“Forgive me, Father, for I have sinned.”
We say these words to a priest to come clean about wrongdoings.
But what if the one you’re confessing to is more sinful than you?
“Purificacion,” Vivamax’s latest film, centers on this disturbing question.
Fr. Ricardo Purificacion is beloved in the town of Sta. Monica.
Seemingly kind, approachable and compassionate, many of the locals look up to him.
Among them is police Inspector Gabriela Isidro.
As reports of missing women increase, Gabriela runs to Fr. Ricardo, believing he will be of great help in solving the mystery.
Little did she know that Fr. Ricardo has a dark secret.
Will Gabriela be able to uncover the truth? Or will she fall for the priest’s dangerous charm?
Director GB Sampedro shared the story is something he has long wanted to do.
“Gusto ko kasi gumawa ng something dark at may religious theme. But to be clear, hindi anti-priest or anti-church ang pelikula. As a creative, gusto ko lang i-explore ang topic.”
Actor Josef Elizalde who plays the role of Fr. Ricardo shared, “Medyo complicated ang role ko pero na-enjoy ko siya. Iba siya sa mga dati ko nang ginawa so, naging exciting for me. I think na push ko ‘yung acting abilities ko dito.”
Cara Gonzales who plays the role of Gabriela added, “Same kami ni Josef. Nagustuhan ko ang role ko dito dahil very interesting ‘yung character ko. May lalim.”
Vivamax crushes Ava Mendez, Rob Guinto, Kat Dovey, Stephanie Raz and Quinn Carrillo are also part of the cast.
Asked if they are open to the idea of having sexual relations with a priest, they all answered a resounding no.
Ava said, “Hindi naman ako super religious pero para sa akin parang ayoko kasi mali eh.”
“I grew up with respect for men in robes so I won’t,” said Stephanie.
“Purificacion,” streams on Vivamax August 5.
