After the world premier last March 8 of “Manny”, the movie, in “Documentary Spotlight” genre of the South by Southwest Film Festival in Austin, Texas, U.S.A, the Philippine premiere was held last March 10, 2014.
Attended by celebrities and VIPs at the Newport Peforming Arts Theater in Resorts World, I was invited to the premiere as a blogger.
The movie was directed by Leon Gast and Ryan Moore. It’s a documentary about the inspiring life story of Manny Pacquiao, his rise from poverty to become a 10 time boxing world champion, a congressman, and an international icon.
Liam Neeson, narrates in this documentary movie. Celebrities appearing in the documentary includes actor Mark Wahlberg, Jeremy Piven, boxers Oscar de la Hoya and Evander Holyfield, singer Dan Hill, respected sportswriters and boxing analysts. Manny’s friends and family also appeared in the movie.
Movie Trailer
Movie Review
The movie started quite dramatic with his downfall with the devastating blow he received from Marquez during their last fight. That set the tone of the movie for the first part. They got my attention and definitely my sympathy.
Then it progresses to the story of how Manny rose from poverty to greatness. His inspiring story made me realize more the fighter Manny was in the early rounds of his life match. With the highlights of his victorious fights and his rise to fame and glory, the energy of the crowd rose up and entertained and thrilled with Manny’s speed and prowess at the ring.
Then came the best part, the comedy entertainment, seeing how Manny transformed from king of the ring to movie actor, stars in commercials and the best part, a singer. One of the scenes the crowd really loved, was the scene with Dan Hill, the singer of Sometimes When We Touch.
But what fascinates me most about the movie is Manny’s transformation. From his well known unfaithfulness, his gambling, “unfavorable” business ventures, in which he all left behind when he discovered the “true meaning” of life and what is important to him. I might be a bit biased because of my faith but forget about whatever “religion” or “faith” he embraced, what amazed me is how he faced the lowest times of his career with courage because of what he believed in. The movie showcased that fatal round and how he “got up” from the “canvas” of failure.
A truly entertaining film in terms of the drama, the fight highlights, the comedy but most important of all how inspiring the movie is. For these, I give it 4 stars out of 5 stars rating for a great documentary of so far what is the life of Manny Pacquiao, the Philippine’s pride, and one of the greatest boxer in the history of the sport.
I highly recommend the movie not only for boxing fans but even for non-boxing fans. I strongly believe that every Filipino should watch it not only in support of Manny who has given the Philippines great honor, but also to draw inspiration in life from the experiences of Manny.
I will always remember the movie’s quote:
Why do I fight? Because it’s God’s Well.
It’s actually God’s Will. It is just how Manny pronounced it which brings a lot of laughs in certain audiences which I hate! For God sake, forgive his diction/accent. Why do some Filipinos are so critical.
For more info about the movie, visit the official Website, or follow the movie’s Twitter account or visit the movie’s Facebook Page.
“Manny”, the movie, opened in Philippine cinemas last March 12th nationwide and distributed by Solar Entertainment Corporation.
A Bit of Coverage
Here is a video of Dong Puno, one of the producers, who just arrived from the US premiere, to attend the Philippine premiere:
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