How Miracle in Cell No. 7 (Philippine adaptation) leaves mentality into the lives of Filipinos?
Written by: Kurt Loren Bayani
March 23, 2025
Our parents always want a better life and future for us; that’s why they will do everything to care for and love us and always make us happy always. Justice can easily change the life of one person; awareness of our rights is a key to surviving this chaotic world. Justice plays a crucial role in our society today because it serves as a tool for having fair treatment in the place we live in. Miracle in Cell No. 7 can reflect the justice system that the Philippines had up until now. Justice is one of the concerns of Filipinos. If we look back at the past, we can see that there’s progress, but not strong enough to have fair treatment for all. Films and movies are powerful tools that we can use to encourage and persuade everyone on a certain topic we have in our minds.
Courtesy: Wikipedia
“Miracle in Cell No. 7” is a 2019 film by Nuel Crisostomo Naval, starring Aga Mulach, Xia Vigor, and Bela Padilla. This film focuses on the story of Joselito (Aga Muhlach), a mentally ill man who is falsely accused of killing the daughter of one of the people who have the highest position. After Joselito got arrested, they faced a lot of challenges, and one of them was being separated from each other. While in prison, Joselito became friends with his cellmates, who helped him smuggle his daughter (Xia Vigor) inside the cell with them.
Courtesy: Wynnesworld
Joselito is just a father who wants to keep his daughter happy, even though he is in prison. He seeks help from his cellmates to bring his daughter with him to the prison. Joselito is a typical father who wants to look for his daughter personally, and he is doing all he can for his daughter to feel that she is not lonely. Even though he is a mentally ill father, he still manages to think critically for the sake of his daughter; he always thinks the best for them. Joselito represents that no matter how hard the situation we face is, there's always a way to make things better. Joselito’s perseverance can make us reflect on our timeline, status, and situation in life. As Filipinos, what would we think if we were in Joselito’s shoes, and what would be our response in times of crisis?
Courtesy: ABS-CBN
As Yesha is growing up, she wants to pursue being a professional lawyer. She thinks that this way she can help her father to prove his innocence in the court and achieve justice. Yesha’s desire and commitment to helping her father to be free in prison ended when her father got a death sentence that was also on the date of her birthday.
This film highlights the power of love, sacrifice, seeking the truth, and fighting for our rights as individuals. Also, it emphasizes the reality of our lives that no matter what happens, we should speak up for the truth and not let others take advantage of our capabilities.
Courtesy: ABS-CBN
The injustices of the law become apparent. Joselito's wrongful imprisonment illuminates the harsh realities that confront many who are wrongly accused and the societal frameworks that tend to neglect the innocent. This theme of the film encourages viewers to consider the value of compassion and empathy in our interactions with less fortunate individuals.
"Miracle in Cell No. 7" reminds us bitterly that love grows stronger than any injustice, and the human spirit has the will to live and survive by its strengths. It asks us to reflect on the value of relationships, the need for justice, and the impact of our choices. The film leaves a lasting impression, urging viewers to appreciate the miracles in their own lives and the connections that define us.
References:
Chui, A. (2019, December 29) Miracle in Cell No. 7: Filipino Remake Review https://itswynnesworld.com/2019/12/29/miracle-in-cell-no-7-remake-review/