The stars of the only Christmas-themed entry in the 51st MMFF reflect on real-world connections during a global digital blackout.
For the star-studded cast of ‘Rekonek’—an ensemble family drama entry in the 51st Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF)—Christmas could also be about remembering the past which makes the season livelier.
The simple question of “Who do you want to reconnect with this Christmas?” landed with a mix of honesty, nostalgia, and promises when it was thrown to the cast, headlined by heavyweights Gerald Anderson and Andrea Brillantes during the ‘Rekonek’ press conference.
“I want to reconnect with myself,” Gerald said, who plays Wes in his first role as a producer after 20 years in the industry. “That answer is mine already!” he quipped.
This comes as ‘Rekonek’ stands as the only Christmas film entry in the MMFF this year, and focuses its view on the Filipino celebration during the digital age.
Meanwhile, Andrea, playing Gigi, doubled down on what she counts as a blessing this year. “I’m still connected with everyone I want to be with. I’m with everyone I love this Christmas, and that’s my answer to keep it short.”
Returning to the cinemas, the Legaspi family, who play the Crowders in the film, also shared their individual insights on the season.
Patriarch Zoren recalled his old dog and how his treatment of his pet transformed his view on taking care of his loved ones. “As a teenager, I didn’t know anything. There’s no social media reminding you to be kind to animals. I don’t want to cry, but I was cruel to that poodle. I shouldn’t have done that.”
“I couldn’t get a new dog until the poodle goes away. But then when those new dogs arrived, and they didn’t live long, I felt I was being punished for being cruel to the poodle.” he added.
On the other hand, veteran actress Gloria Diaz who plays Cory had a simple answer to who she wants to reconnect with: “Those who borrowed money from me!”
Reflecting on how everyday routines slowly put distance between people who once mattered most, some turned to family and friends in “addressing the lost connection.”
“I really miss my family,” said Charlie Dizon, who plays Kate. “I want to hold them and hug them. We always talk on video calls, but it’s different when we do it face-to-face.”
“You can tell them your problems and the comfort they give is different, especially physically,” added Charlie, whose family is based in the United States.
On the other hand, Dom Corilla and Raf Pineda, playing Markus and Bennie, respectively, shared the relationship between their circles. Dom’s recent misunderstanding with his best friend made him want to rekindle their friendship. “We’re not on good terms, so hopefully this Christmas it’ll be fine.”
“[To me, it’s] kind of like Dom’s, but best friends,” Raf said. “Because in high school, I had a core group of friends and apparently, when we were working, we didn’t talk much. I think this is the best time for us to reconnect.”
The cast agreed that working on the project made them more introspective, adding that taking part in the film also made them think of their lives beyond their acting careers.
With the film dropping on Christmas day, the cast’s answers linger as Filipinos experience dramatic reunions during the holiday season.
‘Rekonek’ features other cross-generational icons, including Bela Padilla, Carmina Villaroel, Mavy and Cassy Legaspi, Kokoy De Santos, Angel Guardian, Alexa Miro, Kelvin Miranda, and Jaypee Tibayan. The MMFF entry is directed by Jade Castro and produced by Reality MM Studios.
I really miss my family. I want to hold them and hug them. We always talk on video calls, but it’s different when we do it face-to-face.
Charlie Dizon
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