Metro Manila (CNN Philippines) — Film director Jerrold Tarog brings the famed Filipino leader General Antonio Luna back to life, and the story he shares is bound to stick.
Despite being a historical epic set during one of the darkest periods in the country’s history, the film embodies the very Filipino habit of drawing laughs and smiles no matter how tough the times.
Yet through the smiles, the film’s heavier messages still find a way to leave an indelible impression on those who watch it.
Portrayed by the very capable John Arcilla, we meet the brash, brutally honest, and fiercely passionate General Luna, who is desperately struggling to bring a people together to fight for their motherland.
Around Arcilla are talented performers who bring the Philippines during Luna’s time to life, showcasing the politics and misplaced loyalties that hampered progress at the time.
The frustration of Luna as he maneuvers through the assortment of characters in the political battlefield is both palpable and infectious, giving the audience a peek into the almost comic situation the general found himself in.
All this is brought together by Tarog – director, editor, co-writer, and musical scorer – whose very hands-on approach weaved together a visual and audial feast that complemented the tragic tale.
Though largely being faithful to historical accounts of the people and events Luna was involved in, Tarog admittedly exercised his creative license to introduce fictional elements in order to properly tell the story.
The result is a wonderfully detailed and substantial piece of cinema that provokes conversation about contemporary Philippines. The depth and symbolism is such that a second viewing of the film is bound to reveal even more.
The true triumph of the film is not in its slick production or the strong performance from its cast, but the ability of the film to spark a deep and meaningful conversation.
Heneral Luna leaves the audience with uncomfortable questions. Each question a stimuli to deeper dialogue and analysis about the condition of the Filipino society.
