
Tadhana
“The first full-length Philippine animated film.”
Synopsis
Directed by the cartoonist Nonoy Marcelo, Tadhana is the first Philippine full-length animated film. It was commissioned to be based on the book of the same name on the history of the Filipino people. The book’s author is credited as the authoritarian and then-President Ferdinand Marcos, but was actually ghostwritten by other historians. The film presents a satirical, humorous and poignant view of the Philippines’ history of Spanish colonisation through highly original and surreal vignettes fusing art, mythology and music. Several artists collaborated, voiced characters and appear in the film. Noted printmaker Pandy Aviado served as the film’s assistant director while Santiago Bose was one of the film’s many animators.
Key Information & Fast Facts
- Director
- Nonoy Marcelo
- Screenplay & Story
- Nonoy Marcelo, Ferdinand Marcos, Sr.
- Original Score
- Freddie Aguilar
- Original Title
- Tadhana
- Country of Origin
- Philippines
- Spoken Languages
- English, Tagalog
- Runtime
- 54m
- Production Studios
- National Media Production Center
Creative Leadership & Key Crew
Nonoy Marcelo
Nonoy Marcelo, Ferdinand Marcos, Sr.
Freddie Aguilar
Nonoy Marcelo
Imee Marcos
Department Leadership Roster
Nonoy Marcelo
Director
Nonoy Marcelo
Writer
Imee Marcos
Producer
Nonoy Marcelo
Editor
Production Stills & Gallery
Official cinematic photography and background stills for Tadhana.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Tadhana
Quick factual answers about cast, synopsis, director, box office, and release information.
What is Tadhana about?
Directed by the cartoonist Nonoy Marcelo, Tadhana is the first Philippine full-length animated film. It was commissioned to be based on the book of the same name on the history of the Filipino people. The book’s author is credited as the authoritarian and then-President Ferdinand Marcos, but was actually ghostwritten by other historians. The film presents a satirical, humorous and poignant view of the Philippines’ history of Spanish colonisation through highly original and surreal vignettes fusing art, mythology and music. Several artists collaborated, voiced characters and appear in the film. Noted printmaker Pandy Aviado served as the film’s assistant director while Santiago Bose was one of the film’s many animators.
Who directed Tadhana?
Tadhana was directed by Nonoy Marcelo.
Who stars in Tadhana?
The principal cast of Tadhana includes Not specified.
When was Tadhana released and how long is it?
Tadhana was released in 1978 with a total runtime of 54m.
Who composed the musical score for Tadhana?
The original motion picture soundtrack for Tadhana was composed by Freddie Aguilar.
Is Tadhana based on a book or true story?
Tadhana is adapted from the following source material: Book: "Ferdinand Marcos, Sr.".
