During Green Bone’s recent media conference, National Artist Ricky Lee described the film, which stars Dennis Trillo and Ruru Madrid, as a tale that delves deep into themes of hope and redemption amidst adversity.
The film follows the story of Domingo Zamora (Dennis), a man nearing release after serving time for the murder of his sister. However, his freedom is jeopardized by Xavier Gonzaga (Ruru), a newly assigned prison guard who is determined to keep him behind bars.
Dennis, intrigued by the film’s unique concept, shared, “It was interesting. No movie has used this kind of material before. I hope viewers will be as curious about why the film is called Green Bones as I was.”
For Ruru, Green Bones is a major turning point in his career as it is his first MMFF project.
“I sincerely appreciate it. I thought I’d be in an MMFF movie the following year while watching Firefly with Bianca (Umali) last year,” he said.
Directed by award-winning filmmaker Zig Dulay, known for his work on Firefly and the TV series Maria Clara at Ibarra and Sahaya, Green Bones promises to take audiences on an emotional and thought-provoking journey.
“Excitement drove me throughout the making of this film,” said the director. “I’m truly grateful that GMA entrusted me with this project after Firefly, and it has been an incredible journey bringing this story to life.”
The screenplay, penned by Ricky Lee and MMFF 2023 Best Screenplay winner Anj Atienza, was based on a concept by GMA Public Affairs’ JC Rubio.
“This is a film about hope amidst dark times,” said the National Artist. “A movie that shows how, even in the darkest skies, stars will still appear. It tells us that even in a place as condemned as a penal colony, in the battle between good and evil, goodness will always prevail.”
The stellar cast includes Michael de Mesa, Ronnie Lazaro, Wendell Ramos, and Alessandra de Rossi, and features the special participation of Iza Calzado and Nonie Buencamino.
Mikoy Morales, Royce Cabrera, Sofia Pablo, Sienna Stevens, Kylie Padilla, Pauline Mendoza, Gerhard Acao, Raul Morit, Victor Neri, Ruby Ruiz, and Enzo Osorio complete the cast.
Green Bones is GMA Pictures and GMA Public Affairs’ official entry to the 50th edition of the annual Metro Manila Film Festival. Catch it in theaters on Dec. 25. Nickie Wang
