Green Bones is a Philippine drama film directed by Zig Dulay from a written story by Ricky Lee and Anj Atienza. Starring Dennis Trillo and Ruru Madrid, the film is released theatrically on December 25, 2024 as an official entry of GMA Pictures to the 2024 Metro Manila Film Festival in its 50th year.
Plot[]
In Manila, Xavier Gonzaga, a stoic prison officer tormented by the unresolved grief of his sister's tragic death. The pain of loss has left him emotionally scarred, creating a wall between him and the world around him. As he navigates his responsibilities at the prison, he finds himself embroiled in a bitter debate over the impending release of Domingo "Dom" Zamora, a criminal whose life choices have led to irreversible consequences.
Dom’s release is met with public outrage and personal turmoil for Xavier, who believes Dom’s freedom could lead to further violence—an echo of his sister’s fate. However, unbeknownst to Xavier, Dom shares an unexpected connection with Ruth Pineda—a bright 10-year-old girl grappling with her own demons. Ruth's mother is deeply involved in community efforts aimed at reforming ex-convicts, believing that everyone deserves a second chance. Ruth finds herself caught between her admiration for her mother and her growing curiosity about Dom.
As their paths intertwine through shared encounters and communal events in their neighborhood, Ruth begins to see past Dom's hardened exterior. In turn, Dom recognizes the innocence and potential in Ruth—qualities he lost long ago due to his choices. Meanwhile, Xavier becomes increasingly paranoid as he senses a bond forming between them; his protective instincts clash with his desire to let go of grief.
The opposition against Dom's release and advocates for rehabilitation—collide. In an emotional confrontation involving Xavier and Dom, truths are laid bare. Ruth courageously stands up to Xavier, revealing how she sees beyond their fears and judgments into what lies at the heart of every person: the capacity for change.
Xavier must confront not only his anger toward Dom but also his unresolved feelings surrounding his sister’s death. Faced with Ruth’s unwavering belief in redemption and hope, he realizes that holding onto vengeance is suffocating both him and those around him.
Xavier takes decisive action; instead of opposing Dom’s release outright, he steps into a mentor role for both men while seeking closure about his sister's death through therapy sessions facilitated by community support groups like those run by Ruth's mother. The film closes on an uplifting note as we witness Ruth leading initiatives that bring together former criminals and community members—a symbol of healing—and emphasizing that forgiveness can be more powerful than judgment.
Cast[]
- Dennis Trillo as Domingo Zamora, a criminal accused of murdering his sister.
- Ruru Madrid as Xavier Gonzaga, a prison guard; this is Madrid's first lead role in a movie.
- Alessandra de Rossi as Betty
- Michael de Mesa as Juanito Velasquez
- Ronnie Lazaro as Edgardo Sevilla
- Sofia Pablo as Teenage Ruth
- Sienna Stevens as Younger Ruth
- Wendell Ramos as Cruz
- Pauline Mendoza as Elise
- Victor Neri as Carlos Pineda
- Kylie Padilla as Lisa
- Mikoy Morales as Minyong
- Royce Cabrera as Luis
- Ruby Ruiz as Mi
- Gerard Acao as Pol
- Raul Morit as Ador
- Iza Calzado as Joanna
- Nonie Buencamino as Jorge
Template:GMA Pictures