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Historical drama

Martyr or Murderer (2023): Cast, Ratings & Box Office

Martyr or Murderer (2023) movie poster

Martyr or Murderer is a 2023 historical drama directed by Darryl Yap, starring Jerome Ponce as Young Ninoy Aquino, Isko Moreno and Sachzna Laparan. It runs 1 hour 43 minutes and earned $86,369 worldwide. Its Echo Score is 78/100.

worldwide gross
$86.4K
Echo Score
78
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Martyr or Murderer (2023) movie poster
Released
Runtime
1h 43m (103 min)
Director
Darryl Yap
Genres
History , Drama
Original language
Tagalog
After the credits
No No extra scene
The story

What Is Martyr or Murderer About?

The premise of Martyr or Murderer without spoilers.

Serving as a sequel to Maid in Malacañang, the film delves into the August 21, 1983 assassination of Ninoy Aquino, set three years before the events depicted in the earlier movie. It examines the ensuing accusations that the Marcos family was responsible for his death and the political fallout that followed.

Martyr or Murderer Themes & Keywords

· 2 tags
  • mother
  • filipino drama
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Cast & crew

Martyr or Murderer Cast & Characters

Jerome Ponce leads the cast as Young Ninoy Aquino, with Isko Moreno as Ninoy Aquino and Sachzna Laparan as Young Corazon Aquino. Directed by Darryl Yap; 11 actors are credited in all.

Also Starring in Martyr or Murderer

· 7 more
Ratings

Martyr or Murderer Reviews & Ratings

Our Echo Score gives it 78/100, strongest in rewatch factor (85) and weakest in story & flow (70).

78 /100

Martyr or Murderer Echo Score Breakdown

The film provokes a polarized response, with the majority of reviewers highlighting its emotive impact and perceived revelation of historical narratives, while a minority criticize technical execution and narrative premise. Positive feedback centers on its daring subject matter, evocative cinematography, and strong performances that resonate with certain audiences. Critiques focus on uneven editing, clumsy screenplay, and perceived bias. Consequently, the movie delivers a compelling, if contentious, viewing experience that appeals primarily to viewers aligned with its perspective.

Our own 0–100 rating, built from five aspects: art, character, story, the sensory experience and how well a film rewatches.

  • Art & Craft 80

    ART receives commendation for its bold visual choices, notably the use of extended single shots and symbolic framing that underline thematic motifs. Reviewers appreciate the cinematography’s ability to highlight untold historical footage, while some note jarring editing transitions and occasional stage‑like staging that detract from fluidity. Overall, the film’s artistic ambition is evident, though execution inconsistencies temper its impact.

  • Character & Emotion 75

    Character work is praised for delivering emotionally resonant performances, with several reviewers citing specific scenes that elicited strong reactions. The ensemble, including both seasoned and emerging actors, is described as effective in humanizing controversial figures. Conversely, criticism points to uneven depth in certain roles and a perceived inability of star talent to elevate the script. The net effect is a mixed yet generally positive appraisal of the acting.

  • Story & Flow 70

    The narrative tackles a contentious historical period, aiming to expose alleged omissions in mainstream accounts. Reviewers who align with the film’s viewpoint find the story enlightening and engaging, highlighting its educational intent. Dissenting opinions label the premise as biased and the screenplay as lacking coherence, with abrupt tonal shifts between drama and comedy. Overall, the storyline is seen as provocative but unevenly constructed.

  • Sensory Experience 72

    Sensory elements receive mixed feedback; the soundtrack and sound design are generally unremarked, suggesting they serve a functional role. Visual style, particularly the use of long takes and symbolic imagery, is highlighted as a strength that reinforces thematic messages. However, some critics point to disjointed editing and occasional low‑budget visual effects that disrupt immersion. The sensory experience therefore oscillates between compelling and uneven.

  • Rewatch Factor 85

    Rewatch potential is emphasized by numerous reviewers who deem the film an eye‑opening exposition warranting multiple viewings to absorb its political nuances. The emotional resonance and controversial subject matter are cited as factors that can sustain interest upon repeat screenings. Nonetheless, the uneven pacing and perceived bias may limit repeat enjoyment for viewers seeking narrative cohesion. Overall, the film possesses a modest but notable rewatch appeal.

Box office

Martyr or Murderer Box Office

Martyr or Murderer grossed $86,369 worldwide.

2023 box office

Worldwide gross

$86.4K

International
$86.4K
Videos

Martyr or Murderer Trailers & Videos

2 videos: 1 trailer and 1 teaser.

Martyr Or Murderer | Official Trailer | March 1 In Cinemas Nationwide
  • Teaser Martyr or Murderer | Official Teaser | 2023
Quiz

How Well Do You Know Martyr or Murderer?

11 questions about the story, each with a hint if you get stuck. Pick an answer to see whether you were right.

Question 1 of 11

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Who provides the voice recording at the beginning of the film?

Seen Martyr or Murderer?

FAQ

Martyr or Murderer FAQ: Cast, Box Office & Runtime

Runtime, release date, director, cast, box office, post-credit scenes and language of Martyr or Murderer, each answered in a sentence.

How long is Martyr or Murderer?

Martyr or Murderer runs 1 hour 43 minutes (103 minutes).

When was Martyr or Murderer released?

Martyr or Murderer was released on March 1, 2023.

Who directed Martyr or Murderer?

Martyr or Murderer was directed by Darryl Yap.

More films by Darryl Yap

Who is in the cast of Martyr or Murderer?

Martyr or Murderer stars Jerome Ponce as Young Ninoy Aquino, Isko Moreno as Ninoy Aquino and Sachzna Laparan as Young Corazon Aquino, among 11 credited actors.

How much did Martyr or Murderer make at the box office?

Martyr or Murderer grossed $86,369 worldwide.

Does Martyr or Murderer have a post-credit scene?

No. Martyr or Murderer has no extra scene during or after the credits.

What language is Martyr or Murderer in?

The original language of Martyr or Murderer is Tagalog.

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