GMA Champions the Modern Retelling of History in ‘Maria Clara at Ibarra’

GMA Champions the Modern Retelling of History in ‘Maria Clara at Ibarra’

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Fans can’t get enough of the highly-rated historical TV series, Maria Clara at Ibarra

The GMA network, known for producing several historical television shows and movies, takes pride in another top-rated series, Maria Clara at Ibarra, based on Jose Rizal’s renowned novel, Noli Me Tangere, published in 1887.

As the Generation Z demographic can attest, the fantasy tale that felt like a historical portal for everyone has received continuous applause from historians and fans alike. From the unique tandem and fresh addition of Klay and Fidel, Dennis Trillo’s seamless acting as Ibarra, all the way to the well-researched setting and wardrobe of the series—here are three times fans couldn’t stop themselves from praising the show.

The on-screen chemistry of David Licauco and Barbie Forteza

Photo Credit: @davidlicauco (via Instagram)

Fans can’t get enough of Barbie Forteza and David Licauco’s love team in the historical fantasy series, Maria Clara at Ibarra. Many supporters of Fidel and Klay, the roles the two actors play, religiously follow the breakthrough pair inside and outside social media. 

Known by their tandem name “FiLay,” the unique charm of the duo comes from each of their individual personalities as Fidel and Klay, which creates a relatable connection to the current generation. As the story progressed, Barbie’s portrayal of the modern Filipino culture as an empowered lady and David’s conservative beliefs surprisingly grew on each other, leading to their undeniable romantic chemistry as both special characters in the story. That’s why just like any other unexpected romantic encounter that we see in movies where opposites attract, viewers see how Fidel developed his feelings for Klay, serving a breath of fresh air in the tragic and complicated story of Noli Me Tangere. 

Dennis Trillo’s monologue

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-uyq4OS-Vnc

Dennis Trillo gets applause for his remarkable monologue as Ibarra in the recently aired episode, which marked the start of the rebellion against the church, as written in Jose Rizal’s novel. Fans took their praises for Dennis’ superb acting where he emotionally delivered a speech to appeal to the community in San Diego on the injustices of the ruling Spaniards in the very distant timeline of the Philippines. 

This isn’t the first time that the cast performances in Maria Clara at Ibarra were highly acclaimed because of their powerful execution of lines that perfectly gave life to the characters in the book. Barbie Forteza and Andrea Torres have also gone viral on TikTok and Twitter for their stellar work portraying their roles. 

Historically-founded setting and wardrobe

Photo Credit: @gmadrama (via Instagram)

Aside from the well-written script and exemplary acting skills of the cast, the accuracy of the costume design in Maria Clara at Ibarra is also on point! This makes the show more exciting and captivating, especially for younger audiences who are not as immersed in history. 

Based on reports, historians have proven that the production behind the series did a great job of creating a community that closely resonates with the time-traveling tale. University professors from well-known schools in the Philippines also praised the most technically-built costumes for each character, including Padre Salvi, Padre Damaso, Maria Clara, and Alperes.

With the TV show nearing its end, GMA Entertainment Group is keeping everyone on their toes with a tale about remembering our significant past.

Featured Image from SPARKLE GMA ARTIST CENTER (via Instagram)

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