Seven Sundays: A Story of Family Reconnection and Forgiveness
Written by: Lovely Sheena Galido
March 27, 2025
Imagine being in a situation where you'd do anything to bring your family together—anything, except tell them the truth. In our Filipino culture, we value our family and even put them first in everything. Family is the glue that puts everything together, and we often go to great lengths to ensure that we are there for each other. That's why during holidays or vacations we usually have a “family reunion” where we check in with each other and spend quality time together. But what if you could experience that sense of connection and unity every day and not just during special occasions? Films such as Seven Sundays (2017) captured the essence of family dynamics and the transformative impact of coming together to heal past wounds. The film reflects on societal pressures and expectations, particularly the role of family in Filipino culture.
Courtesy: IMDb
“Seven Sundays” is a 2017 film by Cathy Garcia-Molina, starring Ronaldo Valdez (as Manuel), Aga Muhlach (as Allan), Dingdong Dantes (as Bryan), Cristine Reyes (as Cha), and Enrique Gil (as Dexter). The story unfolds when Manuel (the father) is initially diagnosed with terminal cancer, urging his four children to reunite and spend seven Sundays together.
Courtesy: ABS-CBN
As they reconnect, Manuel discovers that he was misdiagnosed but decides to keep it a secret, hoping to keep the family united and for his children to continue to bond. As the Bonifacio siblings came together, they were forced to resolve issues and personal struggles. Allan, the eldest son, often struggles with financial issues and family responsibilities. He also feels jealous of his brother, Bryan, because of his financial success. While Bryan, the second child, appears successful but possesses bitterness towards Allan, who he believes is their father's favorite. His character also involves reconnecting with his child and the mother, which helps him to heal. On the other hand, Cha, the third child, is the sister who hides her marital problem. Her character involves confronting her husband's affair and eventually kicking him out, and by that she discovered empowerment through her struggles. And Dexter, the youngest child, is often seen as troublesome. He also feels abandoned by his family and struggles with sharing his problems. Dexter seeks acceptance from his family and finds a sense of belongingness and support.
Courtesy: ABS-CBN
One of the most important aspects of “Seven Sundays” is discovering the truth. When Manuel chooses to keep the misdiagnosis a secret, it serves as a plot point, wherein confrontations arise and they eventually reconcile. The film's exploration of forgiveness and reconciliation is rooted in Filipino culture, which emphasizes family and unity. It shows that even in the face of adversity, family can be a source of strength and healing. By portraying the Bonifacios’ journey towards forgiveness and family reconnection, “Seven Sundays” encourages viewers to reflect on their family dynamics and maintain strong family bonds. It reminds us that forgiveness is not always easy, but it is often the first step towards healing and rebuilding relationships.
Courtesy: MUBI
“Seven Sundays” leaves a lasting impact on viewers by showcasing the power of family love and the healing role of reconciliation. Through its captivating storyline and relatable characters, the film makes us think about the significance of reuniting and fostering stronger relationships. As a cultural artifact, “Seven Sundays” not only entertains but also educates and contributes valuable insights to family life and the bonds that unite us. The emotional journey of the Bonifacio siblings resonates deeply, reminding us that no matter how far we drift apart, the ties of love and family can guide us back home.
References:
Mijares, M. (2017, November 27) A Perfectly Imperfect Family: A Film Review on Seven Sundays https://www.filcatholic.org/11231-2/