17 February 2004--   “Magnifico”,  the  Philippine  entry  to  the  54th  Berlin  International  Film  Festival (Berlinale)  won   the Crystal  Bear award  for Best Feature Film  for  children  and  the  Grand  Prix of the Deutsches  Kinderhilfswerk  for Best  Picture at the  awards night held on Valentines’ Day, 14 February 2004.  This is the first time that a Philippine entry has won in the Berlinale.

The film revolves around the boy Magnifico and his attempts to solve the problems of his family and neighbors.

Director Maryo delos Reyes flew directly from Manila to receive the trophy and the cash prize.  Magnifico bested 20 entries from countries like France, Italy, Sweden, etc. and received accolades from the jury, movie critics, media and even from the locals and the Filipinos in Berlin.  Following were some of the statements made by the juries:

 “This winning film moved us a lot because a whole range of feelings were shown so well.  We were able to relate easily to the fascinating figures and   their stories affected us emotionally. This wonderful film was made even more intense by the great music and beautiful landscapes.”

 “Sometimes angels don’t live in heaven. The angel in this film walks among  us and does not have wings.  Instead he is burdened with a difficult life and  has a thousand questions that he tries to answers in a very down to earth way. The film is wonderful.”

Philippine Ambassador  Minerva Jean A. Falcon and her staff graced the premiere showing of Magnifico on 11 February 2004 at the Berlin Zoo Palast.   The Filipino community, movie critics and the locals braved the cold and waited in line to watch the movie.   The film was shown in the original version with English subtitles and German translation.  It was obvious from the start that the audience was touched by this story, which in essence, is about the goodness inherent in man.  A standing ovation was given by the audience and film critics at the end of the movie attesting to the fact that the double award given to Magnifico is well-deserved.

On behalf of the Filipino community in Germany, Ambassador Falcon congratulated Director Maryo delos Reyes and Mr. Ferdinand Lapuz, agent of the film, at the awards night.