Topic

1.) What makes Heneral Luna movie a work of art that one could hope as benchmark for future local films to come?

Despite being a historical epic set during one of the darkest periods in the country’s history, the film embodies the very Filipino habit of drawing laughs and smiles no matter how tough the times. Yet through the smiles, the film’s heavier messages still find a way to leave an unforgettable impression on those who watch it. The frustration of Luna as he maneuvers through the assortment of characters in the political battlefield is both intense and infectious, giving the audience a peek into the almost comic situation the general found himself in. Though largely being faithful to historical accounts of the people and events Luna was involved in, the director’s admittedly exercised his creative license to introduce fictional elements in order to properly tell the story. The result is a wonderfully detailed and substantial piece of cinema that inflames conversation about contemporary Philippines. The depth and symbolism is such that a second viewing of the film is bound to reveal even more. The true triumph of the film is not in its slick production or the strong performance from its cast, but the ability of the film to spark a deep and meaningful conversation. Heneral Luna leaves the audience with uncomfortable questions. Each question a stimuli to deeper dialogue and analysis about the condition of the Filipino society. A wonderful addition to Filipino cinema, Heneral Luna is a work of art that one could hope will be the benchmark for future local films to come.

2.) What are the qualifications of Antonio Luna as General?

Luna has great discipline and bravery for his country that the most brilliant and capable of the Filipino generals at the time. He sought to apply his background in military science to the fledgling army. A sharpshooter himself, he organized professional guerrilla soldiers later to be known as the Luna Sharpshooters and the...