octane sequences.
“Uninvited”
A revenge thriller with a social commentary edge, unfolding in the exclusive world of the ultra-wealthy.
With a mix of established stars and emerging talents, the lineup offers something for everyone. More importantly, supporting these films sends a message to filmmakers and producers: audiences are eager for better, more diverse storytelling. It’s an invitation to keep pushing boundaries and investing in quality projects.
