ISANG HIMALA (2024) Review
Directed by Pepe Diokno
After seeing Pepe Diokno’s movie adaptation of the hit film turned musical ‘Isang Himala,’ I was moved by its powerful performances. There’s no way you will see the movie and not get anything in return emotionally because not only the story and characters will resonate with you but the musical numbers punch you even more with its lyrics and rock beats.
It’s not an easy watch, that’s for sure. But carefully mounting its story at the small town of barangay Cupang, being presented in a studio including the internal and external locations of the story, you get to be immersed in a chaotic, dry, sad and hopeless village filled with people waiting for miracles to happen.
Aicelle Santos, Bituin Escalante, Kakki Teodoro and Neomi Gonzales brought their A game from theater to the big screen. Being able to portray their roles before but on live theater, they made little adjustments on their movements which made every scene compelling. I liked the bigness of their facial reactions but their movements are just enough for the screen. And every time the music starts to play, you know you’re in for something spectacular.
Imagine 2 hours and 25 minutes of powerful performances, display of faith and moral imprudence and how we can easily cling to false hopes. ‘Isang Himala’ is as stimulating as it is enlightening. It’s a triumph in Philippine cinema and will leave you speechless.
The film delivered. It is such a difficult feat to achieve being able to adapt the musical for the big screen. A movie turned into a musical and now a movie musical, and translating the material for the Millennials and Gen Z, you really need patience to watch this but finishing the film is a rewarding experience.
We don’t get to see these kinds of movie musicals very often on our screens and it’s a good one, too. With a timeless classic material and powerful performances from its ensemble, ‘Isang Himala’ is a must-watch movie this Metro Manila Film Festival.
4 OUT OF 5 STARS
‘Isang Himala’ is now showing in cinemas nationwide. An official entry to the 50th Metro Manila Film Festival from CreaZion Studios, Unitel Straightshooters, Capitol Films and CMB Film Services, Inc. Rated PG by the MTRCB.