The 49th season of the annual Metro Manila Film Festival has many Filipinos flocking to the cinemas. This year’s edition offers a jam-packed roster of titles with diverse themes and plots, and among the compelling titles include GomBurZa, a historical film lauded by critics and casual movie-goers alike.
Helmed by director Pepe Diokno, GomBurZa chronicles the titular Filipino Catholic priests Fr. Mariano Gomez (Dante Rivero), Jose Burgos (Cedric Juan), and Jacinto Zamora (Enchong Dee), and the days surrounding their martyrdom in 1872, which is said to have inspired Dr. Jose Rizal himself.
The new film takes on the stories behind the famous portmanteau found in textbooks, and netizens across the web couldn’t help but share their praise. Below, see some of the best reactions for GomBurZa!
Netizens React to “GomBurZa”
Critics and personalities were among those who lauded the historical film, with journalist Atom Araullo praising its cinematography down to its screenplay.
Meanwhile, director Pepe Diokno channeled an eager fan when he shared the feedback from National Artist Ricky Lee, who “never felt more Filipino” after watching the film!
Many movie-goers applauded GomBurZa for retelling the story of the pivotal figures, heightened by its masterful performances.
Others particularly praised Cedrick Juan’s portrayal of Jose Burgos, which was one of many stellar roles.
Several praised its filmmaking choices and Pepe as one of the creatives behind it.
However, there were also those who quipped that the Philippines finally has its own Barbie-Oppenheimer, thanks to GomBurZa and fellow MMFF entry Becky and Badette!
But at the root of it all, despite being a film set in the late 19th century, GomBurZa's story continues to speak to themes that still ring true today.
Congrats to Pepe and the rest of the GomBurZa team!
GomBurZa is now showing in select cinemas nationwide.
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