June to July 2024 Proves Monumental for JesCom’s Historical Film
Jesuit Communications’ historical film “GomBurZa” continues to capture the hearts and minds of audiences and critics alike, bringing home numerous prestigious awards during June to July 2024. The acclaimed film, produced by JesCom Films and MQuest Ventures of MediaQuest, in cooperation with CMB Film Services, has garnered significant recognition for its compelling depiction of the lives and sacrifices of the martyred priests Mariano Gomes, José Burgos, and Jacinto Zamora.
In June, “GomBurZa” shone brightly at the 47th Gawad Urian Awards, where Carlo Canlas Mendoza won the “Best Cinematography” award. The Manunuri ng Pelikulang Pilipino (MPP), in a speech by MPP Chair and DLSU Associate Professor of Literature and Cultural Studies, Shirley Lua, also praised the film as the “Best and Most Intelligent Historical Film to Date.” “GomBurZa’s” powerful storytelling of the heroic priests continues to resonate with audiences, highlighting the courage and patriotism of the Filipino nation.
Prior to its success at the Gawad Urian, “GomBurZa” previously triumphed at the 72nd FAMAS Awards. Carlo Canlas Mendoza again received the “Best Cinematography” award, and Teresa Barrozo was honored with “Best Musical Score.” These accolades underscore the film’s technical excellence and powerful musical accompaniment. Adding to “GomBurZa’s” accolades was the special recognition of Mr. Dante Rivero as the “Iconic Movie Actor of Philippine Cinema,” a fitting tribute to the silver screen idol who commanded respect and adulation for his distinguished portrayal of Padre Mariano Gomes, the oldest and most venerable among the iconic trio of martyr priests.
The winning streak continued at the 7th EDDYS: Entertainment Editors’ Choice, where “Sa Duyan ng Bayan,” the film’s official theme song performed by OPM stars Noel Cabangon, Ebe Dancel, and Gloc-9, was awarded “Best Original Theme Song.” Written by Krina Cayabyab and Gloc-9 and arranged by Paulo Zarate, “Sa Duyan ng Bayan” encapsulates the film’s emotional depth and patriotic fervor. Enchong Dee was also named “Best Supporting Actor” for his portrayal of Padre Jacinto Zamora. “GomBurZa” received a total of 10 nominations from the Society of Philippine Entertainment Editors (SPEEd), including Best Picture, Best Actor (Cedrick Juan), Best Director (Pepe Diokno), and Best Screenplay (Pepe Diokno and Rodolfo Vera).
Meanwhile at the 40th PMPC Star Awards for Movies, “GomBurZa” added two more prestigious honors to its collection. Pepe Diokno and Rodolfo Vera were awarded “Movie Screenwriter of the Year,” and Ericson Navarro was named “Movie Production Designer of the Year.” The film received several other nominations, including Movie of the Year, Movie Actor of the Year for Cedrick Juan, and Movie Ensemble Acting of the Year.
To cap off an impressive run, “GomBurZa” received nine more nominations for the 40th Luna Awards, including Best Picture, Best Actor for Cedrick Juan, Best Director for Pepe Diokno, and Best Supporting Actor for both Elijah Canlas and Piolo Pascual. The Luna Awards, presented annually by the Film Academy of the Philippines (FAP), are considered the Philippine counterpart of the Oscars, recognizing outstanding achievements in the local film industry.
“We honestly can’t believe this. The overwhelming success is beyond what we initially set out for,” expressed an elated and grateful JesCom Creative Director and “GomBurZa” Producer Ms. Pauline Mangilog-Saltarin.
“More than anything, the awards and accolades are just a heartening bonus because our true fulfillment and deeper mission is ‘GomBurZa’ touching the hearts of Filipinos and inspiring our countrymen all over the world.”
JesCom’s second major motion picture, “GomBurZa,” stands as a significant cultural offering, countering revisionist history and highlighting the Church’s integral role in the emergence of the Philippine nation. The film, available on Netflix, continues to inspire with its timeless messages of patriotism, courage, and sacrifice, keeping the fervor alive in the hearts of Filipinos worldwide.
For more news and updates on “GomBurZa”, follow the film’s official Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/GomBurZaFilm
