A humanized, in touch with vulnerability Zaijian Jaranilla was displayed in the new documentary “Seeds of Peace: The Life of Fr. Rhoel D. Gallardo, CMF” — away from his glammed-up boy next door persona.

True to the documentary’s theme, Jaranilla used appropriate emotions in every cinematic frame to depict martyrdom, which seemed honest without being overdone.

His portrayal of the martyr priest was widely praised, despite the fact that no one in today’s culture could understand what a religious sacrifice looks like. So, aside from studying old footage of Father Gallardo, where did he get the reference to play the character well? It exemplified true brilliance.

While the documentary, directed by Rommel Galapia Ruiz and produced by the Gallardo family and the Claretian Missionaries, was a small project, Jaranilla’s movie star appeal made it feel big.

But, beyond the appeal and acting showcase, the documentary’s message should be enough to make viewers want to see it: that humans’ time on Earth is worth remembering through service and martyrdom — the most human thing they’ve done.

Jaranilla spoke with ABS-CBN News after the documentary’s premiere last Sunday at Gateway in Quezon City about his experience portraying a well-known Catholic figure.

He told ABS-CBN News, “When I received the script, I felt it right away. As an artist, it’s rewarding to take on parts that are vastly different from my prior ones. While ‘May Bukas Pa’ had a similar subject, this documentary is more intense, allowing you to experience martyrdom as blood and tears flow.”

Growing up with a strong-believing grandmother, the Kapamilya star also discussed his relationship with his faith, sharing with ABS-CBN News, “Malalim po ang faith ko. Nagdarasal ako. Hindi ako ‘yung tipong [fanatic] pero alam ko po ang pinaniniwalaan ko — ang Panginoong Diyos.”

“Minsan kasi, kung mahina ang loob ko at natatakot ako, humihingi ako sa Kanya ng tulong. Alam ko po sa sarili ko na tumatawag ako sa Kanya at malalim din po ang faith ko,” he ended.

“Seeds of Peace: The Life of Father Rhoel D. Gallardo, CMF” is available for block screenings nationwide.