With a compelling narrative centered on faith and hope as depicted in big, bold, striking visuals, “Isang Himala,” an entry to this year’s Metro Manila Film Festival, truly demands attention.
In a recent video release, “Isang Himala” offers a glimpse into National Artist for Film and Broadcast Ricky Lee’s reimagining of the 1982 classic “Himala.”
The teaser gives a first look into Baryo Cupang and its people before taking us on a journey through Elsa’s life, where she begins to perform her miracles.
“Isang Himala” transforms Baryo Cupang into a gritty mining town, capturing its intense chaos and heat.
On that premise alone, the film promises a cinematic experience that resonates with both longtime fans and new viewers alike.
The teaser then reveals how Elsa earns the love of the people, all while others express intense emotions.
As the rain begins to pour, it signifies a ray of hope amid the intense heat and emotions felt in Baryo Cupang.
This moment sets the stage for Elsa, portrayed by Aicelle Santos, to take center stage in her iconic kneeling prayer position.
No doubt, this fresh adaptation breathes new life into the beloved classic, making sure it resonates with contemporary audiences.
The material, developed by 2023 MMFF Best Director Pepe Diokno, has received full approval from Ricky, who shares his enthusiasm for the project.
“I’ve seen every form of ‘Himala,’ and I’m ecstatic about the material Pepe has presented,” Lee underscores the dedication required to honor the original while skillfully adapting it for a contemporary audience.
Creating an entire world from scratch, this is Pepe’s biggest project to date.
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, which, apart from Aicelle, also includes Bituin Escalante, David Ezra, and Kakki Teodoro, is led by Ricky, alongside 2024 Gawad Urian Awardee Vincent De Jesus and Pepe and 2023 MMFF Best Cinematographer Carlo Mendoza.
The project is produced 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.
The film is set to rekindle the powerful themes of faith and hope that made the original a national treasure, now reimagined through a modern lens.
Ricky mentions, “Kailangan natin ng Himala— in the sense na ang hirap-hirap gumawa ng pelikula dito sa industriya natin, napakaraming restrictions at ang resources kulang and so on. Bawat pelikulang ginagawa is Himala.”
“Isang Himala” is set to premiere Dec. 25 as part of the 50th Metro Manila Film Festival.
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