For those seeking a film from the ongoing Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) that hits straight to the heart, “Green Bones” from GMA Pictures and GMA Public Affairs offers an emotional tour de force.
Green Bones is poised to continue the winning streak of GMA Pictures, following the success of the fantasy film “Firefly,” which won Best Picture at last year’s MMFF. After years of hiatus from producing films, GMA Pictures has made a triumphant comeback with these two releases, offering narratives that stand out for their originality — an antidote to the recycled tropes that have driven Filipino audiences away from theaters in recent years.
Dennis Trillo and Ruru Madrid as Domingo and Xavier YOUTUBE
SCREENSHOT/GMA PICTURES
It is worth to note, however, that while Firefly captivated audiences with its fantastical themes, Green Bones shifts gears to present a grounded and deeply human story that stands apart from its predecessor.
Green Bones tells the intertwined stories of Domingo Zamora (Dennis Trillo), a man imprisoned for the murder of his sister, and Xavier Gonzaga (Ruru Madrid), a rookie prison guard determined to keep him behind bars. These contrasting perspectives drive the film’s emotional and moral complexity.
The performances of these two Kapuso actors are nothing short of extraordinary, with neither overshadowing the other.
Trillo, already renowned for his iconic TV and film roles, reaches new heights in this film. His ability to convey emotion through silence and subtle gestures, often using expressive sign language, immerses the audience in Zamora’s internal struggle. Each glance and movement feels deliberate, leaving viewers questioning the true extent of his guilt.
Equally compelling is Madrid’s portrayal of Xavier Gonzaga. Madrid skillfully embodies a young man grappling with his own ethical dilemmas, making the character relatable and deeply human. His journey forces audiences to confront their own sense of justice.
The supporting cast adds richness to the narrative. Mikoy Morales, Royce Cabrera, Gerhard Acao, Raul Morit, and Ronnie Lazaro shine in their roles, creating a vivid backdrop to the central story. Alessandra de Rossi and Iza Calzado, though featured in fewer scenes, leave a lasting impression with their powerful performances.
It’s also delightful to see young stars like Sienna Stevens and Sofia Pablo deliver performances that steal hearts with their charm, presence and acting skills.
One particularly striking performance comes from Wendell Ramos, whose acting prowess reminds audiences of his often-overlooked skills. His scenes evoke powerful emotions, especially in the film’s climactic moments, leaving a lasting impression.
The story is straightforward but demands your full attention to piece together the connections and motivations behind each character’s actions. This interwoven narrative rewards attentive viewers, culminating in a heartwarming exploration of love, hope, and family — the quintessential themes of a Filipino Christmas.
“Green Bones” is a must-watch, one of the finest films to grace the Metro Manila Film Festival in recent years. Don’t miss it — it’s an experience that lingers long after the credits roll.
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