Imagine a monarchial Philippines where a Lakan leads and inspires its people side by side with a parliamentary government. Take this setting to present day. It is basically creating another Philippines within the Philippines. Such is the enormous scale of The Kingdom’s narrative which was translated to full visuals quite effectively by its director Michael Tuviera.

During the special advance screening of this Metro Manila Film Festival 2024 entry, Tuviera shared how they went very specific with all the elements; from costume to the set and even the tattoos, which the movie’s writer Michelle Ngu-Nario has also created a concept for. The make believe world of the monarchy fused seamlessly with modern-day Philippines — all making up a believable movie.

But the film’s visuals is only one thing. Even if the movie is politically framed, it highlights, more than anything else, a story of family. “This is, first, a family story, and how a father balances duty to his country and to his own”, Tuviera said.

Vic Sotto plays as Lakan Makisig, the ruler of the Kingdom of Kalayaan, an alternative timeline monarchy Philippines. In a separate interview, this is the first time that the popular comedian has performed drama from start to finish. Sotto has successfully stripped himself from his usual comical image to effectively portray the troubled leader and the weary head of family.

Piolo Pascual, meanwhile, Sulo Tagum, a tinatwa (outcast) and a farmer who is also the son of a disgraced Kalasag Royal Guard. Even with his seemingly supporting role, Piolo has the show’s defining moments. At critical portions of the story that somehow lacked intensity, Pascual delivered the goods.

 

The three children of the Lakan were portrayed by Sid Lucero, the eldest Marat Bagwis, Cristina Reyes as Dayana Matimyas and Sue Ramirez as Dayana Lualhati, the younger Princess. The support cast includes Ruby Ruiz, Nico Antonio, Art Acuna and with special appearance from Iza Calzado and 2023 MMFF Best Actor Cedrick Juan.

 

The Kingdom’ is one of the ten entries of the Metro Manila Film Festival which will be screened in cinemas nationwide starting Christmas Day. It is produced by APT Entertainment, MQuest Ventures and MZet Television.

Originally published on Glitz PH.