The Kingdom, an official entry in this year’s Metro Manila Film Festival, offers a unique perspective on Philippine history by exploring what our country might have become had it not been colonized by foreign powers.
The film’s intricate storyline richly imagines an alternate world. Its attention to detail invites viewers to imagine the possibilities of a different history and consider how our nation’s path might have been shaped by forces other than colonial rule. It envisions a world where the pre-colonial kingdoms of the archipelago flourished and united, possibly forming a powerful monarchy that could have altered the course of our nation’s history.
Before the arrival of the Spaniards, the Philippines was home to various political units, ranging from small confederations of villages to more organized regional kingdoms. The Kingdom of Tondo and the Sultanate of Sulu are among the most notable examples, each with complex forms of governance led by rajahs and sultans. These early Filipino societies were not only political entities but also rich in culture, with a sophisticated social structure and deep spiritual beliefs.
In pre-colonial times, society was divided into three classes: the datu (chiefs) at the top, the timawa (freemen) who could own land and engage in trade, and the alipin (dependents) at the bottom. The family unit was central to daily life, and social mobility was possible, particularly for the timawa. Religion, with influences from animism, ancestor worship, and Islam, was an essential part of life, especially in the southern regions. Trade with neighboring countries further enriched Filipino society.
Had this continued to the present day, would our political system have been more stable? Would our society have been more prosperous?
These are some of the questions that linger after watching the film, directed by Mike Tuviera and produced by DGPI, MQuest Ventures Inc., M-ZET TV Productions, and APT Entertainment Inc.
The Kingdom is more than just an alternate history. It brings to life a compelling story with stunning visuals and a strong cast. Vic Sotto leads the ensemble as Lakan Makisig, the king of Kalayaan, who is torn between his royal duties and his responsibilities as a father. His character grapples with the challenging decision of who will inherit the throne, a choice that could shape the kingdom’s future. This performance marks a departure from Sotto’s usual comedic roles, showcasing his range as an actor.
Piolo Pascual is Sulo, a farmer who is thrust into the kingdom’s power struggles after crossing paths with the king. Cristine Reyes and Sue Ramirez portray the princesses Dayang Matimyas and Dayang Lualhati, respectively, while Sid Lucero takes on the role of Magat Bagwis, whose ambitions threaten the kingdom’s stability.
Ruby Ruiz stands out as the Babaylan, the spiritual leader of Kalayaan, while Cedrick Juan plays a young Lakan Makisig, offering a glimpse into the monarchy’s past. The film’s rich supporting cast, including Zion Cruz, Iza Calzado, Art Acuña, Giovanni Baldisseri, and Nico Antonio.
The Kingdom is now showing nationwide.
