Umbag, an independent Filipino-American film, will be playing in Santa Maria on Aug. 25. Rosemarie Dumadara Koerner, a member of the Santa Maria Valley Chamber of Commerce, executive produced the movie, and her daughter, Marie Dumadara, stars in one of the leading roles.
“The story delves into universal experiences of family dynamics, sibling rivalry, and the pursuit of redemption, making it deeply relatable to audiences from all walks of life,” according to press materials.
There are two screenings of Umbag at the Regal Edwards Santa Maria theater at 6 p.m. and 8:15 p.m. In addition, there will be a red carpet, a photo wall, giveaways, and a meet-and-greet with the cast and creators.
Directed by John Ad Castillo, the 2025 film follows two estranged sisters who reunite and must confront their past inside and outside the boxing ring. Umbag was shot in the Philippines and “beautifully captures the essence of the Philippines, providing a rich backdrop that enhances the narrative’s emotional depth,” according to press materials.
This year, Umbag won the Golden State Film Festival award for Best Action Feature Film and the Indie Vegas Film Festival’s Audience Award Best Feature.
Buy tickets at xperto-events.com, and find the Regal Edwards Santa Maria at 100 Town Center East in Santa Maria.
This article appears in Aug 21-31, 2025.