Spanish actor Andreas Munoz to play St. Ignatius of Loyola in Filipino film

Spanish actor Andreas Munoz is set to star in the upcoming film about Catholic Saint Ignatius of Loyola, entitled Ignacio de Loyola which will hit cinemas this July. Proudly Filipino-made, this independent feature film, that was shot in Spain, was produced by the Jesuit Communications Philippines and directed by Paolo Dy.

During the movie’s press conference, producer Fr. Emmanuel Alfonso shared why they decided to make a film about the founder of the Society of Jesus. Aside from citing the need to have new materials that will feature the life of St. Ignatius in schools, he added that although there may be documentaries on the saint’s life since Pope Francis is the first Jesuit pope, they are not feature films.

“We do not seem to appeal to the young. It is therefore very clear to us, friends why we are doing this film no matter the many difficulties we have faced and encountered. The inspiring story of Ignatius must be retold again to our time and especially for our youth,” he said.

Explaining why they chose the medium of film and what impact it can make, Fr. Emmanuel talked about getting inspired by highly-regarded indie film Heneral Luna. “Thank God for Heneral Luna… It has revived interest in history, not just in schools but more importantly, among the general public,” he said.

Moreover, he shared that personally, he became a Jesuit priest as he was inspired by two movies involving the Jesuits.

“Movies have the power upon us. Stories inspire us. Visuals and visions change us. We learn that from Jesus himself, we must be communicators of the very word of God. He simply told us parables and stories and share with us a wonderful vision of the kingdom of God,” he said, adding that, “Movies, stories, ideas endure forever.”

Starring in the movie is Spanish actor Andreas Munoz who has worked at Disney Channel Spain and USA.

When asked what made him accept the offer to do the movie, Andreas answered the story, sharing that he found the script wonderful, “And, the way we shoot it, it was amazing.”

Would he be willing to pursue an acting career in the Philippines and do more Filipino-made movies?

“That would be lovely. If I receive an offer from the Philippines, I’m open to listen to them. I (would) love to come to the Philippines and work with you, guys,” he told PUSH.com.ph.

Saying that he has heard good things about our films and the movie industry, he said, “Philippines… has something to say so it would be wonderful if there are more productions that (would) come here in the Philippines or more productions that called international actors and productions… I would love to work as well here.”