'Maria Clara at Ibarra' on Netflix Review: The Perfect Blend of Classic Storytelling and Gen Z Sensibilities

GMA Network's TV fantasy drama series, Maria Clara at Ibarra hit Netflix on April 14, 2023, and I recently rewatched some of my favorite episodes to write an honest review. Maria Clara at Ibarra was one of the most successful shows from the Philippines to date, earning a bronze medal at the 2023 New York Festivals (NYF) for Entertainment Program: Drama. In this review, I will attempt to divide in parts what made the show so captivating and why you have to see it if you haven't already.

The Plot

The story begins with Maria Clara Infantes, portrayed by Barbie Forteza, struggling to pass her Rizal Studies class, which is required for all undergraduates in the Philippines. The class teaches about the life and works of Jose Rizal, whose novels, "Noli Me Tangere" and "El Filibusterismo," sparked a revolution against Spanish colonization. However, Maria Clara, or Klay, represents the average Filipino who cares only about survival and is unaware of the significance of Rizal's works. After submitting a plagiarized paper on "Noli Me Tangere," Klay's professor, Mr. Torres, gives her a beaten-down copy of the book, which turns out to be magical. Klay finds herself transported to 1884 inside the book, where she meets the characters and tries to change the story for a ‘happy ending.’

Relevance to the Times

What makes this show so relevant and beautiful is how it reflects the fractured identity and struggles of the Filipino people, stemming from over 300 years of Spanish colonization that erased their cultural identity. The show draws heavily from Rizal's novels, which expose the corruption and injustice perpetrated by those in power, including the Church and the State, against the common people. In this series, Klay acts much like the audience who knows enough about defining moments of Philippine history. Klay knows that when Spain's hold was dwindling in the colonies, the Philippines was sold to the US. In a few years' time, it would be invaded by Japan during World War II. This created a divided nation where the rich and powerful exploited the poor and oppressed. The old system of feudalism still exists in some places, just with a veneer of modernity and some regard for social welfare if they were lucky with their local government.

Klay's knowledge of the times made her an enigma in the town of San Diego, yet to those who became her friends during her stay, she was a beacon of wonder.

The Characters

Fans of Rizal's novels, "Noli Me Tangere" and "El Filibusterismo," will feel a sense of nostalgia when they watch the characters of Maria Clara and Ibarra come to life on screen. The addition of new characters, such as Fidel (David Licauco) and Lucia (Chai Fonacier), adds a fresh perspective to the classic story. Crisostomo Ibarra (Dennis Trillo) plays a compelling protagonist, confronting the deep-seated corruption and injustices perpetuated by the Church and State, while attempting to avoid their wrath.

The portrayal of characters like the Sisas (Andrea Torres and Manilyn Reynes), who struggle to break free from their oppressive circumstances, resonates with many Filipinos today. Klay, a character from the future, challenges the traditional portrayal of Maria Clara (Julie Anne San Jose) by showing that women can be both smart and strong-willed while remaining vulnerable and deserving of respect. Klay inspires her namesake, Maria Clara de los Santos, to be more open, adventurous, and confident enough to speak up and stand her ground, which were rare traits in the original novel.

The Duty to Change

While the show is fictional, it cannot be separated from real life. The books that inspired it were a reflection of their time, and unfortunately, the issues they portrayed still exist today, such as the struggles between landlords and tenants, corruption among law enforcers and the government they serve, to name a few. A country that does not know its history will suffer, and one that indulges in temporary pleasures rather than addressing its problems will only mask its pain.

The grip of disinformation and illiteracy in the 2022 national elections illustrates the challenges of loving one's country and its people when good deeds are often met with ridicule or obstacles deemed too "radical," "woke," or "subversive." Radical love for the purpose of bettering the country is essential to making progress.

As the show progresses, Klay and viewers alike come to recognize that no one person can change a country's course. The duty and responsibility fall on all of us, and it requires a willingness to break free from the invisible shackles that hold us back.

The Role of Youth

In "El Filibusterismo," we are reintroduced to Basilio (played by Khalil Ramos), a former altar server and one of Sisa's sons. As a grown-up, he becomes a key figure in the latter part of the series, along with his friend Isagani (played by Kim de Leon), playing a crucial role in thwarting a revolution fuelled by hatred and vengeance.

Thanks to Basilio's survival and determination to make a better life for himself, he was able to break his cycle of abject poverty. In the series (and in real life), the youth represent hope for a brighter future, creating positive change when those who have long forgotten to hope and dream contribute to the country's ruin. As previously established, Klay acted as a catalyst for the town of San Diego and ultimately for the characters that became real around her.

Elias (played by Rocco Nacino) perfectly captures this sentiment when he says, "I shall die without seeing the dawn break upon my homeland. You, who shall see it, salute it! Do not forget those who have fallen during the night." Although the key to the future does not solely rest with the youth, they often serve as catalysts for change and progress.

Why 'Maria Clara at Ibarra' Was a Huge Success

The show's success can be attributed to its ability to connect with the audience on an emotional level, while also providing a platform for reflection and discussion on critical political and social issues. Maria Clara at Ibarra isn't merely entertainment; it's a tool for social commentary and critique, much like the novels. The show's portrayal of characters like the Sisas, who feel trapped and powerless to make meaningful changes in their lives or society, is relatable to many Filipinos. The show raises the question of how much more Filipinos must sacrifice to provide a better life for themselves and their families while those in power continue to exploit them during elections. Maria Clara at Ibarra is an excellently crafted show, and I hope that it inspires a love for the country but not necessarily for its rulers. The cast and crew deserve all the awards and accolades for their work, and I feel that over a hundred episodes weren't nearly enough.

Ultimately, Maria Clara at Ibarra became not just a retelling of classic Filipino literature, but a vivid reflection of our society's struggles and hopes. The show brings depth and context to the required reading of Rizal's novels, creating a space for discourse in Filipino households. Despite the passage of time, the relevance of Rizal's works remains ever-present, as we continue to face the same societal challenges. The show's portrayal of the youth as catalysts for change reminds us that the future is still in our hands. One can only hope that in the future, shows like Maria Clara at Ibarra will serve as a testament to the beauty of our culture and history, rather than a poignant reminder of our ongoing struggle for justice, courage, and progress.

Will you be watching Maria Clara at Ibarra? Let me know in the comments!