Anyone who has a heart for fantasy series will contend that GMA Network’s Encantadia is the best fantaserye that ever graced Philippine television.

But that may change in the days to come. The creators of Encantadia are bound to make history once again in the local TV scene with Indio, which will air on GMA-7 Telebabad starting Monday, January 14.

ElysPlanet.PH was among the members of the press and online media who watched the first episodes during a special advance screening attended by its cast on January 9 at SM Megamall. It is too early to tell, but Indio’s opening episodes showcase a strong story, impressive effects, and top-caliber execution that could surpass Encantadia.

It is not surprising, though, since the production has integrated new technology and developed new styles that work since the creation of the 2005 hit and beloved fantasy series.

Telemovie

Dubbed a “telemovie” for its movie-like production value, GMA Network said Indio is the most expensive and biggest production it has ever created for television.

Yes, it may be expensive, but what makes Indio relevant for Filipinos of this generation? Though set in a pre-colonial setting, the value of Indio’s beautiful story traverses generations, as its theme of earning dignity through selfless sacrifice for loved ones resonates strongly even with today’s audiences.

Let’s take a closer look at the series.

There is no exact equivalent term for Indio, but in essence, it reflects a Filipino identity shaped by history. Historical accounts state that “Indio” was a Spanish racial term used for the native Austronesian people of the Philippines between the 16th and 19th centuries. Though the word was also used to refer to natives of the Americas, the series title clearly pertains to its Spanish colonial meaning.

Encantadia’s elements of success are present: the ultimate hero, the diwatas (goddesses), the young stars, the matinee idols, the love interests, the special effects, and more. What is more interesting about Indio, however, is the story itself, which is strongly connected to Philippine history.

Filipinos have always responded strongly to stories rooted in identity and heritage. The success of GMA-7’s Marian Rivera-starrer Amaya is a strong testimony that viewers are not only willing to embrace history-based series on prime-time television but can also love them when they are created with sensitivity and quality. Add to that our fascination with fantasy stories and superheroes, and you get Indio.

Making Miracles Happen

Being star-studded alone is already a major come-on, but audiences can expect more than just seeing beautiful faces like Sam Pinto, Solenn Heussaff, Ellen Adarna, Ehra Madrigal, Bea Binene, and Princess Snell, or indulging in the charm and machismo of Fabio Ide, Alden Richards, Will Devaughn, Steven Silva, and newcomer Lucho Ayala.

The first episodes showcase an acting ensemble that could help the series sustain its run for months with strong viewer ratings. Audiences can also count on newcomers like Dominic Roco and powerful performers such as Bobby Andrews, Ronnie Lazaro, Ping Medina, Robert Arevalo, Dante Rivero, Daria Ramirez, Agot Isidro, and Michael de Mesa.

Lead actor Senator Bong Revilla does not appear in the first episodes. But should he bring a different approach to his performance compared with his Agimat film series, Revilla could continue portraying the kind of hero that audiences have long associated with him.

The actor said he underwent acting workshops for his role. That could help the series move forward, especially since Filipino TV viewers come from different perspectives regarding issues such as the RH bill and his controversial position on the matter.

Jennylyn Mercado also does not appear in the first episodes, but trailers showcase her unique beauty in a Spanish-inspired style that audiences will likely appreciate. Mercado’s acting ability is already established, so viewers can expect a strong performance from her in the series.

Among the major standouts are two of the network’s most talked-about stars, Rhian Ramos and Sarah Lahbati, who portray important roles. Ramos is captivating as Dian Magayon, the goddess of flying animals in the series. Lahbati’s brief appearance as Ynaguiguinid, a war goddess who gave birth to Malaya, is enough to leave an impression on audiences.

The first episodes, which in many cases are the most challenging part of any series because they attempt to capture viewers’ attention without overwhelming them, are more than entertaining. They are filled with both glamour and substance.

If introducing almost all significant characters within a few scenes was a wish for miracles, Indio did not simply wish for them. It made them happen. Between action-packed sequences and emotional narratives, the opening episodes provide enough background about the series while leaving audiences curious about what comes next.

Watching only the first episodes is not enough to guarantee that Indio will deliver a complete fantasy television experience, as only the producers can ultimately prove that. However, its impressive effects and strong cinematography are enough to keep viewers glued to their screens every night.

Should Indio be shown across ASEAN, the way Encantadia has reached international audiences, Filipinos will surely be proud to say that it is a locally produced series.

And that you were once called Indio.