Overview
A revolutionary's journey unfolds through love, sacrifice, and the fight for freedom in colonial Philippines.
Ember's analysis
- Pacing
- Measured
- Intensity
- Strong
- Complexity
- Layered
- Violence
- Moderate
- solemn
- sweeping
- intellectually serious
- history study
- philippine independence observance
What sets it apart
May contain story progression spoilers
The film recounts José Rizal's life as writer, doctor, propagandist, lover, brother, and figure of national inspiration.
Rizal's novels, writing, and propaganda work are presented as forces opposing friar authority and colonial rule.
Rizal's life and works are recounted through non-linear flashbacks reflecting on different aspects of his identity.
Rizal's ideas and martyrdom are linked to the emergence of Philippine nationalism and revolution.
Films like José Rizal, and why
Gandhi
historical biographical drama centered on a writer whose ideas challenge colonial power
Lawrence of Arabia
national-hero biography combining political awakening, personal relationships, and anti-colonial struggle
The Last Emperor
non-linear literary historical drama portraying a revolutionary figure through memory and interpretation
Movie Details
- Director
- Marilou Diaz-Abaya
- Release Date
- 1998-12-25
- Runtime
- 178 min
- Rating
- 8.8 / 10 (5)
Cast
- Cesar Montano
- Joel Torre
- Jaime Fabregas
- Gloria Diaz
- Gardo Versoza
- Monique Wilson
- Chin-Chin Gutierrez
- Mickey Ferriols
- Pen Medina
- Peque Gallaga
Common questions
- What is José Rizal about?
- A sweeping, fragmented portrait of José Rizal as a writer, doctor, and martyr whose ideas helped awaken Filipino resistance to colonial rule.
- What is José Rizal like to watch?
- Ember's analysis rates the pacing of José Rizal as measured, its intensity as strong and its storytelling as layered.
- Is José Rizal violent?
- Somewhat. Ember rates the violence in José Rizal as moderate.
- Which films are like José Rizal?
- Films with a similar feel include Gandhi, Lawrence of Arabia, and The Last Emperor.
- How long is José Rizal?
- José Rizal runs 178 minutes.
