'Freakier Friday': 5 reasons why the cult classic story is worth revisiting

GMA Network

17 hours ago

'Freakier Friday' is now showing in Philippine cinemas, and it's as fun as ever.
A sequel to the 2003 cult classic 'Freaky Friday,' the film sees the return of Lindsay Lohan as Anna and Jamie Lee Curtis as Tess, the iconic mother-daughter duo who once again get caught in a magical body-swap — this time involving Anna's teenage daughter, Harper (Julia Baker), and her soon-to-be stepdaughter, Lily (Sophia Hammons).
If you're still on the fence about watching 'Freakier Friday,' here are a few great reasons to give it a go:
Manny Jacinto's rom-com charm
The Filipino-Canadian rising star proved he's not just built for action roles, but also shines as a promising leading man in romantic comedies.
In 'Freakier Friday,' Manny takes on the role of Eric Davies, a charismatic chef who's also a devoted single dad to his teenage daughter Lily. As the new love interest of Anna, Eric finds himself caught in the middle of the film's magical mayhem.
His character adds warmth, charm, and a touch of romance to the story, showcasing Manny's versatility beyond action roles and highlighting his appeal as a romantic comedy lead.
Lindsay Lohan's return as a pop culture icon
Linday Lohan's return as Anna Coleman brought a new depth and maturity to the beloved character that helped define early 2000s teen culture. Once the rebellious, guitar-playing daughter, Anna is now navigating adulthood.
Lindsay's comeback in the role not only taps into nostalgia but also solidifies her status as a pop culture icon, blending the charm of her younger self with the grace of a seasoned actress.
In one memorable scene in the sequel, Lindsay shows she still has that rockstar edge, captivating viewers with a nostalgic performance of the hit song 'Take Me Away' from the original film.
Jamie Lee Curtis' comedic antics
Jamie Lee Curtis, reprising her role as Tess, brings her signature wit and energy to the sequel.
Her character gets taken over by Lily, Eric's Gen Z teen daughter, and the seasoned actress fully embraces the chaotic charm of a teenager trapped in a grown woman's body. From the sass and humor to the quirks, awkward moments, and perfectly timed eye-rolls, she delivered it all like a pro, effortlessly bridging the generational gap.
Her performance is a fun reminder of why she stole the spotlight in the original—and proves she's still got it, even after two decades.
Filipino representation
In the film, Manny's character is a chef who moved from London to Los Angeles to open his restaurant.
While his Filipino roots aren't directly stated, they're subtly hinted at in a heartwarming scene where his parents meet Anna's family over a wedding luncheon. His mother, speaking with a noticeable Filipino accent, mentions the long flight from Manila to L.A. — a quiet nod to their heritage.
The film also beautifully captures a distinct Filipino tradition: when Lily, inhabiting Tess's body, greets her grandparents with a respectful 'Mano po, Lola,' showcasing a gesture deeply rooted in Filipino culture.
Lessons on love, family
At its heart, 'Freakier Friday' shows that love and family flourish through empathy, open communication, and acceptance. It emphasizes the value of understanding one another's perspectives, embracing life's changes, and staying connected despite differences.
Whether it's navigating the challenges of parenthood, blended families, or generational divides, the film reminds us that love deepens through compassion and shared moments. —JCB, GMA Integrated News