With its compelling narrative centered on faith and hope, Isang Himala draws audiences into a story that truly demands attention. This fresh take on a timeless tale is ready to impress audiences at the 50th Metro Manila Film Festival.
Today, November 3, Isang Himala offers a first glimpse into Ricky Lee’s reimagined take on the 1982 classic Himala. The teaser gives a first look into Baryo Cupang and its people before taking us on a journey through Elsa’s life, where she begins to perform her miracles.
Hailed as a “once-in-a-generation” film project, Isang Himala transforms Baryo Cupang into a gritty mining town, capturing its intense chaos and heat. With breath-taking visuals and meticulous attention to detail, the film promises a cinematic experience that resonates with both longtime fans and new viewers alike.
The teaser then reveals how Elsa takes the reins and earns the love of the people, all while others express intense emotions. But at what cost does this align with the essential storyline the teaser aims to show?
As the rain begins to pour, it signifies a ray of hope amid the intense heat and emotions felt in Baryo Cupang. This moment sets the stage for Elsa, portrayed by Aicelle Santos, to take center stage in her iconic kneeling prayer position.
This fresh adaptation breathes new life into the beloved classic, making sure it resonates with contemporary audiences.
The material, developed by 2023 MMFF Best Director Pepe Diokno, has received full approval from National Artist for Film and Broadcast Ricky Lee, who shares his enthusiasm for the project. “I’ve seen every form of Himala, and I’m ecstatic about the material Pepe has presented,” Lee underscores the dedication required to honor the original while skillfully adapting it for a contemporary audience.
Creating an entire world from scratch, this is Pepe Diokno’s biggest project to date. The newly transformed Baryo Cupang features numerous exterior scenes, and being able to tell this story for today’s generation represents a significant step up from his previous projects. He mentions, “Isang Himala is completely different from Ishmael’s Himala. The treatment is different. My first day on the set, pagkaapak ko rito I was immediately transformed to Baryo Cupang”.
With an entirely new treatment and stunning visuals, CreaZion Studios’ Executive Vice President and Chief Creative Officer Real Florido expresses his strong confidence in the material, emphasizing the central role of the cast and crew in crafting this masterpiece. He states “Magbubuo ka ng lupon ng artista, and Ricky Lee being involved, kinakailangan ng magandang vision. Hindi siya yung pelikula na basta kaya mo lang gawin, minsan lang ito gawin, so bakit di natin buhusan ng effort ang material?”
As anticipation builds for Isang Himala, the film’s cast, featuring Aicelle Santos, Bituin Escalante, David Ezra, and Kakki Teodoro, is led by National Artist for Film and Broadcast Ricky Lee, alongside 2024 Gawad Urian Awardee Vincent De Jesus and a talented team that includes 2023 MMFF Best Director Pepe Diokno and 2023 MMFF Best Cinematographer Carlo Mendoza.
This “once-in-a-generation” film project is also proudly presented by CreaZion Studios, whose commitment to bringing high-quality Filipino stories to life aligns seamlessly with Isang Himala’s vision. As a media company known for championing authentic and impactful Filipino narratives, CreaZion aims to not only captivate local audiences but also elevate Filipino cinema to meet global standards. By partnering with Kapitol Films and UxS for Isang Himala, CreaZion Studios reflects a shared passion for storytelling that resonates across generations. This collaboration underscores their dedication to the legacy of this Filipino classic, embracing the timeless themes of faith and hope in a way that speaks to audiences worldwide.
The film is set to rekindle the powerful themes of faith and hope that made the original a national treasure, now reimagined through a modern lens. With a fresh approach, Isang Himala aims to resonate with today’s audiences while honoring the profound legacy of the classic. It underscores the film’s uniqueness and artistry, reflecting the immense effort poured into bringing it to life—especially through the hard work and dedication of the cast, crew, and Ricky Lee in this project. Lee mentions “Kailangan natin ng Himala— in the sense na ang hirap-hirap gumawa ng pelikula dito sa industriya natin, napakaraming restrictions at ang resources kulang and so on. Bawat pelikulang ginagawa is Himala.”
Isang Himala is set to premiere in the 50th Metro Manila Film Festival on December 25.
