Quezon City, Philippines. The Domingo Moraleda Hall of the Institute for Consecrated Life in Asia (ICLA) in Quezon City buzzed with spiritual and cinematic engagement on the evening of October 26, 2025, as the Claretian Family held a special screening of the internationally acclaimed film, “The Face of the Faceless.”
The audience—comprised of members from the different Claretian communities in Quezon City, including the Religious of Mary Immaculate Claretian Missionary Sisters (RMICM), Missionary Sisters of St. Anthony Mary Claret (MC Sisters), Claretian Scholastics and Aspirants, and ICLA Students—was treated to the powerful true-life story. The screening was made more meaningful by the presence of the film’s director, Shaison P. Ouseph, a former Claretian Scholastic from India, and the Provincial Superior of Fr. Rhoel Gallardo Province, Fr. Amador Tumbaga, CMF.
A Story of Courage and Compassion
Released in 2023, “The Face of the Faceless” is a moving Malayalam-language biographical drama based on the true story of Blessed Rani Maria Vattalil, FCC, an Indian Catholic nun martyred in 1995.
Film Synopsis: The story centers on Sr. Rani Maria’s dedicated work with impoverished tribal communities in rural Madhya Pradesh, India. She championed the cause of the marginalized, especially women, by empowering them to break free from the exploitative grip of local landlords and moneylenders. Her efforts to secure their rights to land and livelihood ultimately led to her tragic murder. Beyond the martyrdom, the film also powerfully explores the profound theme of forgiveness demonstrated by the martyr’s family.
The film has garnered massive international recognition, winning over 120 international awards, including nominations in the Best Original Score category at the 96th Academy Awards in 2024. The movie has been successfully screened in various countries, and a special viewing was held at the Vatican for Pope Francis.
A Night of Recognition and Dialogue
The director then opened the floor for a lively question-and-answer portion. One of the night’s highlights was the presence and recognition of a Sister from the Congregation of the Franciscan Clarist Congregation (FCC), to which Sr. Rani Maria belonged, adding a deeply personal connection to the viewing experience.
After the dialogue with the film director, Fr. Amador Tumbaga, CMF, presented Mr. Ouseph with a Certificate of Appreciation, acknowledging his contribution to cinema and faith.
Mr. Ouseph is currently in the Philippines, having visited the Provincial Curia, to explore opportunities for the film’s wider promotion in the country. This includes the possibility of having the feature dubbed in the local language and shown in Philippine theaters to share the inspirational story with a broader audience.
