MTRCB Chief recommends ‘Papa Francisco’ film

CEBU, Philippines- “This is an opportunity for us to know him, his struggles, his triumphs, his joys.” It’s lawyer Eugenio “Toto” Villareal, Chairperson of the Movie and Television Review and Classification Board, speaking about Pope Francis in connection with the upcoming film titled “Papa Francisco: The Pope Francis Story.”

During a special screening held at SM Megamall Cinema 3 last September 17, Chair Toto urged everyone to intensify their affection for the Pope. “I have been taught that we should love the Pope with that real love of a son or daughter for a father. Use this occasion to formulate a resolution or two in regard to our love for the Pope,” he said.

The PG-rated bio flick, distributed locally by Pioneer Films, features the life of the Jesuit Father Jorge Bergoglio as a priest and his election as Pope. It opens in Philippine cinemas tomorrow.

“This film offers us a picture of, and inspired on, the man who in now Pope Francis. The strengths and weaknesses will be there, as will be the triumphs and joys,” said Villareal. “It’s a fitting follow-up doon sa ginawang pagbisita ng Santo Papa sa atin early this year,” he added.

Playing the role of Pope Francis in the film is Argentine actor Dario Grandinetti. “Very poignant and very human ang portrayal dito. Makikita rin yung kanyang malasakit, yung tinatawag na mercy and compassion  sa ating mga kapwa,” he shared.

Also present during the movie screening were Bishop Hubert Mylo Vergara, CBCP Episcopal Commission on Social Communications; Reverend Father Anton Pascual, President and COO of Radio Veritas; Rev. Father  Francis Lucas, President of Catholic Media Network; Sr. Consolata Manding, FSP of CBCP Cinema; and Pioneer Films’ Karenina and Karla Yoluque.  (FREEMAN)