Directed by Nuel Crisostomo Naval, Viva Films 2019 Metro Manila Film Festival entry titled “Miracle In Cell No. 7” is adapted from the original Lee Hwan-Kyung film set in South Korea. Its Philippine version stars Aga Mulach and Xia Vigor as the main characters who play a father-daughter duo who seek justice, truth, and freedom.
In a film that touches light on heavy themes of life, the comedy-drama Filipino remake of Miracle In Cell No. 7 tells a story of a mentally challenged father, Joselito “Lito” Gopez (Aga Muhlach), and his bubbly daughter, Yesha Gopez (Xia Vigor) who live a normal life. Due to his mental limitations, abrupt changes happened when Lito is allegedly caught seemingly raping a body of a young girl who is the daughter of a high-ranking police officer—making him a suspect of kidnapping, harassment, and murder charges.
With the movie set mostly in a prison, Lito meets five other inmates namely Boss Sol (Joel Torre), Mambo (JC Santos), Choy (Mon Confiado), Bong (Jojit Lorenzo), Tatang (Soliman Cruz) who help Gopez see his daughter. Despite the struggles, Sailor Moon lover Yesha seems to be the star that brightens up their days in captivity; from teaching Boss Sol to read, to helping Bong make a call to his wife who just gave birth. Veteran actors John Arcilla (Officer Johnny San Juan) and Tirso Cruz III (Secretary Yulo) are also part of the cast.
These actors are fit for their characters that have met the expectations of the audience; even the supporters of the 2013 original version. Muhlach and Vigor receive sympathies from their viewers particularly when his role is sentenced to the death penalty; serving as a reminder of the perilous drug war in the Philippines.
As the film progresses, Bela Padilla’s character of grown-up Yesha builds up the past-present transition of the story through her narration. Padilla’s unwavering acting isn’t a disappointment that makes viewers shed tears on every character she portrays; the same goes with Santos’ commendable take of humorous line even in a blatant situation.
As an adaptation to the Korean film of the same title, Viva Films’ Miracle In Cell No. 7 has seemingly disparate originality that could have been portrayed extensively throughout the motion picture. Appearing as a parallel version of Lee Hwan-Kyung’s authentic craft, the Filipino version delivery of justice as a theme was the most endearing aspect of the film; with some of its sold-out screenings in cinemas nationwide.
With the abuse of power stemming from personal interests, the film emphasizes the flawed justice system of the Philippines that affects the poor in general.
Ultimately, the 2019 MMFF film was a revelation of the deceitful judicial structure our country has today that depicted the sufferings of the powerless through this two-hour Filipino adaptation. From laughing at the scenes to unexpectedly shedding tears with stubby noses, the movie—a take on the emotional rollercoaster of a plot—surely touched the hearts of many.
Rating: 3/5
