Marian Rivera’s ‘Balota’ is box office hit with sold-out screenings nationwide

As more audiences flock to theaters, GMA Pictures and GMA Entertainment Group’s latest release, Balota, starring Kapuso Primetime Queen Marian Rivera, has become a certified box office success.

Entering its second week in cinemas, Balota continues to draw moviegoers in large numbers. Even on October 21, a Monday typically considered a slow day for theaters, many screenings of the film were sold out.

The producers and cast of Balota are thrilled, as their goal has been to reach a wide audience with the film’s important message. This satirical film’s entry into the mainstream has broadened its viewership, coinciding perfectly with the upcoming 2025 Midterm Elections.

Apart from headlining Balota, Cinemalaya 2024 Best Actress Marian Rivera has been at the forefront of promoting the film’s advocacy. She shared, “Ito talagang Balota, isang adbokasiya talaga siya kaya pinu-push talaga namin na mas maraming makapanood kasi wakeup call ito sa mga tao, higit lalo sa mga kabataan.”

(“Balota is truly an advocacy, which is why we’re pushing for more people to watch it, especially the youth, as it serves as a wake-up call for them.”)

In an effort to make the film more accessible, a special discounted rate is being offered to students and teachers in select cinemas. “Dahil love na love ni teacher Emmy, may special rate kami sa mga teachers and students para mas magaan sa bulsa nila ang panonood nila ng Balota,” Marian shared.

(“Because Teacher Emmy loves her students and fellow teachers, we’ve set up a special rate for teachers and students to make it easier on their wallets to watch Balota.”)

Marian further explained the rationale behind this initiative in a Facebook post: “Bakit nga may special price ang ilang sinehan para sa estudyante at guro? Day 1 pa lang nandyan na ‘yan. Una po sa lahat, ano ba ang dahilan kung bakit namin ito ginawa? Hindi pare-pareho ang purpose ng mga pelikula. May pelikula na ang habol ay kumita ng hundreds of millions. Mayroong personal na pelikula. May pelikula na experimental. May pelikula na naglalayong makatulong sa lipunan. Ang Balota ay ginawa namin para makatulong sa lipunan. At naniniwala kami (na nasa movie rin) sa kakayahan ng mga guro at estudyante para humubog ng mas magandang bukas para sa Pilipinas.”

(“Why do some cinemas offer a special price for students and teachers? It’s been there since Day 1. First of all, what is the reason for this? Films don’t all serve the same purpose. Some aim to earn hundreds of millions, some are personal, some are experimental, and some, like Balota, aim to help society. We believe in the power of teachers and students to shape a better future for the Philippines, as reflected in the movie itself.”)

She also emphasized the positive feedback from teachers who were inspired by the film and saw themselves in Teacher Emmy’s character. This has driven a surge in viewership, with triple the number of attendees on Saturday, more screenings being added, and a growing audience daily.

“Ang pelikula ay mahalagang bahagi ng ating kultura at sining. Palawakin sana natin ang ating isip tungkol sa pag-appreciate nito,” she added.

(“Movies are an important part of our culture and art. We should broaden our mindset when it comes to appreciating them.”)

Rivera also made surprise visits to several cinemas over the weekend to personally thank viewers for their support.

Directed and written by Kip Oebanda, Balota features an ensemble cast including Gardo Versoza, Will Ashley, Raheel Bhyria, Royce Cabrera, Sassa Gurl, Esnyr, Nico Antonio, Donna Cariaga, Joel Saracho, Sue Prado, and Mae Paner. The film also had its international premiere at the 44th Hawaii International Film Festival (HIFF) in mid-October.

Balota continues to screen in cinemas nationwide.