John Arcilla channels his inner hero in 'Heneral Luna'

MANILA, Philippines – John Arcilla taps into his inner hero when he worked on the film “Heneral Luna.”

Arcilla, who plays the title role in the movie, expressed his belief that people do not have give up their lives just to be considered a hero.

“Heroism is not about doing heroic things. Basta may buhay kang mabago, matulungan, that’s a form of heroism,” he said in a recent interview.

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Although this is a historical film, Arcilla explained that it’s not the typical historical film being produced.

Aside from exerting a lot of effort in the production of the movie, the actor said they made sure "Heneral Luna" is different from previous historical films, particularly in how it portrayed its characters.

“Ginawa po namin siyang tao para sa audience ng kasalukuyan,” he explained. “Gusto naming ma-appreciate ito ng audience ng kasalukuyan.  Ang presentasiyon po ay ibang iba sa ating nakasanayan na historical films.”

This is the reason why he believes that the students would enjoy watching their film.

“Kailangan nating tulungan angating moviegoers not to discriminate this kind of film,” he said. “I’m telling you, ibang-iba ‘to. Puwede mo siyang itapat sa rom-com, gano’n siya ka-exciting na historical film.”

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“Kailangan lang talaga nilang alisin ‘yong pag-discriminate sa idea na this film is hard to understand when actually it’s not,” he added.

Joining Arcilla in the film are Aaron Villaflor, Mon Confiado, Bing Pimintel, Mylene Dizon, Perla Bautista, Lorenz Martinez, Joem Bascon, Alvin Anson, Alex Medina, Art Acuña, Archie Alemania, Epy Quizon, Leo Martinez, Nonie Buencamino, Ketchup Eusebio, Ronnie Lazaro and special participation by Paulo Avelino.

“Heneral Luna” is directed by Jerrold Tarog and will be in cinemas on September 9.