ENTERTAINMENT & LIFESTYLE
Advocates Philippines
Star Power And Genre Surprises: MMFF 2025 Kicks Off With Diverse First Batch Of Entries
Screengrab from MMFF
The Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) 2025 is officially in motion, and its first wave of entries promises a dynamic mix of star-studded casts, genre variety, and compelling Filipino storytelling. With four films already announced, this year’s lineup is shaping up to be one of the most eclectic in recent memory—blending comedy, drama, action, and horror in equal measure.
Leading the pack is “Call Me Mother”, a vibrant, high-concept film featuring the powerhouse duo of Vice Ganda and Nadine Lustre, directed by the acclaimed Jun Robles Lana. Known for pushing the boundaries of both comedy and social commentary, Lana’s collaboration with two of the country’s most magnetic performers is already generating buzz. The film is expected to blend humor with heart, and a bold exploration of identity and family—hallmarks of Lana’s directorial style.
Next up is “Reconnect”, a multigenerational drama that brings together an impressive ensemble cast: Gerald Anderson, Zoren Legaspi, Carmina Villarroel, Gloria Diaz, and rising star Alexa Miro. Helmed by Jade Castro, the film appears to focus on the intricate dynamics of family and rediscovery in a digital age. With its emotional core and reflective narrative, “Reconnect” may be this year’s heartstring-tugger.
Meanwhile, action enthusiasts will be drawn to “Manila’s Finest”, led by none other than Piolo Pascual and directed by indie darling Rae Red. Details are still under wraps, but the pairing of Red’s gritty, socially aware storytelling with Pascual’s onscreen charisma suggests a high-octane film with depth—a fresh take on the action genre grounded in real-world issues.
And of course, no MMFF is complete without a dose of horror. “Shake, Rattle & Roll XVII: Evil Origins” brings back the iconic horror anthology with a vengeance. This installment boasts a sprawling cast that includes Ivana Alawi, Ysabel Ortega, Carla Abellana, Francine Diaz, Richard Gutierrez, and many more. Expect terrifying tales and supernatural thrills, all tied together by the franchise’s signature brand of suspense. With its subtitle “Evil Origins,” this sequel teases chilling backstories and a return to the franchise’s darker roots.
As always, the MMFF serves as a barometer of local filmmaking trends and a celebration of Filipino creativity. From big studio spectacles to potentially more grounded character-driven stories, this initial slate already shows a commitment to diversity—in casting, storytelling, and genre.
More entries are expected to be announced in the coming weeks, but if this first batch is any indication, MMFF 2025 is preparing to deliver a holiday season full of entertainment, emotion, and unmistakably Filipino flair.
Leading the pack is “Call Me Mother”, a vibrant, high-concept film featuring the powerhouse duo of Vice Ganda and Nadine Lustre, directed by the acclaimed Jun Robles Lana. Known for pushing the boundaries of both comedy and social commentary, Lana’s collaboration with two of the country’s most magnetic performers is already generating buzz. The film is expected to blend humor with heart, and a bold exploration of identity and family—hallmarks of Lana’s directorial style.
Next up is “Reconnect”, a multigenerational drama that brings together an impressive ensemble cast: Gerald Anderson, Zoren Legaspi, Carmina Villarroel, Gloria Diaz, and rising star Alexa Miro. Helmed by Jade Castro, the film appears to focus on the intricate dynamics of family and rediscovery in a digital age. With its emotional core and reflective narrative, “Reconnect” may be this year’s heartstring-tugger.
Meanwhile, action enthusiasts will be drawn to “Manila’s Finest”, led by none other than Piolo Pascual and directed by indie darling Rae Red. Details are still under wraps, but the pairing of Red’s gritty, socially aware storytelling with Pascual’s onscreen charisma suggests a high-octane film with depth—a fresh take on the action genre grounded in real-world issues.
And of course, no MMFF is complete without a dose of horror. “Shake, Rattle & Roll XVII: Evil Origins” brings back the iconic horror anthology with a vengeance. This installment boasts a sprawling cast that includes Ivana Alawi, Ysabel Ortega, Carla Abellana, Francine Diaz, Richard Gutierrez, and many more. Expect terrifying tales and supernatural thrills, all tied together by the franchise’s signature brand of suspense. With its subtitle “Evil Origins,” this sequel teases chilling backstories and a return to the franchise’s darker roots.
As always, the MMFF serves as a barometer of local filmmaking trends and a celebration of Filipino creativity. From big studio spectacles to potentially more grounded character-driven stories, this initial slate already shows a commitment to diversity—in casting, storytelling, and genre.
More entries are expected to be announced in the coming weeks, but if this first batch is any indication, MMFF 2025 is preparing to deliver a holiday season full of entertainment, emotion, and unmistakably Filipino flair.
Jul 8, 2025
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