MMDA announces schedule for 50th Metro Manila Film Festival
The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) on Friday announced the calendar of activities for the 50th edition of the Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) in December this year.
In a press conference, MMDA acting Chair Romando Artes recognized the success of the 49th MMFF, in which all films earned P1.069 billion collectively.
"We’re riding on the success of 2023. Nakikita na natin na bumabalik ‘yung interest ng tao. We’re relying on that, na napabalik ng MMFF ang interest ng movie-goers,” Artes said.
The 2024 edition will see the MMFF going back to its usual eight entries. However, Artes mentioned they might consider accepting two more if the competition is strong.
“Kung sakali po maraming magagandang entries sa palagay po ng selection committee, subject to the approval of ExeCom, puwede naman daw gawin hanggang 10,” he said.
Talking more about this year's plans, Artes said that the city of Manila will host the event.
He also shared that they are trying to make the rates for the movie passes lower.
“Nagpass na po ang Metro Manila Council ng resolution kung saan irereview din ang amusement tax,” Artes said.
Here are the key dates for this year's MMFF:
- May 15, 5 pm: Deadline for submission of letter of intent
- June 14, 5 pm: Submission of scripts and documents
- July 1: Announcement of first four entries based on scripts
- September 30, 5 pm: Submission of finished films
- October 15: Announcement of all official entries
- December 15: Parade of Stars
- December 27: Awards Night
Additionally, the MMFF is bringing back the Student Short Film Caravan, offering a platform for students to showcase their talents.
The 49th MMFF is the highest-grossing edition of all time with P1.069 billion earnings, having surpassed the box-office earnings of the 2018 edition.
Seven of the MMFF 2023 entries, such as Rewind, Becky and Badette, GomBurZa, Mallari, Penduko, Family of Two, and Kampon will be available for streaming on Netflix.
