'Mamasapano' charts high on Netflix list

Atty Ferdinand Topacio (6th from left) with some of his new talents 

Now it can be told: Atty. Ferdinand Topacio's MMFF movie last year finds renewed success as it sits at the number three spot on the Netflix movie charts, just behind a Kathryn Bernardo-Daniel Padilla starrer.

"Mamasapano: Now It Can Be Told" under Topacio's Borracho Film Production will be available on the streaming platform for an entire year and in all territories.

The movie is about 44 Special Action Force soldiers who died in a clash with Muslim rebels during their operation against a wanted terrorist in the municipality of Mamasapano in Maguindanao del Sur in 2015. The film stars Edu Manzano, Aljur Abrenica and Paolo Gumabao.

At a press conference held early this week, Topacio said that yes, he would feel vindicated if "Mamasapano" does well on Netflix. While the movie received some critical acclaim upon release in 2022, it wasn't the biggest commercial hit and that return of investment is yet to happen.

Still, Topacio pointed out that making money was never his prime motive in bankrolling movies.

He told Netflix: "Ito yung pambato namin doon sa mga Korean movies and even Turkish movies na big-budgeted. Sabi ko, subukan n’yo naman para makita nila na ang Pilipinas ay hindi lamang rom-com, may action din tayo," he said.

Part of a review of the movie written by Arpita Mondal for Midgard Gimes read: "Mamasapano: Now It Can Be Told is a gripping and controversial film that tackles one of the most sensitive and divisive issues in Philippine history. The film does not shy away from showing the brutal reality of war, as well as the complex and conflicting perspectives of the different parties involved. The film is well-researched and based on the official reports of the PNP and the Senate, as well as the testimonies of the survivors and witnesses. The film also uses actual footage and photos of the incident, adding to the realism and authenticity of the story."

Further, the reviewer lauded the "compelling performances" of Edu Manzano, Aljur Abrenica and Paolo Gumabao as they bring "depth and authenticity" to their portrayals of the SAF troopers.

Mondal added that the film's action sequences are "well-executed and visceral" and these "immerse the viewer in the chaos and desperation of the battlefield."

Topacio announced at the press conference that not only will they make more movies in 2024, but also launch actors in the world of show business. Among them are Anyah Koh, Stella Blanca, Luna Bella, Fiona Phoebe, Tala Zaldivar and Barbara Milano.