Following the premiere of "Isang Himala" by Creazion Studio at SM North on Dec. 19, the industry is abuzz with stories about how beautiful, how wonderful, this re-imagination of the iconic 1982 film has turned around.

If you go by Facebook posts, coming both from ordinary netizens and informed film buffs, Isang Himala has created its own great little miracle. Those who have seen the film praise it for its soul, the stirring music, the deep emotions the characters and the story convey, and the lasting impact it leaves. Perhaps even the sense of nostalgia that it evokes. Three and more cheers go to its director, Pepe Diokno, who was named best director in last year’s MMFF for his work in Gomburza.

Based on the landmark film by Ishmael Bernal, Isang Himala is now seen through the eyes of Aicelle Santos as the new Elsa, the healer of barrio Cupang who becomes a national sensation after news about her capacity to heal people spreads like wildfire. Stepping into the   highly challenging role originated by              

National Artist for Film and Broadcast Arts, Nora Aunor, the singer-actress, said she and the entire cast were energized when the superstar embraced them after watching the play in 2003 from which the film is based. 

Nora Aunor is making a special cameo in"Isang Himala," which can be seen towards film’s end. Pepe Diokno said he didn't want to do the film without Aunor in it.

Pepe told ABS-CBN: “When she came in, couple of takes. Not just done, perfect. Watching her deliver, kung paano niya i-imbibe yung mga salita ni Sir Ricky (Lee), to see that process up close was just amazing.” 

Pepe also said, his goal is not to get awards, but to give the audiences a new experience.

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Equally getting good reviews are Green Bones, My Future You, and The Kingdom.

By far, it is said that all 10 entries in this year’s MMFF are quite good, a fine harvest of Filipino creativity.

Have you come across that story? The Philippines ranked third, following the United States and France, in a list of countries that loved to follow pornographic sites. Tailing us are Mexico and the United Kingdom.  

In closing, let me greet our readers here at Manila Bulletin with a Happy New Year full of blessings and more opportunities!