The Rizal films of Gerardo de Leon

National Artist Gerardo de Leon, whose 100th birthday (Sept. 12, 1913) celebration ends September this year, directed three Jose Rizal films. Sisa (1951), Noli Me Tangere (1961), with Oscar Keese and Edita Vital, El Filibusterismo (1962).

As part of De Leon’s centennial activities, two of his Rizal films will be shown at the CCP Tanghalang Manuel Conde: Sisa on Jan. 18 and El Filibusterismo (Feb. 8), both Saturdays, at 4 p.m.

Anita Linda, who played the title role in Sisa, has agreed to attend its screening. She won the Maria Clara Best Actress award for Sisa, which also won Best Picture.

El Filibusterismo starred the late Pancho Magalona. It won several FAMAS awards, including Best Story for Jose Rizal, Best Picture and Best Director for De Leon.

Noli Me Tangere starred the late Eddie Del Mar. A good print of the film can no longer be found. Noli won the FAMAS Best Picture, Best Director for De Leon and Best Supporting Actor for Oscar Keese. — RKC