If you have imagined “Isang Himala”, the 2024 big screen musical version, would be a direct adaptation of the 1982 Nora Aunor movie, you’re mistaken. Neither it is a cinematic translation of the 2018 theater musical. The Metro Manila Film Festival entry, directed by the 2023 MMFF Best Director Pepe Diokno (GomBurZa), will bring the generation-defining material to the Gen Zs through its pop/rock undertone.
Aicelle Santos will bring her role from the stage to screen as Elsa. In the press conference, Aicelle noted how the songs musical arrangements will speak to all generations, even the Gen Zs who weren’t born yet when the original movie was released in 1984.
Joining Aicelle Santos is a Bituin Escalante and theater stars including David Ezra, Floyd Tena, Noemi Gonzales, Kakki Teodoro, Vic Robinsons and Joann Co. Ricky Lee, National Artist for Film and Broadcast Arts, also oversaw the development of the film being the original writer of the film and co-writer of this movie-musical remake.
The older generations who wishes to see Nora Aunor will not be disappointed also as the Superstar did a cameo role. One of Diokno’s requirement to do the film is to see Nora Aunor in it.
Audiences will be treated to a visual spectacle as the film’s production was entirely shot in a studio where a massive set, depicting the original setting of Barangay Cupang was created from scratch.
“Isang Himala” is only one of the ten entries in this year’s Metro Manila Film Festival. It will be screened in cinemas nationwide starting December 25.
Watch the live performance of the cast from the media conference.