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"Two 19th-century Filipino priests take the spotlight in two entries to the Metro Manila Film Festival, risking the audience's health by watching them amidst the pandemic. Piolo Pascual stars in both films, with each film named after their respective surnames. The first film, "Gomburza," refers to the three priests martyred in Bagumbayan in 1872: Mariano Gomes, Jose Burgos, and Jacinto Zamora. The second film, "Mallari," tells the story of Fr. Severino Mallari, a forgotten figure in textbook history but an intriguing character discovered through archival research and online articles. While Mallari is often sensationalized as the "first Filipino serial killer," Gomburza represents a more significant and dignified chapter in Philippine history

They were innocent victims who were unjustly executed and have become a symbol of the country's fight against Spanish colonization. Both films showcase exceptional cinematography and compelling storytelling, with well-written scripts and skilled direction. However, "GomBurZa" stands out for its ability to go beyond mere entertainment. It provides a deeper understanding of the names we learned in school and inspires a call to action. Director Pepe Diokno faced two significant challenges in creating "GomBurZa." First, to strike a balance between historical accuracy and creating an engaging film experience. While the movie cannot be judged as a doctoral dissertation, it succeeds in utilizing primary sources without the need for footnotes or a bibliography. The second challenge was maintaining audience interest when the outcome is already known—Gomburza's fate is sealed

However, Diokno manages to keep viewers on the edge of their seats till the very end. The film opens with the story of Fr. Pedro Peláez, played by Piolo Pascual, who championed the secularization and Filipinization of the church. His cause is carried forward by the fiery Jose Burgos, portrayed by Cedrick Juan, and the wise Father Gomes, played by Dante Rivero

Enchong Dee completes the cast as the tragic Father Zamora. The film provides historical context, highlighting the Spanish overreaction to the events of 1872, shaped by the wars of independence that led to the loss of Spanish America. It demonstrates how the Spanish-born Burgos took ownership of the term "Filipinos," foreshadowing the emergence of the Filipino nation. This context helps the audience understand the significance of Gomburza and their role in shaping Philippine history. In conclusion, while both films captivate with their narratives, "GomBurZa" stands out for its ability to educate, inspire action, and shed light on a lesser-known part of Philippine history. Director Pepe Diokno's skillful storytelling and attention to detail make it a must-watch for history enthusiasts and general audiences alike."