Los Salvajes Bravos to open on December 25 as MMFF entry
Romnick Sarmenta and Ruru Madrid star in the historical drama, which follows indigenous Filipinos who travelled to Spain for an exposition in 1887.
The historical drama Los Salvajes Bravos will reach cinemas nationwide in the Philippines on December 25, joining the official line-up of the 52nd Metro Manila Film Festival. Paolo Dy directs the film, produced by Jesuit Communications.
According to the synopsis, indigenous Filipinos travel to Madrid for the 1887 Philippine Exposition seeking better futures for their families. Instead, they are exhibited at El Retiro Park alongside animals, plants and products from the Philippines.
Romnick Sarmenta portrays Ismael Alzate, an Igorot war veteran leading the group. Ruru Madrid plays Purganan, a teacher who accompanies them.
At a media event on October 29, Dy said the drama addresses human rights and the need to regard others as equals. He also described bayanihan, the Filipino practice of helping one another, as a central theme, linking the characters’ solidarity under pressure to communities formed by Filipinos abroad.
The production also draws parallels between the characters’ aspirations and the sacrifices of overseas Filipino workers. Executive producer Fr. Emmanuel “Nono” Alfonso, SJ, said he hoped the film would prompt Filipinos to consider their humanity and their treatment of people despite differences.
Most filming took place in Spain. The cast includes Spanish actors Andreas Muñoz, Javier Godino and Marta Codina, alongside Michael de Mesa, Christian Vasquez, Jojit Lorenzo, Arnold Reyes, Elora Españo and Paolo O’Hara. Jesuit Communications also produced GomBurZa, a 2023 MMFF entry.
