President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. encouraged the public to support and patronize the films featured in the 2024 Metro Manila Film Festival, which is also marking its 50th anniversary.
In a video message on Thursday, Marcos reiterated that the Christmas season is a time for families and individuals to come together and show love for one another.
"Ang panahong ng kapaskuhan ay panahon upang lalong magsama-sama at magmahalan ang bawat pamilya at ang bawat isa sa atin," Marcos stated.
Alongside this, the president highlighted that this Christmas season, films showcasing stories of our heritage will once again take center stage.
Furthermore, he pointed out that the MMFF is also celebrating a special milestone this year, marking its 50th anniversary.
"Ang mga magagandang pelikulang kalahok ngayon, na golden year ng MMFF, ay siguradong magbibigay ng gintong saya at mag-iiwan ng mga ginintuang aral," said Marcos.
"Tangkilikin po natin ang kwentong Pilipino. Suportahan po natin ang Metro Manila Film Festival 2024. Isama ang buong pamilya, buong barkada at panoorin ang sampung pelikula na handog ng MMFF," he added.
The 2024 MMFF lineup includes the following films:
And the Breadwinner Is…
A comedy film directed by Jun Robles Lana, starring Vice Ganda, Eugene Domingo, Joel Torre, and other renowned artists, revolves around a heartfelt family story.
Green Bones
Another masterpiece by Zig Dulay, co-written by National Artist for Film and Broadcast Arts Ricky Lee, stars Dennis Trillo and Ruru Madrid and explores themes of love and sacrifice.
The Kingdom
The story takes place in the Kingdom of Kalayaan, an alternate version of the Philippines where the islands were never colonized. It stars Vic Sotto and Piolo Pascual and is directed by Michael Tuviera.
Isang Himala
Starring Aicelle Santos, David Ezra, Victor Robinson, and Bituin Escalante, this musical film is an adaptation of the 2018 stage production Himala: Isang Musikal.
Strange Frequencies: Taiwan Killer Hospital
Produced by Reality MM Studios, Inc. and directed by Kerwin Go, this horror film follows a team of celebrities and amateur ghost hunters, led by actor Enrique Gil. They are invited to explore and document one of Southeast Asia's most haunted locations.
Espantaho
Another horror film directed by Chito S. Roño, starring Judy Ann Santos and Lorna Tolentino, revolves around dark secrets.
My Future You
A romantic comedy film starring Francine Diaz and Seth Fedelin, exploring a unique love story that spans across different timelines.
Hold Me Close
Starring Carlo Aquino, who has spent seven years traveling the world in search of a place and purpose, the film follows his journey as he meets Julia Barretto, where they begin to build a connection.
Uninvited
A thriller film starring Vilma Santos, who plots to seek revenge against Aga Muhlach, whom she believes is responsible for her daughter's murder. Renowned artist Nadine Lustre also joins the ensemble of artists in the film.
Topakk
The film stars Arjo Atayde, Julia Montes, Kokoy de Santos, and Sid Lucero. This action-packed film tackles mental health struggles, missions, and combat.
The film festival will run from December 25, 2024, to January 7, 2025, with screenings available at cinemas nationwide.
