Simoun
In the world of Daikuuriku, everyone is born female, and chooses which sex they wish to become at age 17. In this world, the peaceful theocracy of Simulacrum is guarded by magical flying machines called "Simoun", which can only be piloted by young girls who haven't chosen a sex yet. The Simoun can activate a magical power known as "Ri Maajon" that can destroy large numbers of enemies at once. When the industrialized nation of Argentum decides that it needs to invade Simulacrum to acquire the secret of the Simoun, war breaks out, drawing the Simoun "Sibyllae" (priestesses who fly the Simoun) into a lopsided battle. Because the war is raging, the Sibyllae are granted an exemption from choosing a permanent sex for as long as they're willing to keep flying. Aaeru, a determined young Sibylla with a mysterious past, and Neviril, the leader of Chor Tempest, Simulacrum's most elite Simoun squadron, must lead their fellow priestesses through conflict both within their ranks and in the sky.
Insights
Plot Summary
Set during the Spanish colonial era in the Philippines, 'Simoun' tells the story of Crisostomo Ibarra, who returns to the Philippines after years abroad. Disguised as a wealthy jeweler named Simoun, he seeks revenge against the corrupt Spanish officials who wronged him and his loved ones. His return ignites a powder keg of social unrest, challenging the established order and forcing the Filipino people to confront their own complicity and yearning for freedom.
Critical Reception
The film was a significant undertaking, aiming to bring Jose Rizal's complex novel to the big screen with a grand scale and star-studded cast. It garnered attention for its lavish production values and ambitious storytelling, reflecting on a pivotal period in Philippine history. While lauded for its visual spectacle and the performances of its lead actors, particularly Albert Martinez as Simoun and Angel Locsin as Paulita Gomez, some critics noted the challenges in adapting such a dense literary work for film.
What Reviewers Say
- Praised for its grand production design and faithfulness to the epic scope of Rizal's novel.
- Albert Martinez's intense portrayal of the conflicted protagonist, Simoun, received significant acclaim.
- The film successfully captures the political and social turmoil of the era, serving as a powerful historical commentary.
Google audience: Audience reception data for 'Simoun (2006)' on Google is not readily available.
Awards & Accolades
Nominated for Best Actor (Albert Martinez) and Best Cinematography at the FAMAS Awards.
Fun Fact
The film is an adaptation of the second novel written by Philippine national hero Jose Rizal, serving as a sequel to his earlier work, 'Noli Me Tángere'.
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