Photo credit: MMFF

The Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) 2024 Gabi ng Parangal was an unforgettable night as it celebrated the year’s finest films and artists in Philippine cinema. With outstanding performances, moving stories, and remarkable technical achievements, here's a rundown of the winners who took center stage this year.

The Big Winners

• Best Picture: "Green Bones" (GMA Pictures and GMA Public Affairs) took home the top honor for its riveting storytelling and impeccable execution.

• 2nd Best Picture: "The Kingdom," a visually stunning epic, secured its place as a crowd favorite.

• 3rd Best Picture: "My Future You," a heartfelt narrative of love and redemption.

• 4th Best Picture: "Isang Himala," a modern tribute to faith and miracles.

Spotlight on Excellence

Crisanto Aquino ("My Future You") and Michael Tuviera ("The Kingdom") shared the Best Director award for their compelling visions, proving that Philippine cinema continues to reach new heights.

Acting Royalty

Best Actress: Judy Ann Santos delivered a spine-chilling performance in "Espantaho," cementing her place as one of the country's acting legends.

Best Actor: Dennis Trillo captivated audiences with his powerful portrayal in "Green Bones," earning him the top acting honor.

Seth Fedelin, in his first major role, snagged the Breakthrough Performance award for "My Future You," proving he’s a star to watch. Meanwhile, Ruru Madrid ("Green Bones") and Kakki Teodoro ("Isang Himala") shone in their supporting roles.

Special Recognitions

• Special Jury Prize: "Topakk" and "Isang Himala" received accolades for pushing boundaries in Philippine cinema.

• Special Jury Citation: Vice Ganda’s comedic yet touching performance in "And the Breadwinner Is…" earned a special nod.

Technical Brilliance

From Best Screenplay winners Ricky Lee and Angeli Atienza ("Green Bones") to Neil Daza’s breathtaking Best Cinematography, the technical teams behind these films proved their mastery of the craft.

Other technical winners include:

• Best Editing: Vanessa Ubas De Leon ("My Future You")

• Best Original Theme Song: "Ang Himala ay Nasa Puso" by Juan Karlos ("Isang Himala")

• Best Sound: Ditoy Aguila ("Strange Frequencies: Taiwan Killer Hospital")

• Best Musical Score: Vincent De Jesus ("Isang Himala")

• Best Visual Effects: Riot Inc. ("The Kingdom")

Inspiring the Next Generation
The MMFF also recognized student filmmakers, with the Best Student Short Film Award going to "Saan Aabot ang 50 Pesos Mo?" from the University of Makati.

Other Highlights

• The Fernando Poe Jr. Memorial Award for Excellence went to "Topakk."

• The Gatpuno Antonio J. Villegas Cultural Award honored "The Kingdom."

• Joseph "Erap" Estrada received the Lifetime Achievement Award for his invaluable contributions to the industry.

The MMFF 2024 was a testament to the evolving creativity and resilience of Filipino filmmakers, actors, and storytellers. It’s safe to say that the future of Philippine cinema looks brighter than ever.