'I’mPerfect' makes ripples with MMFF wins

MANILA, Philippines — In a watershed moment for Philippine cinema and global disability representation, the romance drama “I’mPerfect” was crowned Best Picture at the 51st Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) Gabi ng Parangal last Saturday, December 27, at the Dusit Hotel in Makati City. 

Produced by Nathan Studios and directed by Sigrid Andrea Bernardo, the film shattered glass ceilings by being the first mainstream Filipino feature to star two leads with Down syndrome—Krystel Go and Earl Amaba—in a romantic narrative. 

The film marked another milestone with Krystel Go becoming the first actor with Down Syndrome to win Best Actress.

“‘Inclusivity’—that’s how I simply described this historic milestone for Philippine cinema,” Bernardo said. “I pushed for this film for several years since 2009, the first time I wrote the script. I thought nobody would produce the film. I thanked Nathan Studios for the fantastic opportunity.”

The victory marks a decisive shift in the industry, proving that inclusive storytelling can triumph over traditional box-office formulas.

Accepting the award, Bernardo revealed the project—backed by CMB Film Services and VLTF Co Production—was a labor of love, and was even downplayed at times for its “risky” premise that led to historic achievements.

“I doubted myself, but I never gave up on them. It was a big reward that this film had already released in cinemas and saw them dancing on the stage, getting the attention they deserved and being interviewed is an absolute success,” she said.

“I am already a big winner as I proved my point. These awards are priceless, and they are the icing on cake. These are the rewards,” Bernardo added, referring to the Best Picture, Best Actress, and Best Ensemble Performance (Special Jury Prize) awards.

Executive Producer Sylvia Sanchez, who championed the project when others turned it away, was visibly emotional. In a poignant moment on stage, she was embraced by the cast, declaring the victory a testament to the capability of the Down syndrome community.

“Persons with disability: you made history tonight," Sanchez said.

This award has just proven to the public that people with Down syndrome are capable, professional and worthy of the spotlight.

The movie’s MMFF victory is expected to cause ripples beyond the Philippines, offering a new benchmark for global cinema. 

By casting neurodivergent actors to tell their own stories—rather than relying on neurotypical actors to mimic them—the film challenges international standards of authenticity and representation.

I’mPerfect also took home the award for Best Ensemble Performance (Special Jury Prize). (Contributed story)