A biographical account of one of the most significant saints of the Catholic Church, the founder of the Jesuits, the author of the Spiritual Exercises, and a defender of fidelity to the Church. However, Ignatius of Loyola’s life was not focused on God and His Church from the very beginning. Ignatius’s youth was far too wild before he reached a decisive turning point in his life.

Ignatius’s character was shaped in childhood by growing up with foster parents who took him in after his noble family refused to care for him. Later, he was raised to become a good soldier and knight.

Thus, Ignác was raised to be a man who saw his sole honor in being a respected soldier and defender of his kingdom. This narrow view of life was complemented by regular drinking binges and nights spent with prostitutes.

After suffering a serious injury in battle, he cannot come to terms with the fact that he has become partially paralyzed. However, this cross that has befallen him leads him to discover a path to living a meaningful and fulfilling life.

He experiences his spiritual conversion while reading books about the life of Christ and the biographies of saints. Through this transformation, he becomes, to some, a great eccentric; to others, a living saint; and to still others, a potential heretic.

The film is a beautiful portrayal of the life of Ignatius of Loyola prior to his theological studies, including the difficult moments of his life.

Action / Biographical / Drama

Philippines / Spain, 2016, 118 min

Crew: Paolo Dy, Cathy Azanza

Cast: Andreas Muñoz, Javier Godino, Julio Perillán, Isabel García Lorca, Ben Temple

Parents’ Guide

Ignác’s early-morning farewell to the prostitute with whom he spent the night. A visit to a brothel with his brothers; flirting with prostitutes without any explicit scenes. The queen flirting with Ignác. Kissing prostitutes.

Multiple instances of killing in combat. Ignác’s self-flagellation.

Drinking wine on multiple occasions. One instance of soldiers getting drunk after battle.

Ignatius being crushed by rubble. Ignatius’s battle with the devil. Ignatius’s leg being broken while attempting to receive medical treatment.

Ignatius’s disregard for the sacrament of reconciliation (confession) in his youth before battle. Chasing away a priest while attempting to receive the anointing of the sick, or last rites.

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