The critically acclaimed movie Heneral Luna has been chosen as the Philippines’ official entry to the 88th Academy Awards or also known as “The Oscars”
The historical film will compete in the Best Foreign Language Film category of the most prestigious award giving body for film.
The Oscar selection was made by the Film Academy of the Philippines which is the award giving body behind Luna Awards.
John Arcilla depicted the life and death of General Antonio Luna in this period film during the Philippine-American War.
Heneral Luna also stars Joem Bascon, Archie Alemania, Alex Medina, Mon Confiado, Nonie Buencamio, Arron Villaflor, Epy Quizon, Art Acuna, Jun-Jun Quintana, Mylene Dizon, Bing Pimentel, with the special participation of Paulo Avelino.
Jerrold Tarog directed this movie, which is graded A by the Cinema Evaluation Board.
The CEB describes Heneral Luna as follows:
“Easily the most consummately done film we have seen this year. An impressive, compelling historical drama that, unlike others of this genre, looks history straight in the eye. HENERAL LUNA is a war epic that succeeds in putting an emotional and dramatic patina to a critical period of Philippine history. The film quickly catches fire and passionately unfolds, and then ends in a mesmerizing, dynamic climax. Excellent script, cinematography and performances. The main cast was brilliant—everyone was exceptional, with special mention going to John Arcilla who managed to bring Antonio Luna to life on the big screen. Director Jerrold Tarog masterfully and skillfully handled his material. The producers should be commended for making this significant film. This movie truly deserves an A.”
Favorable reviews from critics and moviegoers alike have helped the film maintain its momentum in the box office even as some theaters pulled it out during its second week. Celebrities also expressed their support for the movie.
Actor John Arcilla, who played the role of Luna, told The STAR that what Heneral Luna promotes is “a part of our history that we need to review and learn from.”
The lead character hopes that the biopic will remain longer in cinemas as it tries to cultivate “a lot of reasons to hope for a better Philippines.”
Heneral Luna is showing in 41 cinemas nationwide and offers a 50 percent discount for student viewers. It is the first of a planned trilogy with General Gregorio del Pilar and President Manuel Quezon in the pipeline.
Produced by Artikulo Uno Productions, this film opened in Philippine cinema last September 9.
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