In a world where stories of mistresses and love affairs dominate TV ratings, GMA Network and Netflix Philippines’ latest drama, “Pulang Araw,” steps in to shake things up. Starring Barbie Forteza, Sanya Lopez, David Licauco, and Alden Richards, the series showcases a unique and deeply personal commitment to recounting a significant chapter of Filipino history.
This groundbreaking collaboration is directed by Dominic Zapata, who also directed “Mulawin the Movie”, and is written by Suzette Doctolero, known for iconic shows like ‘Encantadia’, ‘Maria Clara’, and ‘Ibarra’. The series highlights a specific period during the Japanese Occupation when the Philippines was under attack in World War II. It redefines what makes great television by moving away from the usual plot of marrying a wealthy man and facing rejection from family. It had its World TV Premiere last July 29 on GMA and can be binge-watched on the streaming app Netflix.
In the pilot episode, Barbie Forteza and Alden Richards play Adelina and Eduardo, half-siblings who form an unbreakable bond after being orphaned as kids. Fast forward to adulthood, and life throws them into different worlds—Barbie hits the stage as a vaudeville entertainer, while Alden takes up arms as a freedom fighter. Even when they’re torn apart by war, their connection stays strong.
As time passes, Barbie’s half-sibling Teresita, portrayed by Sanya Lopez, becomes a comfort woman, while David Licauco’s character Hiroshi joins the Japanese military. Their paths cross, and the question remains: how will their intertwined fates unfold in a country shattered by war?
While period films might seem like a snooze fest for some, GMA has been flipping the narrative with historical series like Amaya and the critically acclaimed Maria Clara at Ibarra. Now, all eyes are glued to Pulang Araw, and whether it will ride the hype is something only time will tell.
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It Takes Us Back to An “Important” Time
The series goes into the lives of Filipinos who persevered during hard times. It is a heartfelt and grueling retelling of historical events that have often been overlooked by many.
Pulang Araw goes deep into the true meaning of freedom, a concept we often take for granted but don’t fully grasp until much later, especially for us Filipinos. Deemed as the most important series of 2024, it aims to unveil the harsh realities of the past and highlight how the courage of those who fought for our freedom has shaped the lives we lead today.
Courtesy of Netflix Philippines.
“Kung ano man kalayaan mayroon tayo, sa nararanasan nating kalayaan ngayon, is because of the people who went through hell because of the World War II era”. Alden says.
Some might wonder why we need to keep talking about these stories, but World War II under Japanese occupation is a tough subject. Even though it’s often overlooked, the harsh realities and suffering that Filipinos endured need to be told.
“Bakit hindi natin ito i-kwento? Bakit hindi natin ito bigyan ng larawan sa mata ng nakakarami especially sa henerasyon natin ngayon… Ito ‘yung show na magpapakita na hindi ganoon kadali ang pinagdaanan ng ating mga kababayan”, Alden added.
This series is incredibly important and potentially the most relevant of the year because it brings to light numerous true stories. By highlighting these real-life experiences, it offers a powerful and authentic portrayal of events that need to be remembered and understood.
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It Shows True Colors and True Stories
Aside from the spectacular production and star-studded cast, audiences are raving about the exceptional performances, particularly that of Rhian Ramos, who delivered an outstanding portrayal of a mother who only wants the best for her children. Her eyes, oh chico, they never lie. The intensity and passion she conveys speak volumes about the depth of her love and serve as a warning to those who have taken advantage of her children. Truly a mirror of a mother’s love.
When it comes to standout casts, Epy Quizon, a veteran of historical dramas, always delivers. Whether he’s appeared in Markova, Heneral Luna, Gomburza, or now Pulang Araw, you won’t see any trace of his previous roles. A historical drama just wouldn’t be the same without him.
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There is also a poignant scene in the show’s third episode where Alden and Barbie, the siblings, reunite. Alden apologizes for not being able to protect his younger sister and promises to make up for his shortcomings once he finds a job. The scene is beautifully captured, with a subtle Easter egg: a flag-shaped pattern in the clouds that mirrors the colors of the flag, adding a symbolic touch to their emotional moment.
In the words of Sanya Lopez the show tackles how it was never easy before. “Pagbabalik tanaw at pagbibigay ng respeto sa mga taong nakaranas ng hirap ng panahon na iyon na sariwa pa rin sakanila ang nangyayari.”
All of these elements are woven together artistically to tell the story and engage the audience. The imagery and technical details make the narrative more accessible and vibrant, while other elements add depth. These stories are crafted to resonate with newer generations, illustrating that the past was far from easy.
With the groundbreaking production, the cast can’t help but pour their hearts out filming the series. Alden shares, “While doing it (Pulang Araw) makes me more proud to be a Filipino”.
The aesthetics of Pulang Araw elevate the standard set by previous Filipino productions, not merely as a display of their capabilities but as a heartfelt tribute to the experiences of the past.
These are stories that were buried and forgotten, often lacking the appreciation and recognition they deserved. By bringing these stories to light and with GMA consistently delivering quality, high-budget historical dramas, Pulang Araw not only showcases the artistic and technical advancements in Filipino productions but also serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of acknowledging and valuing our history. The series aims to retell these important narratives and encourage a renewed appreciation for life and its deeper meanings.
“Itong kwento na ito ay hindi para ibalik sakanila ‘yung sakit kundi ipalinaw sa bagong henerasyon natin ngayon kung gaano kahalaga ‘yung history, ‘yung World War II”, Sanya Lopez shares.
