Here’s how ‘Maria Clara at Ibarra’ ensures its set makes viewers feel they’re in ‘Noli Me Tangere’ period

A big factor on why “Maria Clara at Ibarra” connects with its viewers is how it makes them feel that they are transported to the time period set for the scenes.

On Nelson Canlas’ “24 Oras” report Tuesday, the cast said research is a huge part in achieving the objective. They take note of the intricate details.

“Syempre kailangan lahat ng nakikita nila, lahat period correct para at least mararamdaman nila yung period, yung panahon na ‘yon,” Dennis Trillo, who plays Ibarra, said.

(Of course, all that the viewers see should be period correct so that they can feel the period or the time the series is set)

Dennis added that there isn’t even any shortcut with the costumes. The perfect example for this is he wears suspenders even though it’s not visible. He does it just so the outfit is complete.

Even Juancho Triviño does the same as Padre Salvi. It can be recalled that there were kids who dressed up as his character as their Halloween costume.

“Makikita niyo rin naman sa historical na mga litrato, makapal talaga yung mga suot ng mga pari kaya it is what it is,” he said. “Talagang tinitiis namin.”

(You can see in historical photos that the priests wear thick sutanas so this is what it is... We endure this.)

Meanwhile, a heritage house in Mexico, Pampanga has been used as one of the show’s venues. It completely captures how “Noli Me Tangere” should feel with its interior and furniture.

Starring Barbie Forteza, Julie Anne San Jose, Dennis Trillo, and David Licauco, “Maria Clara at Ibarra” has been making headlines left and right for its portrayal of Jose Rizal’s novels.

It airs on GMA on weeknights after "24 Oras." It is also live streamed on the GMA Network website. -- Franchesca Viernes/BAP, GMA Integrated News