Just days before the eight official entries of the 51st Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) hit cinemas nationwide, “Manila’s Finest” has already emerged as one of the most talked-about films of the season after its first premiere night at Robinsons Manila on Monday, December 15.
Following the screening, the crime-drama received strongly positive reactions from film critics, movie vloggers, and casual viewers alike, fueling early awards buzz ahead of the festival’s official opening on December 25.
Film critic Philbert Dy described the movie as, “A terrific film that’s a total bummer, dissecting a time period where everything went wrong and nothing could have been done to change it.”
Movie vlogger MagandaBaMovie also praised the film’s immersive storytelling, saying, “Napakaganda. Nagustuhan ko itong Manila’s Finest in how it transports us back to the late 60s and early 70s – the vibe, the culture, and the style are all carefully crafted here.”
Casual viewers echoed similar sentiments, with X user EUNICE (@aoashdres) urging audiences to prioritize the film this Christmas: “Please consider Manila’s Finest na pipilahan nyo sa sinehan this Christmas. The movie’s storyline alone is insane plus the casts na napakahusay.”
Much of the praise centered on the film’s ensemble cast, led by Piolo Pascual and Enrique Gil, alongside standout performances from Joey Marquez, Romnick Sarmenta, Ariel Rivera, Rico Blanco, Dylan Menor, Kiko Estrada, Rica Peralejo, and Jasmine Curtis-Smith.
Particular attention was also given to Ashtine Olviga, whose portrayal of Agnes, Piolo Pascual’s daughter in the film, earned widespread commendation from viewers and critics alike.
Directed by Raymond Red and produced by MQuest Ventures, Cignal Entertainment, and Spring Films, Manila’s Finest is set in 1969 Manila and explores the moral struggles of police officers amid corruption and injustice—an angle that many critics say resonates strongly with present-day realities.
With its early reception, several film critics believe “Manila’s Finest” is a strong contender for Best Picture at the MMFF Gabi ng Parangal on December 27, as well as in multiple acting categories.
The film opens in cinemas nationwide on December 25 as part of the 51st Metro Manila Film Festival.