Unless it’s Jose Rizal (ahem, “Life and Works of Rizal”) we’re talking about, textbooks often paint historical figures in broad strokes. The focus is always on their legacies and larger-than-life personas—leaving little to no room for things that *actually* humanize them.
We may know Melchora Aquino as the “Grand Woman of the Revolution” or Edgar Jopson (a.k.a. Edjop) as a martyred Atenean activist. Have we ever paused to ponder the quiet moments, familial ties, and vulnerable emotions that shaped them as individuals stripped off their grand titles, though?
Sure, several history instructors favor the use of simplified narratives so as to not overwhelm their students with too much information. But sometimes, modern society must see a body of work that bridges the pedestal and the ground—something that would remind us that heroes aren’t mere symbols, but also flesh and blood with dreams and fears akin to our own.
The local movie industry seems to acknowledge this need—and upcoming Katski Flores-helmed film “Edjop” is one promising proof.
Is it possible to find romance amid activism?
Based on the teasers released to date, it might be safe to say that “Edjop” goes beyond historical retelling. It seemingly aims to rekindle the flickering flames of empathy by bringing its audiences into the personal sphere of its titular character.
While the film still promises to touch on Edjop’s (played by Elijah Canlas) advocacy for labor rights and political reform, “love” is labeled the ultimate driving force of the tale. As one of the teasers says, “Above all, it’s a story about love.”
We can most probably expect a deep dive into his relationship with wife Joy (played by Kakie Pangilinan) and how this rather intimate aspect of his life intersects with his activism.
Such sentiment is further echoed in a separate promotional post where Joy expresses her thoughts on loving Edjop: “No regrets. He loved us. He loved his country [but] he died too young. He could have done so much more.”
Atop being an activist and a husband, Edjop was a father
The film offers a perspective rarely explored in resource materials, too—the POV of a daughter left behind. “I grew up with so much resentment toward my parents,” Joyette (played by Jodi Sta. Maria) opens up in another social media teaser. “I felt Edjop was a hero to a lot of people except for his own daughter.
“But I had a breakthrough listening to his voice,” she admits. “I forgive you Tats and Nanay Joy. Thank you for fighting for what is right despite having to sacrifice your life and time away from us. I love you and am very proud of you.”
Release date and distribution details are yet to be disclosed—but it seems that “GomBurZa” star Cedrick Juan is part of the cast. For which role? Well, I guess we have to keep an eye out for more promotional gimmicks to know.
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Photo from “Edjop The Movie’s” official Facebook page