One of my subjects in college is Life and Works of Rizal. My professor instructed us, her students to watch the movie that portrayed the life of Rizal. As I watched the movie, it was hard to not have some introspection about the life we have currently. Moreover, after watching it the respect I have for our national hero cannot be described by some mere words or emotions. So, let me share with you guys my thought about the movie.

Introduction

The movie "Jose Rizal" is a 1998 Filipino biographical film of the Philippine national hero Dr. Jose Rizal directed by Marilou Diaz-Abaya and starring Cesar Montano as Jose Rizal. It narrated the journey of Rizal and incorporates his two novels — The Noli Me Tangere and El Filibuterismo.

The Story

The film portrays Jose Rizal as a Filipino who wanted justice and equality from the Spaniards. At a very young age, Rizal is aware of the discrimination happening to his fellow countrymen, as he, himself, experienced it. As Rizal was given an opportunity by his brother, Paciano, to study in Madrid he took it as a chance to liberate the Philippines. He showed it through his two novels that turned his life upside down. However, the novels he wrote made every Filipinos admire him. It unfolds a new beginning, where Filipinos are conscious about their own country. It also ignited the revolutionary to fight more for their freedom. This leads to a myriad of incidents that resulted in his imprisonment and ended by death. The movie emphasizes the remarkably unforgettable life of Rizal as it revolves solely around his love for his country and people.

My Reflection

Therefore, I can tell that the film is an outstanding portrayal of Jose Rizal. As it mainly concentrates on significant events such as his education, imprisonment, and his literary skills. Moreover, the transition of his novels to a specific scene is a brilliant idea as it gives an impression of Rizal's own life that was being narrated in his compositions. Additionally, the sufferings of Filipinos at the hands of Spaniards are well characterized that satisfy the uprising of our countrymen and the drive of Rizal to unveil the truth. And most importantly, the patriotism of Rizal is clearly illustrated until the end of the movie.

After watching the film, I understood why Jose Rizal is our national hero. Rizal still put an act even he knows his life will be in danger and the fact that he is from a well-off family, he did not think even once to turn away from his nation. He fights using a pen and paper that served as a light for entire Filipinos who are in the darkness to be awakened and to hope for the freedom they deserve. The love he has for his country is immeasurable and he carried it until his last breath.

In conclusion, this film showcases the nationalism of Rizal that we, Filipinos, must possess. And as a Filipino, I realize that the independence we have must be honored. That we need to also give our best to fight for our country in our own little ways. Just like Rizal with his pen, we can do it in our modern way without life being at stake. I did not mean to dishonor other heroes, they are all great and I respect all of them. Rizal simply taught that not all fights need to be brutal and rough, it can be peaceful and silent but powerful. Jose Rizal is truly a notable man which will forever be an inspiration to the Filipino youth.

Author's Message:

I really recommend to you guys to watch the movie even though it is almost 3 hours long, you cannot be bored because every scene is remarkable, inspiring and you will also see our country from a different perspective. I hope that you gain some knowledge about this article as it talks about the history of the Philippines. Anyway, I wish everyone to be safe, healthy, and blessed! Also, for all the Filipino citizens do not forget to register for this incoming 2022 election. Let us not waste the sacrifices of our heroes to our country. We deserve more, our nation deserves more.

Thank you for reaching the end! I love you all!