I’MPerfect is one of the official entries in the 51st Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF), slated to open in cinemas across the Philippines on December 25, 2025.
Directed and written by Sigrid Andrea Bernardo, the film stands out as a romantic drama with a deeply meaningful and inclusive narrative.
A ROMANCE THAT DEFIES EXPECTATIONS
At its core, I’MPerfect tells the love story of two adults with Down syndrome — Jiro and Jessica — portrayed by Earl Jonathan Amaba and Anne Krystel Daphne Go, both actors who themselves have Down syndrome. This representation is rare in mainstream Philippine cinema and marks a significant step toward inclusive storytelling on the local big screen.
The film explores their everyday experiences, emotional journey, and growing bond, offering audiences a tender look at love, connection, and self-discovery through the eyes of characters who are often underrepresented in film.
STELLAR CAST AND SUPPORTING TALENT
In addition to the two lead actors, I’MPerfect features a supporting cast of well-known Filipino performers, including:
- Sylvia Sanchez
- Janice de Belen
- Lorna Tolentino
- Tonton Gutierrez
- Joey Marquez
- Zaijian Jaranilla
Their involvement not only adds depth to the story but also highlights the industry’s support for inclusive narratives and opportunities for diverse talents.
MEANINGFUL ADVOCACY AND REPRESENTATION
The film’s production was rooted in a long-held vision by director Sigrid Andrea Bernardo, who had been developing the concept for over a decade before it came to fruition with Nathan Studios. The project also involved collaboration with advocacy groups to help ensure respectful and accurate representation of individuals with Down syndrome — reinforcing the film’s message of empowerment, capability, and dignity.
The film’s promotional materials emphasize a powerful theme: “When the world says they can’t… they’ll show us they can” — a statement that has resonated widely on social media and sparked discussions about inclusivity in entertainment.
WHAT AUDIENCES CAN EXPECT
Rated G (General Audience) by the Movie and Television Review and Classification Board (MTRCB), I’MPerfect is accessible to viewers of all ages, making it a heartwarming choice for families this holiday season.
The film combines romantic charm with social relevance, inviting audiences to reflect on love in its many forms, and how understanding, connection, and acceptance make us all more human.
As I’MPerfect joins the rest of the MMFF 2025 entries this Christmas Day, it stands poised not just as entertainment — but as a celebration of diversity, representation, and genuine storytelling that speaks to the heart.