The 50th Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) Gabi ng Parangal was a dazzling night of celebration, artistry, and inspiration. Held at the Solaire Grand Ballroom in Parañaque City on December 27, 2024, the event brought together the best of Filipino filmmaking. Here’s a closer look at the most memorable moments of the evening:
Outstanding Film Recognitions
The festival’s top honor, Best Picture, went to Green Bones, a poignant prison drama that captivated audiences with its powerful storytelling. The film also earned accolades for Best Actor (Dennis Trillo), Best Screenplay, and Best Cinematography.
Other celebrated films included:
- The Kingdom, which won 2nd Best Picture and Best Production Design for its compelling world-building.
- My Future You, which bagged 3rd Best Picture, Best Editing, and Best Director (shared by Crisanto Aquino).
- Isang Himala, which secured 4th Best Picture and a Special Jury Prize.
Inspirational Performances
The acting categories were filled with heartfelt tributes and emotional speeches.
- Best Actress: Judy Ann Santos delivered a chilling performance in the horror film Espantaho, a role many described as transformative.
- Best Supporting Actor: Ruru Madrid added depth to Green Bones with a performance that left audiences in awe.
- Best Supporting Actress: Kakki Teodoro shone in Isang Himala, delivering a standout performance that was both heartfelt and nuanced.
Rising Stars Shine Bright
The night also celebrated emerging talent, with Seth Fedelin receiving the Breakthrough Performance Award for his role in My Future You. Fedelin’s heartfelt acceptance speech reflected his gratitude and excitement for the future.
Special Awards and Tributes
- Lifetime Achievement Award: The festival honored Joseph “Erap” Ejercito Estrada for his unparalleled contributions to Philippine cinema, including his work as an actor, producer, and advocate for the arts.
- Special Jury Citation: Vice Ganda, a consistent festival favorite, was lauded for a standout comedic performance in And the Breadwinner Is….
Golden Anniversary Highlights
As the MMFF celebrated its 50th anniversary, the night was filled with tributes to the festival’s legacy. Clips from iconic MMFF-winning films were showcased, drawing nostalgic reactions from attendees. A special segment honored the late Marilou Diaz-Abaya and Eddie Garcia, whose contributions to Filipino cinema continue to inspire.
A Celebration of Diversity and Vision
This year’s festival demonstrated the evolving diversity in Filipino cinema. Films tackled themes from personal redemption (Green Bones) to existential musings on destiny (My Future You). The lineup included both commercial hits and critically acclaimed works, showcasing the industry’s ability to balance art and entertainment.
The Snubs of the Night: Who Went Home Empty-Handed?
While the 2024 MMFF Gabi ng Parangal celebrated numerous talents, the night wasn’t without its surprises and disappointments. Some notable films and performances that many expected to win were left unrecognized:
“Espantaho” Falls Short in Technical Awards: Despite Judy Ann Santos’ Best Actress win, the horror film Espantaho failed to secure awards in technical categories like Production Design and Cinematography, where it was considered a strong contender.
Vice Ganda Misses Major Acting Recognition: Although Vice Ganda received a Special Jury Citation for And the Breadwinner Is…, many fans felt the comedian deserved a major acting award for their performance, which blended humor with heartfelt drama.
“Topakk” Overlooked for Acting Nods: While Topakk secured a Special Jury Prize, standout performances by Arjo Atayde and Julia Montes were surprisingly absent from the acting categories.
“The Kingdom” Wins Visuals, Not Story: Despite taking home Best Production Design and 2nd Best Picture, Michael Tuviera’s The Kingdom missed out on Best Screenplay and acting categories, where it was also heavily favored.
“Isang Himala” Supporting Cast Overlooked: Though the film was honored with a Special Jury Prize and Kakki Teodoro’s Best Supporting Actress win, many expected its ensemble cast to earn additional acting nominations.
Despite the chilling acclaim and captivating performances, The Uninvited led by Vilma Santos, Aga Muhlach and Nadine Lustre left the 2024 MMFF Gabi ng Parangal without a win. A haunting snub that fans and critics are still talking about.
These snubs highlight the competitive nature of the MMFF, where every category is fiercely contested. While some fans voiced disappointment, the diversity in this year’s winners reflects the festival’s effort to celebrate various aspects of filmmaking.
