CAST

Cesar Montano as Jos Rizal

Jaime Fabregas as Luis Taviel de Andrade
Chin Chin Gutierrez as Josephine Bracken
Mickey Ferriols as Leonor Rivera
LJ Moreno as Josephine Bracken's companion

Rizal's family:

Ronnie Lazaro as Francisco Mercado

Gloria Diaz as Teodora Alonso
Pen Medina as Paciano Mercado
Gina Alajar as Saturnina Rizal
Tanya Gomez as Narcisa Rizal
Tess Dumpit as Maria Rizal
Irma Adlawan as Lucia Rizal
Angie Castrence as Josefa Rizal
Rowena Basco as Trinidad Rizal
Kaye Marie June Congmon as Soledad Rizal
Dominic Guinto as young Jos Rizal
Ping Medina as young Paciano Mercado

The Spaniards:

Peque Gallaga as Archbishop Bernardino Nozaleda, O.P.

Bon Vibar as Governor-General Ramn Blanco
Subas Herrero as Lt. Enrique de Alcocer
Tony Mabesa as Governor-General Camilo de Polavieja
Alexis Santaren as Col. Francisco Olive
Archie Adamos as Col. Olive's aide
Tony Carreon as a Dominican friar (Gomburza execution)
Fritz Ynfante as a Domincan friar (professor at UST)
Ryan Eigenmann as Fernando (Spanish classmate at UST)
Jon Achaval as Fraile 1
Cloyd Robinson as Fraile 2
Marco Zabaleta as Fraile 3
Ogie Juliano as Padre Rodriguez

The Jesuits:

Chiqui Xerxes-Burgos as Father Jos Villaclara, S.J.

Shelby Payne as Father Estanislao March, S.J.
Minco Fabregas as Father Francisco de Paula Sanchez, S.J.

The Filipinos:

Jhong Hilario as Rizal's prison servant

Gardo Versoza as Andrs Bonifacio
Marco Sison as Pio Valenzuela
Joel Lamangan as a gobernadorcillo
Nanding Josef as Antonio Rivera
Pocholo Montes as Justiniano Aquino Cruz
Bhey Vito as Don Doroteo Onjungco
Kidlat Tahimik as a guest (La Liga Filipina meeting)
Toto Natividad as a Katipunan benefactor

In Europe: The Filipino propagandists

Dennis Marasigan as Marcelo H. Del Pilar

Gregg de Guzman
Mon Confiado as Mariano Ponce
Eddie Aquino
Manolo Barrientos
Rolando Inocencio
Gilbert Onida
Jim Pebanco
Troy Martino
Kokoy Palma
Richard Merck
Jess Evardone
Jesus Diaz as Spanish medical professor
Karl Meyer as Belgian printer

Noli Me Tangere and El Filibusterismo characters:

Joel Torre as Crisstomo Ibarra/Simoun

Monique Wilson as Mara Clara
Nonie Buencamino as Elias
Roeder Camaag as Basilio
Richard Quan as Isagani
Cristobal Gomez as Padre Damaso
 Summary

Jose Rizal was a Filipino activist who was executed by the Spanish military
Dec. 30, 1896. His death made him a martyr in the minds and hearts of many
religious sects, and his views of nonviolent dissent were publicly embraced by the
U.S. government. In 1998, Rizal's story was immortalized on film in "Jose Rizal,"
directed by Marilou Diaz-Abaya.
The Opening
The movie begins in 1891 with Jose Rizal, played by Cesar Montano, as an
established author and linguist who speaks more than 20 languages. He vows to
write about the sufferings of the Filipino people under the tyranny of Spanish rule,
and about their abuse by corrupt priests. Rizal's writings galvanize the Filipino
people but earn the scorn of the Spanish government, which vows to crush the
rebellion of the Filipinos.
The Search for Rizal
The Spanish military capture and torture Jose's brother Paciano, played by
Pen Medina, to determine Jose's role in the rebellion. During a flashback, Jose says
Paciano greatly influenced him by exposing him to the injustice going on in the
Philippines. Paciano is released after his interrogation and returns to Manila, where
the family plans to go on the run. An order is given to arrest Jose Rizal on sight.
Flashbacks
The movie cuts back to Jose's childhood, when he was called Pepe. When he
is a child, his mother is falsely arrested for attempted murder and jailed for two
years. He gets attention from educators early on for his intelligence and writing
prowess. As a young man, he criticizes a college professor for stating that
Spaniards are superior to Filipinos. Filipino students start fighting Spanish students
after Jose starts raising the issue of Filipino independence. Cutting back to 1896,
Jose is captured and put on trial, and his books are banned.
The Rise and Fall
The film then cuts back and forth between Jose's rise as a revolutionary and
his fall from grace during his trial. As a student, Rizal spent significant time in
Madrid but then became disgusted with Spain's occupation of Filipino land and
Spanish treatment of Filipino citizens. The mayor of Madrid is arrested and
discredited for having a Rizal book. A violent revolt breaks out in 1896, which Jose
does not support because he sees it as mass suicide. Going back to the trial,
enormous pressure is put upon Jose's defense attorneys, with critics branding them
as traitors for defending the rebel.
Conclusion
It is revealed in a flashback that Jose had fathered a child that had died soon
after birth, adding to his inner turmoil as he buried his only son. In the trial, his
books are examined and criticized for their pro-Filipino stance against Spanish
imperialists. He is found guilty of staging a rebellion through his speaking and
writing, and he's condemned to death by firing squad. He sneaks a poem to his
family before his execution, and he yells "It is done!" A full-blown rebellion is
soon under way. Two years later, in 1898, the Filipino flag is lifted triumphantly as
the citizens celebrate their independence.
 Reaction

Jose P. Rizal, known as the national hero of the Philippines shown his life
history covered from his childhood to his execution at the hands of the Spanish
military on 19 century on the movie who performed by Caesar Montano, a Filipino
actor. I also viewed how and why he written his novels and poetry during the
Spaniard regime. Thus, he revealed the sorrow of the society on that time.

In this movie all the attribute of Rizal in different fields like being a writer,
painter, linguistic, sculptor, doctor and so on was shown. I see how much a gifted
child Rizal is and Im so amaze on him. He is really a genius man. He is not only
an expert in those mention profession but also he is a good brother, son and great
lover.

Moreover, the film made known the line of attack did by our heroes and
countrymen to achieve the freedom of our country under the rule of the Spaniards
friar and military force. There were a lot of discrimination and ruthless treatment in
Filipino on that period and that is the reason of the rebellions between Filipino and
Spaniards. Even in school, it was felt by Rizal and other Filipino students. Many
Filipinos were suffered. They were the servant of the Spaniards. Andres Bonifacio,
Aguinaldo Jacinto and the other members of the Katipunan led the himagsikan
for the independence of our beloved nation. Unfortunately, for the several battles
we were lost.

Tandang Sora takes part in giving first aid for those who injured throughout
the fight. Although she is very old and it is a crime to help defiant people, still she
applies her medicinal knowledge. She proved that she really loved the country and
she does not agree upon the Spaniards administration.

Rizal used pen as his weapon rather than sword in fighting against the
Spaniards administration, he written it in novels and poetry. The most famous in
his writings are the Noli Me Tangere and El Filibusterismo. Some historian said
that Bonifacio and Aguinaldo should be the national hero because they fought in
the revolution, while Rizal cautioned about it. But they didnt think that much
better to have a peaceful fight. Even though they have a great contribution for our
freedom, Rizal stills the one who have the qualities of being a national hero.
 The fact that Philippines is a Catholic nation but the evil despotism of the
Catholic Church under Spaniards friars are still felt by the Filipino. One of the
unforgettable events in the history of our country was the execution of the three
Filipino priests also known as the three Martyrs, Fathers Mariano Gomez, Jose
Burgos and Jacinto Zamora on February 17, 1872, by order of Governor General
Izquirdo. It is an injustice, vicious and merciless punishment. They are innocent
and they did not deserve it.

The most painful and melancholic incident in that time is the death of our
national hero Dr. Jose Rizal in Dapitan now known as Bagumbayan. He did not
worthy to die in that way. Hes tender loved in our country brought him in his last
breath. But it is valuable; it became the pathway to achieve the independence of
our country in the hands of Spaniards. Rizal is the pride of our nation.

We, as a Filipino citizen we must value and love our country like what our
heroes did. Rizal did not die in vain. He did not die for nothing. He did not die
defeated. Rather he died victorious because his death is the torch that lights
Philippine independence that ignites Philippine Revolution. Let us salute our
heroes especially Dr. Jose Rizal for their contribution to our freedom.

This movie is one of the best films in the world that I viewed. It represents
my citizenship and my history being a Filipino. I am thankful to all are heroes who
offered their lives in order to achieved our freedom. It opened my mind and made
me proud to a Filipino and to be loved my country as well as my countrymen.
 Movie Cast

Cesar Montano as Jos Rizal

Jaime Fabregas as Luis Taviel de Andrade

Chin Chin Gutierrez as Josephine Bracken

Mickey Ferriols as Leonor Rivera

LJ Moreno as Josephine Bracken's companion

Rizal's family:

Ronnie Lazaro as Francisco Mercado

Gloria Diaz as Teodora Alonso

Pen Medina as Paciano Mercado

Gina Alajar as Saturnina Rizal

Tanya Gomez as Narcisa Rizal

Tess Dumpit as Maria Rizal

Irma Adlawan as Lucia Rizal

Angie Castrence as Josefa Rizal

Rowena Basco as Trinidad Rizal

Kaye Marie June Congmon as Soledad Rizal

Dominic Guinto as young Jos Rizal

Ping Medina as young Paciano Mercado

The Spaniards:

Peque Gallaga as Archbishop Bernardino Nozaleda, O.P.

Bon Vibar as Governor-General Ramn Blanco

Subas Herrero as Lt. Enrique de Alcocer

Tony Mabesa as Governor-General Camilo de Polavieja

Alexis Santaren as Col. Francisco Olive

Archie Adamos as Col. Olive's aide

Tony Carreon as a Dominican friar (Gomburza execution)

Fritz Ynfante as a Domincan friar (professor at UST)

Ryan Eigenmann as Fernando (Spanish classmate at UST)

Jon Achaval as Fraile 1

Cloyd Robinson as Fraile 2

Marco Zabaleta as Fraile 3

Ogie Juliano as Padre Rodriguez

The Jesuits:

Chiqui Xerxes-Burgos as Father Jos Villaclara, S.J.

Shelby Payne as Father Estanislao March, S.J.

Minco Fabregas as Father Francisco de Paula Sanchez, S.J.

The Filipinos:

Jhong Hilario as Rizal's prison servant

Gardo Versoza as Andrs Bonifacio

Marco Sison as Pio Valenzuela

Joel Lamangan as a gobernadorcillo

Nanding Josef as Antonio Rivera

Pocholo Montes as Justiniano Aquino Cruz

Bhey Vito as Don Doroteo Onjungco

Kidlat Tahimik as a guest (La Liga Filipina meeting)

Toto Natividad as a Katipunan benefactor

In Europe:

The Filipino propagandists:

Dennis Marasigan as Marcelo H. Del Pilar

Gregg de Guzman

Mon Confiado as Mariano Ponce

Eddie Aquino

Manolo Barrientos

Rolando Inocencio

Gilbert Onida

Jim Pebanco
Troy Martino

Kokoy Palma

Richard Merck

Jess Evardone

Jesus Diaz as Spanish medical professor

Karl Meyer as Belgian printer

Noli Me Tangere and El Filibusterismo characters:

Joel Torre as Crisstomo Ibarra/Simoun

Monique Wilson as Mara Clara

Nonie Buencamino as Elias

Roeder Camaag as Basilio

Richard Quan as Isagani

Cristobal Gomez as Padre Damaso

Cesar Montano as Jos Rizal

Jaime Fabregas as Luis Taviel de Andrade

Chin Chin Gutierrez as Josephine Bracken

Mickey Ferriols as Leonor Rivera

LJ Moreno as Josephine Bracken's companion

 Summary

This was the Filipino movie I have been waiting for, for a long time. Most of
the Filipino movies that I've seen are cheap imitations of Hollywood movies with
forgettable characters and forgettable plots. But I won't be forgetting "Jose
Rizal" anytime soon. With impeccable production values and a truly great
performance by the lead actor, Cesar Montano, "Jose Rizal" is the equal of
anything that Hollywood can produce (and better than most of the crap that
Hollywood routinely puts out on the street).The movie tells the life story of Jose
Rizal, the national hero of the Philippines. It covers his life from his childhood to
his execution at the hands of the Spanish forces occupying the Philippines in the
late 19th century. We are also thrown into the world of Rizal's novels (filmed in
black and white), so we get a glimpse of how he viewed Filipino society under the
Spanish heal. One note, this movie is not for the faint of heart. There are graphic
depictions of violence and even torture. The opening few scenes depict some
episodes from Rizal's novels. In one a Catholic priest rapes a Filipina. I guess I
now know where the Mestizo (i.e., mixed blood) class came from in the
Philippines. In the other scene a Catholic priest beats a child for alleged
stealing. Strong stuff, and it made me wonder how the Catholic Church could
possibly retain any power in the country, if this is what the national hero thought
about it. The movie introduces us to the life of subjugation of the Filipino people
under the rule of the Spanish friars. From the execution of three Filipino priests
in 1872 for alleged subversion to the harsh and unequal treatment of Filipino
students in the schools, this film is a stinging indictment of Spanish colonial rule
in the Philippines. We see scenes both from Rizal's actual life but also from his
imagination (via his novels).As a young man, Jose is sent to study in Spain. This is
a plan hatched by his brother Paciano. Jose will write and do everything in his
power to bring to the attention of the world the abuses of Spanish power in the
Philippines, while Paciano will protect the Rizal family at home and keep up
the struggle against Spanish rule. Jose excels in his studies as a medical student at
Madrid University and eventually earns a degree as
an ophthalmic surgeon. Meantime, he becomes involved with a group of radical
Filipino students who also seek to end the Spanish abuses in their country. He
eventually has a falling out with the student group as he realizes that the real
struggle is taking place back home. He decides to return to the Philippines. He is
arrested by the Spanish authorities upon his return to the Philippines in 1892. He
is sent to Dapitan in Mindanao where the Spanish authorities can keep a
watchful eye on him. It is there that he meets the love of his life, Josephine
Bracken, although the movie does not devote much attention to this
love affair. When a rebellion breaks out in 1896 the Spanish governor orders that
Rizal be moved to the prison in Manila. It is here that Rizal is introduced to Luis
Taviel (played by Jaime Fabregas) who has been appointed to defend him at
his trial. Tavielis a Spanish officer who at first mistrusts Rizal and views him as a
dangerous revolutionary. Most of the movie takes place in Rizal's prison cell
and involves Taviel confronting him about his life. There are frequent flashbacks
but some of them are flashbacks to his novels, so it is sometimes hard to keep the
order clear. Eventually Taviel learns to respect Rizal and he decides to do his best
job in defending him. But it is to no avail. The evil head of the Franciscan order in
Manila arranges for a new governor to take over control of the Philippines. The
new governor promptly orders a show trial where
theoutcome has already been decided. Rizal must die. Despite his best efforts,
Taviel cannot save Rizal from his fate. The verdict is reached and the execution
date is set for December 30, 1896. Taviel admits to Rizal that he is ashamed to be
a Spaniard. In what is the most bizarre scene of the movie, on the night before his
execution, Rizal is confronted by his own character Simoun from his novel. Simoun
urges Rizal to rewrite him so that his mission can be for a higher purpose. And so
in his final work, Rizal pens "Mi Ultimo Adios" knowing full well that his death will
light the torch of the Filipino Revolution.

The final few scenes show Jose Rizal being led out to the execution
ground. He requests to face the firing squad but he is denied. The Spanish want to
shoot him in the back as a traitor. But as he is shot full of bullets he manages to
turn as he falls so that he lands facing the sky.
 Reaction

Jose P. Rizal, known as the national hero of the Philippines shown his life
history covered from his childhood to his execution at the hands of the Spanish
military on 19 century on the movie who performed by Caesar Montano, a Filipino
actor. I also viewed how and why he written his novels and poetry during the
Spaniard regime. Thus, he revealed the sorrow of the society on that time.

In this movie all the attribute of Rizal in different fields like being a writer,
painter, linguistic, sculptor, doctor and so on was shown. I seen how much a gifted
child Rizal is and Im so amaze on him. He is really a genius man. He is not only an
expert in those mention profession but also he is a good brother, son and great
lover.

Moreover, the film made known the line of attack did by our heroes and
countrymen to achieve the freedom of our country under the rule of the Spaniards
friar and military force. There were a lot of discrimination and ruthless treatment
in Filipino on that period and that is the reason of the rebellions between Filipino
and Spaniards. Even in school, it was felt by Rizal and other Filipino students. Many
Filipinos were suffered. They were the servant of the Spaniards. Andres Bonifacio,
Aguinaldo Jacinto and the other members of the Katipunan led the himagsikan
for the independence of our beloved nation. Unfortunately, for the several battles
we were lost.

Tandang Sora takes part in giving first aid for those who injured throughout
the fight. Although she is very old and it is a crime to help defiant people, still she
applies her medicinal knowledge. She proved that she really loved the country and
she does not agree upon the Spaniards administration.

Rizal used pen as his weapon rather than sword in fighting against the
Spaniards administration, he written it in novels and poetry. The most famous in his
writings are the Noli Me Tanghere and El Fili Pusterismo. Some historian said
that Bonifacio and Aguinaldo should be the national hero because they fought in
the revolution, while Rizal cautioned about it. But they didnt think that much
better to have a peaceful fight. Even though they have a great contribution for our
freedom, Rizal stills the one who have the qualities of being a national hero.

The fact that Philippines is a Catholic nation but the evil despotism of the
Catholic Church under Spaniards friars are still felt by the Filipino. One of the
unforgettable events in the history of our country was the execution of the three
Filipino priests also known as the three Martyrs, Fathers Mariano Gomez, Jose
Burgos and Jacinto Zamora on February 17, 1872, by order of Governor General
Izquirdo. It is an injustice, vicious and merciless punishment. They are innocent and
they did not deserve it.

The most painful and melancholic incident in that time is the death of our
national hero Dr. Jose Rizal in Dapitan now known as Bagumbayan. He did not
worthy to die in that way. Hes tender loved in our country brought him in his last
breath. But it is valuable; it became the pathway to achieve the independence of
our country in the hands of Spaniards. Rizal is the pride of our nation.

We, as a Filipino citizen we must value and love our country like what our
heroes did. Rizal did not die in vain. He did not die for nothing. He did not die
defeated. Rather he died victorious because his death is the torch that lights
Philippine independence that ignites Philippine Revolution. Let us salute our heroes
especially Dr. Jose Rizal for their contribution to our freedom.

This movie is one of the best films in the world that I viewed. It represents
my citizenship and my history being a Filipino. I am thankful to all are heroes who
offered their lives in order to achieved our freedom. It opened my mind and made
me proud to a Filipino and to be loved my country as well as my countrymen.
 Movie Cast

Cesar Montano as Jos Rizal

Jaime Fabregas as Luis Taviel de Andrade

Chin Chin Gutierrez as Josephine Bracken

Mickey Ferriols as Leonor Rivera

LJ Moreno as Josephine Bracken's companion

Rizal's family:

Ronnie Lazaro as Francisco Mercado

Gloria Diaz as Teodora Alonso

Pen Medina as Paciano Mercado

Gina Alajar as Saturnina Rizal

Tanya Gomez as Narcisa Rizal

Tess Dumpit as Maria Rizal

Irma Adlawan as Lucia Rizal

Angie Castrence as Josefa Rizal

Rowena Basco as Trinidad Rizal

Kaye Marie June Congmon as Soledad Rizal

Dominic Guinto as young Jos Rizal

Ping Medina as young Paciano Mercado

The Spaniards:

Peque Gallaga as Archbishop Bernardino Nozaleda, O.P.

Bon Vibar as Governor-General Ramn Blanco

Subas Herrero as Lt. Enrique de Alcocer

Tony Mabesa as Governor-General Camilo de Polavieja

Alexis Santaren as Col. Francisco Olive

Archie Adamos as Col. Olive's aide

Tony Carreon as a Dominican friar (Gomburza execution)

Fritz Ynfante as a Domincan friar (professor at UST)

Ryan Eigenmann as Fernando (Spanish classmate at UST)

Jon Achaval as Fraile 1

Cloyd Robinson as Fraile 2

Marco Zabaleta as Fraile 3

Ogie Juliano as Padre Rodriguez

The Jesuits:

Chiqui Xerxes-Burgos as Father Jos Villaclara, S.J.

Shelby Payne as Father Estanislao March, S.J.

Minco Fabregas as Father Francisco de Paula Sanchez, S.J.

The Filipinos:

Jhong Hilario as Rizal's prison servant

Gardo Versoza as Andrs Bonifacio

Marco Sison as Pio Valenzuela

Joel Lamangan as a gobernadorcillo

Nanding Josef as Antonio Rivera

Pocholo Montes as Justiniano Aquino Cruz

Bhey Vito as Don Doroteo Onjungco

Kidlat Tahimik as a guest (La Liga Filipina meeting)

Toto Natividad as a Katipunan benefactor

In Europe:

The Filipino propagandists:

Dennis Marasigan as Marcelo H. Del Pilar

Gregg de Guzman

Mon Confiado as Mariano Ponce

Eddie Aquino

Manolo Barrientos

Rolando Inocencio

Gilbert Onida
Jim Pebanco

Troy Martino

Kokoy Palma

Richard Merck

Jess Evardone

Jesus Diaz as Spanish medical professor

Karl Meyer as Belgian printer

Noli Me Tangere and El Filibusterismo characters:

Joel Torre as Crisstomo Ibarra/Simoun

Monique Wilson as Mara Clara

Nonie Buencamino as Elias

Roeder Camaag as Basilio

Richard Quan as Isagani

Cristobal Gomez as Padre Damaso

Cesar Montano as Jos Rizal

Jaime Fabregas as Luis Taviel de Andrade

Chin Chin Gutierrez as Josephine Bracken

Mickey Ferriols as Leonor Rivera

LJ Moreno as Josephine Bracken's companion

 Movie Summary

In the 19th century Chile, Peru and Cuba rose against Spain and achieved their
independence. Philippine, Spain faced a revolution due to mounting social unrest
among the natives. Thirty-five year old Jos Rizal was the greatest enemy of Spain in the
Philippines. With his exceptional linguistic ability (speaking twenty-two languages) and
interest in the sciences and the arts, Rizal was most effective in his campaign for
freedom as a writer. He wrote two novels: Noli Me Tangere and El Filibusterismo. These
were scathing indictments of Spanish tyranny and of the church which came to acquire
immense political power.

1891. Ghent, Belgium. Jos Rizal writes that he is writing a book about the
Philippines to reveal the truth. There are scenes of a priest having sex with a Philippine
woman and beating a Philippine child. He writes of "our sad country" and "our
grievances and frustrations". We meet one of his characters named Crisostomo Ibarra,
who took another name Simoun.

1895. The Philippines. The Katipunan "sons of the people" shout "Long live Dr.
Jos Rizal."

1896. Malacanyang Palace. Governor-General Blanco presents the Spanish plan

to advance on the province of Bulacan. He says: "We will crush the rebellion."
Monsignor Nozaleda arrives. He virtually demands the elimination of the rabble-rouser
Jos Rizal.

Guerrilla leader Bonifacio tells his Katipunan to tear up their cedulas.

The Spanish torture Jos Rizal's brother Paciano. They want to know what the
role of his brother in the rebellion is.

1896. Rizal Residence, Tondo, Manila. The family is packing to leave. Paciano
arrives home after his torture sessions.

November 1896. Fort Santiago, Manila. The order is given to bring in Jos Rizal.
His interrogator tells Rizal that he knows that Rizal knows Bonifacio, founder of the
Katipunan. They know he met Bonifacio at a secret assembly at Doroteo Ongjunco's
place. Rizal is accused of being a traitor like Padre Burgos. After all, Rizal had dedicated
his last book to him: "For the priests Francisco Gomez, Jose Burgos and Jacinto Zamora."

Flashback. Jos Rizal says that his brother Paciano was the one to open his eyes
to the injustices in the Philippines. Paciano had known Father Burgos and had
witnessed his execution as well as those of the others.

1869. Calamba, Laguna. As a youngster, Jos Rizal is called Pepe. His mom is
falsely arrested for attempting to poison her sister-in-law. She is jailed for two years.
The Rizal family had disputes with the friars for years and the clergy got their revenge
by teaching the family a lesson. Pepe is sent to school. His brother tells him not to use
the family named of Mercado since the friars might hold it against him.

1872. Ateneo Municipal. Pepe is praised at school for his work.

Back to 1896. Luis Taviel de Andrade of the Spanish army arrives to be Jos
Rizal's defense council. He does not seem too pleased with his assignment.

Flashback. 1878. The University of Saint Thomas. The teacher has a Spanish
student and a Philippine student stand before the class next to each other. He notes the
height difference between the superior Spanish and the inferior Philippine. Jos Rizal
rises to say that if height is of so much importance then why so many of Spains
colonies are gaining their independence from Spain. The teacher responds:
"Impertinent!"

Back to 1896. Rizal's novels are banned in the Philippines. With a knife, the
character Crisostomo threatens to kill the local priest for turning on his father and
persecuting him. His father died in prison and then the priest had his body dug up and
thrown into the river. Crisostomo says that he has lost his wife, child and family.

Flashback. Rizal speaks with his fellow students about Philippine independence.
The Spanish students call them monkeys and a fight breaks out. Rizal is hit in the head
with a thrown rock. His Uncle Antonio bandages his wound. Cousin Leonor then sits
with him. It is obvious that Rizal likes his cousin.

Back to 1896. The defense counsel asks why he would leave his beloved Leonor
to travel to Europe. His brother send him to Spain to study medicine, but also to be free
to write about the Philippines.
 1884. Central University of Madrid. A group of Philippine students meet
together to discuss the situation in their country. A man named Agueller is there. Jos
Rizal speaks for independence.

June 25, 1884. Hotel Ingles, Madrid. Two Philippine students Luna and
Hidalgo, who were born in the Philippines, won the university painting contest and are
being honored.

The authorities search the mayor's house. He is arrested for having a Rizal book.
The friars have a book burning for copies of Rizal's books. The novel character Ibarra is
called a traitor because officials implicated him in a violent revolt. He was discredited in
the public's eye.

January 1891. Madrid. In the Philippine group of students, a call goes out for Del
Pilar for President. Jos Rizal is disgusted with the choice since they have almost
opposite positions on independence. He decides to return to the Philippines and walks
out of the meeting.

July 1892. Manila. Formation of the La Liga Filipina. The young Andres
Bonifacio enthusiastically responds to the speech given by Jos Rizal.

Rizal says that the friars planted banned pamphlets in his luggage; he was
arrested; and he was deported to the far-off island of Dapitan. One saving grace,
however, was that he met Josephine.

Monsignor Nozaleda is still cursing the name of Jos Rizal. He still demands that
Governor-General Blanco eliminate the rebel. The Governor-General pays a visit to the
cell of Rizal. Rizal scolds him: "You made me believe I could go to Cuba only to be
captured and imprisoned again."

August 1896. A Philippine revolt against the Spanish occurs. Rizal takes the
position that it is useless to revolt at this time because it is like suicide to face the
overwhelming military might of the Spanish in the Philippines.

Christmas. At a formal dinner, Monsignor Nozaleda tells his fellow diners that
Blanco is too friendly with Rizal. Later Blanco is absolutely shocked when he is
introduced to the new Governor-General of the Philippines, Polavieja.

Ghent, Belgium. Rizal receives a letter from the Philippines. He is told of what
happened in his home town of Calamba. Because the town dared to protest against the
friars' misuse of their land, the Spanish descended on the town and forced all the
residents to evacuate. Rizal is extremely mad and upset over the news. Later he receives
a letter from Leonor saying that her mother arranged a marriage for her to an
Englishman against her wishes. She does not even like the Englishman, much less want
to marry him.

Back to the present. The defense counsel tells Rizal that he thought the second
novel to be very sad. The character of Ibarra was okay, but in the character Simoun
there is no light - his soul has been corrupted. Simoun turns to violence against the
Spanish imperialists. He puts a bomb within a lantern with a flickering light that will be
detonated when a diner guest tries to adjust the flame. Simoun believes that reforms are
useless and that blood must be shed. (Violence is prevented when a young Filipino
throws the lantern out of the window where it explodes outside. The defense counsel
asks if Rizal is becoming Simoun: "You are using your novel to avenge yourself." In the
novel Simoun is shot in the back while running to escape the soldiers trying to capture
him. The defense counsel is so adamant and opinionated that it appears as if he is
"tripping".

The defense counsel attends a big formal ball at Malacanyang Palace. Monsignor
Nozaleda scolds him for working so hard for the traitor Rizal. The defense counsel
defends himself and the principal that everyman should have an effective defense in
court, but another clergyman accuses him of being a traitor himself. Excusing himself,
the defense counsel leaves the ball.

December 26, 1896. The trial of Rizal begins. The point is made that since 1892
Rizal has deliberately made it known to one and all that he will no longer discuss
politics. He was on the desolated island of Diapan for four years. The prosecution
claims that the rebel leader Bonifacio needed Rizal for an uprising. The defense
counters with the fact that when Dr. Valenzuela came to Diapan to get his support for
the uprising, Rizal told him that it would only be suicide and that he would not support
any uprising at this time.

Flashback. Diapan. Josephine was a big help in Rizal's clinic on the island.
Josephine becomes pregnant with Rizal's child, but the baby boy dies shortly after birth
and Rizal buries his son all alone.

December 1896. Rizal is given the death sentence. His counsel tells him that it
was a mock trial. Rizal's mother begs the new Governor-General for mercy, but he only
says: "I'm sorry."

December 29, 1896. Bonifacio wants to try to save Rizal, but Rizal's brother
Paciano argues against it because it would be useless.
 In his jail cell, Rizal has an inner debate with the character Simoun, who tells him
that he wants Rizal to rewrite the ending of the novel: "Let the lamp explode" among
the Spanish diners.

December 30, 1986. It is the day of execution. Rizal is able to sneak out a final
poem to his family. At the execution he has to turn his back to the firing squad. His lasts
words were the shout: "It is done!"

Bonifacio and his Katipunan ambush some Spanish soldiers killing most of them.
They also kill a Spanish priest. The rebellion went ahead!

June 12, 1898. General Emilio Aguinaldo raised the Philippine flag for the first
time and declared independence. A few years later, Dr. Jos Rizal was declared the
National Hero of the Republic of the Philippines.
 Reaction

I think that Cesar Montanos interpretation of our hero Rizal is better than
todays Rizal thespians. I guess, his acting became the springboard of all Rizal-to-be
actors. Overall, the movies great with a bit of flaws but still great. My reaction would
be based on these three ideas: Cesars performance, the movies flaws, and lastly, its
good sides.

Firstly, Cesar Montano is a man worthy of praises for his excellent performance
in his portrayal of Dr. Rizal. His actions embodied and convinced the audience that he
is Rizal; he is not the contemporary Montano but instead, he is the personification of
our national hero. Rizals hesitations, his daydreams, his anger, and happiness these
were all seen within Cesars eyes. Youd almost say he was born as the reincarnation of
Rizal because his acting was almost natural. The way he walked, talked, and acted out
his feelings were neither too dramatic nor too somber it was the right mixture of both
and it turned out splendidly.

Now, how am I sure that that is how the real Rizal works? That that is how the
actual Rizal acts, speaks, and behaves? Well, Im not. Like most people who lived out of
Rizals time frame, I am only assuming things according to how I see Rizal through
various exposures to his works, biographies, subjects, topics, ideas, trivia, and generally
on what had been taught in school.

Every individual, being unique in nature, has his or her own unique mind that
works in different ways. That is why, I view Rizal as to how Cesar played it
and whatever view you may have, that does not generally apply to me. This is my
reaction to Cesars acting and if some people do not agree with that, Im fine with that.
But dont have misconceptions that I like Cesar Montano as an artist and that Im an
avid fan of him, which Im not. I am simply stating my opinions on his performance
without any biases of the sort.

The second part of my reaction is about the movies flaws. If you are not very
familiar with Philippine history; the Spanish Colonial Era; Jose Rizal and the other
propagandists; and or you are simply not good with time frames, then this movie will
confuse you. Why? For the reason that, the movies structure is of the conversational
type every instances that a certain conversation triggers something, the influx in time
is imminent from the present, the screen plays a narration of either the past; an
episode from Dr. Rizals works; or the past in yet, another past. It flows like a dream
within a dream. It shows Dr. Rizals life in bits like a puzzle that works out its way to
assemble its lost pieces. Even though this certain type of movie structure has its own
charm and beauty, certain audiences might get confuse. Thus, it becomes highly
recommendable for viewers to have even a bit of background to fully capture the intent
of the film.

Furthermore, I do not know if this is included but, my copy is like the films
structure shown in bits and pieces plus a certain file does not have an audio when you
reach its middle part. But then, maybe it was just that this film is old enough to be
considered as vintage for those who live in the 21st century like me so its quality is not
of the highest quality.

Lastly, of course I will not focus myself and waste my time until the end of my
paper, criticizing this movie and pointing out its flaws. I will also give out its good
points.

One of it I think is the way the movie was presented. I know that I had just
criticized it on my previous reaction but it could also be its natural charm. The novelty
of the presentation of its structure is what made it most interesting. Instead of the
plain and clichd story telling type, it invoked the audiences mind to stitch up the
memories presented giving them the opportunity to see inside Rizals mind. It is a
stimulating activity wherein the audience sees the events just as how Rizal remembers it
not on a storytellers point of view rather, on the POV of Rizal and how his fate
unfolded before him towards his self-induced death.

This movie may be an older version and of the medium quality but it still gives
its audience a great view on the events during Rizals time. It still gives off that
nationalistic spirit and feeling at the end when the guns were triggered and the awful
thud of Rizals lifeless body finally fell back on the earth of his homeland. It is done.
 Reflection

While watching the movie, I felt good and I felt bad. Good for the times when
Rizal was enjoying the joys of the world, the glory of living, and the thrill of
experiences. And then I felt bad for the worst times: the brutality; the inhumane acts
towards our ancestors; and the permanent scar it left on our people ignorant love for
the foreign world and its glittering gifts.

These gifts are chains in disguise but we embrace them, regardless of our history;
regardless of their previous brutalities: we are slaves to our own desires. We are blinded
with the idea of foreign superiority and wanted to be one. Its like the temptation of Eve
all over again and we have been the ignorant who ate the forbidden fruit.

It was then that I realized of what weve been doing ever since. Weve been
exploiting our natural wealth for the benefit of other people. Yes, that is good helping
other people and such but it depends on the purpose of those other people. They
have been poisoning our mind and we are ignorant enough to believe that what weve
all been doing is good for us. Latently, it is good for them.

Im not all out anti-foreign-ideology or something but, my point is, Ive realized
that all our heroes hard work have been worthless overtime. It now serves only as a
picture of what had been. Over the years, even without the colonizers help, weve lost
and thrown away our identities replacing it with an alien self.
 Now, what do I have to do to stop Filipinos from repeating mistakes and
succumbing to the dreadful temptation to be something else? What things am I going to
do and to what lengths? Well, for at the moment, Ill finish my studies first. When the
time comes where Id be able to stand for myself and see the world for what it truly is,
then I guess, The time is ripe. I will do what I must do.

NEW ERA UNIVERSITY

COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING AND ARCHITECTURE
NO. 9 CENTRAL AVENUE, NEW ERA

RIZALS LIFE: THE MOVIE

JOHN ALLEN F. BERNABE

3BSME

THURSDAY; 7:00AM 10:00AM

PROF. LORNA S. SANTOS

INSTRUCTOR

NEW ERA UNIVERSITY

COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING AND ARCHITECTURE
NO. 9 CENTRAL AVENUE, NEW ERA

RIZALS LIFE: THE MOVIE

(SUMMARY)
ANGELO MAGUMCIA
BSME
THURSDAY; 7:00AM 10:00AM

PROF. LORNA S. SANTOS

INSTRUCTOR

NEW ERA UNIVERSITY

COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING AND ARCHITECTURE
NO. 9 CENTRAL AVENUE, NEW ERA

RIZALS LIFE: THE MOVIE

(SUMMARY)
CEDRIC VARGAS

BSIE

THURSDAY; 7:00AM 10:00AM

PROF. LORNA S. SANTOS

INSTRUCTOR