On December 4, Isang Himala welcomed the press and invited them to reflect on finding hope this Christmas season. During the launch, the cast, led by Aicelle Santos and Bituin Escalante, emphasized the significance of being part of the adaptation of the iconic 1982 movie and the 2003 musical stage play. For them, the story shows how individuals can create their own miracles while becoming a source of hope for others. They expressed their desire for moviegoers to draw inspiration from the film, cultivate a strong faith in themselves, and aspire to find hope in their own lives.
The movie challenges viewers to examine their personal faith and explore how their religious beliefs shape their perspectives and their complexities. It poses profound questions: Is kindness something we create, or do we simply wait to receive it? At its core, the film is a heartfelt narrative that inspires audiences to extend kindness to everyone around them.
This fresh adaptation breathes new life into a beloved classic, ensuring its message resonates with contemporary audiences. Developed by 2023 MMFF Best Director Pepe Diokno, the material has earned the full approval of National Artist for Film and Broadcast Arts Ricky Lee. Sharing his excitement for the project, Lee remarked, “I’ve seen every form of Himala, and I’m ecstatic about the material Pepe has presented.” His endorsement highlights the dedication required to honor the original masterpiece while skillfully reimagining it for today’s audience.
The newly transformed Baryo Cupang features numerous exterior scenes, and being able to tell this story for today’s generation represents a significant step up from his previous projects. He mentions, “Isang Himala is completely different from Ishmael’s Himala. The treatment is different. My first day on the set, pagkaapak ko rito I was immediately transformed to Baryo Cupang”.
With an entirely new treatment and stunning visuals, CreaZion Studios’ Executive Vice President and Chief Creative Officer Real Florido expresses his strong confidence in the material, emphasizing the central role of the cast and crew in crafting this masterpiece. He states “Magbubuo ka ng lupon ng artista, and Ricky Lee being involved, kinakailangan ng magandang vision. Hindi siya yung pelikula na basta kaya mo lang gawin, minsan lang ito gawin, so bakit di natin buhusan ng effort ang material?”
As anticipation builds for Isang Himala, the film’s cast, featuring Aicelle Santos, Bituin Escalante, David Ezra, and Kakki Teodoro, is led by National Artist for Film and Broadcast Ricky Lee, alongside 2024 Gawad Urian Awardee Vincent De Jesus and a talented team that includes 2023 MMFF Best Director Pepe Diokno and 2023 MMFF Best Cinematographer Carlo Mendoza.
This “once-in-a-generation” film project is also proudly presented by CreaZion Studios, whose commitment to bringing high-quality Filipino stories to life aligns seamlessly with Isang Himala’s vision. As a media company known for championing authentic and impactful Filipino narratives, CreaZion aims to not only captivate local audiences but also elevate Filipino cinema to meet global standards. By partnering with Kapitol Films and UxS for Isang Himala, CreaZion Studios reflects a shared passion for storytelling that resonates across generations. This collaboration underscores their dedication to the legacy of this Filipino classic, embracing the timeless themes of faith and hope in a way that speaks to audiences worldwide.
Isang Himala is set to premiere in the 50th Metro Manila Film Festival on December 25.
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