Celebrating Excellence: Highlights from the 50th Metro Manila Film Festival Awards Night

The 50th Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) Gabi ng Parangal, held on December 27, 2024, at the Solaire Grand Ballroom in Parañaque City, was a night of glitz, glamour, and recognition for the best in Filipino cinema. This year’s theme, “Sinesigla sa Singkwenta,” celebrated the festival's rich history while showcasing ten outstanding films that captivated audiences throughout the holiday season.

Major Awards and Winners

The night saw “Green Bones” emerge as the big winner, taking home the coveted Best Picture award along with a total of six accolades. The film, produced by GMA Pictures and GMA Public Affairs, also earned awards for Best Actor (Dennis Trillo), Best Supporting Actor (Ruru Madrid), Best Screenplay, Best Cinematography, and Best Child Performer (Sienna Stevens).

Following closely was “The Kingdom,” which secured the title of 2nd Best Picture and garnered awards for Best Director (Michael Tuviera), Best Production Design, and Best Visual Effects.

“My Future You” was recognized as the 3rd Best Picture, with its director Crisanto Aquino also receiving accolades for his work. The film featured notable performances that resonated with audiences, further solidifying its place in this year's festival.

Standout Performances

Judy Ann Santos delivered a career-defining performance in “Espantaho,” earning her the title of Best Actress. Her portrayal showcased her versatility and commitment to her craft, making her a standout among this year’s competitors.

Kakki Teodoro won Best Supporting Actress for her role in “Isang Himala,” which also received recognition as the 4th Best Picture. The film highlighted significant themes and emotional depth that resonated with viewers.

Special Awards and Recognitions

In addition to the major categories, several special awards were presented:

• The Special Jury Prize was awarded to both “Topakk” and “Isang Himala.”
• Vice Ganda received a Special Jury Citation for his performance in “And the Breadwinner Is…”
• Seth Fedelin was honored with the Breakthrough Performance Award for his role in “My Future You.”

A Night of Celebration

Hosted by popular personalities Robi Domingo, Gabbi Garcia, Jasmine Curtis Smith, and Tim Yap, the evening was filled with excitement as filmmakers, actors, and industry professionals gathered to celebrate their achievements. The event also featured stunning performances that added to the festive atmosphere.

The 50th MMFF Gabi ng Parangal highlighted the resilience and creativity of Filipino filmmakers and artists. With “Green Bones” leading the pack, this year’s festival not only celebrated cinematic excellence but also reinforced the importance of storytelling in reflecting Filipino culture and experiences. As we look forward to another year of compelling narratives and artistic endeavors, the MMFF continues to be a beacon of hope and inspiration for the Philippine entertainment industry.