Elsa and the rest of the characters from Cupang are making a grand comeback to the big screen, particularly at the Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF), 42 years after the original Himala by Ishmael Bernal and Ricky Lee premiered as an MMFF entry.
Isang Himala stars Aicelle Santos (Elsa) alongside Bituin Escalante (Aling Saling), Kakki Teodoro (Ninfa), David Ezra (Orly), Neomi Gonzales (Chayong), Joann Co (Sepa), Floyd Tena (Priest) and Vic Robinson (Pilo). The film also features with the amazing ensembles from the theater industry.
The story is based from the 1982 classic Himala starring Nora Aunor, the story is set in the drought-stricken town of Cupang, where Elsa claims to see an apparition of the Virgin Mary during a solar eclipse. She begins faith healing with the support of her “Seven Apostles,” attracting pilgrims and tourists, which leads to a business boom. A filmmaker named Orly arrives to document Elsa’s journey from the perspective of a skeptic, uncovering the hidden truths and decaying state of Cupang. Elsa’s childhood friend Nimia also returns to open a nightclub, which is later shut down by Elsa’s followers.
The film draws inspiration from Himala: The Musical, first staged at the Cultural Center of the Philippines by Tanghalang Pilipino in 2003 and 2004. It was later re-staged by the Philippine Educational Theater Association (PETA). Meanwhile, during the production of 9 Works Theatrical in collaboration with The Sandbox Collective, with Aicelle, Kakki, Neomi, Bituin, and Floyd.
Ricky Lee and Vincent de Jesus join forces once again with 2023 MMFF Best Director Pepe Diokno, who offers a more intricate approach that resonates deeply with the struggles of Filipinos searching for solutions to physical, spiritual, and emotional challenges amidst personal beliefs.
Isang Himala hits cinemas nationwide starting December 25. Advance bookings are now available through the SM Cinema and Ayala Malls websites and apps.
