Viva Films will distribute ‘1521,’ the multi-award-winning film starring Bea Alonzo
Viva Films will distribute ‘1521,’ the multi-award-winning film starring Bea Alonzo
SINEGANG.ph published this press release as sponsored by VIVA Films. No staff writer participated in writing this article.
Viva Films, the leading film production and distribution business in the Philippines, is thrilled to announce that it will distribute the breakthrough film "1521: The Quest for Love and Freedom."
Viva Films and Inspire Studios will work together to present this cinematic masterpiece to Filipino viewers.
In October of last year, the movie debuted in 650 theaters in the United States. The historical drama "1521" depicts the legendary bravery of Datu Lapu-Lapu and his valiant soldiers against Magellan and his conquistadors at the historic Battle of Mactan in April 1521, as well as the beautiful love story between a native princess and a Spanish interpreter.
Hollywood icon Danny Trejo plays Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan, while award-winning actress and box office queen Bea Alonzo plays Diwata, who is involved in a secret romance with Enrique, played by Green Power Ranger, Hector David Jr., adding depth to the narrative with a powerful love story that transcends time and culture.
1521: The Quest for Love and Freedom has already garnered four international awards -- the Best Feature Film award at the Athens IMA Film Festival, Best Feature Film and Best Cinematography Feature Film at the Swedish Film Awards, and Best Feature Film at the London Independent Film Awards.
The Las Vegas premiere, held in October to coincide with Filipino American History Month, received overwhelming support from Filipino American organizations. Leaders like Gloria T. Caoile and Jacque de Joya emphasized the movie's cultural value, which strengthened the city's commitment to promoting intercultural understanding, harmony, and awareness.
The film's popularity was further aided by notable backing from the Fil-Am community and business leaders, such as Fil-Am billionaire Loida Lewis. Leaders of well-known Fil-Am groups supported the movie by purchasing tickets for every showing in theaters. Fil-Am representatives, like Hon. Juslyn Manalo, vice mayor of Daly City, California, and Hon. State Rep. Rose Martinez of Hawaii sponsored block screenings for residents. The mayor of Honolulu City even proclaimed October 2, 2023, "1521 Day" in honor of the film.
“These achievements stand as a testament to the exceptional cast and crew, the history-making production partners, and the inspiring Filipino bayanihan spirit behind the film,” said Francis Lara Ho, CEO of Inspire Studios and the producer of the film.
Looking ahead, a prominent movie distribution company has committed to simultaneously release "1521" in the US and Canada in June 2024. Viva Films is eager to bring this remarkable Filipino-American production to its home audience in the Philippines, inviting everyone to immerse themselves in a journey through history and love.
