“Umbag,” an award-winning Filipino-American independent film, with roots in the Santa Maria community, will be shown at 6 p.m. and 8:15 p.m. Monday, Aug. 25 at Regal Edwards Town Center Cinema in Santa Maria.
Produced by Rosemarie Dumadara Koerner, “Umbag” features Marie Dumadara, a Santa Maria resident and Koerner’s daughter, in one of the lead roles.
Marie Dumadara’s personal journey and passion as an artist helped shape the emotional core of the film, which explores themes of family, forgiveness and resilience.
The screening event will include a red carpet and photo wall, meet-and-greet with the cast and production team, and giveaways. A portion of ticket sales will benefit MD International Foundation’s youth and community programs.
Written by director and screenwriter John Ad Castillo, “Umbag” was conceived with one of boxing icon Manny Pacquiao’s sons in mind for the lead role. However, the story took a new direction when producer Rosemarie Dumadara Koerner saw the potential for her daughter Marie Flows to take on a key role.
Flows, an artist by profession, had been struggling emotionally and mentally during the Covid-19 pandemic. Witnessing her daughter’s challenges, Rosemarie believed the film could be both a creative outlet and a healing journey for Marie.
The personal connection gave “Umbag” a deeper layer of authenticity and emotional resonance, setting the stage for a story that is both intimate and universally relatable, organizers said.
“Umbag” is about two estranged sisters, Daniela and Janice, who are forced to confront their shared past and deep-seated differences after years of separation. Set against the backdrop of a boxing gym, the film explores themes of family, resilience and forgiveness.
Raised in different parts of the world, Daniela becomes a skilled boxer under the guidance of their uncle Isaac, while Janice, who grew up in the U.S., struggles with feelings of alienation and a yearning for connection.
When tragedy strikes, their already strained relationship is pushed to the breaking point, culminating in a climactic boxing match that forces them to reevaluate what truly matters.
“Umbag” was shot on location in the Philippines, offering views of the country’s vibrant landscapes, and cultural nuances that are integral to the story.
From the bustling boxing gym to the serene yet dramatic settings of provincial life, the film captures the essence of the Philippines, providing a rich backdrop that enhances the narrative’s emotional depth.
“Umbag” premiered at the Golden State Film Festival on Feb. 19 at the TCL Chinese Theatre in Hollywood, where it was honored with the Best Action Feature Film award.
It then earned the Audience Award for Best Feature at the 2025 Indie Vegas Film Festival, and was officially selected for both the Marina del Rey Film Festival and the 2025 Madrid International Film Festival, which will be held at Olby’s in Margate, United Kingdom, Oct. 15-17.
Tickets are available online here. For discounts on bulk ticket purchases, contact 805-478-4784 or admin@md-international.biz.
