Pinoy historical films, shows like 'Maria Clara at Ibarra' that you can binge-watch next
Since its debut on October 3, 2022, the drama-fantasy series Maria Clara at Ibarra has been capturing the interest and imagination of Filipino viewers.
The show, which airs on GMA every 8 p.m. on weekdays, tells the story of a Gen-Z student named Klay (Barbie Forteza) who goes back in time and steps into the fictional world of created by Dr. Jose Rizal in his famed novel Noli Me Tangere.
As the teleserye nears it end this February, viewers can't help but gush over the things they learn about our country's rich history from the series. It is undeniable that because of this show, today's Filipinos—both young and old—have grown a liking for similar historical-fantasy content from previous years.
If you found yourself becoming a fan of Philippine history because of Maria Clara at Ibarra, then read on as PhilSTAR L!fe listed the local period dramas and movies that you can also binge-watch to boost your knowledge or simply to have fun.
Amaya
Depicting the pre-colonial period of the 1500s, Amaya chronicles the story of a princess daughter of a Datu and a slave, foretold to be the one who would defeat the fierce Rajah Mangubat.
Guided by her twin snake, the princess takes on a journey to avenge her father’s death and defeat the antagonist who has been the reason for her misery and the downfall of her beloved land.
This historical-adventure series is the first local TV series in pre-colonial history portrayed by Marian Rivera as Amaya, Sid Lucero as Bagani, and Mikael Daez as Lumad.
You can stream the series on GMA Network's YouTube channel.
Katipunan
This historical drama Katipunan, which premiered in 2013, tells the story of Katipuneros who fought for Independence during the Spanish regime. Directed by King Mark Baco, Katipunan is starred. by Sid Lucero as the "Father of Philippine Revolution" Andres Bonifacio, as well as Glaiza de Castro as Bonifacio's wife, Gregoria de Jesus.
All eight episodes of the series are available for viewing on GMA Network's website.
Ilustrado
If you are fond of our national hero, Ilustrado is a great show to watch. First aired in 2014, it is based on the life of Dr. Jose Rizal as a propagandist, traveler, and lover. Ilustrado also ranked as one of the most-watched series on its timeslot.
Alden Richards played the character of Rizal or Pepe, Kylie Padilla as Leonor Rivera, and Eula Valdez as Teodora "Lolay" Alonso y Mercado.
You can stream the series on GMA Network's YouTube channel.
Indio
The 2013 series Indio is a combination of Philippine history and Filipino mythology, according to screenwriter Suzette Doctolero.
Set in the pre-colonial to Spanish colonial period, the show is inspired by how Spaniards at that time would call Filipinos "indio" or stupid. Through the series, Doctolero hopes to "turn the label into something dignified and a source of pride."
Directed by Dondon Santos, Indio stars Senator Bong Revilla as Malaya or Simeon, Jennylyn Mercado as Esperanza, Rhian Ramos as Dian Magayon, and Michael de Mesa as Juancho Sanreal, among other notable celebrities in the show.
Watch it on GMA Network's YouTube channel.
El Presidente
Translated in English as "The President", El Presidente is a 2012 biographical film that rekindles the story of Emilio Aguinaldo as the first president' of the Philippine Republic.
The movie is a flashback of how Aguinaldo (played by Jeorge Ejercito Estregan) went through highs and lows as he led the country to its independence against the Spaniards and the Americans from 1886 to 1946.
El Presidente was one of the official entries to the 2012 Metro Manila Film Festival.
Heneral Luna
This Jerrold Tarog historical drama is considered one of the greatest local period movies of all time, earning several awards from Asian Film Awards and Gawad Urian, among others.
Heneral Luna depicts the heroic military commander Antonio Luna who spearheaded the Philippine struggle for nationhood at the end of the 19th century. It stars Jon Arcilla in the titular role.
The film may have fallen short in the International body's shortlist of nominees but won big during the 34th Film Academy of the Philippines' Luna Awards in 2016.