If Ishmael Bernal were alive today, how would he react to the reimagination of his iconic film Himala? This is what I asked National Artist Ricky Lee during the grand launch of Isang Himala, an adaptation of the 1982 film and 2003 musical.
“I think as his friend, I know he’d be happy and amazed. I think he’d also be challenged that the work he did before has given birth to different versions. I can only imagine looking at his expressions already. Ishmael liked discourse, so he’d be happy to see this version. We’re happy to be doing this,” Lee told Manila Standard Entertainment.
“Bernie wouldn’t be happy if you made your version just by copying the original. But if he’d see another version of Himala that is a different Himala, I think he’d really be happy. He might even rise from his grave,” he added in jest.
Sharing his inspiration for revisiting the material in today’s context, Lee explained how Isang Himala remains a powerful narrative in today’s world, where people continue to search for hope and faith.
“For me, what we’re doing now is a tribute to the film made in 1982. Since it was released back then, it became a musical on stage, and now it has been made into a film based on the musical. I believe it will continue to have different versions, and our storytelling about miracles will go on,” Lee said.
As one of the official entries to the 50th Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF), the film promises to deliver an emotional and visually stunning experience for audiences this Christmas season.
Meanwhile, director Pepe Diokno, who won MMFF’s Best Director last year for Gomburza, revealed his passion for this adaptation, emphasizing that the heart of the movie lies in its emotional depth, focusing on the raw struggles and conflicts faced by the characters. The film delves into the complexities of faith, human desires, and the darker sides of hope, creating an emotionally moving narrative that invites viewers to reflect on their own beliefs and the choices they make.
“The themes and issues discussed in the original films are timeless. Unfortunately, these are the same issues that we face today in our society—issues of faith and blind faith, issues of truth and non-truth, issues in our society, and how we deal with each other. Elsa’s story has so many layers, and whether you watch it as a child, a parent, a neighbor, or a friend, there will always be a part of the story that will touch your heart. That’s the experience I wanted to share with the audience,” shared the director.
The grand media conference gathered the film’s cast and crew, including Aicelle Santos, who steps into the iconic role of Elsa. The launch also welcomed cast members, including Bituin Escalante, Kakki Teodoro, and David Ezra, among others.
The trailer premiere offered a breathtaking glimpse into the world of Baryo Cupang, showcasing its rich visuals, emotionally charged scenes, musical direction, and songs by Vincent A. De Jesus. It ended with a moving moment as the voice of National Artist Nora Aunor, the original Elsa.
Aicelle delivered one of the event’s most memorable moments when she performed the signature song “Gawin Mo Akong Sining.” Tears streamed down her face as she sang with raw emotion, drawing the audience into Elsa’s world of faith and struggle. Aicelle also shared how stepping into such an iconic role challenged her as an artist and inspired her to give her all to honor the original while making it her own. She focused on bringing her own interpretation to the role.
Presented by CreaZion Studios in partnership with Unitel, Straightshooter, Kapitol Films, and CMB Production, Isang Himala is a bold creative undertaking. CreaZion Studios producers are known for celebrated works like Iska, Patay na Si Hesus, 1st Ko Si 3rd, as well as MMFF entries Kabisera and Deadma Walking.
