A Look at the 2018 Metro Manila Film Festival Official Entries: Preview of the 44th Annual MMFF Movie Titles

The 2018 Metro Manila Film Festival is right around the corner and that only means one thing, we at Pinoy Movie Blogger are there to cver it by giving our trailer impressions, and check them out and actually give our movie reviews if the trailers picqued our curiosity and interest. For now, let's talke a look at the official entries for the 44th annual Metro Manila Film Festival entries for 2018.


The 44th Metro Manila Film Festival official entries for 2018
2018 MMFF official entries

• Aurora is a horror film under the direction of Yam Laranas starring Anne Curtis.
• Fantastica is a fantasy comedy film under the direction of Barry Gonzales starring starring Vice Ganda, Richard Gutierrez, Dingdong Dantes, Kisses Delavin, Donny Pangilinan, Loisa Andalio, Ronnie Alonte, Maymay Entrata, Edward Barber, and Bela Padilla.
• Jack Em Popoy: The Puliscredibles is an action comedy film under the direction of Mike Tuviera starring Coco Martin, Maine Mendoza and Vic Sotto.
• Mary, Marry Me is a romantic comedy film under the direction of RC delos Reyes starring Toni Gonzaga, Alex Gonzaga and Sam Milby.
• One Great Love is a romantic drama film under the direction of Eric Quizon starring Kim Chiu, Dennis Trillo and JC de Vera.
• Otlum is a horror comedy film under the direction of Joven Tan starring Ricci Rivero and Jerome Ponce.
• Rainbow's Sunset is a film under the direction of Joel Lamangan starring Eddie Garcia, Tony Mabesa, Gloria Romero and Sunshine Dizon.
• The Girl in the Orange Dress is a romantic film under the direction of Jay Abello starring Jessy Mendiola and Jericho Rosales.

We will soon be providing our trailer impressions for each of the official entries of the 2018 Metro Manila Film Festival, so visit us often here at Pinoy Movie Blogger for the updates. We are wondering, what amongst the official entries are you looking forward to see when it comes out on Philippine theaters this December 25, 2018? Which ones are the least of your priorities or will not watch at all? Why? Share your thoughts and opinion about the 2018 Metro Manila Film Festival official entries in the comments section below and let's discuss about it.

Die Beautiful Trailer Impressions: Paolo Ballesteros Internationally Acclaimed and Award-Winning Film is an Official Entry to the 2016 MMFF

Die Beautiful 2016 comedy drama film from The IdeaFirst Company and Octobertrain Films and is an official entry to the 42nd Metro Manila Film Festival this 2016 under the direction of Jun Robles Lana and production by Perci Intalan featuring Paolo Ballesteros slated for a December 25, 2016 nationwide theatrical release. Die Beautiful had its premiere internationally at the 29th Tokyo International Film Festival on October 27, 2016 wherein Paolo Ballesteros won the Best Actor Award and "Die Bautiful" winning the Audience Award. Let's check out what this internationally acclaimed film featuring Paolo Ballesteros comedy drama film has to offer.


Die Beautiful
Plot / Synopsis

"Tricia" (Paolo ballesteros) is like to join beauty competitions but has zero luck as she is not that bright to make it to the final question and answer portion but her resolved is doe not waver. Die Beautiful walks us through the life of Tricia and celebrate her life as a contest addict regular, friend, family person, a lover, and a mother until her inevitable end.

Watch Die Beautiful Official trailer here:





Die Beautiful Official Trailer Impression
Die Beautiful Film Trailer Review


What can be said about Die Beautiful official movie trailer? I can finally say that we finally have a decent comedy entry to the Metro Manila Film Festival as for the rest of us, the annual MMFF has been a thriving place for the repetitive dumb and loud humor, while still considered humor it is not really revolutionizing the genre or influencing people. Heck, most of the MMFF comedy entries of the past have their morals put to question with the rest of the content of these "films" or the "morals" are shove down everyone's throats with little to no subtlety. What the Die Beautiful trailer can show us that there can be a generic loud gay comedy stereotype but with an actual heart, character and plot progression, and an understanding on the life of a minority group in our generally "conservative" Filipino society.


It is quite refreshing to see a Metro Manila Film Festival that has no Vice Ganda and Vic Sotto film in the comedy genre. This 42nd Metro Manila Film Festival we have "Die Beautiful" mainly starring Paolo Ballesteros and "Ang Babae sa Septic Tank 2: #ForeverIsNotEnough" with Eugne Domingo as replacement which for a majority of film critiques is a breathe of fresh air. Change has not only come to the country with its new President, but for the annual film festival as well. Let us just see if the people behind the MMFF can keep their strict and higher requirements for passing entries, or if Vic Sotto and Vice Ganda will make entries in accordance to that stricter rules, and for once in their comedic careers would make a funny yet revolutionary or thought provoking comedies. One thing is for sure, Die Beautiful is one entry wherein I can say confidently say will restore the faith back to the Metro Manila Film Festival.


How about you guys? What do you think about this 2016 award winning recognized internationally starring Paolo Ballesteros? What do you think about the concept of the film wherein right from the start you know the inevitable faith of the protagonist? What do you think about Die Beautiful being in the official entries to the 2016 Metro Manila Film Festival? Share your thoughts and opinion about Die Beautiful in the comments section below and let's discuss about it.

My Bebe Love: #KiligPaMore Official Trailer Impressions: 2015 MMFF Romantic Film Debut of the AlDub Love Team

My Bebe Love: #KiligPaMore is a 2015 romantic comedy film from OctoArts Films, M-Zet Productions, APT Entertainment, GMA Films, and MEDA Productions and is an official entry to the 41st Metro Manila Film Festival this 2015 under the direction of Jose Javier Reyes which stars Ai-Ai de las Alas, Vic Sotto, Alden Richards, Maine Mendoza slated for a December 25, 2015 theatrical release. Let's check out what this romantic comedy debut film for AlDub or MaineDen has to offer.


My Bebe Love: #KiligPaMore
Plot / Synopsis

Dondi (Alden Richards) is a nerd and an obedient nephew to his aunt (Ai-Ai de las Alas) who makes most of the decisions for him. Meanwhile, Anna (Maine Mendoza) is a stubborn and rebellious girl who seeks the attention of her father (Vic Sotto). Dondi and Anna cross path and eventually fall in love with each other. How can this romantic couple have a happy ending when both their guardians are against with them being together.

Watch My Bebe Love: #KiligPaMore Official trailer here:

Eto na ang pinaka hihintay ng Aldub Nation, Full Trailer ng My Bebe Love manonood ka ba?Credit: Octo Arts, APT Entertainment

Posted by Tambayan ni Berto on Friday, November 20, 2015

Official My Bebe Love: #KiligPaMore Trailer Impression
My Bebe Love: #KiligPaMore Film Trailer Review


What can be said about the My Bebe Love: #KiligPaMore official movie trailer? Well it is the debut film of the very popular AlDub (or MaineDen) love team from the Kalyeserye segment of the Philippine's longest running noontime variety show Eat Bulaga. That is basically the biggest catch and hype for this 2015 MMFF romantic comedy film; that this is the first movie where fans will see Alden Richards and Maine Mendoza outside of their usual Kalyeserye (Eat Bulaga) character as Alden and Yaya Dub. The My Bebe Love: #KiligPaMore teaser trailer was first released on the Tamang Panahon concert which filled Philippines biggest indoor arena, The Philippine Arena and broke previous trending records in Twitter. Given such facts, one can safely say that My Bebe Love: #KiligPaMore will be an instant blockbuster this 41st Metro Manila Film Festival.


Now that we have gotten some basic facts out of the way, we now come down to the juicier part, the story. Just humor me. Have you ever encountered a local romantic film that featured two couple so in love with each other but the only problem is their families which is completely against it? Yup, I guess so. Well, there are variation to this cliched theme which could either lead to a good or bad (tragic) ending. Obviously, My Bebe Love: #KiligPaMore is going for the latter with a dead giveaway that Vic Sotto (Maine's father in the film) eventually falling for Ai-Ai de las Alas (Alden's aunt in the film) which will eventually give their approval in the end. One can argue that it is not the destination, but more of the journey itself is what is worth experiencing and this is why this movie will be successful. Eat Bulaga's marketing influence and pair it up with the "kilig" factor brought by the on-screen team-up is what fans will be looking forward to see in this seemingly formulaic film once it hits December 25, 2015. The "look" of the film through this official trailer feels so underwhelming as it is of low-quality or maybe there will be a bump up to the overall picture quality and cinematography once it is on theaters, but for now this looks and shouts low quality and budget. I can compare or equate this film to another 2015 MMFF entry, Haunted Mansion. Haunted Mansion, which by the way has better cinematography from its trailer alone, will also debut another love team (MarNella), but instead of using the romcom genre like My Bebe Love: #KiligPaMore, Haunted Mansion will be using horror. Both have cliched themes with a fresh coat of paint.


How about you guys? Are you looking forward to the first film of the AlDub love team? For a non-fan of Eat Bulaga or the Kalyeserye are you curious to see this given that you are a fan of romantic and romantic comedy film? What do you think of the AlDub love team in general now that it has reach this point from its initial August 2015 initial introduction to Eat Bulaga? Share your thoughts and opinion about the My Bebe Love: #KiligPaMore official movie trailer in the comments section below:

Haunted Mansion Trailer Impressions: 2015 MMFF Horror Film Debuting the MarNella Love Team Centering on a Haunted Mansion

Haunted Mansion is a 2015 horror film from Regal Entertainment Inc. (Regal Films) and is an official entry to the 41st Metro Manila Film Festival this 2015 under the direction of Jun Robles Lana which stars Janella Salvador, Marlo Mortel, Jerome Ponce, Janice De Belen, Iza Calzado, Dominic Ochoa, LJ Reyes, Joem Bascon, and Sharlene San Pedro slated for a December 25, 2015 theatrical release. Let's check out what this 2015 haunted house... (erm) mansion horror film featuring the MarNella (Marlo Mortel and Janella Salvador) love team has to offer.


Haunted Mansion
Plot / Synopsis

Haunted Mansion is set to tackle students holding a retreat and something weird and creepy happens afterward. The first teaser of the film released on Oct 25, 2015.

Watch Haunted Mansion teaser trailer here:





Haunted Mansion Teaser Trailer Impression
Haunted Mansion Film Teaser Trailer Review


So what can be said about the Haunted Mansion 2015 Metro Manila Film Festival horror entry teaser trailer? Well, it could very well be the main trailer but teaser sounds get and enough to build hype at this early. I commend the marketing team for releasing the teaser early as I have mentioned in the past that film studios should maximize the potential of the internet and market their film heavily on this platform. But going back the film which seemingly has good cinematography uses that age old haunted house feel only with a MarNella (ABS-CBN's Marlo Mortel and Janella Salvador) love team skin glazed over it.


A little digging resulted to some information that Haunted Mansion was formerly titled as "Retreat House" and it serves as the debut film of MarNella (Marlo Mortel and Janella Salvador) love team. Given such information and seeing the trailer gives you a good indication of what to expect in this 2015 MMFF horror film entry. A group of kids focusing on a main romantic teenage couple is thrown in a mansion where chaos ensues. If you are of the newer generation and have not seen THAT many horror films but so into it, I highly advised to check out some old ones and you'll be surprised at the better written and acted horror stories featured in the past. There are other 2015 MMFF horror entries like Buy Now, Die Later and Nilalang which I think have much better story, performance, and overall feel to it that Haunted Mansion, but that's just me.


How about you guys? What's your favorite Haunted House themed horror film? What do you think of the three horror films included in the 2015 Metro Manila film Festival and which one are you more curious to see? Is the MarNella Love Team enough for you to check this one one? Share your thoughts and opinion about the Haunted Mansion teaser trailer in the comments section below:

Buy Now, Die Later Teaser Trailer Impressions: 2015 MMFF Horror Film About Haunted Objects

Buy Now, Die Later a 2015 horror film from Quantum Films and is an official entry to the 41st Metro Manila Film Festival this 2015 under the direction of Randolph Longjas which stars Vhong Navarro, Alex Gonzaga, Rayver Cruz, John Lapuz, TJ Trinidad, Lotlot De Leon, and Janine Gutierrez slated for a slated for a December 25, 2015 theatrical release. Let's check out what this 2015 MMFF horror entry featuring haunted, possessed or demonic objects has to offer.


Buy Now, Die Later
Plot / Synopsis

BUY NOW, DIE LATER is a compendium of five interconnected stories, each one representing one of the five senses. Ang mga kuwento nina ODIE, ATO, CHLOE, PIPPA at MAITA ang magpa paalala sa atin - - that every bargain comes with a price.

Watch Buy Now, Die Later Official Teaser Trailer here:






Buy Now, Die Later Official Teaser Trailer Impression
Buy Now, Die Later Film Teaser Trailer Review


So what can be said about the Buy Now, DIE Later teaser trailer? First off let me commend the marketing Team behind the 2015 horror movie entry as it does what any film should do, market and build hype early for their film. This makes it feel like they are actually proud of their film and an actual effort was put into the making of the film. This is from the same film studious and production behind another 2015 MMFF entry, Walang Forever on which its trailer was also recently released. Tease the audience enough months before to build the hype and create buzz for the film; For that a big plus point.


Now onto the meaty part. Buy Now, Die feels familiar; very familiar. Let's see, a haunted or possessed object up for sale and its unknowing consumer and usually the people around them starts getting killed off Now where exactly have I seen that part before.... Hmmm. This can be attributed with the over saturation of Filipino horror film titles of the past. Well, one can argue that those are old movies and not so many new movie going fans are familiar with them, but what of those who have seen old horror films? Is there nothing new to offer than a fresh coat of paint? When we say "new" we are not referring to the actors featured in the film as I don't really consider Lotlot and Vhong as a "new", what we are referring to is the premise and the potential CGI-fest that Buy Now, Die Later could have. What will differentiate this from one of the many Shake, Rattle, & Roll films of the past? Can we say that film studios finally have realized that they will run out of ideas to play with if they continue featuring 3 different scary stories for each annual installment of the Shake, Rattle, & Roll? Can we then say that this is the reason why we don't have a Shake, Rattle, & Roll entry for this year? Well, by the looks of it, it seems to be case. It is not a bad approach. Film studious can only make so many variations of tiyanak, aswang, and tikbalang, before movie going Filipinos gets tired of it (like most of us do). In every rule there is an exemption though, which comes in the form (genre) of romantic comedies and romance. Will still be looking forward to seeing the actual and full trailer for Buy now, die Later once it hits online to either validate this early impressions of it or praise it for not being a disappointment.


How about you guys? What do you think of a Buy Now, Die Later's premise of a group of people buying a haunted object and later suffering the consequences of purchasing such items? what are your thoughts with the recent application of CGI in Filipino horror films? Are they any good? Share your thoughts and opinion about the Buy Now, Die Later teaser trailer in the comments section below:

Walang Forever Teaser Trailer Impressions: 2015 MMFF Romantic Comedy Film Featuring Jennylyn Mercado and Jericho Rosales

Walang Forever is a 2015 romantic comedy film from Quantum Films and is an official entry to the 41st Metro Manila Film Festival this 2015 under the direction of Dan Villegas which stars Jennylyn Mercado, Jericho Rosales, Carlo Aquino, Juan Miguel Severo, Jerald Napoles, Matt Daclan, Edna Vida Froilan, and Nonoy Froilan slated for a December 25, 2015 theatrical release. Let's check out what this 2015 MMFF romantic comedy entry featuring Jericho and Jennylyn Mercado Rosales has to offer.


Walang Forever
Plot / Synopsis

Mia, a celebrated writer of romantic-comedy films, is at a turning point in her life which makes it difficult for her to believe that love could last. Everything comes to a head when Ethan returns -- only for her to find out that he has become a cynic of lasting love because she broke his heart.

Watch Walang Forever Official Teaser Trailer here:

Official Walang Forever Trailer Impression
Walang Forever Film Trailer Review


So what can we say about the Walang Forever official first trailer? I find this trailer interesting as it doesn't really show much of what we can see in the film. The interview and testimonials could probably be in the film but it doesn't quite show the interaction between the lead. I find this a bit refreshing for a romantic comedy Filipino film trailer. I also give credit for the marketing team to release this trailer this October as it will be enough to build hype for the 2015 Metro Manila Film Festival RomCom entry.


The Walang Forever trailer features a series of vignette of people being interviewed about a relative and relevant(?) question "Mayroon bang Forever?" ("Is there a Forever?"). Well, of course the "forever" that is being referred to is that highly romanticized lasting love that transcends life and death, thus the "forever". It looks like Jennylyn Mercado is on a roll this 2015 with another romantic film adding up to her already good portfolio. Now if only her home network, GMA Films will only capitalized on their talent's popularity with a compelling and good script. From what we see on the premise of the film, it is probably your standard romantic film and a highly relatable one as many are still hopeful of the concept of a lasting love, while others have become too cynical about the whole idea of it. Let's see what will the next "Walang Forever" trailer be like and you'll be sure that we'll cover it for you.


How about you guys? What do you think of Jennylyn Mercado as a leading lady for romantic comedies? Share your thoughts and opinion about the Walang Forever official trailer in the comments section below:

Nilalang Trailer Impressions: 2015 MMFF Action Horror Film Featuring Maria Ozawa and Cesar Montano

Nilalang is an action horror film from welovepost, Parallax Studios, Viva Films, and Haunted Tower Pictures, Inc.; and is an official entry to the 41st Metro Manila Film Festival this 2015 under the direction of Pedring Lopez which stars Cesar Montano, Maria Ozawa, Meg Imperial, Yam Concepcion, Cholo Barretto, Dido de la Paz, and Kiko Matos slated for a December 25, 2015 theatrical release. Let's check out what this 2015 MMFF entry featuring Maria Ozawa and Cesar Montano has to offer.


Nilalang
Plot / Synopsis

Nilalang tells the story of Tony (played by Cesar Montano), an NBI agent investigating a series of rapes and killings that counts, among them, Tony’s girlfriend. With his co-agent, Jane, they follow leads that take them to a meeting with Miyuki (Maria Ozawa), the daughter of Mr. Kazudo who is an elder member of the Yakuza. Together, they come face-to-face with an enemy that transcends time; and leaves a trail of mindless, cold-blooded crime at its wake.

Watch Nilalang Official trailer here:
Nilalang 2015 MMFF Film entry Official movie trailer






Nilalang Official Nilalang Trailer Impression
Nilalang 2015 MMFF Film Trailer Review


So what can we say about the Nilalang official trailer? Well besides the obvious fact that it is an action horror film official MMFF 2015 entry featuring Maria Ozawa on it, Nilalang is a breathe of fresh air in a sense that we haven't seen that many local action horror films that has this kind of cinematography and actually be what it says it would; a high-octane action film. Well, we don't say that there aren't any. There aren't that many as much as RomComs do. The films usually featuring E.R. Ejercito are a good example of these contemporary action films, but they give more of a special kind of vibe to it; a vibe of a more biographical or artistic tone to in, than action.


Let me commend the marketers for Nilalang as they've released the official trailer for Nilalang this October which will be enough time to help create enough buzz and discussion for this film. The early worm catches the worm, right? This is film marketing done right. The Nilalang trailer shows the "wonderful" script used in the film like "Hindi matatapos, kung warang tatapos" and nope that wasn't a typo. It puzzles me as to why should the Japanese characters use Filipino when conversing with each other or when they address Cesar Montano to whom is shown to have a certain degree of proficiency in the Japanese language. It just feels pretentious or fake at best. Another observation is that shot with Maria Ozawa shooting like crazy as I find it rather weak. As the film portray her at being a bad ass, that scene was sure made her like a clueless member of Yakuza who can't handle a gun. Hopefully the film will not be riddled so much by the things we can observed in the trailer as it may negatively affect it. Don't give me started with Nilalang's title card. We get it, the film features Japanese and Filipino talent and settings, no need to pound it in with a Japanese-themed font. Try thinking about this, a high octane Japanese film with partnership between Japan and the Philippines,and the film title has a Filipino salakot (traditional wide-brimmed hat from the Philippines) just to make sure that there are Filipinos in the film. Isn't that a bit redundant? Amidst such nitpicks, Nilalang has somewhat piqued my curiosity as I want to find out what kind of monster is this Zahagur, the film refer to its villain.


How about you guys? What do you think of this 41st Metro Manila Film Festival entry starring Cesar Montano and Maria Ozawa? Are you more hopeful about the list of movies that made it to 2015 MMFF? Will you be seeing this action horror film starring the popular Maria Ozawa? Share your thoughts and opinion about the Nilalang official movie trailer in the comments section below:

One More Try Trailer Impressions: Star Cinema's Drama Entry for 2012 MMFF with Angel Locsin and Dingdong Dantes

One More Try, an official entry to the 2012 Metro Manila Film Festival (38th Metro Manila Film Festival) is an upcoming Star Cinema romance drama film under the direction of Ruel Santos Bayani starring Angelica Panganiban, Dingdong Dantes, Zanjoe Marudo and Angel Locsin. Let's check out this Star Cinema's 2012 MMFF entry.

One More Try
Plot / Synopsis

One More Try is about a mother's desperation to save her child's life even if it means reconnecting the lost bond between her and the unbeknownst father of her child.

Watch One More Try Official trailer here:


One More Try Official Trailer Impression
One More Try Film Trailer Review

Star Cinema's entry for the 2012 38th Metro Manila Film Festival will feature another seemingly intriguing and realistic film... a scenario that happen to most lovers. Nah! I am just messing with you! This is what makes a drama (well) a drama. To avoid being another third party (adultery) themed of a romantic film, Star Cinema introduced an innocent child in the verge of death. This is the main force that will eventually drive this film.

Star Cinema releasing something for the Metro Manila Film Festival is not really new, but with an entry like One More Try, it makes me ask why Star Cinema hasn't made this kind of (bad) tradition ala Enteng Kabisote with its annual MMFF entry. Star Cinema could very well be swimming in blockbuster cash if they do such thin. They can make a blockbuster MMFF entry to contend with Vic Sotto's annual film fest entry (Enteng) by releasing ridiculous twitterpattering romantic films which the Filipino film studio has been known for. Well enough of that and going back to the film's trailer. Again the trailer says it all. We have two individuals who seemingly have completely different lives now but because of the condition of their child which as most dramas will do will not be known to the father of the child will be the main element that would make kindling an old burnt-out flame possible. Then we have the conflict when both of their current partners starts doubting if the intent of the reunited old lovers is to help their child or because of a more heartbreaking reason. I already picture out two possible ending for this film but that's just me. To all I know, this new Star Cinema flick will be on top of your to-watch list because you could either be a loyal fan of Star Cinema films, a fan of the lead actors in this film, or even both. Well at least it still have a very good actors that could lead this film to "blockbuster heights". In the end, it is up to you to decide if you'll support the kind of story that One More Try has to offer.

How about you guys, what do you think about this Star Cinema 2012 Metro Manila Film Festival entry? Do you think it is better if they stick to the more traditional "kilig" type of film which they are known for? Share your thoughts about One More Try official movie trailer in the comments section below:

The Strangers Trailer Impressions: 2012 MMFF Horror Aswang Movie with Enchong Dee and Julia Montes

The Strangers, an official entry to the 2012 Metro Manila Film Festival (38th Metro Manila Film Festival) is an upcoming Star Cinema, Quantum Films, and MJM Productions Inc. horror film under the direction of Lawrence Fajardo and written by Joji Alonso starring Julia Montes, Enchong Dee, Enrique Gil, JM De Guzman, Cherry Pie Picache, Janice De Belen, Jaime Fabregas, and Johnny Revilla. Let's check out what this another Aswang-themed horror film has in store for MMFF movie going audience this December 25, 2012.

The Strangers
Plot / Synopsis

A family trip suddenly goes bad when they got lost in somewhere deep within a province. Besides the finding their way back, what they should worry more is how to survive this mystic strange area possibly inhabited by all sorts of monstrous creatures.

Watch The Strangers Official trailer here:


The Strangers Official Trailer Impression
The Strangers Film Trailer Review

The 38th Metro Manila Film Festival will have another horror title with The Strangers. The Strangers includes both newer generation talents with some veteran actors in another aswang-themed horror movie.

There is probably something for everybody here. For the newer generation film fans, more specifically the female (biological and "at heart") audience would definitely be looking forward to see their favorite male idols like Enchong Dee, JM De Guzman, and Enrique Gil in The Strangers. Other more traditional horror film fans could feel right at home with Janice De Belen, Cherry Pie Picache, and an Aswang as its monstrous villain. I believe the trailer is quite effective as it didn't feature what the actual aswang would look like in the film. It gave the trailer and the actual film itself a sense of mystery. Hopefully it won't depend too much on CGI and go on a more practical effects route, but I know that is asking too much. I just don't know what to say about the performance of the younger generation lead actors in the film, not really a big fan of them. As for the plot, it is pretty generic. An unfortunate group of people eventually gets lost on a creepy seemingly isolated province with a shady jungle where bloodbath usually happens. As what we can make of the film through the trailer it looks like they added some mini plot including Enchong's character. Is he a friend or a foe? Is he one of the aswangs, or an unfortunate victim a fellow "stranger" like the family that the film centers on? Will the aswangs theme, fresh faces, and mystery as to what really the monstrosities looks or their origin is be enough to make film fans check this out, or will this same "familiar" (bordering cliche) aswang theme and the rawness of the younger lead be the reason that would make movie goers avoid this film as much as they can this coming 2012 MMFF? We'll know soon enough once The Strangers hits the theaters nationwide this December 25, 2012.

How about you guys, what can you say about another Aswang film this 2012 Metro Manila Film Festival? What can you say about the lead actors in the film? Share your thoughts about The Strangers official trailer in the comments section below:

El Presidente Trailer Impressions: MMFF 2012 Biographical Film About the First President of the Republic of the Philippines, Emilio Aguinaldo

El Presidente, an official entry to the 2012 Metro Manila Film Festival (38th Metro Manila Film Festival) is Scenema Concept International and Viva Films historical bio-epic film written and directed by Mark Meily starring E.R. Ejercito, Cesar Montano, Christopher de Leon, Nora Aunor, and Christine Reyes. El Presidente is slated for a December 25, 2012 nationwide theatrical release. Let's check out the official trailer of this quality MMFF 2012 entry here.

El Presidente
Plot / Synopsis

True Story of General Emilio Aguinaldo and the First Democratic Republic in Asia

El Presidente, the first true-to-life full-length film of General Emilio Famy Aguinaldo (1869-1964), tells the story of the man behind the legend, from the time he led the resistance against two superpowers: the first against Spain, that led to the inauguration of the first democratic republic in Asia; and the second against the United States of America, which changed the destiny of a nation.

The story not only touches on the political in-fighting and intrigues that took place during the revolution, it also explores the inner struggles of Emilio Aguinaldo as husband and father, as well as the agonizing moments of making life-or-death decisions in the interest of security and national unity.

Source: Official FB Page

Watch El Presidente Official trailer here:


El Presidente Official Trailer Impression
El Presidente Film Trailer Review

The Filipino movie going audience will be in for a treat this coming 38th Metro Manila Film Festival (2012 Metro Manila Film Festival) with El Presidente. The upcoming bioepic film that dabbles in the life, struggles, and controversy of the first president of the Republic of the Philippines, Emilio Aguinaldo. El Presidente has a very impressive and star-studded cast who will all bring and flesh out the life of one of Philippine's historical figure. The film is created by the same people who brought us the 2011 MMFF entry Manila Kingpin: The Asiong Salonga Story and the reason why we have Mr. Estrada (currently 49 years of age) portraying as the youngest and first Filipino president General Emilio Aguinaldo (28 years old).

The contrast of the lead star's age against the historical figure he portrays can probably be set aside if you look at the how beautiful the film looks on the film. It is a no-brainer that this film could very well be on the top list of the candidate for best picture this coming Metro Manila Film Festival. Hopefully the film won't excessively depend of CGI effects like what is seen on the canon ball view as it plunged through unknowing soldiers. I also have some issue with the slow-down and speed-up moments when they are going all out in the war. I hope that this is just some effects on the trailer and that the film doesn't also excessively use such "stylistic" film effects. An issue that the film could raise is the controversy between the relationship between Emilio Aguinaldo and Andres Bonifacio. Well of course the film is highly dramatized to an epic scale, but will it actually be historically accurate? If it does, will it be lenient to the story as told by the Aguinaldo clan? Then it might do an injustice to the Bonifacio clan? Will the film feature what has been kept in the historical books and show the evil of Philippine politics? That is what we can look forward to in this biopic of Emilio Aguinaldo this Metro Manila Film Festival.

How about you guys, what do you think of this historical and epic film adaptation of the live of the Philippine's first president. Can you still remember your history lessons about him? Are you aware of the controversies surrounding General Emilio aguinaldo and Andres Bonifacio? Share your thoughts on El Presidente official trailer in the comments section below:

Segunda Mano Trailer Impressions: Ladies, Beware of Antique Handbags!

Segunda Mano is a 2011 Metro Manila Film Festival horror entry from Star Cinema under the direction of Joyce Bernal starring Philippine's "horror" queen Kris Aquino. What does this MMFF 2011 horror entry has in store for Filipinos who likes being scared to death this Christmas? Let's check the trailer out.

Segunda Mano
Plot / Synopsis

Segunda Mano which directly translates to "Second hHand" tells a story of various cursed antique objects that haunts its unfortunate new owners.

Segunda Mano official movie trailer here




Segunda Mano Trailer Impression
Segunda Mano Trailer Review

Watch out for that seemingly expensive looking antique handbag, it might be cursed! Silly as it might sound, that is what seems to be main evil that would linger in the entirety of the film. A malevolent spirit or a curse in a bag or in whatever antique object offers the film showcase. Antiques have always been used as a good source of curse or evil in various horror film and that is what Segunda Mano is all about. Of course, the fun in such preposterous idea is how each victim gets to be killed by such evils.

Segunda Mano is probably guilty of being using second (third or how many times) hand concepts that most horror films have been using from day one. But guess what, even if that is the case, this film will still get a good number of Filipino movie goers watching it this Metro Manila film Festival 2011. Who does not want to see that ever sophisticated and controversial sister of the Philippines President Noynoy Aquino get smothered by water. That scene alone is funny and would convince me to go check it just for the laughs hahaha. Seriously speaking, given to choose only one horror film to watch this MMFF 2011, I do not think Segunda Mano will be my choice. Well, that is me, but many may beg to differ.

What do you think about this horror film starring the "Philippine horror queen" Kris Aquino. Does she deserve the title? Share your thoughts on the Segunda Mano 2011 film trailer at the comments section below:

Yesterday Today Tomorrow Trailer Impressions: A Regal Films' Metro Manila Film Festival 2011 3-in-1 Drama Extravaganza

Yesterday Today Tomorrow is a 2011 Metro Manila Film Festival entry from Regal Entertainment Inc. starring Philippine cinema's best and new faces in a drama film this Christmas. Yesterday Today Tomorrow is the only MMFF 2011 entry amongst the list, so will it mean that it will bag the most when it comes to awards? Let's check out the trailer first.

Yesterday Today Tomorrow
Plot / Synopsis

Yesterday Today Tomorrow is an official entry to the 2011 Metro Manila Film Festival directed by Jun Lana and stars Maricel Soriano, Gabby Concepcion, Ronaldo Valdez, Agot Isidro, Jericho Rosales, Lovi Poe, Dennis Trillo, Carla Abellana, Paulo Avelino, Solenn Heussaff, Eula Caballero. Yesterday Today Tomorrow tells three different stories of love, family, passion and lost.

Watch Yesterday Today Tomorrow official movie trailer here




Yesterday Today Tomorrow Trailer Impression
Yesterday Today Tomorrow Trailer Review

Yesterday Today Tomorrow is the only drama entry in the 2011 Metro Manila Film Festival which could possibly spell two outcome for the film: First is that the film may bag most of awards in the Metro Manila Film Festival Awards night, specifically the best actor, best actress, etc. The second is that there is also a good chance that the film will not do good when in it comes to sales as families will usually prefer a much happier films and there is quite a lot to choose from on the entry. But that does not mean the film will suck as it features Philippine cinema veterans like Maricel Soriano and Gabby Concepcion, not to mention some of the more contemporary actors like Lovi Poe, Dennis Trillo, Paulo Avelino, and Jericho Rosales. But what about the trailer?

There is nothing much to tell about the trailer, that it is much a straightforward drama with all of the complications that you can regularly see in one. A cliche of some sort. The only difference is that the film does not ponder on a single story alone. That is why they made it into a 3-in-1 kind of drama. The film features three complicated stories that may eventually intertwine or interconnect onto one single event (shown in the trailer) which may very well be the climax and turning point of all three stories. For fans of any of the actors involved in Yesterday Today Tomorrow, or drama films in general, there will not be any second thoughts when this film hits the theaters this Christmas. As for regular Filipino movie going audience though, I am really not so sure about it. In a festive season when everyone feels so happy, I do not think that they would first prioritize a drama title over a list of comedy and drama.; not unless they consider such title as a masterfully crafted film.

What do you think about the Yesterday Today tomorrow, the only drama entry in the 2011 Metro Manila Film Festival? Share your thoughts at the comments section below:

Shake, Rattle & Roll 13 Trailer Impressions: Your Annual Triple Horror Treat from Regal

Shake, Rattle & Roll 13 is a horror thriller film and an official entry to the 2011 Metro Manila Film Festival entry form Regal Films. Regal Films has made it to the point to make the Shake, Rattle & Roll series an annual thing ever since Shake, Rattle and Roll 2K5 back in 2005. So what is in store for Filipino movie goers this Metro Manila Film Festival 2011?

Shake, Rattle & Roll 13
Plot / Synopsis

The 13th installment of Shake, Rattle and Roll trilogy will provide you with complex characters and side plot stories mixed with excellent editing. Shake Rattle & Roll 13 will be one of the entries for the 37th Metro Manila Film Festival. The stories in Shake, Rattle & Roll 13 include "Rain, Rain, Go Away" (formerly "Lunod") directed by Chris Martinez, "Tamawo" directed by Richard Somes, and "Parola" directed by Jerrold Tarog.

Watch Shake, Rattle & Roll 13 official movie trailer here




Shake, Rattle & Roll 13 Trailer Impression
Shake, Rattle & Roll 13 Trailer Review

Besides having a variety of film to choose from, the Metro Manila Film Festival has also become the permanent venue of the Shake, Rattle & Roll film franchise. Shake, Rattle & Roll 13 is an official 2011 MMFF entry from Regal Films which features three tales of horror which does not always ends in your regular "happy ending". So what is there to say about Shake, Rattle, & Roll 13? It has always been a requirement that in order for a trailer to be considered "good" it has to actually need to be able to have a good balance between showing and not showing things. So far, the Shake, Rattle & Roll 13 movie trailer features both. Although it featured the monstrosities in the film, there is this element of mystery as behind them. How will each episode use them?

What is there not to say about the SR&R film series? It has its share of good and bad parts, installments, acting, direction, and special effects. Hopefully the latest installment has the good ones outshining more of its bad parts. I for one am against too much dependence on computer graphic effects. I not for the bad quality of CGI used in past films, I will not be saying this but they have proven to be a headache everytime a film depends on CGI so much. When it comes to providing the scares, nothing beats a good old wax molding and makeup for the creatures, convincing acting and an engaging plot. After seeing the trailer, all I can say hat it has its bard parts (especially the CGI water in the car), but hopefully it doesn't take that much away from the whole film experience. I am looking forward to see the kind of directing, acting and writing provided by each Shake, Rattle & Roll 13 episodes.

What can you say about this latest annual installment of Regal Film's Shake, Rattle & Roll? Share your thoughts in the comments section below:

Manila Kingpin: The Asiong Salonga Story Trailer Impressions: A Black-and-White Retelling of the Story of Metro Manila's Kingpin

Manila Kingpin: The Asiong Salonga Story is a 2011 Metro Manila Film Festival entry starring Jeorge "E.R." Estregan as the 1940's notorious gang leader and Metro Manila kingpin Nicasio "Asiong" Salonga. The film is under Viva Films Production and the direction of Tikoy Aguiluz. Manila Kingpin: The Asiong Salonga Story is in full black-and-white presentation which is a first in 21st century mainstream Philippine cinema. Check out what is the Pinoy Movie Blogger thinks of this biographical and period film about the film retelling of the Asiong Salonga's life.



Manila Kingpin: The Asiong Salonga Story
Plot / Synopsis

Manila Kingpin: The Asiong Salonga Story is an official entry of the 2011 Metro Manila Film Festival. Produced by Scenema Concept International (released through Viva Films) and under the direction of Tikoy Aguiluz, the film stars Jeorge "E.R." Estregan in the title role, with Carla Abellana and Phillip Salvador. "Manila Kingpin" is based on the story of the notorious gang leader in Tondo named Nicasio "Asiong" Salonga, whose true-to-life accounts had been portrayed in several movie versions since 1961 (starring Joseph Estrada). It is also the the first Filipino major film produced in black-and-white in the 21st century as well as the returning action genre movie.

Watch Manila Kingpin: The Asiong Salonga Story official movie trailer here



Manila Kingpin: The Asiong Salonga Story Trailer Impression
Manila Kingpin: The Asiong Salonga Story Trailer Review

When I first heard that there is an Asiong Salonga film included in the 2011 Metro manila film Festival, I was really skeptical. They don't make entertaining action films nowadays and I somehow thought that the action film genre already died out together with the ST genre. But as the saying goes never judge a book by its covers, so eventually my skepticism was replaced by genuine interest after seeing the Manila Kingpin: The Asiong Salonga trailer.



Manila Kingpin: the Asiong Salonga story has kalesa gun fight chase sequence now where else can you find that badassery? Only in the Philippines my friends... only in the Philippines. Hahahaha

Let me ask you, when was the last time you actually watched and appreciated a good Philippine-produced action film? As for me the last time that I could remember was way back on FPJ (Fernando Poe, Jr.) days. I regularly watched it with my father. So it was quite a surprise to see the return of action film back to mainstream Philippine cinema this 2011. Not only did it return with the Manila Kingpin: the Asiong Salonga Story, but it returned in a very classy and artistic manner. The 2011 MMFF biographical period action film is beautifully shot and presented in black-and-white which gave it the period look without making it feel cheaply dated or low quality. The trailer proves that you do not need any expensive or flashy 3-D CGI effects in a trailer to actually captivate and convince movie goers to go watch a film. Some of my cinephile friends who usually prefer a more sophisticated, complex, artistic, and "Cannes Film Festival" like films seems to really like this film, so that has to account to something, right? But even as an ordinary movie goer/reviewer (with simple and non-sophisticated nitpicking taste), I appreciate and liked The Asiong Salonga Story 2011 film trailer.



How about you guys, what do you think about watching a biographical period black-and-white film this Metro manila Film Festival? Share your thoughts on what you think about The Asiong Salonga Story here:

My Househusband, Ikaw Na! Trailer Impressions: A Modern Filipino Marriage Family Arrangement?

My Househusband, Ikaw Na! is a comedy drama film under OctoArts Films starring real life celebrity couple Judy Ann Santos and Ryan Agoncillo. My Househusband, Ikaw Na! is also an official entry to the 2011 Metro Manila Film Festival. So what do we get when Philippine cinema tries to make an entire film out of this seemingly modern family set up? Check out the Pinoy Movie Blogger trailer review for My Househusband, Ikaw Na!.



My Househusband, Ikaw Na!
Plot / Synopsis

When Rod (Ryan Agoncillo), a father of two decided to quit his job, his wife (Judy Ann Santos) eventually decides to pursue a life of a career woman. As if this arrangement was not difficult enough (for an ordinary middle class Filipino family) for the two loving couple, a new neighbor (Eugene Domingo) comes along which may possibly put the couple's marriage to the test. That plus the malicious rumors spread by neighbors and the meddlesome relatives of each party. Thus the comedy ends and the family drama begins.

Watch My Househusband, Ikaw Na! official movie trailer here



My Househusband, Ikaw Na! Trailer Impression
My Househusband, Ikaw Na! Trailer Review

Filipinos have a strong affiliation and love to their families. So when you put two highly a list of highly acclaimed and adored actors into a film about family, then that is one perfect mix of a Metro Manila Film Fest Entry this 2011.



The trailer is pretty much straightforward, husband loses job, wife gets an executive position, and the couple struggle with the arrangement not usually seen on traditional Filipino families. You can obviously tell where the drama would come from the trailer alone... via its meddlesome relatives (which has always been the case for most Filipino families). But that is what Filipino movie goers like... the reality of married life; and the the joys and complications that goes with it. Thanks to the real life chemistry of Judy Ann and Ryan, plus the funny and lovable aura of Ms. Eugene Domingo the movie trailer is just oozing with appeal. But do not let the humor shown in the trailer fool you as it could just hide a more heavy drama inside it. A very easy recommendation for Pinoy Movie Blogger.



What do you think about this modern setup where the wife is the one providing for the family and the husband is in charge of all the housework? share your thoughts about My Househusband, Ikaw Na! movie trailer at the comments section below: