Eight movies have made it to the official list of entries to the 8th Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF), the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) announced on Thursday, Oct. 20.
In a statement, the MMDA said the eight chosen movies were among the 22 films that were submitted for screening.
The first four entries were announced in July based on script submissions: Labyu With an Accent by 3:16; Nananahimik ang Gabi by Rein Entertainment Productions; Partners in Crime by ABS-CBN Film Productions; and. The Teacher by TEN17P.
On Thursday, Oct. 20, the MMFF said four more films under Finished Films Format were added: Deleter from Viva Films; Family Matters by Cineko Productions, Inc; Mamasapano: Not It Can be Told by Borracho Film Production; and, My Father, Myself by 3:16 Media Network.
"The esteemed members of the Selection Committee headed by the multi-awarded and much respected leader of the film industry Boots Anson-Rodrigo chose the Top 8 based on the following criteria - Artistic Excellence - 40%, Commercial Appeal - 40%, Filipino Cultural Values - 10% and Global Appeal - 10%," the MMDA statement read.
Rodrigo said members of the selection committee heavily deliberated on all of the entries, following the rules and judging them as films.
"It is a collegial decision of a deliberative body," said Rodrigo.
With this year's message "Balik Saya sa MMFF 2022” the MMDA and MMFF Concurrent Acting Chairman Engr. Carlo Dimayuga III urged moviegoers to support the festival, which has been part of the Filipinos’ Christmas tradition over the years.
“Let us watch the MMFF in theaters once more. We are happy with the list of entries, which has a wide mix of genres. We are excited and looking forward to MMFF 2022 becoming a success," said Dimayuga.
With the official entries now final, Dimayuga said the production can now start their promotional efforts which will be highlighted by the Parade of Stars to be hosted by Quezon City.
The 48th MMFF will run from Dec. 25, 2022- Jan. 7, 2023 into theaters nationwide. The Gabi Ng Parangal, on the other hand, will be on Dec. 27.