Ang Hapis at Himagsik ni Hermano Puli

Decades before the rise of liberalism in Spanish-era colonial Philippines, a young charismatic preacher leads a movement for equality and religious freedom for his fellow native Filipinos. He is hailed as the Christ of the Tagalogs, but is sentenced to death for heresy by both Church and State.

Directed by Gil Portes, Ang Hapis at Himagsik ni Hermano Puli leans on a strong ensemble — Aljur Abrenica, Louise delos Reyes, Markki Stroem — to carry a story that balances spectacle with character.

The film landed with audiences for its craft and performances, and remains one of the most talked-about drama titles of 2016.