National Artist Ishmael Bernal was one of the biggest names in the history of the local film industry, as his works showcased his artistry and innate talent for telling stories that mirrored societal issues of his time. One of his works that garnered immense recognition is his 1982 film Himala, which stars renowned actress Nora Aunor.
When the film Isang Himala: The Musical was reportedly in the works, helmed by MMFF 2023 Best Director Pepe Diokno, avid fans of Bernal and film critics set their expectations high, as the revered work from decades ago deserved to be treated well.
To the delight of many, the film, based on the 2018 theatrical adaptation of Bernal’s work, garnered numerous accolades during the 50th Metro Manila Film Festival Gabi ng Parangal, such as 4th Best Picture, Best Supporting Actress, Best Original Theme Song, Best Musical Score, and Special Jury Prize.
Upon viewing the film, it follows the same plot as the original—a young woman named Elsa (Aicelle Santos) from the allegedly cursed town of Cupang claims to have seen an apparition of the Virgin Mary, which has granted her the power to heal, subsequently drawing many people to the town, be it for their faith or their own nefarious purposes.
As the film is adapted from a musical, the prominent use of music in place of dialogue might be jarring at times, but the undeniable talents of the cast in both acting and singing make each scene more captivating to watch.
The screenwriting of Diokno, alongside National Artist Ricky Lee, who adapted the original screenplay into a musical with composer Vincent de Jesus, shone throughout the film as the script gave ample time for both spoken lines and songs.
Santos delivers her lines in an angelic manner, cementing how the people from Cupang and the pilgrims from distant places revered her as a living saint. Kakki Teodoro, who took home the Best Supporting Actress award for her role as Nimia, served as the perfect mirror to Santos’ gentle but enabling portrayal of Elsa, embodying the cattiness yet kindhearted nature of her character.
Apart from the main cast, the ensemble was impeccable in every scene, adding to the ambiance of the town with their depictions of the blind and desperate faith of its inhabitants, which were widely apparent and convincing.
While the film managed to display a somewhat realistic view of man’s desperate attempt to rid himself of responsibility through blind faith, as well as the greed that comes with taking advantage of those who do not know any better, its depiction of the town of Cupang sometimes felt too stagelike. Some parts of the film made the audience detach from their immersion, as the feeling of watching the story unfold on a theatrical stage lingered.
Overall, Isang Himala has not only accomplished the feat of telling a relevant story that warrants accolades and awards, but it has also successfully bridged Ishmael Bernal’s past genius to a newer generation who may benefit from the viewpoints, criticisms, and discussions his work aims to showcase and cultivate.
