“Originality” of Vice Ganda’s MMFF 2024 Entry Questioned by Lawyer Ferdinand Topacio
AND THE BREADWINNER IS… – Lawyer Ferdinand Topacio raised concerns about the originality of the Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) 2024 entry, suggesting it closely mirrors the plot of the 1955 film “Higit sa Lahat” starring Rogelio Dela Rosa and Emma Alegre.
During the Q&A session at the MMFF 2024 launch on July 16, Topacio, representing Borracho Film Production, asserted that Vice Ganda’s film may have plagiarized this earlier work. He emphasized his deep interest in movies, claiming to watch at least two films daily, including older classics.
Topacio’s specific request was for the organizers to investigate whether there were potential copyright issues due to the similarities in plot between Vice Ganda’s film and “Higit sa Lahat.” He highlighted his familiarity with the older film, pointing out that the storylines appeared to align closely.
In response, the panel, comprising Boots Anson-Rodrigo from the Movie Workers Welfare Foundation (Mowelfund) and Don Artes from the Metro Manila Development Authority, acknowledged Topacio’s concerns. Artes indicated that they would discuss the matter internally within the executive committee to determine any necessary actions.
This incident isn’t the first time Topacio has publicly criticized Vice Ganda. Back in September 2023, he had criticized the significance of Vice Ganda’s movies, arguing that they contribute to the dominance of less meaningful local films compared to more substantial foreign productions.
Vice Ganda stars in “And the Breadwinner Is…”, a film directed by Jun Robles Lana and written by Daisy Cayanan and Jonathan Albano. The movie features an ensemble cast including Eugene Domingo, Gina Pareño, Jhong Hilario, Maris Racal, and Anthony Jennings.
Other entries in the MMFF 2024 lineup include “Green Bones,” “Strange Frequencies: Haunted Hospital,” “Himala: Isang Musikal,” and “The Kingdom,” with the final five entries set to be announced later.