In ‘Bernal’, Ricky Lee pays tribute to legendary filmmaker
In ‘Bernal’, Ricky Lee pays tribute to legendary filmmaker
SINEGANG.ph published this press release by Kahon Collective, Inc. No staff writer participated in writing this article.
Bernal is an upcoming feature film written by National Artist for Film and Broadcast Arts Ricky Lee, based on the life and body of work of National Artist and acclaimed filmmaker Ishmael Bernal.
One of the most influential directors in Philippine cinema, Bernal directed landmark films such as Himala, Manila by Night, Nunal sa Tubig, Relasyon, Ikaw Ay Akin, and many other classics that helped define the Second Golden Age of Philippine Cinema.
“Very excited ako na finally itong matagal ko nang binalak na material o script ay matutuloy na,” says National Artist Ricky Lee.
Blending biographical storytelling with magical realism and a fresh reinterpretation of the traditional biopic, Bernal brings together the people who shaped Bernal's film journey, from the actors he directed to the collaborators and family who surrounded him. The film features an impressive ensemble of stellar cast portraying some of the most iconic figures in Philippine cinema.
Three actors will portray the role of Ishmael Bernal's, with Jericho Rosales taking on one of the key portrayals.
The cast also includes Judy Ann Santos in the role of Nora Aunor and Elsa, the iconic character from Himala; Atom Araullo as Spanky Manikan and Orly from Himala; Iza Calzado as actress Rita Gomez; and John “Sweet” Lapus as Bernardo Bernardo.
The film will also feature portrayals of iconic artists from the Second Golden Age of Philippine Cinema, including Vilma Santos, Eddie Garcia, Alma Moreno, Lorna Tolentino, and many others who worked closely with Bernal. These roles will be brought to life by celebrated actors such as Chanda Romero, Lovi Poe, Shaina Magdayao, Agot Isidro, and more.
More than a biographical film, Bernal is being produced as a cinematic tribute, not only to Ishmael Bernal, but also to the film industry and to the National Artists who shaped its history. Alongside Bernal, the film honors icons and National Artists including Ricky Lee, Nora Aunor, and Marilou Diaz-Abaya, all of whom appear as characters in the story.
This project is being developed by Epicmedia and Ricky Lee’s Kahon Collective Inc., which continues to support the production of Ricky Lee's long-awaited film projects. Bernal, one of Ricky’s long-completed and most anticipated screenplays, now finally moves toward pre-production.
Aside from his upcoming films, Ricky Lee is also completing his newest book and scriptwriting manual, Trip to Quiapo 2, which is set to launch during Cinemalaya 2026 and the Manila International Book Fair 2026.
