NAME: Dalaguit, Layla Ruzann GRADE & SEC:TVL 2
Pacundo, Delia Mae
Gitgano, Lebron James
REACTION PAPER
Heneral Luna
Title
The 2015 historical film Heneral Luna, directed by Jerrold Tarog, tells the story of General
Antonio Luna, one of the fiercest and most principled leaders during the Philippine-American
War. Known for his patriotism, discipline, and fiery temper, Luna’s life was marked by his
unyielding dedication to the nation. The movie does not only narrate his military exploits but
also explores the political intrigues and personal conflicts that led to his untimely death.
Heneral Luna follows Antonio Luna as he leads the Philippine revolutionary army against
American forces. His fight, however, is complicated by disunity within the Filipino leadership.
Luna’s strict discipline, refusal to tolerate corruption, and relentless push for unity earn him both
loyal allies and dangerous enemies. Ultimately, he is betrayed and assassinated by his own
countrymen, a tragedy that symbolizes the nation’s internal struggles.
From a formalist perspective, the film is excellently crafted. The cinematography vividly
captures the beauty of the Philippines and the chaos of war, while the screenplay skillfully
balances tension, drama, and moments of humor. John Arcilla’s portrayal gives Luna depth—
showing both his heroism and human flaws. The pacing keeps the audience engaged, and the
music heightens the emotional weight of each scene. From a reader-response perspective, the
film is deeply moving and thought-provoking. It stirred admiration for Luna’s courage and
frustration at the betrayal he suffered. It also made me reflect on how issues like political
infighting and personal ambition still affect the country today. The film’s strengths include its
historical accuracy, emotional depth, and relevance to contemporary society. Its only drawback
might be that some political subplots can be confusing for viewers unfamiliar with the historical
background. Nonetheless, its message about unity and sacrifice is clear and powerful.
Heneral Luna is a powerful and thought-provoking film that blends historical truth with
cinematic artistry. It reminds us that unity and selflessness are essential for true national
progress. Through John Arcilla’s commanding performance and Jerrold Tarog’s skilled
storytelling, the movie leaves a lasting impact on its viewers. It is both a tribute to Antonio
Luna’s legacy and a challenge for Filipinos to learn from the past so that history does not repeat
itself.
