Unitel Pictures makes big screen comeback with ‘Mujigae'

The cast of Unitel Pictures' "Mujigae," October 2, 2024 in Quezon City. MJ Felipe, ABS-CBN News

MANILA — Unitel Pictures is making its comeback with the heartwarming family drama "Mujigae."

Known for their movies such as "Crying Ladies," "Santa Santita," and "Ang Babae sa Septic Tank," Unitel Pictures went on hiatus during the shutdown caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. The company is now set to return under the new name UXS, or Unitel Straight Shooters.

Aside from "Mujigae," UXS also has an entry to the Metro Manila Film Festival in "Himala."

"Mujigae" is a story about how a five-year old kid can heal broken bonds. Former "Mini Miss U" from Cavite Ryrie Sophia plays the title role of Mujigae, which translates to "rainbow." A cheerful orphan, she forms an unlikely bond with her estranged aunt Sunny, who is played by Kapamilya multimedia actress Alexa Ilacad.

Their bond will then be tested when Mujigae's biological father -- played by South Korean actor Kim Ji Soo -- enters the picture.

Movie and commercial director Randolph Longjas revealed that they were instantly charmed by Ryrie during the casting call and the child star had to go through a crash course on studying the Korean language.

Longjas also praised Ilacad’s performance in the movie as the millennial aunt who doesn’t want to take care of a child. 

"This is Alexa’s best performance in her career," said Longjas. 

"To be fair, binigay ko naman talaga," Ilacad said in response to the praise. "Lahat ng kaya mong ibigay, binigay ko. I really channeled and accessed every emotion I could ever channel. I'm happy na na-happy si direk kasi collaborative naman ang paggawa ng isang pelikula."

Comedy actress Rufa Mae Quinto has a special participation in the film, playing the role of a barangay captain who struggles to remember names. 

Richard Quan, Donna Cariaga, Kate Alejandrino, Anna Luna and Cai Cortez are also part of the movie that will be screened exclusively on SM Cinemas beginning October 9.