Cine TV Contest #129: Heneral Luna (2015)

_{Official Poster sourced from TBA Studios}

Official Trailer

First, I want to thank everyone for supporting my last blog. It’s always great sharing my thoughts about the movies I've watch with you! Today, I’m sharing my thoughts on Heneral Luna, a film that is intense, emotional, and thrilling.

This review is my entry for the CineTV Contest 129: Favorite Movie That Thrills. Heneral Luna is thrilling because of its powerful storytelling, gripping action, and emotional depth. This historical movie, directed by Jerrold Tarog, tells the story of General Antonio Luna, one of the country’s bravest heroes. But what makes Heneral Luna thrilling? It’s not just about war, it’s about power, betrayal, and the harsh reality of leadership during a revolution.

The film’s intensity comes from knowing that Luna’s fate was sealed not by an external enemy but by his fellow Filipinos. That shocking twist is what makes it truly thrilling. It’s a story that challenges us to reflect on our history and the choices we make as a nation.

_{This scene from Heneral Luna captures the commanding presence of General Antonio Luna, played by John Arcilla. The lighting, framing, and the Philippine flag in the background emphasize his patriotism and strong leadership.}

I first watched the film as a student. Back then, I focused on the action and admired Luna’s bravery. He stood up for what was right. But now, as an adult, I see the film differently. It’s not just about battles, it’s about division, selfishness, and how history keeps repeating itself. Luna’s story is not just history but a warning.

_{The meeting with the Schurman Commission illustrates the conflict between seeking autonomy and facing potential treason, prompting intense debates about national sovereignty and loyalty.}

The excitement in this movie doesn’t just come from the battles. It comes from Luna’s strong personality, his love for the country, and the tension between him and his allies. The most shocking part? His own people betrayed him. His brutal death is heartbreaking. It shows that sometimes, the real enemy isn’t outside forces but the people around us.

For many Filipinos, the most thrilling part of the film is how real it feels. It makes us ask: Have we changed as a nation? Are we still dealing with the same problems of division and self-interest?

Watching the film again feels like I'm looking at our country’s situation. Corruption, betrayal, and lack of unity are still big issues. One of Luna’s famous line, "Mas madali pang pagkasunduin ang langit at lupa kaysa dalawang Pilipino tungkol sa kahit na anong bagay." (It's easier to make heaven and earth agree than to make two Filipinos agree on anything) still feels relevant to me. It’s scary how history keeps repeating itself based on what is happening in my country right now.

_{The idea of dreaming for progress resonates deeply within the film. The commitment to the motherland is captured through vivid imagery of struggle and perseverance.}

I love how the film mixes humor and intensity. The way the scenes are shot, the music, and the colors make the film feel alive. The moment Luna breaks the fourth wall and speaks directly to us was brilliant. It felt like he was challenging us personally. The film was real and honest. Luna wasn’t shown as a perfect person, he had flaws, but he was passionate and brave. What frustrated me was how history keeps repeating itself. It’s painful to see that our biggest problem isn’t foreign invaders but our own infighting.

_{Soldiers dragging Luna’s bloodied body while horrified onlookers watch in shock serves as a haunting reminder of how internal conflict can be just as destructive as external enemies.}

Luna’s death is the scene that haunts me the most. Watching him fight back while his own men attack him is heartbreaking. That image of him lying lifeless on the ground stays with me. It’s a painful reminder of what happens to those who challenge the system.

_{Luna's conversation with her mother revealing how personal memories and experiences shape his current resolve.}

John Arcilla, who played Luna, was amazing. He brought so much emotion and power to the role that I forgot I was watching an actor. He made Luna’s anger, frustration, and love for the country feel real. Without him, the movie wouldn’t have had the same impact.

After watching the film, I felt a stronger sense of patriotism. It made me reflect on how we, as Filipinos, continue to confront the same political challenges. Many viewers, both those who have seen it and those who will watch it again, will feel more emotional, recognizing how little has changed in our country. It taught me that the most powerful stories are the ones that make us think and feel deeply. It’s a lesson and a wake-up call, reminding us that our biggest enemy isn’t always an outsider, but often ourselves. That’s what makes this film powerful and why it’s still relevant today.

Sources

• Official Movie Poster courtesy of TBA Studios
• Official Trailer and film images sourced from TBA Studios' Youtube Channel

ALEXIS
_{Welcome to my blog. I'm just a simple staff in the service industry, currently doing the things that my inner child wants in life. Mostly self-taught in the things that gave me the purpose to learn more about the digital world that led me to this awesome community.}