Andreas Muñoz as St. Ignatius
Paolo Dy’s “Ignacio de Loyola” won best picture at the 8th Mirabile Dictu—International Catholic Film Festival in Vatican City recently.
The Filipino-produced film recounts the struggles and salvation of the founder of the Society of Jesus, Ignacio de Loyola or St. Ignatius, played by Spanish actor Andreas Muñoz.
According to fest founder and organizer Liana Marabini, “Ignacio de Loyola” was the jury’s unanimous choice. “The jurors appreciated the script, the actors … the costumes, the music … in one word: everything!”
Produced by Jesuit Communications Foundation Philippines, “Ignacio de Lo-yola” previously won the audience choice award at the 12th Cine con Valores Festival in Guadalajara, Mexico.
Dy told the Inquirer: “I’m incredibly proud of my cast and crew, and so humbled and grateful that the Mirabile Dictu jury chose to give the Il Pesce d’Argento Award to our film. It’s such a tremendous honor for our efforts to be recognized by the festival that is closest to the heart of the Catholic Church.”
Dy explained that St. Ignatius’ life story “doesn’t fit the mold of the typical saint narrative.” “It’s so heartening to see that our film’s message has connected with audiences and festivals all over the world, especially those that seek films about the struggle to find the light in an increasingly dark and conflict-ridden world.”
“The film was made with blood, sweat and tears,” related producer Pauline Mangilog-Saltarin who shared the trophy with the entire team who had made the film “with so much passion and grace … [it’s] a genuine labor of love.”
Executive producer Fr. Emmanuel Alfonso pointed out: “It came as a real surprise because it was our first attempt at filmmaking. We hope that more people will be inspired by the example of St. Ignatius.”
The Mirabile Dictu is considered the “Oscars of Catholic films” and aims “to give space to producers and filmmakers … [whose works] promote universal moral values and positive role models.” —BAYANI SAN DIEGO JR.