Ian Veneracion Goes International with ONE GOOD DAY on Amazon Prime Video

Last night we went to Seda Vertis North for the press conference of One Good Day, a film by Studio Three Sixty to be shown on the Amazon Prime Video platform. This is directed by Lester Pimentel Ong who did Panday, Lastikman, Imortal, La Luna Sangre, Bagani among others. He says "This has been something I have been fortunate to do with Ian Veneracion as he's not just a good looking man, but a martial artist and a real athlete."

 

As mentioned, this is Ian Veneracion's foray to something that will be internationally released. The film is going to be released in 10 countries (maybe even more later on). As this is acquired already by the Prime Video platform it would be accessible to the market they intended this to be shown to. Direk Lester mentioned that there's millions of audiences waiting for a glimpse of what Filipino action films are. There's certainly a lack of it, but if there's someone who would be nice to see out there, Ian Veneracion would be a sight for sore eyes. For those who don't know, he's done a lot of action films in the late 90's and 2000's. He's not new to the genre, and he didn't stay away from doing physical training for it because it's part of his lifestyle to shoot, do martial arts and spar every once in a while. He was excited to do this when news came about this project. Here's part of the interview we had with him last night.

The talk also delved on the latest brouhaha about banning KDrama in the country, here's what he said about the issue.

Ian Veneracion is also celebrating his 40th year in the industry, proof that vampires exist!

 

Other artists that will also be part of this movie include Rabiya Mateo, Andrea Torres, Aljur Abrenica, Kyzer Catillo, Justin Cuyugan, Nicole Cordoves, Pepe Herrera, Menchu Lauchengco-Yulo and others. This will be shown November 17, 2022 and will be in 6 parts on Thursdays thereafter. These are certainly exciting times for Filipinos to showcase how we do it in our part of the globe. Ian also says "I hope this just opens opportunities not just for me, but the talented Filipino actors that we have in the country." and by the looks of it, it's quite possible to happen soon.

LEGAL WIVES Showcases Cultural Differences on GMA

They've been doing good these past few days and with good reason. This is drama, severely cultural and depicts a relationship that isn't much of a norm in conservative Philippines. One man, married to three women, this is a series called LEGAL WIVES. This stars Dennis Trillo, Ms. Alice Dixson, Andrea Torres and Bianca Umali.

We got to talk to the cast a few days ago including Dennis Trillo who plays Ismael Makadatu. In a nutshell, polygamy is something that's a bit of taboo in the country. It's much of a cultural difference really, of understanding how society and these ladies to accept that they can be loved by one man. Aside from that, they're showing a couple of things that are a bit controversial like the harmful "Rido" wherein one clan tries to eliminate the other because of their differences. It will be explained in this series a bit, but not in whole because this isn't a documentary or news item. This also stars Derrick Monasterio, Ashley Ortega, Al Tantay, Juan Rodrigo, Irma Adlawan, Maricar de Mesa, Tommy Abuel, Bernard Palanca, Ms. Cherie Gil, Abdul Raman, Mon Confiado, Shayne Sava, Kevin Santos, indie actor Kiko Matos, Jay Arcilla and Brent Valdez. This is directed by Zig Dulay who also did Bianca Umali's Sahaya in the past.

Watch the show, maybe you'll see how something so crazy like this makes sense.

Andrea Torres Says No Official Talk Yet on John Lloyd Cruz Project

It's so refreshing to see Andrea Torres in GMA shows these days. She's definitely made a mark in The Better Woman, Victor Magtanggol, Contessa, Alyas Robin Hood, The Millionaire's Wife, My Faithful Husband, Pari 'Koy, Ang Lihim ni Annasandra and more but this new one with Dennis Trillo, Bianca Umali and Alice Dixson is going to be highly controversial as it delves on polygamy and religion, some of the most taboo things to talk and see on TV these days. We got to see her a few days ago via an interview online as she signed with GMA Artist Center again (renewal of contract) and during the blogcon, she told us a few more things about the upcoming show called Legal Wives wherein she'll be playing one of the wives. She's also the only one that's coming from a Christian upbringing which would not be easy to understand that she'll be living with two other wives under the same roof. Here's a video of that blogcon, please enjoy!

Andrea adds "It's very important for me that you are aware when you get on set, you condition yourself as a ray of sunshine, to make sure you lighten up peoples burdens. I also make it a point to make my projects better so the next one is even bigger. One of my favorite things is making back stories for the characers I play in series, I make sure I ask production, learn the script so I make sure to deliver and have the chance to make her come to life. The actions of Muslims to me now have a deeper meaning, they're very selfless, and when you watch this, you will see why they made sacrifices for Allah. It has changed how I view them, how they are family oriented, how they are as people. Diane and Ysmael are conflicted, but they love each other."

She also was aware to observe Muslim traditions while portraying the role and tells us "On set, we have Imams, we were taught how to pray, they also bring food, it was a different world. I really am amazed how they are with families, if it's too hard for them, they just follow what is on the Quoran, even if they don't want to do it, they do it right because it's there."

You'll probably be wondering how this would all feel as it gets shown on TV. Will you love her? Or hate her? That remains to be seen. She also has chosen to remain with GMA because she has grown to the actress that she is because of her experiences here. With the onset of actors going to GMA recently, she doesn't treat them as threats, but rather an opportunity to work with other actors that she wasn't able to in the past. She's raring to do that in the next few months, hopefully that John Lloyd Cruz project pans out if it is true, but so far there hasn't been an initiative for talk about it yet, so she would be happy to find out details about that soon.

Congratulations Andrea on your continued success with GMA Artist Center!

Andrea Torres and Lharby Policarpio for MEANT TO BEH

Fun to see Ms. Andrea Torres and Lharby Policarpio this afternoon at the CAVE in Tomas Morato. We were there to interview them for their film MEANT TO BEH which is the comback movie of Vic Sotto while he's paired with the timeless Ms. Dawn Zulueta.

Andrea Torres says "I am not a bad person here, not negative at all but I will wreak havoc with their relationship. I have been part of MMFF previously, like 10 years ago. I feel this is a blessing to end the year and I am excited. I was a bit stiff in the beginning, thinking of what to say or do Bossing Vic was already breaking the ice. How I wish we could get to do the bonding we did in Baguio, I miss them a lot. I have done comedy before since I am part of Bubble Gang, but of course I was still star struck because they are who they are. Ms. Dawn was so funny too and you can't compare it with what she portrays in real life. I am so glad about their feedback because that's what I wanted to do. I am also shocked at how they treat you like friends. Baste is like a baby brother, such a good kid to actually be with because he always never forget to share food when he's about to eat, he's certainly going to be adored by a lot of people. I am also going to gift myself with an out of the country trip, I think I owe it to myself to be with my folks and my brother. I am really looking forward to another MMFF eventful week. This is a G movie, you will expect the whole family to be there and I am excited to see them watch the film. You'll see this to be blessed in the box office, I wish he could win the best actor trophy. Just to be part of the project was a dream for me, but if ever I win the best supporting actress category would make me really happy. About the Bench Fashion Show, you just would never forget a moment like that. Their feedback was all good and if you were in the back stage, you wouldn't see anything like that because everyone was so nice and they were giving me food left and right, it was just like a celebration for Bench's 30 years."

Lharby Policarpio was also with us that afternoon and he says "I play Brad here and is a school bully. We have our own story inside the actual film. This is my first time to do an MMFF entry do getting to work with them was a dream for me. Though I was a college bully, it was more concentrated with JC and I did mistreat them a lot. The set is happy because from the director to the stars, they were all cracking jokes. Sue is remarkable, she's like one of the boys. She jokes a lot even if we are changing clothes, she's so chill and she doesn't make you feel that she's a big star. I also can't wait to travel because I do that quite often, for Christmas I wish that I would have time for that. This film is relateable and fun, like what any Vic Sotto project you have seen in the past but with more heart, more inspiration. We are sure this will earn a lot, but the awards will just be a reward for us. We hope you watch the film if you want to get inspired, a little touch of romance and learn about real family relationships."

MEANT TO BEH will be shown on December 25 and will also star Gabbi Garcia, Ruru Madrid, Sue Ramirez, Daniel Matsunaga and supee cute Baste. Bring your family and friends please!

KUMAGCOW

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The Millionaires Wife: Mike Tan

I could tell you the names of my friends who would probably faint at the sight of Mike Tan. He's one of GMA's most prized actors, and with good reason. He's got a sculpted physique, he's also donned countless drama projects under his belt and nobody I know questioned how good he is in that department. He plays the role of Ivan Meneses in this series and he doesn't hold back. He's done countless scenes in this show that has been talked about countless times because it's so sexy. Oh yes, there's bed scenes, but I like the one they did in the shower... it was so animalistic! The passion that goes into each scene is evident, you'll be shocked at what will happen when they see each other. I've seen some of the shots during our set visit, and I totally agree you'll love how this will end. 

Here's our interview with the good looking guy on video:

He finds Andrea Torres a lot different from his other leading ladies as she's more of the silent type. She often focuses on the job and gets it done as they do it. They never even talked before they had that iconic kissing scene and just did it so there wouldn't be awkwardness between them. In fact, Mike even felt it was Andrea who took care of him because it's not everyday that you get to do these things. He mentions how professional Andrea is and hope this isn't the last time they'd be able to work together. He wants to do more shows with GMA and I'm sure there will be more opportunities for this great actor.

Thank you Mike for taking time to sit and talk with us! Hope people would get to see the scenes you've done with Sid and Ms. Jacklyn Jose! I know they'll love that! Thank you too to GMA Social Media for hooking us up! Make sure you watch the last episode today on GMA Afternoon Prime!

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The Millionaires Wife: Andrea Torres

The show is about to end this week and I was thinking of releasing this as an homage to the men and women who have been painstakingly doing their job to make a really interesting show in the Kapuso network. I really love how passionate I've seen these actors and actresses were and in the fulfillment of their work, I sat down with them to ask about how they feel now that the show's about to end. Lead star and vixen Andrea Torres shares her experience working with her co stars and what she'll be missing most about doing the show. 

Here's our video interview:

It's been a while since I've seen Andrea but it's a good thing she still remembers me. She's extremely dedicated to her craft, I've also heard her co actors tell us how much work she's put out just to make this show look good on screen - and I don't think I'll be ever surprised if she lands another project on primetime in the next few months. 

She deserves it and if luck finds it's way, she'll be an even brighter star as she is today. Thank you for the opportunity to talk to you Andrea and sorry for bugging you during your taping in Batangas. It was a pleasure interviewing you!

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Andrea Torres Spends Birthday with SPED Children

It was a morning of touching scenes when we went to Barangay Pagasa in Quezon City for the birthday of Andrea Torres, one of GMA's prized actresses. She chose to do it again today with SPED and special children from the community and she even brought her brother who's also in the same condition. She's proud and happy that people are starting to get educated about their condition and treat them quite normal, as they should be all family. 

Andrea's brother had down syndrome and is behaving quite beautifully because his parents and the community played a part in therapy, training and honing his surroundings with positivity and acceptance. The Barangay Captain and his Councilmen thanked GMA and Andrea for visiting them that afternoon.

Host Tess Bomb tried as much as she can not to cry because she also knows how hard it is for the moms present in the occasion. Taking care of a child with special needs actually takes a lot of effort and this event is a way for Andrea to thank her supporters, fans and the moms  who have been able go the mile for their loved ones even as they're in this state.

Andrea joined and played with them in small parlor games and gave away a lot of presents so they could go home happy not just with the gifts, but with the memory of at least once in their life they got to share a moment with Andrea Torres whom they love even more after that.

One of the kids also sang a song for Andrea as a way of saying thanks in his own little way. Andrea also thanked her sponsors Aquabest, Scent for Senses, Skin Rejuve, Happy Haus Donuts and Petrol for chipping in on the goodies that she gave away for the moms and their kids with special needs. She also thanked Artist Center who helped her organize the event as usual. She hopes in some way she inspired the Moms and their kids to take good care of their family members in the same situation. She's happy that she get to spend time with them despite her busy schedule. She's on Sunday All Stars so watch out for her production numbers there! In August, Andrea's also coming out in a film and series of shows which was shot here and in Cambodia. They also worked with Cambodian actors so this is really something big to watch out for.

Ciao!

KUMAGCOW

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Annasandra's Secret (Ang Lihim ni Annasandra)

Rochelle Pangilinan and Andrea Torres for Annasandra

You've probably seen the show by now and figured what happens when young girl Annasandra transforms into a warthog/boar/wild pig every time the sun sets. The beginning of the story was well explained and I lauded the director about the great job they did on the camera angles because for me, it was cinematic. They're proud to say, they've made their best effort to present the story clearly, precise so that when the time comes that the character grows up, everybody knows where they are coming from.

"Awok" is what they're called, and in normal terms it's also some form of "Aswang" but they coined the term from it's Cebuano equivalent. They did this so it stays away from the latter which has been somehow overused in Philippine cinema. When asked if there would be bloody or gory scenes, the Director Albert Langitan immediately replied the negative and said "love scenes". Hunky Mikael Daez and Pancho Magno is here so their presence alone makes it really conducive to showing some skin. It's intended not to be a horror flick but more of a drama which has been proven effective in the past projects of GMA like "Alakdana", "Kokak", "Pyra" and the likes. They are just making something along the lines type of drama and they've been researching about it for quite some time now. 

Rochelle Pangilinan

Rochelle isn't totally closing doors on the things that she's used to like dancing on GMA shows. She's been doing it for quite a number of years now and the thought of retiring from that is something that she's thinking about. You'll see a very good performance from her as Esmeralda in the series. Even on the first day, she has shown how she's been able to do justice on the mother "Awok" role. When her baby girl dies, she almost mimics a howling wolf if you've seen her on the first day. She was intense. Getting that feedback from us was something like a confirmation that she can do this and felt glad during the advanced screening of their show. She's also coming back to see Anassandra played by Andrea Torres when she's become of age. I feel there's going to be more things to look forward to aside from the story plot that we have seen especially the love angles that the guys are also going to be part of. 

Andrea Torres on the other hand looks stunning. She got really thinner than the last time I saw her. It's one of the preparations she did for the role. We didn't see her that much but we figured how she'll fit in on the story, also her role was done by a kid and she'll probably appear after a few days. Based on some of the clips in the series, she's really going to be a bit daring but nothing that people won't be appreciating for the afternoon prime slot it's in. I'm watching it now as I'm writing and it looks like we're going to be in an epic journey as she finds true love, or is it?

The show also stars Mikael Daez, Pancho Magno, Cris Villonco, Glydel Mercado, Emilio Garcia, Maria Isabel Lopez, Joyce Ann Burton, Arthur Solinap, Gabriel De Leon, Erika Padilla, and Mercedes Cabral. Be sure to watch it everyday right after Dading on GMA Afternoon Primetime.

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Andrea Torres Celebrates Birthday at New Hope SPED Center

We went to a small suburb in Kamias Quezon City a few days ago with the one and only Andrea Torres to visit the kids at New Hope (SPED) Center. It's her birthday and she wanted it to be something special and all about kids who have special needs. Andrea Torres has a brother in the same predicament and she feels a connection with the kids right after she saw them in the center. She wanted to make them happy so she chose to celebrate here. It was heartwarming and I saw her tear up several times. 

The kids received these goodies from Andrea Torres' sponsors. Thank you so much to Petrol, Active White, Sundance and GMA Artist Center. They also got them bags and school supplies so they can use it in the center. 

Andrea was so thankful to have been able to visit the kids in the center. She even wanted to bring her brother there but he made tantrums that morning and didn't want to stress him out. Her family is taking good care of him and know what these kids are going through. It's not easy and she gives kudos to the educators and volunteers working in New Hope.

New Hope SPED Center thanked Andrea Torres for choosing to celebrate her birthday with them. They were also thankful for the efforts of GMA because other shows also give them time and supplies so kids in the center benefit from them. These kids were really good and they've learned a lot because they're not that unruly. They probably learned how to manage them and give them less stress that's why they're so good mannered. Their outbursts are controlled and whatever their guardians tell them, the kids are so obedient and follow instructions. You can't really see that sometimes on kids who just stay at home and don't get exposed in learning centers like these. The center really did something good with the kids.

Happy happy birthday Andrea! Hope your wishes come true! You can catch Andrea on Bubble Gang every Friday and Sunday All Stars every week. The day after this event, she went to Cambodia with Mikael Daez to promote With A Smile as it was showing there. They've been getting really good feedback from the network there and visiting would strongly promote it. Good luck Andrea! Thank you also GMA Artist Center for letting us tag along and see the kids ourselves.

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GMA's Newest Morning Series: With A Smile!

A few days ago, I got my camera along for a trip and had to interview a few stars from GMA's morning program called "With A Smile". It's my first time to see these guys in the flesh; and it was refreshing to see them in a relaxed mood. It was drizzling that afternoon but we sat down and just talked casually, just the way I liked it.

This pretty girl's name is Shelly Hipolito. She's quite bubbly but a little reserved at that time prolly because it's the first time to have a pocket blog con. She got relaxed after a few questions. Her role in this series is pretty much pegged like a bubbly fashionista... reminiscent of Jolina Magdangal in the early years. She's been out for a long time and she's so thankful that GMA finally gave her this project. Mind you she and her other co stars had to literally audition for this and it wasn't really easy. She fits the character and one that might take your interest is her suitors. She's also got three of them so it'll be a riot! I find her really nice and she's pretty much taking her time to hone her acting skills. Maybe soon she'll have more. Stars from the channel did their stints at this age and she shouldn't be different. I wish her great things in the future, hopefully a big star like her seniors!

This guy is Bryan Benedict. He's quite well built and I've seen some of his photos prior to this event. He obviously grew his hair, got a little taller and probably has grown out their Protege days (which Shelly and Bryan actually started). He told us he was a little nervous at first but since he did small things here and there with other shows, it was a little easy to adapt this time. The only difference might be is their lines. This time he's got a lot to say while portraying a character in the garage that Christian Bautista owns. You should watch the series in GMA's morning block, I'm sure you'll spot him and his big guns on this lot. He's a good chap I must say and he's eager to do more projects with other artists. He takes this in as a blessing and is very thankful GMA trusted them even if they are new to the business. He's one of the good guys, I find him very humble and I'm sure he'll be in the ranks of the guys GMA has on their stable.

I've seen this lady on other GMA programs and some series in the past. She of course is Andrea Torres. I don't know if we're related (Torres on Mom's side) but that could be her screen name. Anyway haha... she's really pretty in person. You know, those kind that light up a room when they come in? She's like that. She's portraying the role of Isay, a simple barrio girl with dreams of alleviating her family from their poor economic situation. She's got a huge passion for cooking and she'll strut her ware, playing eye candy to 2 guys on this program. Mind you they are not just any guy. If you were a fan of the previous team up between her and model, actor, all around nice guy Mikael Daez... then this will surely be a thousand times KILIG.

All smiles head this way for Mikael Daez. I've shot him a couple of times during Philippine Fashion Week, mostly for Penshoppe's shows. I was so glad to have at least introduce my self and he does apparently remember some of my tweets. :) He plays a happy go lucky - womanizing - no care at all guy called Dean. His whole life turns around when he gets to fall in love with Andrea's character. They were so kulit, so playful while on the interview... I could mistake them for a real couple. Andrea tells us that this guy is really the closest, and so does he. Now why in the world are they not together? Do you think it could eventually happen on this series? 

Watch as Mikael Daez, Christian Bautista and Andrea Torres give you the right amount of love, the right amount of comedy as they treat you every weekday morning with their new stint.. WITH A SMILE which shows on GMA. :)

Thanks guys, had fun really listening to your stories. Congratulations and I wish you all the best on your new show!

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