Director Zig Madamba Dulay (“Maria Clara at Ibarra,” “Paglipay”) an award-winning filmmaker, crafts a heartfelt ode to mothers and the picturesque Bicolandia in “Firefly,” a production of GMA Pictures. The film, featuring a stellar cast including Alessandra de Rossi, Dingdong Dantes, and Euwenn Mikaell, weaves a poignant narrative around Tonton, a boy in search of the mythical island of fireflies from his mother’s enchanting bedtime tales.
The adult Tonton, portrayed by Dingdong, reveals a heartfelt confession to Max Collins, playing the role of a reporter. He discloses that the “Firefly” story isn’t his own but rather his mother’s, setting the stage for a nostalgic journey into his simple upbringing alongside his banana cue vendor mom. Growing up, the artistically-inclined Tonton faces challenges such as navigating school, escaping bullies, and harboring a fear of dogs.
Tragedy strikes when his mother succumbs to cancer, prompting Tonton to fulfill a promise to return to her homeland, guided by a hand-drawn map that features a fairy-topped volcano and a sleeping-giant mountain. Accompanied by a group of diverse companions – a brokenhearted boy, a runaway girl, an ex-convict and his wife – Tonton embarks on a fantastical journey through the beautiful Bicolandia.
Cherie Pie Picache adds depth to the narrative as Tonton’s grandmother, who senses the boy’s heart and follows him to Ticao Island. The climax unfolds on the Isle of Fireflies, where Tonton’s family secrets are unveiled, providing an explanation for his early memories as well as his fear of dogs.
In the contemporary setting, Tonton is seen receiving an award, witnessed by his travel companions – now old and grey – in the audience. The ensemble cast, including Dingdong Dantes, Miguel Tanfelix, Epy Quizon, Yayo Aguila, Ysabel Ortega, and Cherie Pie, delivers outstanding performances. Alessandra is brilliant as always; however, it is Euwenn Mikaell who steals the viewers’ hearts with his genuine and heartrending portrayal of the determined Tonton.
Director Dulay employs simple, touching storytelling, crafting beautiful and engaging visuals throughout the film. With “Firefly,” he once again shows the depth of his clear vision and his strength as a master storyteller.
