Viva Films proudly announces that it will distribute the groundbreaking film "1521: The Quest for Love and Freedom."
In
collaboration with Inspire Studios, Viva Films is set to bring this cinematic
masterpiece to audiences across the Philippines on June 5.
Bea Alonzo as Diwata.
The
film made its mark across 650 theaters in the United States in October last year. “1521,”
a historical drama, tells of a beautiful love story between a native princess
and a Spanish translator while highlighting the epic heroism of Datu Lapu-lapu
and his courageous warriors against Magellan and his conquistadors in the
historic Battle of Mactan in April 1521.
Hollywood
icon Danny Trejo takes on the role of Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan,
while award-winning actress and box office queen, Bea Alonzo portrays Diwata,
who shares a clandestine romance with Enrique, played by Green Power Ranger,
Hector David Jr., adding depth to the narrative with a powerful love story that
transcends time and culture.
Hector David Jr. (left) and Danny Trejo (right) play Enrique and Ferdinand Magellan respectively.
"1521:
The Quest for Love and Freedom" has already garnered four international awards -- the Best Feature Film award
at the Athens IMA Film Festival,
Best Feature Film and Best Cinematography Feature Film at the Swedish Film
Awards and Best Feature Film at the London Independent Film Awards.
Esther Joy, a FilAm who
watched the film in Cincinnati, shares her heartfelt appreciation through the film’s Facebook page: "Just watched it earlier
here in Cincinnati, Ohio and we enjoyed it so much! As a FilAm immigrating to
the States at 4 years old, I didn’t learn much about Filipino history in
school. I've been doing my own research as an adult, and I truly enjoyed how
the Battle of Mactan was portrayed in the film. I found it to be very inspiring
and showcased the Filipino warrior spirit. Several scenes even moved me to
tears. We truly enjoyed it and thank you so much for making a film representing
us as a people and culture, wishing all the best success for the movie."
Hector David Jr. and Bea Alonzo
The
Las Vegas premiere, strategically timed in October to coincide with Filipino
American History Month, witnessed overwhelming support from Filipino American
organizations. Leaders like Jacque de Joya and Gloria T. Caoile emphasized the
cultural significance of the film, contributing to the city's commitment to
cultural awareness, unity, and intercultural dialogue.
Notable
support from the Fil-Am community and business leaders, including Fil-Am
billionaire Loida Lewis, further propelled the film's success. Leaders of
prominent Fil-Am organizations backed the film by buying out entire theater
screenings. Fil-Am officials, such as Hon. Vice Mayor Juslyn Manalo of Daly
City, CA, and Hon. State Rep. Rose Martinez of Hawaii held block screenings
for their constituents. Honolulu City Mayor even declared October 2, 2023, as
"1521 Day" in honor of the film.
Michael Copon as Lapu Lapu
“These achievements stand as a testament
to the exceptional cast and crew, the history-making production partners, and
the inspiring Filipino bayanihan spirit behind the film,”
said Francis Lara Ho, CEO of Inspire Studios and the producer of the film.
Looking ahead, a prominent movie distribution company has committed to simultaneously release "1521" in the US and Canada in June 2024. Viva Films is eager to bring this remarkable Filipino-American production to its home audience in the Philippines, inviting everyone to immerse themselves in a journey through history and love. #
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