Jose Rizal (Digitally Restored and Remastered)

The 1998 film Jose Rizal was digitally restored and remastered, and became available to stream on Netflix on Rizal Day, December 30, 2024. The film was also screened at the 2024 Cinemalaya Independent Film Festival and Fiesta in America. Digitally Restored Jose Rizal Movie Screens for Free.

Jose Rizal is a historical film about the life of the Philippine national hero, Dr. Jose Rizal. The film was directed by Marilou Diaz-Abaya and stars Cesar Montano as Rizal. It also features Chin Chin Gutierrez as Josephine Bracken, Mickey Ferriols as Leonor Rivera, Ronnie Lazaro as Francisco Mercado, Gloria Diaz as Teodora Alonso, Pen Medina as Paciano Mercado, and Gina Alajar as Saturnina Rizal.

The film won 17 awards at the 1998 Metro Manila Film Festival, including Best Picture, Best Screenplay, and Best Cinematography. It is considered one of the most significant portrayals of Rizal’s life and legacy.

Synopsis: Accused of treason, Dr. Jose P. Rizal awaits trial and meets with his colonial government-appointed counsel, Luis Taviel de Andrade. The two build the case and arguments for the defense as significant events in the central figure’s life prior to his incarceration unfold. Upon hearing Rizal’s life story, Taviel begins to realize that the accused not just is innocent but exhibits in fact all the qualities of an extraordinary man. When the mock trial unreels, Taviel is all set to act as the prime advocate for his client as Rizal himself is about to give an earth-moving speech to defend his honor and address his countrymen. Meanwhile, the Spanish authorities have worked out the vast political machinery to ensure a guilty verdict. A revolution waits in the wings.

Directed by: Marilou Diaz-Abaya
Starring: Alexis Santaren, Archie Adamos, Bon Vibar, Cesar Montano, Chin Chin Gutierrez, Chiqui Xerxes-Burgos, Gardo Versoza, Gina Alajar, Gloria Diaz, Jaime Fabregas, Joel Torre, Mickey Ferriols, Monique Wilson, Nonie Buencamino, Pen Medina, Peque Gallaga, Ronnie Lazaro, Subas Herrero, Tanya Gomez, Tony Mabesa