Rediscovering the Magic: Restored 'Himala' Screens Shine in Metropolitan Theater
- Restored black-and-white version of Ishmael Bernal’s "Himala" screened at Manila Metropolitan Theater
- Screening part of "Dalawang Himala" showcase for Women’s Month
- Collaboration with NCCA, Film Development Council of the Philippines, and ABS-CBN Film Restoration Project Sagip Pelikula
- Screening followed by "Isang Himala" by Pepe Diokno, with talkback session on women’s representation in Philippine cinema
- Discussion included actors Aicelle Santos, Kakki Teodoro, Bituin Escalante, and David Ezra, as well as Kim Harold Peji of the Philippine Commission on Women
- Certificates of appreciation handed out by NCCA Deputy Executive Director and NCCA Gender and Development Focal Point System Head
The iconic black-and-white film “Himala,” directed by Ishmael Bernal, was recently restored and screened at the historic Manila Metropolitan Theater for the first time last month. The screening was part of the “Dalawang Himala” showcase, which was a highlight of the “Mga Hiyas ng Sineng Filipino” event held on March 16 to commemorate Women’s Month.
The event was made possible through a collaboration between the Metropolitan Theater, the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA), the Film Development Council of the Philippines, and the ABS-CBN Film Restoration Project Sagip Pelikula. The restoration of “Himala” was a significant moment for Filipino cinema, as it allowed a new generation of viewers to experience the timeless classic in its original form.
Following the morning screening of “Himala,” the audience was treated to a screening of “Isang Himala,” a film adaptation of the musical inspired by Bernal’s original movie. Both films were written by the renowned screenwriter Ricky Lee, known for his powerful storytelling and intricate character development.
Director Pepe Diokno, along with the stars of “Isang Himala” – Aicelle Santos, Kakki Teodoro, Bituin Escalante, and David Ezra, participated in a talkback session after the screening. The discussion focused on the representation of women in Philippine cinema and the creative insights behind “Isang Himala,” which delves into important women’s issues.
Kim Harold Peji from the Philippine Commission on Women also joined the conversation to shed light on the agency’s initiatives for Women’s Month, emphasizing the importance of promoting gender equality and empowering women in various sectors of society.
During the talkback session, NCCA Deputy Executive Director for Operations Bernan Joseph Corpuz and NCCA Gender and Development Focal Point System Head Maricel Diaz presented certificates of appreciation to all the participants, acknowledging their valuable contributions to the discussion.
The screening of “Himala” at the Metropolitan Theater served as a reminder of the film’s enduring impact on Philippine cinema and its relevance in today’s society. The restoration of this cinematic masterpiece allowed audiences to appreciate Bernal’s visionary storytelling and the stellar performances of the cast in a new light.
As the audience reflected on the themes and messages of “Himala,” they were also treated to the modern interpretation of the story in “Isang Himala,” which offered a fresh perspective on the timeless tale of faith, miracles, and societal challenges.
Overall, the “Dalawang Himala” showcase was a celebration of Filipino cinema’s rich heritage and the creative talents that continue to shape the industry. Through events like this, audiences are reminded of the power of storytelling and the importance of preserving cinematic treasures for future generations to enjoy.
The screening of “Himala” at the Metropolitan Theater was a fitting tribute to Ishmael Bernal’s legacy as a pioneering filmmaker and a testament to the enduring relevance of his work in the hearts of Filipino moviegoers. The event was a reminder of the timeless beauty of Philippine cinema and the profound impact it has on audiences both young and old.
/Digital Sauce
