(REVIEW) UNINVITED: Desire To See An Unconventional VILMA SANTOS

Going inside the Gateway Mall theater this afternoon, I had super high expectations for this particular movie... not just because of the caliber of actresses in it, but how production and distribution has been done internationally with Mentorque Productions, Project 8 Projects and released via Warner Brothers (which you probably don't get on an ordinary day). There must be certain standards met, and from the looks of it, they've done it quite well. The film has excellent cinematography, camera angles, and story line that's very efficient. They didnt' get too comfortable adding unnecessary scenes (which is a plus on my books). Add to that the excellent music score and sound effects too.

UNINVITED has Ms. Vilma Santos, Aga Mulach and our generation's President Nadine Lustre. Obviously I'm a huge fan of their previous work and since they are presenting this in MMFF 2024, I want a different flavor from them because when they discussed this during the Mediacon a few weeks ago, they promised a worthy story (with them in it) that would keep us glued on the screen for a few hours (which they did). For starters, Ms. Vilma actually pitched this whole concept. Aside from directly being involved behind the cam, she's pronounced how this was actually a dream role for her. It was hard not to spoil a few things, but she shared that you could start by imagining all of these happening in one day.

When Nadine Lustre walked into the picture, she presented herself as a feisty, gutsy daughter of a very evil man. Partly fed up, she's a no holds barred, unapologetic lady, forced to please folks. She also takes comfort and refuge with other people. Aga Mulach which we often see as a goody two shoes guy on screen will join the dark side and make you squirm. Think of all the evil things a person could do and he's probably done it, making you hate him the moment he walks up on stage on his birthday. Ms. Vilma on the other hand plays Eva Candelaria, let's keep it a bit mysterious on what she's doing at the mansion. Slowly, her presence exudes power, purpose, commanding at times, but what danger lurks behind this persona? What caused her to be this way?

I could say right after I watched the film, Vilma Santos might just have tipped the scale for the Best Actress trophy with this entry. You could feel how vulnerable and deeply caring she is at times, ultimately, being a mother to her only daughter Lily. But remember, Ms. Vilma mentioned how she's never done something like this before... so if you expect a twist of some sort in the story, please, believe her. This is exactly this movie's biggest selling point, worthy of the amount you'll spend in the movies this Christmas season. This excellently made film certainly had people in the cinema rooting for her, literally screaming for her to go forward at times which I find cute since most of the folks in the front seat were seniors, and they were not holding back, getting involved in UNINVITED's story.

 

Mentorque Production's very own Bryan Dy went on to greet those who watched the film right after the screening. He didn't want the opportunity to pass to personally thank folks who supported them from day 1.

What do I think about the film? UNINVITED definitely needs to be seen by you, me and everybody else. This is just one of the few projects that Ms. Vilma Santos would make (she seldom does because of her public service work). She's iconic, no question, and did a great job despite the challenges of making this film. This is also a treat to the Vilmanians out there, you'll surely love every bit of it. This has a few flaws, but pretty cosmetic (just some which would have been done differently, creative decisions). If you're a fan of President Nadine Lustre, you would also be glad to see her here. It's not normal to see her do the dialogues she's done in UNINVITED, plus the interaction with the Star for All Seasons was also quite satisfying. Though you'll actually be loving Aga Mulach and his face, you'll hate him because of how you're going to be severely affected by his deeds. I'd give this a great 4/5 cows 🐮🐮🐮🐮.

Make sure you watch UNINVITED on theaters today, and also the other entries that are part of the Metro Manila Film Festival 2024 as they celebrate their 50th year! 

PS. Stay for the credits! This is also R13 which I think is a very lax decision (so go watch it if you can teens!).

UNINVITED Throws Biggest MMFF Entry Launch with NADINE LUSTRE, VILMA SANTOS and AGA MULACH

If there's something to tell about this movie aside the stars, it's the sheer scale of it. This is HUGE, and I couldn't wrap my head around why they've done it this way, but with Nadine Lustre, Ms. Vilma Santos and Aga Mulach in the cast, this kind of welcome is needed for their movie UNINVITED.

It was grand, it was fitting, because the story involved a Filipino billionaire. The story is also very dark as depicted on the trailer they released. This is going to be an acting piece for the three lead actors and honestly, I wouldn't want to be a juror for MMFF 2024 because from the looks of it, they'll be having a headache with first, having actresses with phenomenal awards battle it out for Best Actress. Two, seeing Aga do evil roles, something unlike his very sunny personality. That's just the tip of the iceberg though.

They revealed the official poster at the start of the event!

This is the huge stage, have I used huge a lot in this article? Yes I know.

Ms. Vilma Santos told the media "There's nobody else, no other name to play his role, it was only Aga Mulach. When he called me, he only asked if I'd accept the project, asked if it was true, and I immediately told him to accept it because otherwise, I'd be returning the candles for being Ninang to him and Charlene Gonzales. I wanted him to accept it so I could beat him up (she kids). When I head also that Nadine agreed with the project, I was already asking for shooting dates, with all honesty, I was mostly excited about it. Then I learned the huge cast that will also be with us, even if I felt bad in several shooting days, I knew I had to go through with it because I was with them all. I am inspired and in love with them."
 
Aga quipped "People were asking me why I'd be calling her, and they didn't know we often talk like that because we're really that close. The only question I asked was if she was game to do it, she didn't even had to talk more because I've been waiting for it the whole time. I'm just so happy this happened. It comes in threes, and out of the stuff we did, I'm very proud of this one! I'm quite excited too. When I heard Nadine was in the cast, I thought she was going to be a love interest, but production told me she will be my daughter (he kids), I was relieved!"

Nadine divulged a few things about her character and said "About similarities, I think we're polar opposites. Nicole is kind of extreme, she's rich, she does all the bad things, she's a foul mouth, she's got lots of hatred towards her father and the situation. I on the other hand am a more chill person, and the relationship I have with my father isn't the same either. The only thing I think that is similar is that we're both feisty. Our scenes are very heavy, but Kuya Aga does these adlibs that are not on script and we laugh about it after the scenes. But it feels different when you are working with a person of his caliber. Our scenes are going to be triggering, his personality is totally different in real life."

Here's the rest of the press conference on video:

Producer Bryan Dy responded to my question about being so passionate doing HUGE projects like these and he said "I'm actually very fortunate to be in this position. This is the part that you would never have to hold back, because with this kind of cast and story, if we let go of the chance, we probably wouldn't have something like this happen in our lifetime. One reason is, going to cinemas actually is expensive, so you want to really make sure that every peso cinema goers spend is worth it. With this cast, with the people working behind the camera, we think they're the best and we believe the Filipinos deserve it. And, we're not yet done, we're just starting! It is a dream project, and I've seen Ms. Vilma Santos in different roles when I was growing up, she didn't act on this film, she was more of a collaborator. She is very important for the entire film because she was assisting all the actors, they don't even go home anymore even if their scenes were done because they stayed to make sure this film has something to give. This is important and fulfilling for me. All our earnings from past projects, we rolled over here and even gave more. We're sure that we won't disappoint you with this film."

If the stars won't be the sole reason to see this film, you've got the story, the production value, and the anticipation of how great actors do it on screen should. 

Can't wait to see it in December!

Best Actress Marian Rivera-Dantes' "BALOTA" Hits Theaters October 16th

It's been a while since I've last seen Ms. Marian Rivera-Dantes. I also missed the opportunity to watch her latest movie "BALOTA" which was showcased at Cinemalaya XX which won her the Best Actress trophy for obvious reasons. The film mirrors real life (although satire), of an educator who goes over and beyond her duty in the classroom. Teacher Emmy not only thinks about her future, but spins in the optimism of electing leaders, and finding out the grim reality of the human psyche.

In a mayoralty race of their quaint town, they had the choice between a land grabbing power hungry woman, or a former s3xy actor. Since she also administers a precinct during the elections, she gets caught in the action when the result meant people seizing the ballot box she carries in order to win. The woman with integrity didn't budge with any force, and baddies even became more eager to find or eliminate her, no matter what it takes.

Marian by any means still looked every bit beautiful even if she was de-glamorized. The chase brought her to vehicles, the forest, the querida's house, the s3xy actor's house, the boondocks, something you wouldn't think she'd have to do as a premiere actress yet here we are. Marian says "I couldn't explain how I felt after shooting "Balota". I even mentioned to Dong how fulfilled I felt doing it despite me being in the industry for a while now. It fed my hunger to do worthwhile projects like these. I felt inspired after that win given to me by the Cinemalaya community."

The exciting thing is, they will be having this released for public viewing this coming October 16. This is produced by GMA Pictures, written and directed by Kip Oebanda. The film also includes actors Will Ashley, Raheel Bhyria, Royce Cabrera, Sassa Gurl, Esnyr, Donna Cariaga, Gardo Versoza, Mae Paner, Sue Prado, Joel Saracho, Donna Cariaga and Nico Antonio. Apt for the times, great story line that is cohesive. It's genius. Having Marian Rivera-Dantes is a great reason to also watch this. It's our story.

Complete List of Winners from MMFF 2020

Today is the day! 

Globe Blue Carpet for MMFF 2020 

This evening's MMFF Gabi ng Parangal was a whole lotta fun as we saw celebrities come one by one. We saw at the Globe Blue Carpet Ritz Azul, Gerald Napoles, Maui Taylor, Michael De Mesa, EA Guzman, Zanjoe Marudo, Alfred Vargas, Harlene Bautista and John Arcilla.

Paulo Avelino was so dapper, he had silver hair, wore a tux, shared his music, told us about his fans and the hosts Giselle Sanchez and Bekz Battalions Chad Kinis just got so crazy wild because he looked so good. They also warned people about piracy which probably is a problem this year in MMFF.

They also announced the Best Float (virtual) this year which went to Magikland, while Isa Pang Bahaghari came second, while third went to Fan Girl.

Marco Gumabao and Kylie Verzosa hosted the formal awards show, MMDA chair reiterated these are done online for the safety of the general public. He also said awardees this evening well deserved the recognition as it was doubly harder to put together good movies while the country is on lockdown period. 

 
They also gave kudos to students who participated in shorts which were presented before actual participating movies

Best Student Short Film Paano Maging Babae from DLS St Benilde

Best Child Performer went to Seiyo Masunaga of The Missing

Best Editing Fan Girl's Benjamin Tolentino

Best Cinematography went to Fan Girl's Neil Daza

Special Citation for Direk Peque Gallaga+

MMFF Gender Sensitivity Award went to The Boy Foretold by the Stars  

Best Sound went to FanGirl's Vincent Villa

Best Musical Score goes to Magikland's Emerson Texon

Best Original Theme Song went to The Boy Foretold by the Stars Jhay Cura and Pao Protacio

Best Visual Effects goes to Magikland's Richard Francia and Ryan Grimarez of Central Lab

Best Production Design was won by Magikland Ericson Navarro

Best Editing Fan Girl's Benjamin Tolentino

Best Cinematography went to Fan Girl's Neil Daza

Manay Ichu Vera Perez Lifetime Achievement Award went to Ms. Gloria Romero

Gatpuno Antonio Villegas Cultural Award went to the film Suarez the Healing Priest

Fernando Poe Jr. Memorial Award went to Magikland

Best Screenplay went to Fan Girl's Antoinette Jadaone for Fan Girl

Best Supporting Actor was won by Michael De Mesa for Isa Pang Bahaghari

Best Supporting Actress was won by Shaina Magdayao for Tagpuan

Best Director was won by Antoinette Jadaone for Fan Girl

MMFF 3rd Best Picture went to Tagpuan

MMFF 2nd Best Picture went to The Boy Foretold by The Stars

MMFF Best Picture Award went to Fan Girl by Epic Media Corporation

Best Actor is Paulo Avelino of Fan Girl

Best Actress is Charlie Dizon for Fan Girl

Congratulations to all the winners! This is brought to you by Globe, Upstream, MMDA and MMFF.

 

Say Hi To CHANG AI EXPRESS

Ms. Aiai Delas Alas for the new Chang Ai Express

We had a short luncheon with Comedy Queen Aiai Delas Alas about the new branding they did with Chang Ai Express “I felt Ai Sarap Express was a little too old so we changed the menu and now we call it Chang Ai Express. Some people have been complaining also that they go to another place in ABSCBN. It’s now going to be known as this so they will find it in Esguerra easily. In 2005, I had a Chinese partner with Ai Charap and I find Chinese food really apt for my taste. I will also put up a restaurant soon in Ayala Malls, I am thinking of an Asian fusion themed restaurant and perhaps I’ll do it with other Asian flavors in other restaurants that I plan to do soon. I may do another branch of Chang Ai Express. I need to do a lot in one day, I don’t stand around even when I am home so I have been doing this for Sancho. I also enjoy seeing people, entertaining them sometimes when I am here. I will put up more restaurants soon, so that is exciting.”

About the recent noise in The Clash “I know it’s a hard job to judge but for my bashers, do know that song choice is a thing that they should consider when joining the show. They also need to know rap still has to be clear and be understood by people. I have been a judge in so many shows, but do know how hard it is to make a decision, we need to do that even if it is hard. I have heard a lot of things, seen angry people but I acknowledge what they feel for their bets and relatives, I am the judge though so we all have to make that decision.”

Chefs Sancho Vito Delas Alas and Ren Tuito

Ms Ai also said her piece about the Best Actress award for Cinemalaya and says “I always make sure the roles I choose are good especially in Indie films. I choose also what I do because if it’s too physically challenging I have to think twice. I wasn’t really expecting the award, Sancho asked me while I was in the Clash judges table, I cried when I heard about it. I don’t know what made me win but I think the character is profound, and I thank the jury of Cinemalaya for taking notice. I praise God for that. I wasn’t able to attend the awards ceremony because I had taping for Sunday Pinasaya, I was okay with whatever he could give me even if I was against Glaiza who did so well in Liway and I knew she was the favorite, I am thankful for the award.”

Cauliflower with Green Beans

Fish and Tofu

1 pc Chang Ai Fried Chicken with Siomai

Mango Sago Medley

Chang Ai Express proudly introduces mainstays and new items on the menu. For appetizers, they have Lumpiang Chang Ai, Chicken Feet, Meat Ball, Siomai and Siopao. They also have viands and mains like Sweet and Sour Pork, Fish and Tofu, Honey Soy Glazed Chicken, Beef and Broccoli, Orange Chicken, Mandarin Chicken, Chow Mien, Mushroom Chicken and their Chang Ai Fried Chicken. Pair it up with the special Chang Ai Fried Rice and a serving of Bokchoy with Oyster Sauce, Kangkong with Garlic, Cauliflower and Green Beans, their sizzlers Sizzling Pork Sisig, Sizzling Chicken Sisig and Pork Liempo. Save room for desserts like the Mango Sago Medley, Creamy Almond Lychee and Coffee Jelly. If you want to save they have combo meals served in the afternoon (11am-3pm) like the 1pc Chang Ai Fried Chicken meal with 3 pc siomai, 1pc Chicken or Sisig with 5pc Siomai both with steamed rice/noodles and iced tea. 

So what do you do now that it’s raining? Order Chang Ai Express via Food Panda or just go visit the branch at the corner of Mother Ignacia and Sgt. Esguerra. 

I love the Chang Ai Fried Chicken, it’s so good! 

KUMAGCOW

Fresh Blogs Fast!

The Millionaires Wife: Cannes Best Actress Ms. Jacklyn Jose

I wouldn't want to pass the opportunity to interview Ms. Jacklyn Jose. Yes, the one and only Best Actress from Cannes is also a part of The Millionaires Wife. She plays the villain Stella Vergara Montecillo and she wreaked havoc on Louisa's life. Aside from the money, she's just aiming to see how miserable she can make Louisa as Alfred Vergara is already dead. She didn't mean to have her father killed but it was just the result of her brainwashing Jared Montecillo. Without him in the picture, she wouldn't be protected at all and perhaps Stella would make her life a living hell, she's that determined.

Here's our video interview in two parts. Enjoy!

I love the way she answered our questions, and how she was so enthusiastic to tell us about the process in molding her character. She mentions that there are tons of highlights in the show that is only going to happen today so you better catch the finale!

I was told by her co stars in this project that it is indeed an honor to have worked with Jacklyn Jose let alone the Cannes Best Actress. I was actually a little put off because she didn't want to put that out in the open but I think she's got her reasons. She didn't want the others to make that a big deal but says it is an opportunity to be proud of our country. I couldn't imagine how much stress and physical work they had to put in into each scene. She's more meticulous and doesn't even do it if she doesn't know where the character is coming from. This is much harder to shoot because they don't do it by following the story, they do it per scene so it kinda skips, pretty hard to remember. She does her homework and that's something that the other actors of this project actually learned from her. Maybe me too in the near future, I kid!

There will be someone dying, but I laughed so hard when she told us about the forest scenes (which was pretty much done in every teleserye). The Filipino audience actually sometimes wouldn't find the ending great if they didn't do that part. Playing a villain or the hero, it doesn't matter to her because both are fulfilling. She also mentions how much work they've put into this project and hopes people get to know how these all ends!

Thank you for the opportunity to talk to you Ms. Jacklyn Jose! Thank you also for being so candid while we were doing this interview. I hope to get to watch you do A1 Ko Sayo which is more of a comedy flick. I'm sure you'll continue to be loved with that too!

Thank you to the cast and crew of The Millionaires Wife who were all so accommodating during our set visit! Hope you all get to watch the show today as it ends Louisa's story.

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