Smart and lovable new discovery Ryrie Sophia Turingan is capturing hearts as the lead in “Mujigae,” the comeback project of Unitel/StraightShooters, formerly known as Unitel Pictures.

At just 6 years old, Ryrie, who first gained attention through commercials, is stepping into her first film role. She is Mujigae, a Filipino-Korean girl whose name means “rainbow” in Korean. At the movie’s press conference, Ryrie impressed the media with her versatility, delivering her lines in Korean and singing a portion of the movie’s theme song, “Laban Fighting.”

When asked what she wants to be when she grows up, Ryrie simply said, “To be an actress.”

“I want to help my mom because she’s working hard for me,” she added, as tears welled up in her eyes.

Ryrie’s sincerity, expressive eyes, intelligence, and professionalism were some of the key qualities that made her stand out during auditions. “Mujigae” director Randolph Longjas sees her as following in the footsteps of multi awarded drama actress Judy Ann Santos.

She had to learn Korean for her role as a Fil-Korean girl, said Direk Randolph.

“She was a fast learner and spoke it with impeccable accent in a month,” he said.

Korean actor Kim Ji Soo, who was last seen in GMA’s “Black Rider,” shared his admiration for the young actress: “She’s going to be a big star. She’s a good kid, very cute, and super talented.”

In this heartwarming family drama, Ryrie’s character, Mujigae, is the daughter of Rainalyn, who dies, leaving her in the care of her Aunt Sunny (played by Alexa Ilacad). Sunny is unprepared for the responsibilities of being a guardian, let alone a mother, but as the two bond, they learn to navigate life together with love and understanding.

Director Randolph said the film is dedicated to everyone — from parents to those considering having children, and even to those who choose not to.

Alexa Ilacad, who reflected on her own experiences while filming, shared that although she’s a fur mom at 24, she doesn’t see herself having children anytime soon. As an aunt to two children, she said, “They’re the only two kids I like, but now I like one more—Ryrie,” revealing how much she had grown fond of her young co-star.

“Mujigae” also features performances from Richard Quan, Donna Cariaga, Kate Alejandrino, Cai Cortez, Anna Luna, Lui Manansala, Rolando Inocencio, Scarlet Alaba, Peewee O’Hara, and Rufa Mae Quinto. The film opens exclusively in SM cinemas on October 9, with a premiere night on October 8.