MY FRIEND THE TERRORIST is a moving portrait of two exiled Filipino revolutionaries, the late Jose Maria (“Joma”) Sison and his wife Julie De Lima; both key leaders in the ongoing Philippine revolution. The film explores the life and love of the unassuming pair as they serve the National Democratic movement from exile — in the tranquil Dutch city of Utrecht, 10,000 km away from their homeland. Surviving “terrorist” designations, dictatorships, solitary confinement, torture, and repeated assassination attempts by the Filipino government, Joma and Julie have persevered — just like the vibrant revolution they helped build.

MY FRIEND THE TERRORIST places these revolutionaries’ personal journeys alongside a deep exploration of the struggle on the ground. It provides a first-hand account of a resistance movement supported by millions of Filipinos, striving to free the country from the rule of wealthy landlords, US imperialism, and a fascist government. Directors Malcolm Guy and Demetri Estdelaropolis show all sides of the democratic resistance; the protesters in demonstrations of thousands taking to the streets to demand social and economic justice; the peasant masses and resistance fighters striving for a dignified standard of living for all and defending themselves against a repressive state; and the dedicated couple in a beach-side town in the Netherlands, giving everything for the liberation of their home country.

A Multi Monde production.

Sunday, March 16
Doors 12:15 pm | Movie 12:45 pm *Start time subject to change. Please arrive on time.
Tickets $20+ s/c HERE

MY FRIEND THE TERRORIST (Malcolm Guy, Demetri Estdelacropolis, 2024 / 100 mins / NR) In the 1960s Jose Maria Sison founded the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) and the CPP’s guerrilla-military arm, the New People’s Army (NPA), among other noble and nefarious activities that led to his Philippine passport being revoked in 1987. To the US State Department, the Philippine government, and some European authorities, Sison is a certified terrorist. With his wife Julie (84) he lives a hand-to-mouth Spartan existence and yet they are the most charming couple. This is their love story: their love for each other, their love of country, and the love of many of their compatriots for them.

*Must be 18+ for entry. Must be 19+ w/ID for bar service.
*Sorry, Rio Theatre Groupons and passes n/a for this event.
*We recommend purchasing your tickets in advance at www.riotheatretickets.ca. If a screening or live event is not sold out, the remaining tickets will be available for in-person purchase at the Rio Theatre’s Box Office prior to showtime on the day of the show (subject to availability).
*Our box office is typically open 30 minutes before showtime. All seating is General Admission; please arrive 20-30 minutes prior to showtime to ensure great seats, and time for treats at concession.

*All Rio Theatre tickets are final sale. No refunds or exchanges.