“Topakk,” Nathan Studios’ first-ever entry to the Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF), emerged as a success story, earning three awards and 12 nominations. Veteran actress and producer Sylvia Sanchez-Atayde described the experience as immensely satisfying and inspiring.
‘Topakk’ the only action-packed entry in this year’s golden MMFF, wins the Jury Prize during the MMFF Gabi ng Parangal. PHOTOS FROM NATHAN STUDIOS
“We are grateful to the Metro Manila Film Festival for accepting us, even though we are new [to this industry] as a producer. With that, we are already winners [in our hearts] for making it on our first try,” Sanchez-Atayde said in her speech after receiving one of the film’s three awards — the Fernando Poe Jr. (FPJ) Memorial Award for Excellence.
‘Topakk’ also won Best Float for its artistic design inspired by the movie during the Parade of Stars. PHOTO COURTESY OF MMDA
“Topakk,” the only action-packed entry in this year’s golden MMFF, directed by award-winning filmmaker Richard Somes, also won the Jury Prize for reviving the action genre and Best Float.
The cast and crew of ‘Topakk’
The FPJ Memorial Award for Excellence recognized “Topakk” not just as an epic action film but also for its creative execution, mass appeal, redeeming values and themes of family and social justice.
Grateful to the FPJ Board for honoring their film, Sanchez-Atayde expressed, “We are deeply thankful for this recognition.”She also highlighted the movie’s international achievements in 2023, when it was screened at prestigious events like the 78th Cannes Film Festival in France, the 76th Locarno Film Festival in Switzerland, and festivals in Austin, Texas and Catalonia, Spain, before making its way to the MMFF this year.
“The movie was screened, praised, and recognized by audiences abroad… that’s why I told Direk Richard, ‘Why not show it in our own country?'” Sanchez-Atayde added.
Starring Quezon City First District Rep. Juan Carlos “Arjo” Atayde, Sid Lucero and Julia Montes, “Topakk” has elevated the Filipino action movie to a global level with its outstanding production, visual effects, casting, sound design, cinematography and unique storyline.
“We are incredibly happy that they allowed us to be in the MMFF this year. We didn’t encounter any problems with our staff, actors, and crew [throughout the production]. We made sure every scene would be great [and meaningful] for our viewers,” she stated.
Sanchez-Atayde also revealed that Nathan Studios plans to return to the MMFF in 2025.
Besides the FPJ Award for Excellence and Jury Prize, “Topakk” won Best Float for its artistic design inspired by the movie during last week’s parade.
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