MMFF 2023 continues to soar high
The Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) 2023 has not only gripped audiences with stellar films but also smashed through the billion-peso box office mark, setting a renewed precedent for Filipino cinema. Here are the highlights and winners of this artistic event.
1 billion-peso box office and clamor for extension
Image credit: Manila Film Festival (MMFF) Official via Facebook
MMFF 2023 has roared past expectations, raking in a staggering P1 billion in box office revenue. Surpassing 2022’s P500 million and 2018’s P1.061 billion records. This financial triumph underscores the immense appetite for quality Filipino films, marking a watershed moment in the industry.
Along with the official announcement of the MMFF hitting the billion-peso mark, they also shared that from the original 7th January closing of MMFF 2023, moviegoers can still catch the 10 participating films until 14th January (Sunday).
Image credit: @starcinema via Instagram
“We at the MMFF would like to express our deepest gratitude to all who have supported us and watched the movie entries, particularly those who requested for the MMFF movies to extend beyond its original run,” MMDA Acting Chairman and MMFF Overall Concurrent Chairman Atty. Don Artes said.
Gabi ng Parangal awardees
Image credit: @msderossi via Instagram
The winners of the 2023 MMFF Gabi ng Parangal which was held on 27th December 2023 reflect a diverse spectrum of cinematic excellence. From heartwarming dramas, such as When I Met You in Tokyo to edge-of-the-seat thrillers, such as Mallari – the festival celebrated the best in storytelling.
GMA Pictures and GMA Public Affairs’ Firefly clinched the coveted Best Picture award, captivating audiences with its poignant narrative by acclaimed director Zig Dulay and stellar performances from its actors – led by veteran actress Alessandra de Rossi and child actor Euwenn Mikaell.
Image credit: @gomburzafilm via Instagram
See the complete list of winners here:
Best Picture – Firefly
2nd Best Picture – GomBurZa
3rd Best Picture – Mallari
4th Best Picture – When I Met You in Tokyo
Best Actor – Cedrick Juan, GomBurZa
Best Actress – Vilma Santos, When I Met You in Tokyo
Best Supporting Actor – JC Santos, Mallari
Best Supporting Actress – Miles Ocampo, Family of Two
Best Child Performer – Euwenn Mikaell, Firefly
Best Director – Pepe Diokno, GomBurZa
Best Screenplay – Angeli Atienza, Firefly
Best Cinematography – Carlos Canlas Mendoza, GomBurZa
Best Editing – Benjamin Tolentino, K(ampon)
Best Production Design – Ericson Navarro, GomBurZa
Best Visual Effects – Gaspar Mangarin, Mallari
Best Original Theme Song – “Finggah Lickin’,” Becky & Badette
Best Score – Von de Guzman, Mallari
Best Sound – Melvin Q. Rivera and Louie Boy Bouson, GomBurZa
Best Float – When I Met You in Tokyo
A blockbuster MMFF 2023
The festival’s success isn’t just about numbers; it’s about audience approval. Viewers played a pivotal role in determining the winners, reinforcing the festival’s commitment to delivering what truly resonates with the masses.
In a cinematic whirlwind, MMFF 2023 has etched its name in history, not just for the revenue it generated but for the fresh wave of creativity and talent it unleashed onto the Filipino film landscape.
Check this list out if you want to watch more Filipino movies and series, such as LGBTQ+-centered movies and series. If you’re feeling nostalgic, here are some Tagalog barkada movies and series over the years to binge-watch.
Cover image adapted from: Manila Film Festival (MMFF) Official via Facebook