Rekindling the Fire: GOMBURZA Transports Viewers to a Forgotten Era
Ten (10) films are now showing nationwide for the 2023 Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) — an unofficial part of Filipinos’ holiday season tradition. These films offer various genres from Drama, Romance, Comedy, Historical, Thriller, Fantasy, and many more. Among these is GOMBURZA, this year’s most awarded bagging seven (7) trophies is MMFF Gabi ng Parangal. If you are still undecided about what to watch among the many films in MMFF, here are some reasons why GOMBURZA should be your priority in your watchlist.
GOMBURZA features the story of the three (3) secular priests — Mariano Gomes, José Burgos, and Jacinto Zamora who were executed through garotte by the Spaniards in 1872. They were tagged by the Spanish government as the masterminds for Cavite Mutiny.
1. GOMBURZA’s impact to Dr. Jose Rizal
It might be a big statement to say that without GOMBURZA, there might not be a Dr. Jose Rizal. The 10-year-old Rizal witnessed the execution of the three (3) priests alongside his brother, Paciano, who was a student of Father Jose Burgos. Despite his young age, this event left a significant mark on Rizal which later pushed him to write his second novel "El Filibusterismo” dedicated to GOMBURZA. Andres Bonifacio, who is considered as "Father of the Philippine Revolution" was also inspired by GOMBURZA. There were reports that Bonifacio distributed black cloth fragments derived from the cassocks of the three (3) priests amongst Katipuneros, who venerated them as "anting-anting.”
2. GOMBURZA’s other side of the story
The film gave another side of the story about the GOMBURZA. It gave life to our Filipino heroes who are less talked about. Some people who were at our back while watching in the cinema were sometimes surprised about the details in the movie. If you are a visual learner and not a fan of reading thick historical books, this is a good opportunity to learn more about Philippine History.
3. Powerful Acting and Premier Actors
Cedrick Juan was awarded Best Actor for playing José Burgos in the film. Juan proved he is worthy of this recognition as he delivered applaudable acting in GOMBURZA. He shared in an interview his intensive research and studying to speak Spanish and Latin to give justice to his role.
Alongside Cedrick Juan, other actors in this film are also worth recognizing for their dedication to giving life to each of their characters — Dante Rivero (as Mariano Gomez), Enchong Dee (as Jacinto Zamora), Piolo Pascual (as Pedro Pelaéz), Elijah Canlas (as Paciano Rizal), Ketchup Eusebio (as Francisco Zaldua), and many more. Through their powerful performances, each actor contributed to a deeper understanding of Filipino identity.
4. Once in a lifetime film
Let’s be real, it is not yet the norm for Philippine cinema or even television to produce a historical project. Many factors are behind this — cost, marketability, and risk. Despite these, the team behind this took the risk to share this craft with the Filipinos. Not all historical films and series are well-researched and done beautifully. GOMBURZA transcends the norm with its meticulously crafted stunning shots, evocative locations, and impeccably designed wardrobes. No wonder, it received awards for Best Cinematography, 2nd Best Picture, Best Production Design, and Best Director (Pepe Diokno) which are testament to the vision and artistry poured into the project.
5. Awakening for Filipinos
Some audience in a cinema in Taguig City where I watched were sniffing as the film reached its end. And even myself, I was surprised that tears were already on my face. My mother, who was beside me was also not exempted and she kept on saying “Ang sakit sa puso.”
This film will surely awaken a fire for social change in the hearts of viewers seeking a deeper understanding of their nation’s origin. GOMBURZA offers a thought-provoking journey, potentially igniting a desire for a deeper understanding of our national identity.
We are more than just people who will mistakenly remember our heroes as MAJOHA. Filipinos are better than that, especially the young generations. GOMBURZA will bring us back to our past as a nation not just to break our hearts but to teach us not to repeat the injustices that happened in the Philippines and to move forward for a better future.
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