The first Filipino-produced film to be shown in the Vatican, Ignacio de Loyola will have its Philippine premiere on July 27.
“The film highlights the dramatic life of a soldier-saint’s conversion from a life of vice and violence, continuing through his near-fatal injury at the Battle of Pamplona, his attempts to turn his life towards the light, his intense struggle with guilt and depression, his trial before the Inquisition, and his ultimate vindication,” said the Catholic Bishop’s Conference of the Philippines (CBCP).
Ignacio de Loyola was produced by Jesuit Communications, the media arm of the Society of Jesus in the Philippines. It was shot primarily in Navarra and the Basque Country in Northern Spain last year.
Special effects and post-production were done in the Philippines. Renowned Filipino composer Ryan Cayabyab created the musical score, which were interpreted by the ABS-CBN Philharmonic Orchestra and the Ateneo Chamber Singers.
In celebration of the Feast of St. Ignatius on July 31, the Ateneo de Davao University (AdDU) has scheduled block screenings for its students and alumni on July 27 and 28 at the SM City Cinemas in Ecoland, Davao City.
AdDU President Fr. Joel E. Tabora, SJ, “requests everyone in the community to join myself, the Jesuit Community, and one another in watching Ignacio de Loyola, produced masterfully by our very own Jesuit Communications (JesCom).”
“Bring your family and friends to be inspired by Ignatius’ enduring saga of courage, hope, and faith,” added Fr. Tabora.
St. Ignatius of Loyola founded the Society of Jesus, a male religious congregation of the Catholic Church. Jesuits, as society members are called, are engaged in evangelization and apostolic ministry in 112 nations on six continents. They work in education, intellectual research, and cultural pursuits. Besides giving retreats and ministering in hospitals and parishes, Jesuits also promote social justice and ecumenical dialogue.
The Philippines is home to 9 Jesuit schools, including Ateneo and Xavier Schools and universities.