I have seen the preview of this show by GMA-7 network several weeks before it had been released, and was intrigued because it is a rare occurrence for "historical movies" to be released nowadays in the Philippines.
Although I watched a few later episodes, I was really impressed on the in-depth research done by the staff; to simulate or bring close to reality the setting and atmosphere of pre-colonial Philippines; from the costumes to the environment. But most importantly, it was the language that brings the show close to reality; the actors & actresses really try their best to use "the original" Tagalog language (and they are almost always successful); speaking in a formal & respectful manner, with no "slang words", and most of all, no "colonial-based Tagalog words" (using "nais" instead of "gusto", "marahil" instead of "siguro", and "ngunit" instead of "pero"). Though at times, there are instances when certain actors or actresses accidentally use some of those colonial-based words such as "pwede", but it is extremely rare. The only minor flaw I notice occasionally is that some actors don't talk in a natural or continuous way; there are noticeable "pauses" while talking; which is understandable because they may not be adept in using formal Tagalog language.
The value of respect for the higher-ranking members of the community is also well-portrayed by the actors. The atmosphere is not "fast-paced", which gives a natural feeling of serenity in a peaceful village; but of course, there will always be antagonists.
It was an expensive and daring move for GMA-7 to make a movie like this; in the midst of TV shows focusing on present times; with many Filipinos preferring to watch "love stories" between the youth. Amaya is not just a retreat from the modern (and quite frankly, similar) TV shows you watch daily; but it is one which will educate people how the pre- colonial Filipinos lived, in a very effective and convincing way.
