Allen Maurera
5 / 22 / 24
St. Mark Evangelist
Critique Paper about “GomBurZa”
The central narrative of “GomBurZa” revolves around the lives and struggles of
the three Filipino priests, Mariano Gomez, José Burgos, and Jacinto Zamora,
collectively known as Gomburza, during the 19th-century Spanish colonial period in the
Philippines. The movie portrays the historical events surrounding Gomburza, including
their advocacy for Filipino priests’ rights, their involvement in the secularization
movement, and their eventual unjust execution by the Spanish authorities, sparking
outrage and fueling the Philippine revolution. Overall, the film accurately depicts the
socio-political context of the period, highlighting the oppression and discrimination faced
by the Filipino people under Spanish colonial rule and the resistance movements that
arose as a result.
The main characters In the movie are Mariano Gomez, José Burgos, and Jacinto
Zamora, who are portrayed as dedicated and passionate advocates for social justice
and Filipino empowerment. The film develops the personalities and motivations of the
Gomburza priests by showcasing their unwavering commitment to their beliefs, their
struggles against oppression, and their role as catalysts for change in Philippine society.
There are notable performances by the cast members, particularly in portraying the
emotional depth and conviction of the Gomburza priests and the complexities of their
relationships with each other and with the people around them.
The overarching themes explored In “GomBurZa” include colonialism, religious
oppression, social justice, and resistance. The film addresses issues of colonialism by
highlighting the exploitation and discrimination faced by the Filipino people under
Spanish rule, the intertwining of religion and politics, and the resistance movements that
emerged to challenge colonial authority. The movie’s messages are compelling and
thought-provoking, prompting viewers to reflect on the legacy of colonialism, the power
dynamics inherent in religious institutions, and the importance of standing up against
injustice.
The director uses visual elements such as lighting, framing, and symbolism to
enhance the storytelling and evoke the historical setting and atmosphere. Standout
cinematographic techniques include immersive set designs, authentic costumes, and
dynamic camera movements that contribute to the film’s emotional impact and historical
authenticity. The direction effectively captures the historical setting and atmosphere,
transporting viewers to 19th-century Philippines and immersing them in the struggles
and triumphs of the Gomburza priests.
“GomBurZa” stays true to the historical events it is based on, portraying the key
moments and personalities of the Gomburza priests and their role in Philippine history.
While some liberties may have been taken for dramatic effect, they are justified in
service of the overall narrative and themes of the film. The film balances historical
accuracy with creative storytelling by staying faithful to the spirit of the Gomburza story
while adding depth and emotion to the characters and events portrayed.
“GomBurZa” has been well-received by audiences and critics alike for its
powerful storytelling, compelling performances, and historical significance. The film’s
lasting impact culturally and cinematically lies in its portrayal of an important chapter in
Philippine history and its contribution to raising awareness about the struggles and
sacrifices of the Gomburza priests. The movie succeeds in raising awareness and
generating discussions about the historical significance of the Gomburza priests,
sparking dialogue about colonialism, religion, and resistance in Philippine society.
I would highly recommend “GomBurZa” to others interested in historical dramas
for its engaging storytelling, powerful performances, and relevance to contemporary
issues. For further exploration of this topic, I would suggest reading historical accounts
of the Gomburza priests and their impact on Philippine society, as well as watching
other films or documentaries about Philippine history and colonial resistance
movements.
