
A Lullaby to the Sorrowful Mystery 2016
"A marriage of history, literature and mythology."
Lav Diaz's sprawling eight-hour epic *A Lullaby to the Sorrowful Mystery* (2016) weaves together history, myth, and revolution in a haunting exploration of the Philippines' fight for independence.
Director: Lav Diaz
Cast










Frequently Asked Questions
What is *A Lullaby to the Sorrowful Mystery* (2016) about?
This eight-hour drama reimagines the Philippine Revolution through myth and history, following Andrés Bonifacio's legacy as it intertwines with personal and national identity. The film explores how history is shaped by both grand events and intimate human choices.
Who directed *A Lullaby to the Sorrowful Mystery*?
The film was directed by Lav Diaz, known for his distinctive slow-cinema style and deep exploration of Philippine history and society.
Who stars in *A Lullaby to the Sorrowful Mystery*?
The film features Piolo Pascual, John Lloyd Cruz, Hazel Orencio, Alessandra de Rossi, and Susan Africa in lead roles.
Is *A Lullaby to the Sorrowful Mystery* (2016) worth watching?
Given its ambitious blend of history and fantasy, the film rewards patient viewers with a uniquely immersive experience. However, its eight-hour runtime demands commitment, best suited for fans of slow cinema and historical epics.
How long is *A Lullaby to the Sorrowful Mystery*?
The film runs for 485 minutes, or approximately eight hours.
🎥 Trailer
About A Lullaby to the Sorrowful Mystery (2016) — Lav Diaz's eight-hour epic on the Philippines' revolution
Lav Diaz's sprawling eight-hour epic *A Lullaby to the Sorrowful Mystery* (2016) weaves together history, myth, and revolution in a haunting exploration of the Philippines' fight for independence. Rooted in the legacy of national hero Andrés Bonifacio, this visually stunning drama blends political intrigue, folklore, and personal sacrifice into a hypnotic tapestry. At its core, the film interrogates the weight of individual actions against the backdrop of a nation's collective struggle, all rendered in Diaz's signature slow-cinema style.
The narrative unfolds through fragmented yet deeply atmospheric sequences, where historical truths collide with poetic fiction. With a cast led by Piolo Pascual and John Lloyd Cruz, the film balances raw emotional intensity with mythic grandeur, inviting viewers into a dreamlike meditation on revolution's cost. Its eight-hour runtime may test endurance, but the reward lies in its rich, meditative journey through a pivotal chapter of Philippine history.