Historic Philippine-European Co-Production to Chronicle Extraordinary Friendship Between Rizal and Blumentritt Film "NON OMNIS MORIAR"
MANILA/VIENNA — October 4, 2025 - A groundbreaking international film exploring one of history's most profound intellectual friendships is set to begin production, bringing together Filipino and European filmmakers in an unprecedented collaboration.
"NON OMNIS MORIAR" (Not All of Me Shall Die) tells the remarkable true story of Philippine national hero Dr. José Rizal and Austrian scholar Ferdinand Blumentritt—two luminaries separated by thousands of miles whose correspondence transcended borders, language, and the tumultuous political landscape of the late 19th century. Under the visionary direction of Arnold Santos Argano, this Philippine-European co-production explores how a Filipino polymath fighting for his nation's freedom and an Austrian academic devoted to understanding distant cultures forged a bond that would outlast empires and inspire generations.
The film's title, drawn from the famous Horace ode that Rizal himself referenced, speaks to the immortality of ideas, friendship, and the enduring legacy both men left to the world. "This is more than a historical drama," says director Argano. "It's a testament to how genuine human connection and intellectual exchange can bridge any divide—a message as vital today as it was 130 years ago." After the trailer was presented at the 9th Regional Convention of the Knights of Rizal in Prague, the Czech Republic, plans are underway for shooting both in the Philippines and Europe.
The film promises to illuminate a chapter of Philippine and European history that deserves global recognition, celebrating the power of letters, ideas, and friendship that transcended an ocean. About the Production "NON OMNIS MORIAR" represents a milestone in international cinematic cooperation, bringing together creative talents from the Philippines and Europe to honor a friendship that helped shape a nation's destiny.
For inquiries, please contact: Ionix Studios, +639063015157 #NonOmnisModiar #NotAllofMeShallDie #RizalFilm #PhilippineCinema #InternationalFilm
