MAGNIFICO
(Maryo J De Los Reys / 2004 / Philipines / 122 mins / cert PG)
(Sun 26th / 3pm / £4/3)

Magnifico is a heartwarming story of a young boy whose amazing love, faith and courage shine through life's sadness and misfortunes. Its the tale of a 9 year old boy, named for the hope he brings his parents after their previous chils, Helen is born with Cerebral Palsy. His father Gerry thought he would grow up just like his older brother Miong, an intelligent young man who is studying as a scholar in Manila. But he is a disappointment because contrary to his name, there is nothing great about him aside from the kindness in his heart.
Eventually he is bound to influence the lives of his townspeople and change the dim perspective of his family by proving that everything is possible if only one will see through the eyes of a child. Beautifully observed, comic and somewhat sentimental (Philippine style). An award winning feature this is a special screening set up with LeatherLane films. Winner: International Jury Grand Prix, Crystal Bear Award, Kinderfilmfest, Berlin International Film Festival 2004