Filipino films included in the first-ever Summer Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) will take center stage in Hollywood when the Manila International Film Festival (MIFF) opens to the public on Nov. 2.
According to the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA), the three entries from the MMFF summer edition are slated to illuminate the screen at the Directors Guild of America on Sunset Boulevard in Los Angeles, California, USA.
The three Filipino films are:
- The Summer MMFF 2023 Best Picture winner, "About Us But Not About Us," starring Romnick Sarmenta and Elijah Canlas;
- Chris Martinez's "Here Comes The Groom," featuring Enchong Dee, Miles Ocampo, and Kaladkaren;
- The JP Habac-directed film "Love You Long Time," starring Carlo Aquino and Eisel Serrano.
The red-carpet premiere, the MMDA said, will include a VIP reception, a meet-and-greet with the directors and stars of the three films, and a discussion of the MIFF.
“The event will start at 12 noon, Los Angeles time,” the agency said.
MMDA Acting Chairman Don Artes, the concurrent chairman of MMFF, said the MIFF is a testament to the world-class quality of Filipino films.
“Through the MIFF, we can showcase, promote, and help uplift Filipino films from the Philippines to Hollywood, and hopefully, to other parts of the world,” he stated in a statement.
“MIFF also aims to bridge the gap between two worlds and connect the Philippine entertainment sector to Hollywood and the global stage.”
The MMDA chairman has urged the international audience to watch the MIFF premiere.
“We are inviting our kababayans and other film enthusiasts to watch these three award-winning movies,” said Artes.
The MMDA said tickets range from $60 (single movie pass) to $249 (all movie access + VIP lounge) which can be purchased at manilainternationalfilmfest.com.
Hilda Koronel and Pinky De Leon, both award-winning Filipino actresses, are expected to attend the premiere.
Actors Enchong Dee and Kaladkaren from Here Comes the Groom, Director Jun Lana and actor Romnick Sarmenta from About Us But Not About Us, and Director JP Habac and actress Eisel Serrano from Love You Long Time will also be present.
Following the 49th Metro Manila Film Festival's run in Philippine cinemas this Christmas until Jan. 7, 2024, its ten official entries will also go to Los Angeles.