Bringing a harrowing real-life story to the big screen, ‘In Thy Name’ recounts the tragic yet inspiring life of Father Rhoel Gallardo, a Claretian priest who became a martyr during the Abu Sayyaf Group’s (ASG) reign of terror in Basilan in the early 2000s.
The film offers a gripping narrative that blends faith, resilience, and the horrors of war, delivering a deeply emotional experience for the audience.
Story. The film follows Father Gallardo (McCoy de Leon) and his fellow captives, including teachers and schoolchildren, who were abducted by the Abu Sayyaf from a Claretian school in Tumahubong, Basilan. What follows is a tense, emotionally charged series of events that showcase the brutality of their captors, the resilience of the hostages, and the military’s desperate efforts to rescue them.
Instead of focusing solely on the violence and terror, ‘In Thy Name’ balances its narrative through three perspectives: the hostages, the Abu Sayyaf, and the military. This structure gives the film a political thriller feel, rather than just a religious drama, offering an in-depth look at the motivations of each side.
The actors. McCoy de Leon delivers one of his most intense performances to date. His portrayal of Father Gallardo is raw and deeply moving—his eyes alone convey the pain, exhaustion, and unbroken faith of a man who endured extreme suffering. Each beating, slap, and insult inflicted upon him feels disturbingly real, making the audience experience the agony of his captivity. Aya Fernandez, as Teacher Teresa, adds another layer of emotional depth, portraying the trauma and resilience of the hostages.
On the other side, Mon Confiado and JC de Vera transform into chilling portrayals of real-life terrorists. Their performances as Abu Sabaya and Khadaffy Janjalani are terrifyingly effective, showcasing the brutality and fanaticism that fueled the kidnappings. Their commanding presence and sharp delivery of Tausug lines add a layer of realism that makes their scenes even more unsettling.
Cinematography and Action Sequences. The film excels in its cinematography, using close-up shots to amplify the tension and emotions of the characters. The gunfights and explosion sequences—often a weakness in Filipino action films—are well-executed and intense, making viewers feel like they are caught in the crossfire.
Additionally, the effort to ensure linguistic accuracy, particularly in the Tausug dialogues, is commendable. Unlike other films that struggle with forced accents, In Thy Name ensures that its actors deliver authentic-sounding lines, making the setting even more immersive.
Weaknesses. While the film effectively captures the horror and heroism of Father Gallardo’s final days, it lacks a deeper exploration of his personal journey. Viewers are left wondering what led him to the priesthood, his relationships with his family, and his earlier struggles in life. Adding these elements could have further humanized him and strengthened the emotional impact of his martyrdom.
Additionally, while the military perspective adds to the realism, its screen time could have been reduced in favor of focusing more on Fr. Gallardo’s backstory and the personal struggles of the hostages.
Powerful Message of Love and Faith. Beyond its thrilling action and emotional performances, In Thy Name delivers a powerful message:
“Love without abandon, whether it be yourself, the people around you, or God. The passion you share will be carried on for generations.”
McCoy de Leon embodies Father Gallardo’s undying faith, reminding audiences of the true cost of selfless love and devotion. His suffering, while difficult to watch, serves as a testament to the strength of the human spirit in the face of extreme cruelty.
LionhearTV‘s Verdict. ‘In Thy Name’ is a gripping, thought-provoking war drama that pays tribute to a modern-day martyr. While it could have delved deeper into its protagonist’s personal journey, its powerful performances, stunning cinematography, and well-executed action sequences make it a must-watch for Filipino audiences.
A chilling and moving portrayal of faith and resilience, ‘In Thy Name’ is a must-see for those who appreciate real-life stories of heroism and sacrifice.
Director: Ceasar Soriano
Starring: McCoy de Leon, Mon Confiado, JC de Vera, Aya Fernandez, Jerome Ponce
Rating: 
☆ (3.5/5)
