Following its acclaimed run at Cinemalaya, director Tim Rone Villanueva’s award-winning coming-of-age dramedy Child No. 82 is set for its commercial release on July 1, exclusively in SM Cinema theaters nationwide.
The film stars JM Ibarra, Rochelle Pangilinan-Solinap, Vhong Navarro, Irma Adlawan, Inah Evans, Zairene Fernandez, Dexter Doria, and Kai Montinola, bringing to life a heartfelt and uniquely Filipino story about identity, family, and legacy.
The story follows Max, a determined 17-year-old student who must prove that he is the 82nd child of the late Maximo “Boy Kana” Maniego Sr., the Philippines’ biggest action-fantasy movie star. With only a few hours before the public wake ends, Max races against time to reach his father’s casket and claim his place in the legendary actor’s complicated legacy.
Driven by the hope of seeing his father one last time, Max believes proving his identity could help him secure recognition, inheritance, and a chance at his dream of entering show business. The stakes grow even higher as he prepares for fatherhood, hoping to support his pregnant teenage girlfriend and their future child.
Set against the backdrop of a crowded celebrity wake filled with fans and individuals claiming ties to the late icon, the film explores themes of identity, ambition, and belonging through humor, heart, and social commentary.
The film first premiered at the Cinemalaya Philippine Independent Film Festival on October 3, 2025, where it earned critical acclaim and audience support. It went on to win the Audience Choice Award and Best Screenplay, while Rochelle received the Best Supporting Actress Award for her performance.
