1 week ago
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Just in time for Philippine Independence Day, two of the country's most celebrated historical epics are marching back to the big screen.
On June 12, moviegoers can once again experience "Heneral Luna" and "Goyo: Ang Batang Heneral," the first two films in TBA Studios' acclaimed historical trilogy directed by Jerrold Tarog. These cinematic portraits of generals and national heroes Antonio Luna and Gregorio del Pilar stunned audiences when they first premiered in 2015 and 2018, respectively — not just for their high-caliber production but for their raw, unvarnished look at the patriots who shaped Philippine history.
John Arcilla as ‘Heneral Luna’ PHOTOS FROM TBA STUDIOS
Paulo Avelino as ‘Goyo: Ang Batang Heneral’
Told with emotional heft and cinematic boldness, "Heneral Luna" and "Goyo" pulled no punches in exploring both the valor and vulnerabilities of their titular heroes. Their success signaled a turning point in local cinema, where historical storytelling was elevated to blockbuster status without compromising artistic integrity.
Their return this week is more than a nostalgic rerun — it's a rallying cry for audiences to reengage with the past. The timing is deliberate. As the nation celebrates its 126th Independence Day, these films remind Filipinos of the sacrifices made in the name of freedom and nationhood.
The rerelease also sets the stage for the trilogy's highly anticipated conclusion, "Quezon," which will spotlight the life and leadership of President Manuel L. Quezon and is slated to hit theaters later this year.
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Fans of the so-called "Bayaniverse" — TBA Studios' interconnected historical universe — can catch the two films on June 12 in selected Robinsons and Fishermall cinemas, and from June 12 to 15 in key SM Cinemas across Metro Manila. Tickets are priced starting at just P150, making it more accessible for everyone watch the reruns.
With the stage now set and the generals back in command, there's no better time to revisit these films — or introduce them to a new generation — and remember what it means to fight for country.
