GMA Pictures restores Marilou Diaz-Abaya’s ‘Jose Rizal’
Last August 7, history and cinema intertwined as GMA Pictures unveiled the beautifully restored version of the 1998 film “Jose Rizal” at the Metropolitan Theater. The event, attended by lead actor Cesar Montano, screenplay writer and National Artist Ricky Lee, and director Marilou Diaz-Abaya’s son, Marc Abaya, marked a significant moment in preserving Philippine cinematic heritage.
Photo courtesy of Leo Katigbak on Facebook
GMA Pictures’ undertaking aimed to allow the new generation of Filipinos to experience this cinematic masterpiece in its full glory. The restoration process was complex, requiring meticulous attention to detail. The team carefully selected the best copy from the three remaining 35mm prints preserved by the GMA Film Archives. It was then digitally scanned and graded at 4K resolution, restoring it at 2K resolution.
The original material presented numerous challenges, including deep scratches, burn marks, missing frames, and audio impairments. Central Digital Lab’s film restoration team collaborated closely with GMA’s Post Production Department, devoting a total of 1,600 hours to address these issues and bring the film back to its pristine state.
GMA’s Post Production Department further enhanced the film’s accessibility by improving the subtitles, making the Spanish dialogues easier to understand and appreciate. AI-assisted tools were employed to refine picture quality in select scenes, while the audio was remastered with 5.1 surround sound up-mixing for a more immersive experience.
The film, directed by National Artist Marilou Diaz-Abaya, delves into the profound thoughts and experiences of Dr. Jose Rizal, the Philippine national hero. It provides a glimpse into his complex universe during his imprisonment as he contemplates his life, his loved ones, and his legacy.
Photo courtesy of Nazamel Tabares
“Jose Rizal” is a cinematic exploration of the hero’s mind, blending reality and imagination, encompassing the people he cherished and the characters he created in his novels. The film serves as a testament to his humanity and artistry, inviting viewers to reflect on his profound contributions.
The restoration of “Jose Rizal” stands as a testament to GMA Pictures’ commitment to preserving the rich tapestry of Philippine cinema. It ensures that future generations can connect with the nation’s history and appreciate the artistic brilliance of filmmakers like Marilou Diaz-Abaya and the powerful performances of actors like Cesar Montano.
