The award-winning film “I’mPerfect”, an official entry in the 51st Metro Manila Film Festival, continues to draw strong audience interest more than two weeks after its release.
Produced by Sylvia Sanchez-Atayde of Nathan Studios and co-produced by CMB Film Services, the film has struck a chord with viewers for its heartfelt and groundbreaking portrayal of persons with disabilities.
Directed by Sigrid Andrea Bernardo and headlined by actors with Down syndrome, “I’mPerfect” is now screening in nearly a hundred cinemas across Metro Manila to accommodate sustained demand.
Among those moved by the film is Mamamayang Liberal Partylist Rep. Leila de Lima, who watched it with her son Israel, who is on the autism spectrum.
De Lima encouraged the public to see the film, describing it as an important step toward deeper understanding and inclusion of individuals with Down syndrome.
“We need to really understand them. They have their own needs, they have their own feelings,” she said.
De Lima commended lead actors Earl Amaba and Krystel Go, the latter of whom won the MMFF Best Actress award for her performance in the film.
“They were able to show the world that they can do it,” she said. “That they can stand on their own.”
She added that the film has inspired her to push for legislation that would further support the PWD sector, including individuals with Down syndrome and autism.
National Council for Disability Affairs Executive Director Glenda Relova likewise praised “I’mPerfect”, calling it an effective vehicle for showcasing the humanity of persons with disabilities.
“This is a mind-opener for every person and every family—na hindi natin dapat ikinakahon ang ating pananaw sa isang taong may kapansanan,” Relova said, adding the film fully deserved its MMFF Best Picture and Jury Prize for Best Ensemble honors.
She singled out Go’s performance as “very raw and very real—ramdam na ramdam mo.”
She also lauded the film for beautifully showcasing the landscapes of Nasipit, Agusan del Norte, and Claveria, Misamis Oriental.
