Goyo: Ang batang heneral

Goyo: Ang Batang Heneral was not a conventional historical movie. More often than not, movies of this kind show "heroes" as exactly that-- fearless, determined, and ready to sacrifice for the greater good. What I liked most about this movie, then, is that it strays from this way of storytelling and tells us that our heroes are still painfully human.

Gregorio del Pilar was heralded as one of the bravest men in Philippine history, but this film makes the statement that, behind all the glory and revere, Goyo is still what the title suggests: isa syang bata. I appreciated how the film highlighted the mischievous parts about him, his lack of foresight in battle, his obsession with love. All of this shows the audience that he was just 23, behind the grandeur of it all, and that maybe he was carrying a burden heavier than he pretended he could handle.

Cinematography was wonderfully made and actors played the role brilliantly. However, in my opinion, this movie version of G. Del Pilar's life was unnecessary. It's as if the movie was made just to add a sequel to its predecessor, Heneral Luna. Plot was already known to every one yet the movie was a bit dragging to the point that too unnecessary emphasis on Goyong's love story was made (it was kind of annoying, to be honest). It could also have been better if air time spent on the aforementioned was focused more on the Filipino's efforts to fight the Americans.

On the bright side, credits should be given as the movie successfully showed his vulnerability as a young general. His struggles on how to maintain sanity with a large amount of responsibility given to him was also tackled (e.g. him being constantly reminded as the "agila" by his older brother). Another good part in the movie was the part where the Filipinos started their journey in Tirad Pass. Hunger and lack of unity among them was shown. This, for me, subtly implied that one of the reasons why we were conquered by Americans before was the lack of solidarity amongst us - a single goal but different means and desires. Furthermore, it was illustrated that selfishness and greed are also major contributors to Philippines failing to protect its freedom from Americans. It's sad to see that up until now; it's these traits that we Filipinos have are what remain in our hearts.

All in all, movie was good but below expectation. It could have been done better.

Goyo: Batang Heneral is a way different tone from Heneral Luna. It is understandable because both heroes has different life story. Goyo is part war drama and part tragic romantic movie. It blends so well in this film. The film is never boring and everything in the film is worth a research after leaving the cinema. The acting is brilliant that all of the cast did their parts believable. The cinematography is majestic that it feels like I am from different time while watching this film. The musical score adds layer to every scenes made this film atmospheric.

Overall, Goyo: Batang Heneral is an instant classic! It belongs to our library of One of the Greatest Filipino Movies Ever Made. For years to come, this film lives and will be studied by every students who wants to know the life of Gregorio del Pillar. I'm proud watching this epic movie.

Reading Gregorio del Pilar's life in my history books has always painted this image of a brave young hero who selflessly died for our country - leading his short life of 24 with nobility and grace. Almost a perfect young man that deserves all the praises. However, the movie, Goyo; Ang Batang Heneral, painted a different picture of the young hero.

In this narration, Goyo is painted far from his image of being a celebrated hero. He has been stripped of all the praises afforded him throughout Philippine history. Instead, Goyo is depicted as the flawed gullible young man. He blindly follows the instructions of his president, Emilio Aguinaldo, which then leads to the question of whether he really had the burning passion of fighting for our country. Perhaps he was just a young man forced to be a part of a war he knew nothing about? The movie even begs the question whether Goyo's failures and eventual demise were due to his ego that people around him have meticulously reared.

This movie ultimately made me question my assumptions. It urged me to think and be critical. Not to mention, the movie likewise treats its viewers with aesthetic brilliance - from the topnotch cinematography, production design, and a moving music score. For that, I would have to say that the movie has catapulted to the ranks of great classics and a must watch for everyone. Goyo: Ang Batang Heneral is definitely a different kind of treat that prompts the viewers to be critical while pleasing them with creative prowess.

... what is it good for? Well some might argue for movies and I reckon they wouldn't be that wrong. So another one of the based on a true story. I don't know all the details and the movie might take some liberal approaches on certain things (quite likely it does).

The battle scenes are very well choreographed and the drama and story building is quite nice. If you like movies that shine a light on things like this, you will be more than satisfied.