Synopsis

It is the 1980s. We follow the voices and dreams of young grade schoolers, Jacqueline and Herbert, along with their small group of gifted choir mates, as they are inspired and led by their choirmaster, Alma Taldo, while navigating a tough series of choral competitions—all the way to the national competition in Manila.

As we witness the various challenges they face as a small, unknown school choir from an inland town yearning to reach the big city finals, we take a deeper look into their lives as children of a community full of dreams in the making. The children endure rigorous trials and auditions to become part of the choir, and their aspirations reflect the hopes and ambitions of their parents as well. Though many are farmers, teachers, and simple folk, some of the kids’ parents—including Jacqueline’s and Herbert’s—are already in Manila, presumably having reached wider horizons and achieved great things.

As a small school choir, the obstacles they face are daunting, and the struggles they endure are profound—but their natural gift of song, seemingly shaped by the enchanting beauty of Loboc and given wings by the town’s breathtaking landscape and gentle people, helps them shine through. Under the patronage of Equet Butalid, the musically inclined wife of the provincial governor, they earn the opportunity to compete for a slot in the finals in Manila.

But their first glimpse of the vast capital city is fraught with uncertainty and conflict: not only do internal struggles shake their hearts and voices, but they are also unprepared for the stark and overwhelming realities beyond their circle. Along with these challenges come the greater upheavals of youth—young love, with all its joys and heartaches.

The choir’s loss in the national competition forces them to take a deeper look into their lives and motivations. Toward the end, they return—not as a small choir of children led by a handful of determined teachers, but as a wiser, more harmonious gathering of voices, strengthened and uplifted by the unwavering support of their entire town—and all the wondrous magic of its hills, waters, and music.

In the end, back in the big city that once threatened to swallow them with broken dreams and dashed aspirations, they come to realize that true victory takes many forms—and that it can only be achieved through the magic of pure and determined hearts.

Genre
Drama

Total Running Time
95

Director
King Palisoc

Cast
Morissette, Rachel Alejandro, Noel Comia Jr., Krystal Brimner, Cris Villonco, Chai Fonacier, Cai Cortez