Restored classic ‘Jose Rizal’ premieres in New York

A scene from “Jose Rizal,” directed by Marilou Diaz-Abaya (1998), remastered for international viewing, with Cesar Montano playing the lead role. CONTRIBUTED

NEW YORK – The Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF), the Manila International Film Festival (MIFF) and Fiesta in America premiered the fully restored and remastered iconic 1998 film, “Jose Rizal,” in New York on Aug. 13.

Those who missed the premiere can attend a special screening on Aug. 27 at NYU’s KJCC auditorium, sponsored by the Philippine Consulate General in New York and Knights of Rizal – NY Chapter.

The premiere event followed the film’s sweeping success at the 1998 Metro Manila Film Festival, where it won 17 awards, the most in the MMFF’s history.

It was the first time the restored film by GMA Pictures was shown outside the Philippines following its Cinemalaya premiere. Directed by the late National Artist Marilou Diaz-Abaya and starring Cesar Montano as Jose Rizal, the film vividly portrays the final days of Rizal before his execution in December 1896, providing an intimate glimpse into the thoughts and struggles of the national hero.

Executive Director of Manila International Film Festival Rochelle Ona (second from left) hopes to garner international recognition for “Jose Rizal” in January 2025. In photo during the Manhattan premiere at LOOK Dine-in Cinema on Aug. 13, 2024, are Mayor Sol Matugas of Gen. Luna, Siargao (third from left), co-sponsor Fiesta in America CEO and Knights of Rizal (KOR) member Nanding Mendez (seventh from left between Inquirer.net USA contributors Dr. Romulo Aromin and Carol Tanjutco) with KOR member Dr Emilio Quines and his wife, Dr Angie Cruz Quines. Photo from Carol Tanjutco

From books to street names to the one-peso coin, Jose Rizal is ubiquitous in the daily lives of Filipinos. Yet, beyond his status as a national hero, how much do we truly know about him? Who is the real Jose Rizal?

This film delves into the depths of his life, offering a profound exploration of his struggles, ideals, and sacrifices as well as his enduring impact on Philippine history and culture.

The star-studded cast includes Mickey Ferriols as Leonor Rivera, Chin Chin Gutierrez as Josephine Bracken, Gloria Diaz, Ronnie Lazaro, Pen Medina, Gina Alajar, Jaime Fabregas, Jhong Hilario, and Gardo Versoza. The screenplay was penned by Jun Robles Lana, Peter Ong Lim and National Artist Ricky Lee.

Gil Quito, a New York-based writer and media producer known for ‘Merika (1984) and Itim (1976),  provided the film’s context and facilitated post-screening discussion. Quito is the author of the book-length biographical survey, “Marilou Diaz-Abaya: Beyond Feminism.”