GOMBURZA: The Awakening of Filipino Nationalism- A Movie Review

Are a History Geek? Do like watching Historical films? Then this is your chance to learn more about our painful yet colorful past that illuminates the present and guides the future.

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Recently, Netflix has added "GOMBURZA", the biggest historical film in the Philippines in this decade. I am very thrilled and excited watching this because i am a History teacher and film like this deserves more attention. The history of documentary filmmakers’ here in the Philippines illustrate the struggles to find the best way to tell the most important stories about the things that matter to us all is also full of rich problems worthy of our consideration.

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The movie is almost 2 hours, and mind you its worth the hype! It will surely reignites the fire in every Filipino.

Here are my important takeaways:

The Historical Title

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First, let's have an overview, especially for those who are not familiar with GOMBURZA and why they were considered a key figures in Philippine history.Jose Burgos, Mariano Gomes, and Jacinto Zamora, executed in Bagumbayan on 17 February 1872 have gone down in history collectively as "Gom-Bur-Za" or the three Martyr Priests. If you're not familiar with Philippine history, the Filipinos were colonized by the Kingdom of Spain under King Philipp II for more the 300 years. It was part of their 3G mission which is all about " God, Gold, Glory". Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan successfully led the European expedition to Philippines in the service of the King of Spain. On 31 March 1521 at Limasawa Island. Later we knew, it was the start of long years of colonization and suffering. For years, Filipino experienced abused, maltreatment and racial discrimination.

The Cavite Mutiny was a brief uprising of 200 Filipino troops and workers at the Cavite arsenal on January 20, 1872, which became the excuse for Spanish repression and the 3 Martyr priest was executed through the Garrote method. The title itself speaks for the rich and sad historical value of said Film.

The Movie Realistically Depict History

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As I've researched, i found out that the movie was 5 years in the making since the script and production plan started in the year 2018. The Production hired Xiao Chua, a known Filipino historian for the accurate events and portrayal of the Film. Usually Historical films is challenging to create because history does not typically offer tidy story arcs and satisfying endings. However, sometimes I think it’s forgivable if the film captures the essence of an historical age or conflict, right? The movie captured important scenes in the Philippine history like the unfair treatment of the Spanish born in Spain than those Spaniards here in the Philippines. Filipinos were called "Indios" and "Filipinos " were not used by them at first. The movie showcases the lack of concept of Nationalism and nation among us.

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It also shows how Filipinos became slaves in our own land. There were scene that shows how these " Indios" serves and work for the colonizers. Spanish slavery was introduced to the Philippines through the encomienda system and was headed by the Governor- General at that time. The rigid and strict educational system were also highlighted in the movie where it depicted how social status in life matters before. Education is not available for everbody especially if you're an indio.

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The Young Jose Rizal was also seen in the film and highlighting the awakening of our National hero towards power struggle in social, economic, religion and politics. The film highlights in the last part that Filipino nationalism was essentially a product of colonialism. It is both a transmission from and a reaction to western imperialism brought by the long years of being a colony in our own land. Lastly, the portrayal of the scene were very realistic, an a roller coaster of emotions will surely ignite your heart.

The Cinematography, Editing, Production and Sound was Impeccable

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It's no doubt that stylish cinematography, a good music background and editing are key elements for a good and quality film. The Film was set in the 1800's Philippine set-up, and the vintage edit was spectacular, The vintage cinematography transcends and serves as the linchpin in film, orchestrating a visual symphony that underpins storytelling, mood construction, and audience immersion.

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The movie was edited that it creates a visual language that can evoke emotions, transport the audience into the world of the film, and leave a lasting impression. No doubt the film had won 9 special awards during the MMFF 2023 including the Best Cinematography. The soundtrack was a great bonus and addition to the movie. Could i just say that Good lighting makes a scene more visually appealing and makes the audience feel like they are part of the story.

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The soundtrack elevates the film by creating a sense of atmosphere, setting the mood and tone of a scene, and bringing out the best in the actors. It sad, it was dark and filled with emotional distress. Speaking of actors, can i just say that they were all exceptional in portraying their respective roles. Top-billed by veteran actor Dante Rivero, Cedrick Juan, and Enchong Dee, with the special participation of Piolo Pascual and Elijah Canclas. Cedrick Juan even won the best actor award for his outstanding portrayal as Padre Jose Burgos. The casts had great chemistry and balance in terms of acting.

The Life Lessons of the Film

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Aside from being a great historical movie, i highly recommend the film because it is filled with real life lesson as our take-away. When we watch Historical film, we understand where we came from. Watching the film helps us understand how events in the past made things the way they are today. The complexity of the Spanish colonization and political stance clearly shaped us to where our society is heading these days and with lessons from the past, we not only learn about ourselves and how we came to be, but also develop the ability to avoid mistakes and create better paths for our societies. Another lesson is that the movie helps us understand the changing society. History is full of transitions that have altered the world’s story. When you build your knowledge of history, you understand more about what created our present-day society in the contemporary world. Lastly, the film is to inspire all the Filipino people to learn and embrace our roots as nation. Despite our painful past, we remain steadfast amidst the chaotic and fast changing world. Movies like Gomburza offers lessons from past mistakes, helping societies avoid repeating them.

I really hope the film-makers and producers will have to make more quality films like this one.I'm also looking forward the the young students will be more invested in learning our culture and past. Pretending that history is not important to learn is a fallacy that disregards the invaluable lessons, insights, and context that studying history provides in our society.

So guys, i hope you'll watch the film soon ! Definitely 9/10 :)