MMFF 2024 REVIEW: The Kingdom - Alternative World, Same Problems

Finally, there is the concept of an alternative Philippines used as plot for a movie, though seems ambitious, is a promising way to diversify the stories we do with our films. Cinema is a great way to express these theories and make them into a good entertainment material, that is why I would say that The Kingdom starring Vic Sotto and Piolo Pascual is groundbreaking and my most anticipated film for the Metro Manila Film Festival.

With the premise of having an alternative Philippines that was never colonized and continued up to the modern day really is an interesting thought. Though that there will still be some influences but not as integrated by being under the colonial powers.

The Kingdom brings me to love our rich culture which we can tell in a new light. It has the best in production value even down to the smallest details, and if you are a history and culture nerd, you will definitely geek out. One of the most interesting "what if" stories of the country yet will also face similar conflicts and struggles. The Kingdom of Kalayaan prevails but deceit and an unjust system remains.

We also got to see a different kind of Vic Sotto bearing a more serious role compared to his previous MMFF movies like Enteng Kabisote. It feels off at first but seeing how he embraced the character showing the heaviness of the crown as well as the burden he also shares with his children, it was indeed a performance of his career. Piolo also pours his energy to show the other side of his society which is placed as lowest in our version of the caste system.

I hope this premise can be expanded in either a new film or limited series. The lines resonate so well even in our present reality. I would like to see more of this world and what other things it can derive from Pinoy history and culture. It was indeed a big gamble to produce this kind of film, but I'm happy that it is doing well according to the reports and has also positive reviews.

I really wish this can start more ventures into these kinds of stories, with probably giving more depth with the system and the people in the kingdom. Though it reflects a different reality, it pretty much has the same problem of our own world, thus we never gone that far either. 

The Kingdom also stars Cristine Reyes, Sue Ramirez, Iza Calzado, Sid Lucero, and Ruby Ruiz. Produced by MQuest Ventures, APT Entertainment, and MZet Television Productions.Showing in PH cinemas as part of the 50th Metro Manila Film Festival.