“My Big Bossing” Expected to Be a Big Contender Among 2014 MMFF Entries

Watching local mainstream films in the cinema is not really my thing, to be honest. But when it comes to any Enteng Kabisote films, that’s something I always make an exception for. Who could forget the story of the beloved “Tagalupa” who fell in love with a fairy?

I even jokingly say I’ve been watching it since I was still a fetus, hah! Growing up in the ‘80s and ‘90s, it’s easy to remember how Vic Sotto’s films consistently highlighted family values that resonated with audiences through the years.

As the Christmas season draws near, the movie battle for the 40th Metro Manila Film Festival officially begins.

One of the biggest-budget entries in this year’s MMFF lineup is Vic Sotto’s My Big Bossing, a collaboration among three major film production outfits: OctoArts Films, M-Zet TV Production, and APT Entertainment.

My Big Bossing is composed of three episodes directed by some of the country’s top filmmakers—Tony Y. Reyes, Marlon N. Rivera, and Bb. Joyce Bernal. It features a star-studded cast led by the indomitable Bossing Vic Sotto, MMFF’s all-time box-office king, along with child superstar Ryzza Mae Dizon, who appears in all three segments: Sirena, Taktak, and Prinsesa.

During the My Big Bossing blogcon night, members of the cast were given the opportunity to be interviewed. Present were Vic Sotto, the bubbly Ryzza Mae Dizon, young heartthrob Alonzo Muhlach, and director Marlon Rivera.

With her cheerful personality and natural sense of humor, Ryzza Mae answered questions candidly and entertainingly. Except, perhaps, for the “Bimby” question, which she politely avoided, insisting that her private life remain private.

When asked about receiving awards, she responded playfully:

“Nakakahiya naman po (laughs), Bossing, thank you ha, naiiyak po ako. Pakiss nga Bossing! Alam niyo po, hindi naman po ako nage-expect ng maraming awards. Ang mahalaga po ngayon ay ma-enjoy po ninyo ang pelikula.”

Ryzza shared that her most challenging role was actually all of them. The mermaid role required underwater scenes, the Taktak episode challenged her fear of ghosts, and playing a princess required her to imagine something she had never been before.

From Bossing Vic Sotto’s perspective:

“Aminin ko, mahirap, very challenging ang paggawa ng tatlong episodes sa isang movie na katulad nito, lalo na kasama ang mga kids. Iba-iba ang moods nila. Si Ryzza needed to undergo scuba diving lessons and swimming techniques for her mermaid scenes. Overall, it was very challenging, and I’m proud to say she delivered. Magaling.”

The role of Alonzo Muhlach as the prince was personally approved by Vic Sotto after consultation with Niño Muhlach, ensuring he was fitting for the character.

My Big Bossing is bigger and grander in scope this year, presenting three different stories in one film, each independently directed. No expense was spared in production—from costumes and set design to special effects, especially in the fantastical final episode. The goal is simple: deliver entertaining and meaningful value to the audience.

“When we make films, we always consider what kids would feel about it. We make sure it’s for all ages, fun, entertaining, and heartwarming. We need that, especially this holiday season,” Vic Sotto shared.

My Big Bossing opens in cinemas on Christmas Day, December 25.

Premier night is on December 22 at SM Megamall, followed by the Parade of Stars on December 23, and the much-awaited awards night on December 27.

See you at the movies!