Only once in many moons is a motion picture produced so beautifully that audiences forgot they are in a theatre when they see the picture. Still more seldom is one made that it strikes chords deep down in human hearts. Such a picture has been produced by Excelsior Pictures. In “Azucena,” a story written by Susana de Guzman, they have created a super-production that is bound to linger long in the memories of movie audience.
For "Azucena," the greatest dramatic actress of the Philippine cinema, Arsenia Francisco, has been co-starred with the favorite male star of the Philippines, Jose Padilla Jr. Having a vehicle that offers them the utmost in dramatic acting possibilities, the two stars give masterful characterizations of the roles they play.
Arsenia Francisco will jerk tears from your eyes as she wrings your heart when, as a loving and patient wife, she first loses her husband, then her baby, and finally her eyesight. She even almost loses hope itself. Only capable direction by Tor Villano brings the picture to a happy conclusion. A select cast composed of Precioso Palma, Rosario Lam, Paco Zamora, Bert Le Roy, Victor (Banahaw) Sevilla, Rolando Liwanag, Salvador Zaragoza. and the inimitable comedians, Pugo and Togo, round up the picture perfectly.
"Azucena" is not only a dramatic hit, but it also pulsates with music and romance. Lovely haunting songs are plaintively sung by Arsenia Francisco, the musical score being written by Constancio de Guzman. As the Grand opens today, it is expected to be jammed with people eager to see this latest picture of Excelsior Pictrues with Luis F. Nolasco in charge of production. Box-office records are expected to topple again as movie fans all over will want to see these new screen sweethearts in a great picture thousands of people have wanted to see in the movies!
The story of "Azucena" made a great hit with hundreds of thousands when it appeared in the Liwayway Extra Magazine. As a motion picture, it is destined for greater distinction. Executives of Excelsior Pictures have spared no efforts to make "Azucena" the tops among motion pictures produced in the Philippines since the birth of the movie industry in the Philippines.
(The Tribune, September 14, 1939)
The movie was released and shown at Grand Theater, September 14, 1939
"Azucena" (1939)
Excelsior Films
Release Date September 14, 1939
Story Susan de Guzman
Direction Tor Villano
Cast Arsenia Framcisco, Jose Padilla, Jr., with Precioso Palma, Victor (Banahaw) Sevilla, Rosario Lam, Paco Zamora, Bert LeRoy, Rolando Liwanag, Salvador Zaragoza And Pugo & Togo
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