Mentorque Productions producer John Bryan D. Diamante is giddy with anticipation as his first solo movie production Mallari is earning its well-deserved recognition aside from making history. The film which made waves in last year’s Metro Manila Film Festival is notable as the first-ever Filipino movie to be distributed by Warner Bros. Pictures.
Inspired by chilling true events, Mallari narrates the haunting tale of Fr. Severino Mallari, a 19th-century priest whose descent into madness unfolded during the Spanish occupation. The film delves into Fr. Mallari’s life and work as a parish priest in Pampanga, where he tragically succumbed to darkness, reportedly committing murders to aid his ailing mother. This chilling period horror unfolds across three interwoven timelines – the Spanish colonial era, the post-war period, and the present day – with Piolo Pascual masterfully portraying a different character in each, adding remarkable depth to the storytelling.
Just this May 7, FAMAS unveiled its list of nominees for the much-awaited awards night, set to illuminate the Fiesta Pavilion of the Manila Hotel on May 26 at 7 PM. Mallari reigns supreme with an incredible number of nominations, including Best Actor (Piolo Pascual), Best Picture (Mentorque Productions/Clever Minds), Best Director (Derick Cabrido), Best Screenplay (Enrico C. Santos), Best Cinematography (Pao Orendain), Best Child Actor (Kian Co), Best Supporting Actress (Gloria Diaz), Best Supporting Actor (JC Santos), Best Editing (Noah Tonga), Best Sound (Immanuel Verona and Nerikka Salim), Best Production Design (Marielle Hizon), Best Visual Effects (Gaspar Mangarin), Best Theme Song (“Pag-ibig na Sumpa” by JK Labajo), and Best Musical Score (Von De Guzman).
Mallari’s earlier triumph at the MMFF 2023 – securing Best Supporting Actor, Best Musical Score, Best Visual Effects, and Third Best Picture – foreshadowed this landslide of nominations.
Recognition from a highly respected award-giving body is a testament to both the brilliance of the film’s cast and the excellence of its craftsmanship. A nomination alone serves as a validation of impressive work.
Starring Piolo Pascual, Janella Salvador, Elisse Joson, and JC Santos, Mallari was a standout entry in the previous Metro Manila Film Festival 2023, claiming a coveted spot among the festival’s highest-grossing films. The film’s impact extended far beyond domestic borders, becoming an official part of the inaugural Manila International Film Festival, a visionary project launched by Metropolitan Manila Development Authority/MMFF Acting Chairman Atty. Romando S. Artes.
Piolo Pascual, JC Santos, Ron Angeles, Janella Salvador, director Derick Cabrido, Clever Minds’ Supervising Producer Omar Sortijas, and Mentorque producer Bryan and his sister Rona Banaag proudly represented their film at MIFF in Hollywood. This venture aimed to elevate and celebrate Filipino cinema on the global stage.
The collective effort was rewarded when Piolo’s remarkable performance earned him the Best Actor award at the 1st MIFF awards night, bringing pride to the actor and Mentorque producer Bryan. Moreover, packed Hollywood theaters screening Mallari served as proof of the film’s international appeal.
Mallari’s success story continues – it captured audiences in Singapore and Thailand across 85 theaters. This unexpected reach inspired a theater tour featuring Piolo Pascual, JC Santos, Ron Angeles, and Janella Salvador.
Mallari will find a new home on Netflix this June 21 to further expanding its global reach.
