Paul Christian Ocampo

Sylvia Sanchez recalls how the concept and story of “I’mPerfect” came about, explains what convinced her to produce it

Article (news)

Mary Ann Bardinas

<p>“<em>I’mPerfect</em>,” one of the official eight entries at the 2025 Metro Manila Film Festival, follows the journeys of its lead characters Jessica (Krystel Go) and Jiro (Earl Amaba) as individuals and a couple with Down Syndrome, who wish to break away from the stigma related to their condition and prove to people that they can do whatever normal persons can do—such as choosing to and fighting for love.</p><p>Prior to the much-awaited premiere of the movie, five of its cast members appeared on Kapamilya Chat on two separate episodes to promote the movie. The first one was the tandem of Sylvia Sanchez and Viveika Ravanes, while the second one featured Zaijian Jaranilla, Krystel, and Earl.</p><div><iframe width="1013" height="570" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/-gobQ7zV2EU" title="Sylvia Sanchez and Viveika Ravanes | Kapamilya Chat" frameBorder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div><div><br/></div><p>With regard to how they came up with the concept, Sylvia recounted that it was in October 2024 when award-winning director Sigrid Andrea P. Bernardo pitched it to her. The latter came up to her to present two film scripts, which she both turned down. But being the gutsy woman that she is, Direk Sigrid shoot her shot once more by showing her the piece that she’d completed in 2014 but had to shelve since no production house committed on producing it.</p><p>Sylvia recalled being instantly struck by its opening scene that featured four characters with Down Syndrome, as well as their initial dialogues, which made it easy for her to decide that she’s going to produce it. In spite of that pronouncement, Sylvia related that Direk Sigrid was actually in complete disbelief that she produced her concept that she had kept for a decade, even when they were already holding auditions and workshops. Thus, during their thanksgiving party, which was held after they wrapped up shooting last August, Direk Sigrid couldn’t help but get emotional that it finally materialized.</p><p>&quot;<em>I’mPerfect</em>” may be considered a risky project considering the story and the actors on the topbill, but Sylvia still chose to gamble on it since she has relatives with special needs, not to mention that she grew up having a best friend diagnosed with Down Syndrome. So, when she saw the script, she didn’t have to think twice to do it since this is something that she’s been wanting to do in order to show and prove the public that people with the said genetic condition are capable of doing things that normal people can do.</p><p>As the producer, Sylvia imparted that she was very hands-on with this film since she made sure to be present during the auditions whenever she’s not busy with her other commitments. Besides, she also collaborates with Direk Sigrid and gives her suggestions and several inputs that she thought could enhance its narrative and scenes.</p><p>Just on their first day of taping, Sylvia related that she was already convinced that their special actors could really do it, and they would definitely make history through this film. Although there are seasoned actors in the lineup who were cast as supporting roles, she ascertained that it&#x27;s the portrayals of their special actors who will leave a mark on the viewers.</p><p>Since they’re working with people with special needs, the production made sure that it was always calm on their set, with no shouting or any argument allowed. Whenever there were misunderstandings, people involved had to leave the set and settle their issues somewhere nobody could hear or see them. Besides, Direk Sigrid had shown nothing but immense patience, especially in handling and directing their special actors, which they find truly commendable.</p><p>Besides, they also ensured the wellbeing of their special actors by not only giving them lunch breaks but also two 30-minute breaks per taping day that they could use to nap. However, there were times when instead of really taking a rest, their special actors would rather dance.</p><p>Both actresses also expressed their admiration towards their special castmates, with Viveika being impressed by their professionalism by not wanting to be the cause of delay whenever they shoot. Sylvia, on the other hand, was delighted by their commitment to studying and memorizing the script really well, which actually made the senior actors ashamed to commit mistakes because they knew it if they did.</p><p>With regard to their inclusion in “I’mPerfect” in this year’s edition of MMFF, Sylvia conveyed how over the moon she is, although she confessed that she had manifested it because of their entry’s unique and refreshing theme, beautiful story, and promising young actors with Down Syndrome.</p><p>“Okay, sabihin nating hindi sila sikat, hindi sila kilala pero gaya ng sinasabi ko, [ngayong] Christmas gagawa sila ng history, makikilala sila, at makikita nating lahat kung ano’ng kapasidad nila, kung anong kaya nila. Maski ako, masasabi ko na kapag may mga eksena kami, sila ‘yong lumulutang. Ang gagaling nila,” Sylvia stated.</p><div><iframe width="1013" height="570" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/qBxJBHhkxeQ" title="Earl Amaba, Krystel Go and Zaijan Jaranilla | Kapamilya Chat" frameBorder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div><div><br/></div><p>In a separate interview, lead stars Earl Amaba and Krystel Go, who played the couple Jiro and Jessica, had the chance to talk more about the film, as well as their characters and experiences doing the film, alongside their brilliant co-star Zaijian Jaranila, who plays Jiro’s younger brother, Ryan.</p><p>When asked how he feels about being part of “I’mPerfect,” the former child actor conveyed how honored he is since it’s the first-ever entry to the Metro Manila Film Festival to have this concept. At the same time, he’s happy that they were given the opportunity to share this story of people with Down Syndrome that could serve as an eye opener. Thus, he’s thankful to be bestowed this kind of unique experience.</p><p>As Zaijian discussed what the movie is all about, Krystel, who feels blessed to star in this film, and Earl, who expressed how happy he is, on the other hand, imparted that their chemistry as Jessica and Jiro started by establishing their friendship first in real life.</p><p>Since they don’t have any acting background nor are they natural actors, Zaijian confessed that filming came off as challenging. There were times when they had to repeat certain scenes multiple times, but their efforts paid off, bringing them a sense of fulfillment each time they successfully completed a scene. It also amazed him how they’re able to give off natural and raw reactions, as well as showcase their skills in making improvisations.</p><p>A self-confessed teleserye aficionado, Krystel related that it’s actually a dream come true for her to be able to work alongside seasoned actors, whom she used to only see on television.</p><p>With regard to what “<em>I’mPerfect</em>” has taught him, Zaijian conveyed, “Natutunan kong habaan ‘yong pasensya ko, at saka natutunan ko rin mas maging sensitive pagdating sa mga ganitong bagay kasi ‘di natin maiwasan talaga ‘yong mga taong tipong kapag may may nakitang katulad nila (people with Down Syndrome) pinagtatawanan or kinukutya. Pinapakita rin sa film na hindi dapat sila ginagano’n.”</p><p>He went on to mention that they have a mantra, which is “Yes, we can!” that signifies the strength of individuals with Down Syndrome.</p><p>“<em>I’mPerfect</em>” is part of the 51st MMFF, which is set to open this December 25, exclusively in cinemas nationwide.</p>

<p>Five of "I’mPerfect” cast members appeared on Kapamilya Chat in two separate episodes to promote the movie and share their experience while doing it.</p>

Five of "I’mPerfect” cast members appeared on Kapamilya Chat in two separate episodes to promote the movie and share their experience while doing it.