I'mPerfect: Bold & beautiful

Jiro, 29, and Jessica, 28, met in school.

- BÜM D. TENORIO, JR.

The smitten Jiro, on the first day of class, already knew it was Jessica that his heart so desired. He pursued her following her to the coffeeshop where she held a parttime job, making her his date at a school activity. He showered her with love and told her of his innermost thoughts. In time, she responded with the same amount of love, respect and devotion.They were happy. They were in love. And love was all that mattered for them.

The love they had for each other was so saccharine you would think the world was perfectly made for lovers like them. It was so tender you identified with them when love was the cure-all. It was so special that you would think falling in love did not bear hurts and pains.

Jiro and Jessica were special. They were bold and beautiful.

They were persons with Down syndrome.

Bravery takes centerstage in Nathan Studios' I'mPerfect, a social drama on the lives of persons with Down syndrome. The movie won the best film plum at the 51st Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) — and rightfully so.

At the nucleus of the film's bravery is a tender discussion on inclusivity. Persons with Down syndrome are at the front, center and back of the film. Never on the sidelines — because their stories also need to be heard and seen and felt. Never sidetracked — because their lives, like yours and mine, matter. Never sideswiped — because their joys and trials, hopes and dreams need to be discussed.