Goyo: Ang batang heneral

Do not confuse production quality to overall film quality.

Reasons: It was basically narrated. I don't see why this wasn't released as a book instead.

There was no directing involved just some fancy angles and color editing (which was really good for a Filipino film)

Scoring was too good not to get noticed

Some of the actors were good

A bit pretentious especially when the narration comes back in.

There was no climax whatsover.

So yeah, 4 stars

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.

... 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.

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.

My favorite thing about Goyo is how it handled the small story of the native guides. It didn't say much out loud, but the inherent folly resonated.

My least favorite thing: mango shopping.