An Unlikely Pairing That Works: MEG & RYAN

Seeing the trailer a couple months back had me asking if these two actors would actually work. I could identify JC Santos in more indie looking romcoms and drams while Rhian Ramos would fall into either action, sultry contrabida roles, drama and fantasy genres.

Watching the movie through a red carpet advance screening (a few days ago) however proved that putting these actors in a box would be a big mistake especially since the material of Meg & Ryan needed specific personas shown on screen. JC had to make Ryan as nerdy, ultra conservative and virginal at times while Rhian does the opposite, flawed, game for anything and had no bottle left unturned. She also gets egged to do things by friends, persuaded by a drop of wine and fun it brings. 

Lots of stars went to the event and supported them. Mind you it was raining and traffic was bad, but they all went there to support Director Catherine Camarillo and the other stars of the film. In a way this is a huge gamble because it's pretty slow at cinemas these days. But they're pretty confident about this story and its execution.

JC took his character to heart. With his boyish charm and soft delivery, he makes the easy work out of being the Mama's boy he needed to portray. Rhian on the other hand remained pretty mysterious despite her being the rocker chick she exudes. Both characters situations get intertwined, call it fate, call it something something that happened for one night, but they both loved each other eventually.

Some real good highlights are the appearances of Steven Bansil and the super funny POCA. If you love them on their internet skits, you would love them even more in their first movie.

We all thought it was not going to work, but folks in the cinema were gushing about the pair, even cried too. I guess we all fell for the trap that is MEG & RYAN. And they hope you get to experience it too.  It's an interesting and cute story, the pairing works! It comes out on August 6th, in cinemas nationwide! This is under POCKET MEDIA Films.

RHIAN RAMOS, JC SANTOS Take On Complex Characters in PM Productions "MEG & RYAN"

A word was uttered around the venue when we were interviewing the cast of "Meg & Ryan", it was UNDERRATED, which we felt was certainly an apt one after meeting the stars of the movie under Pocket Media Films. 

Lead stars Rhian Ramos and JC Santos will be doing this romantic comedy film together with the cast award winning actor Cedrick Juan, Ces Quesada, Cris Villanueva, Jef Gaitan, JMee Katanyag, and social media stars Steven Bansil and Poca Osinaga, plus beauty queen Alison Black.   

While isn't first film to be directed by Direk Catherine O. Camarillo, this is somehow her first foray in the love story-romcom genre. "This is another masterpiece that I want to share with you, which I hope you would be able to give awareness to the audience, give them a fair chance to watch this in cinemas this coming August 5, 2025. (watched trailer, she became very emotional and said)  I am just overwhelmed seeing them on screen because they really look good together. Doing this was quite easy because I had some of the best actors to work with. It was quite to put them in what I envisioned in the film. I've done so many projects in the past that made me do compromises, I didn't have to do that here. I gave it my all, and got the ones I wanted to have in this project. I'm so happy I was able to do that in Meg & Ryan. I also felt the support of my cast, they respected the material, they loved this film as much as I did."

Rhian says "I haven't had drunk episodes where I wasn't aware of what I was doing. Either that, or may I just couldn't remember it. I really enjoyed the whole experience because JC is such a generous actor. If there's something he could do to help in the execution of a scene, he will. He will go farther than what is expected of him. It's not just the acting part that he's going to do, he contributes in the lines, change it to what feels more natural in the scenes. He really envibes what would Ryan do or say. It really helped me and made my job super easy! I really love complex characters, those with flaws, to make sense of people. Meg is an @lcoh0lic, opposites attract, I've seen Direk Catherine's previous films and wanted to work with JC which is why I wanted to do this. This is how I view love also, we have our own journey, when you find someone who understand that about you, it needs to be watched and told." 

JC Santos added "Actually everybody here was easy to work with. This is what's great about a collaboration because you can feel if you match. We enjoyed the process even the challenges, Rhian Ramos is a part of my bucket list and I'm seeing it now. I see how she gives the truth in her scenes. Even Tita Ces, Direk Catherine gives us freedom so we get our personalities in the mix. I also really wanted to work with Direk Catherine, and seeing the script, it's a different kind of love. It's something new, puberty at 35, he is complex, a bit difficult to do but I think we succeeded in creating this character."

Here's the press conference in full:

Aside from being shown in the Philippines, this will also have a theater run in Australia and New Zealand on August 14th. Please support Filipino films as these don't come cheap in production. They're taking a huge risk because they want to help the industry. The love story between Meg & Ryan was created by prolific writer Gina Marissa Tagasa. The soundtrack is also a fun version of Torete, which will make you feel a bit of nostalgia. This took a while before it was released, but from the looks of it, it has all the ingredients to make you connect with the story of Meg and Ryan. Go watch it on theaters, and see the trailers on their social channels because they already have 2 out!

Fear Something New With This Judy Ann Santos, Lorna Tolentino and Chanda Romero Starrer ESPANTAHO

When we heard Judy Ann Santos-Agoncillo was participating in this year's Metro Manila Film Festival, we were really excited about particular film she's doing; they call it "ESPANTAHO". The term actually means a "scarecrow", a thing that's pretty common in farmlands, especially in agricultural countries like ours.

It's been a while since she's done something like this, but it was promised to her by Director Chito Roño who called her for the project. Judy Ann says "It's been a while since I've worked with Direk Chito Roño. Before I was a young lady, but now I already have a daughter. I'm happy because when he called me for a horror film, I didn't say anything, just "let's do it!". This is a dream, I wanted to experience it, he's calmer now, but still has a mic when he does sarcastic lines. I'm not the one he's getting mad at these days, but when you do it with him, it is fulfilling!"

This film was prepped for a year before they got to make the script. When the writer Christ Martinez presented it, he got "good" feedback from Direk Chito, and things started rolling from that. Atty Joji remarks how this has been a collaborative experience for them, and since Direk Chito is a master Director, they wanted to make a great film with them during their 20th Anniversary. The only issues they encountered were mostly because of the weather, but they adjusted with the season to fit the story. 

JC Santos likened Direk Chito to his former theater mentors, because once he asks for one more shot, it means you would need to do better on the scene. If he says "next scene", that means you're good. Most of them nodded in agreement, and Direk Chito felt he was getting roasted during the press conference (they had a laugh about it). 

Here's the press conference on video, of course! I got you!

They let us in on a secret, that painting on the left side of the stage will play a significant part in the film so if you see this in any theaters they'll be showing ESPANTAHO, go take a photo with it!

Ms. Lorna Tolentino took time to talk about love, family and a few more things about the movie after the press conference, listen in to the conversation:

In a nutshell, you would need to watch this film because of the caliber of actors that are in it. Not to mention how big of a horror director Chito Roño is, and how he's come to embrace new technology, special effects, and face a new crowd of movie goers eager to see something new, as you introduce a brand new entity to fear because they don't know what lurks behind that painting that you base the story on.

Hope this forms a cult following, perhaps a sequel too! The film will show on December 25 together with other MMFF 2024 entries, but consider watching this first especially if you're a Judy Ann Santos Agoncillo fan. This is produced by Cineko Productions, Purple Bunny Productions and Quantum Films. They promise that this will be the scariest film you're about to see on MMFF 2024.

You'll Need Towels for Tears: FAMILY MATTERS this MMFF 2022

If you've been seeing trailers left and right for Metro Manila Film Festival 2022 happening this month, you probably remember this one by Cineko Productions (under Mayor Enrico Roque). It was able to touch the hearts of so many Filipinos in the trailer alone as it delved into the story of a FAMILY. 

Francisco and Eleanor are in the geriatric age, and got sick, requiring much care and attention from their family, but the eldest had to go find love elsewhere. This forced the other siblings to step up the plate, but the couple chose to do things their way, butting heads as the patriarch still wants to be taken cared of by his wife Eleanor which she thankfully obliges to do so later on the film. It's played by Noel Trinidad and Ms. Liza Lorena, plus an ensemble cast which includes Nonie Buencamino, Agot Isidro, Mylene Dizon, James Blanco, Nikki Valdez, JC Santos, Ina Feleo, Ketchup Eusebio and a throng of other actors that put their trust on this MMFF 2022 entry.

Here's what happened during the press conference on video, please, enjoy!

I asked a few unconventional questions during the press conference specifically on some parents making an investment out of their children. Also, I tried to see what they think of how Filipinos make it an obligation for family to take care of them in their older years. I was impressed how Mylene Dizon answered it after stating the differences, saying the care Filipinos do come from a place of LOVE rather than it being embedded in culture overall.

It is no surprise that those who have seen the trailer already shed a tear or two as this film comes from the same people behind "Miracle at Cell #7" that won awards and box office success in previous MMFF years. Will this prove to be a sure fire formula to success this coming December 25th? You're going to see a lot of actors vying for the Best Actress role and might need to compete with Ms. Liza Lorena. The ensemble cast is also a tough act to follow since they formed a real family doing this movie.

It's going to be a very interesting awards night and you might be looking at another successful entry when you watch "Family Matters" during the MMFF 2022 days. This is Directed by Nuel Naval and written by the prolific Mel Mendoza-del Rosario. They warned us and said this time, tissues won't be enough for your tears, bring towels!

VIVAMAX: "TAHAN" When Things Take A Dark Turn

We went in the cinema of Gateway Mall for the screening of the film TAHAN, a movie which will be shown solely on streaming platform VIVAMAX. Cloe Barreto plays the role of Elise, a woman who was forced to work in the high end escort industry; she started at a very young age. To provide for herself and her Mother, she had to seek clients for pay to do all their wishes. She falls prey to different kinds of folks, some kind, some abusive, which puts her in the brink of losing hope.

Her relationships are all complicated, but it pays the bill. Although in a rut, she does several encounters to feel she's the dominant one, being served as she doesn't have that on normal days. She also got into vices, so she could forget about what’s happening. She also gets involved with a guy (a former high school fling) played by JC Santos (also multi awarded actor). He represents her way out, her wishing to change ways, but all fails as she gets sold and forced by her Mom; depicted by 2016 Cannes Film Festival Best Actress Ms. Jaclyn Jose. The film also stars Mercedes Cabral, Karl Medina, EJ Salamante, AJ Oteyza and Jet Delgado. Quinn Carillo wrote this film, but also stars in it as the protagonist's best friend. 

 

Talented writer and actress Quinn Carillo who slayed the script!

Cloe Barreto plays Elise

 

AJ Oteyza, Quinn Carillo plays interesting characters

JC Santos plays Cloe's high school sweetheart. What will become of him when things go south?

Not to patronize her, but Quinn really put the needed shocking twists in the script of this film. Although it delved on content appealing to men, Director Bobby Bonifacio, Jr. made risky creative interpretation to make Quinn's script come alive. It felt like a long dream sequence, one that takes all the things she probably feared the most to happen on screen. If you think about it, this movie is matriarchal in nature, on how their relationships and dynamics work... until things take a dark, dark turn.

All in all, this is a showcase of talented actors. Cloe Barreto has really leveled up her acting chops straight from her other projects like "Silab". Aside from that, JC Santos presents a different persona who still has to tell their story. They were high school sweethearts who lost touch. This may also open up a lot of possibilities, a prequel, another installment, which can be possible since the story asks for it. As expected, Madame Jaclyn Jose proved why she's world class. She's very generous, and let Cloe shine when she needs to in the film. I'd be really surprised if this didn't snatch an award from different festivals which they plan to do soon. Here's some videos I made of the presscon which happened after the screening:

You can watch this movie solely on the VIVAMAX app, you can download it off web.vivamax.net, Google Play or the App Store. Payment is a monthly subscription which you can do on the website, or various digital wallets. It can also be accessed in countries like UAE (Dubai), Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Oman, Bahrain, Qatar or elsewhere in Europe where available. You can also download it on East and Southeast Asian countries, New Zealand, Australia, the US and Canada. Having this be accessed worldwide, it's already doing the deed of introducing Filipino films worldwide. Congratulations to the cast and production of TAHAN and I'm glad plans for another film from the same production will be in the works soon.

 This film is sick, and I LOVE IT!

Banking on Talented Cast, Controversial but Realistic Story: "TAHAN"

It was a fun afternoon meeting the cast of upcoming sultry, suspense-thriller movie called TAHAN, which will be directed by Bobby Bonifacio Jr. under 3:16 Media Network. Tough Executive Producers John Bryan Diamante and Ms. Janilyn Carrillo deem unnecessary to think that this would be a challenge to do while we're all going through the pandemic because the material and story written by talented Quinn Carrillo (who's also part of the cast) was already enough reason to do this film. Bryan Diamante stresses that even though this is his first venture into the production side of the industry, he's got total trust with 3:16 Media Network. His goal is not just to create a quality movies like these... but learn the ropes while he's wearing the production hat in hopes to make even bigger stories come to life.  

He says "I'm glad that right now, things are easing up a bit. People are looking for interesting stories, Quinn really made a really good script and I'm very excited about it. I know this will certainly be something that people would love to see."

I've noticed that they've gotten no shortage of passion. Seeing how eager they are to tell the story (even if there are some really disturbing subjects in the story line) you wouldn't be able to just concentrate on it because of the realistic parts that would make anyone certainly connect with the characters in the movie. Lead star Cloe Barreto says "It's not that difficult and I think I'm equipped to do this. It's actually really exciting to see that I'm going to work with JC Santos and my idol Ms. Jaclyn Jose. People are going to learn a lot from the story, this is coming from the point of view of the daughter. She's gone through a lot and it will teach people that these things happen in real life."

Executive Producers John Bryan Diamante and Janilyn Carrillo

Here's our video coverage of the story conference which includes a few questions answered by the cast. Please, enjoy!

Again, the cast includes Cannes Best Actress Ms. Jaclyn Jose, the very talented actor JC Santos, writer and actress Quinn Carrillo, Karl Medina, AJ Oteyza, former pro basketball player Mac Cardona (who was very good looking), indie queen Mercedes Cabral, the funny EJ Salamante, Joseph San Jose (who told us a very inspiring story on how he was able to land this role), Stiff  Banzon and a whole lot more.

This surely looks so PROMISING, judging from the ensemble cast, a different kind of flavor from the usual romcoms you've been seeing released in PH theaters. One can just imagine how feisty Cloe and the cast is who promised they'll be bringing their A game once the camera starts rolling for this film called TAHAN. I can't wait to see it in theaters and digital platforms; they plan to have this out soon.

We wouldn't want to miss how this unfolds!

JC Santos and Janine Gutierrez Star in TBA Studios "DITO at DOON"

Theaters are opening and TBA Studios is going to have March memorable with a new movie called DITO at DOON directed by JP Habac. It's a movie about a chance romance between Len and Caloy played by the two artists, of which one is a Political Science grad while the other is a delivery guy. They met online and didn't quite end in good speaking terms.

Produer Mr. Vincent Nebrida says "We're very proud of this film shot during the pandemic. It feels good to watch and it's positive about the situation despite of these things."

Janine says "We've all been written as artists about things that are not even true. I've learned not to be judgemental because we don't know them which is part of what's spoken about in this film."

JC says "This is my first time working with her as lead actors, but we have worked in a project where Janine has guested. This is the first time we had a chance to talk, to get to know each other as a person. I really look at her as a person, I don't really do much on social media so I don't read much of what is said about me."

 Here's part of our interview on video:

 The cast includes Victor Anastacio, Yesh Burce and Janine's mom Ms. Lotlot de Leon. Dito at Doon will be shown on theaters nationwide. This is under WASD Films and TBA Studios. This is an interesting love story, will they end up together or be different people?

 Go watch it!

 

Janine Gutierrez and JC Santos Extremely Happy for the Success of DITO AT DOON

Just got off the thanksgiving virtual party of the film Dito at Doon starring Janine Gutierrez and JC Santos under TBA Studios. In it we got to talk to the cast and the people behind the film, seeing them reap the fruits of their labor, they've really had tons of support from their fans and industry friends. During the last presscon, we were with Ricky Lo asking questions, sad that he's gone. The event started with a pause to commemorate the journalist who also supported the film.  

Direk JP Habac says "My only birthday wish is that more people would be able to watch the film. The experience in the cinemas is really different, if this would be shown there, there would be a bigger chance to be seen by people, you get to see how they react, interact with other movie watchers, hopefully we can do that."

Yesh Burce says "Thank you to everyone who watched Dito at Doon, to everyone in the press who have shared their thoughts about the film. I'm sure there will be a lot of people that will watch the movie after this event."

Lotlot De Leon says "Janine already knows what she's doing, she has planned her life, I'm happy with that. She's old enough to make decisions on her own and she is doing it at the right time. I'm proud to see my daughter grow into this business, there will be more projects with TBA and I'll be looking forward to that."

 

Victor Anastacio "I'd like to thank TBA Studios and the streaming sites we got worldwide, we also thank the press for all your help. This film has hope and it is relatable, we didn't imagine that this will happen to all of us. This is how we experienced things and we showed hope amidst the circumstances. I think I appreciated it more because it's not just a traditional romcom, it's like the pandemic is another character, which makes sense. You can't plan everything, you have to be open, and make the most out of it."

JC Santos says "I am truly grateful for TBA who took care of us, I am happy to have been part of something that was created during the pandemic. We are happy to see those who have seen the movie and gotten lots of positive feedback about the film. I've found home with TBA. My favorite scene was the harana scene, they're taking it to the next level there and it's like offering a piece of your soul. It's one of the things I wanted to see again. This film is important, in this time and age, hope is all we have as we all are in survival mode. I mean it's a different feeling inside the cinema, I still want to see my armpits that huge on screen. I think it's a different thing that people feel when you see that, you have no choice but see it as a spectator, I miss that feeling. I think it will be different when you see it there. I enjoy my work as an actor, I went from my community to UP and doing acting jobs on screen. It's a good feeling not to have sleep, that's when I get challenged more, this is so much fun. The people are great, and I enjoy the whole process. When I accept projects my first question is... have I already done this role? because that's where it starts. I have had to decline a few projects because I was advised by my Manager, and because of circumstances that are beyond my control, and it's different in festivals. This one is different, it's kinda like a disaster movie. When I probably have a hand to finish this, perhaps I'd like to see my character be happy and be home with his family, not to spoil it, but I'd like to see him happy there."

Janine says "I hope to really make another film with TBA and I've always seen several of their movies. To be able to do this and in this story, I felt all the support of the press and I can't thank you enough. You really did stand along with us during our promotion. I have many favorite scenes, but I love how it ended. I was shocked to see that part because how it was edited. It's different. The film projects hope, TBA took risks and chances to produce a film despite the situation, and as seen on the film's performance, we're hopeful it is viable to have movies be watched even at home. It's different in movie houses, and a different experience to watch at home, but yes I hope to achieve what JC Santos get to have when its shown on cinemas. Rejection in the industry is so hard to still accept, I still audition, I have a certain sense that they have control over your future, but I chose to stay because I know I needed to stick it out, to do my best, do the things that make me closer to my dream and I'll get there. Accepting roles also depends on the script, to the people I'm working with. In this film, I just said YES PLEASE when I heard JC Santos and JP Habac. I'm happy a lot of people are appreciating it. If I'd be choosing where my character ends, I think it would be good if she just doesn't close doors or the possibility of welcoming another person, another love. I'd be happy already if she does that."

Now if you haven't watched DITO AT DOON yet, it's something that'll make you wonder about OUR current situation and the relationships we build and keep. Stream it on Upstream, Cinema 76, Ticket2Me, KTX.PH and globally via TBAPLAY on the Google Play store. Go install it and see why people are asking for part 2!

Romantic Flick "Dito at Doon" Deserves a Part 2

 

Arlene Esguerra and Carlo Cabahug truly didn't start in the wrong foot. The pandemic put them both in a predicament that they didn't want to endure, much like us today who's been in our homes for a year or more already. 

 

Love at this time? Maybe, but these consequences of their interaction on social media would say otherwise. Actually, an impossibility. During this time, Len got what she deserved, which is real talk from her friends. She spent most of the time talking to plants and making viral dalgona coffee, things we did during the start of the pandemic. Direk JP Habac framed this quite nicely, really close to reality. Len's Mom, her friends were essential to the story. They confirm things, they put things she does into perspective and get her grounded. Cab on the other hand was the typical Filipino OFW story, well almost. You'll see his story unfold during small talks with Len as they discover each other. They might need to drink every once in a while to release inhibitions, and that's kinda fun if you think about it.

I like the romantic angles, on how their once impossible relationship might become something. In an eve where people are supposed to be apart, here they are making landi and its a good thing. It felt good for the soul, but without titles, will that affect them?

 

 

This film touches on so many realities. It talks about our dreams, our loved ones, a little hope, some drama, home sickness, our self worth, anger and frustrations. What is there for us when all is in shambles?  Janine Gutierrez and JC Santos did good in this film, I hope they do a part 2 because honestly, the thing deserves one. This is under TBA Studios and WASD Films. You can watch it via KTX.PH, Cinema76@Home, iWantTFC, Upstream or Ticket2Me. 

 

You can stream it digitally today!

OPEN with JC Santos and Arci Muñoz

Spent some hours in ABSCBN to talk to the stars of the film OPEN by Blacksheep and TRex outfits. Good reviews so far, but we had to hear their views about the topic of the movie, it is after all about open relationships. We felt how they got so serious about the journey of the two main characters.

Arci shares “I want to be able to do scenes that would satisfy the director, the artists, it was heavy, even the location was the same. I had to drink so I could vent out cry. We never faked it, I had to drink even before the scene and it was really had. I saw JC’s thing, but funny it wasn’t seen in the camera and we laughed about it. It didn’t make the cut on the heavy scene. I like the light scenes, if there is cake, wine, I love those scenes. I don’t know if there is one, it might spoil the movie. All movies I made, I wasn’t so involved but OPEN had me crying so much in the theater. I couldn’t breathe and had to freshen up before the interviews. It affected me much. If it has been mutually decided, maybe I could think about it. Maybe I’ll try it now since I’m single. It was just the right project for me, maybe in the future I could do it. I didn’t agree on it when I read it, but there’s a lot of types of being open so as long as you have constant and proper communication, and agree on it, maybe, and date people. We didn’t think about how we look, it is the feelings, the emotions, especially the ending because it was heartfelt. And I had to go back a lot of times. I have been cheated by all my exes, all three of them, and since we didn’t have rules or talked about it first, that’s cheating.”

JC says “My favorite scene was when he knelt down, Ethan isn’t like me, I couldn’t believe sometimes how much he’s like that. We are so different. Is it right? Do I receive things correctly!? I didn’t know I was funny, I felt he was wrong a lot of times. But I was with guys in my row of seats in the premiere, and we were laughing about it, it was because we know why.”

Andoy says “I guess that is also my statement, that ending had to be revised 27 times, it depends on the person looking at it on how they want to end. Arci was also sick at that time, I took that inspiration based on the emotions that the artists had that time. My friends were iffy about the topic, they are so sensitive, my artists often had to switch. I have no idea if there are plans on joining other festivals, TREX and Blacksheep will have to decide on that. The original directors cut was 2 hours and 9 minutes, maybe the producers cut would be shorter, but that had the explanation, maybe if Netflix picks it up it will be better. It went to different drafts, but I don’t think you’ll love Ethan after. It discusses a lot of taboo, ironic even the top grosser is about LGBT, there are a lot of things to talk about especially discrimination.”

It’s still showing on theaters, go check out the film OPEN and maybe, just maybe, you’ll change your mind about it like they did.

JC Santos and Ryza Cenon for Mr. & Mrs. Cruz

It’s so nice to hear that the one who wrote and did Kita Kita is actually on a roll as she takes another project called Mr. and Mrs. Cruz. This movie is produced by Idea First Company and Viva Films and will show on January 24, 2018. You can’t teach chemistry and when they did this, they had to undergo workshops first because the material was difficult to execute and they wanted the characters to become real, they didn’t require them to workout for the role.

Ryza says “Direk Sigrid was so open to suggestions, very detailed and we felt like being trained because we had to do workshops just for the character. JC gave me advise on our lines, they prolly did this in theater so it was easy for him. I might have struggled a little because I was shooting two projects in the past so it was a little hard adjusting to this.

JC reveals "I watched Direk on theater, in UP and she was good. I was so lucky to work with them because it was a theater process because we rehearsed it before the actual thing happened. We even shot it on her phone so the process was easy. I didn’t act too big because she toned me down when we filmed this. Ryza knows the screen and how it works being in the industry for quite a while. She’s very good."

“I didn’t really expect Kita Kita would be that big but I’m not pressuring myself that the same will happen, but I do hope it does because we have worked hard for it. This is about love, marriage, finding yourself and moving on. It will also tackle and define happiness. I made this before Kita Kita (the script) they are an interesting pair and I have seen them in past projects. I was really interested working with them. I am so excited how this would turn out. Yes, theg did deliver with the material even if it was a bit difficult to do this, but they agreed to do workshops with me because of the process. This was shot in Puerto Princessa and El Nido, I fell in love with the place. They need to see how beautiful the place is! The underground river, the secret beach, island hopping, it’s all gorgeous!” says Sigrid Andrea Bernardo, the writer and Director.

Make sure you head on to theaters on this date because according to Direk Perci and Jun Lana (who already saw it) says it’s a material that differs so much from Kita Kita but says it’s a welcome change. Direk Sigrid is gunning for personal happiness while doing it, so if you connect with the emotions of the characters, that’s exactly why they did it. I’m watching!

Are you?

KUMAGCOW

Fresh Blogs Fast!

Vic Sotto and Dawn Zulueta for MEANT TO BEH

MZET and APT Entertainment will make your Christmas season even more FUN and romantic as they dish out this family film called MEANT TO BEH as part of Metro Manila Film Festival 2017.

Dawn Zulueta was so happy to be oart of it and she says "As an actor I just mirrored it with real life and the delivery is just the difference. I hardly do any comedy but it's exciting to discover this. I believe respect holds the glue to a relationship, and love too. It's nice to learn from the young ones, your mindset is like when you want to get into their heads, it's like an intellectual excercise so I learn a lot of things from them and I can't say anything bad about the people in our cast, they're really good. Bossing is still the same but I've learned how he as an actor is so good in drama. I felt his sincerity, he's very effective. It's an exciting discovery and if he does another one soon, this is a nice preview of what he can do. I don't have any beauty secrets, I just make an effort, perhaps the outlook, I have different friends in different age groups. You have to have time to learn new things from young people. They are just waiting for this and when this project came along I was just thrilled to work with him after so many DECADES haha. I sure hope this earns a lot so we can have a part 2, and hope they get me again ha! You don't feel comedy is work when you are here, it's so energizing and I go home I reach another level of funny. Doing this is something else, a really good break for me."

Bossing Vic Sotto says "Even if last year I missed a lot, it's so nice to finally been able to go back. The fantasy genre has always been a good niche for me but I wanted to so something realistic, it's a serious movie but we just present it in a light manner. The theme is heavy but since this is a family thing, we had to make it apt for Christmas, be family centric. After watching the movie, you'll feel a lot of things that would include values we would like to impart. In a manner you'll laugh, but still learn from it. Acceptance for what he or she is, nothing would come out of it if it's always one person adjusting to the other. Like Dawn's character and how she is totally different from me, I like that part. I like these young actors, these millenials because if they're good they take their jobs seriously. When we started initially, we didn't know how he would deliver but he did, BASTE will be the next BIG thing. We actually learn from them too, they set good examples to the youth. As an actor you want to do everything, not just drama or comedy, you have to perform well in whatever role you get. It may have been a different genre now but it's a serious funny theme, it's difficult but you'll find fun in the conversations with no effort, I just trusted the scene and script. It's still important to earn from it so that you can have another film to show next time. If I come across a very good script, who knows, TVJ may come back but it has to be a good script. When we were planning this, we already had Dawn in mind and this film is some sort of first for me. I now have had the chance to do "idawn zulueta mo ako" in person. If it's about advice, the new actors we had may well advise us because they are good. When we were casting we didn't have problems casting from other networks, it didn't really matter, it felt like actors were not forced into a boundary. Now you may have limitations but shouldn't be a big deal. We all come from one industry. Please watch us first but please watch other films in the festival too. I don't want to put competition on the festival, our goal is to make people happy during Christmas so let's work together, that's the message we are trying to project here too. They are neither kapamilya or kapuso, they are all Kabisotes."

Director Chris Martinez adds "Friendship and love is the secret to a lasting relationship. Bossing is going to be a bit serious here, it's a best actor piece for him so you have to find out if he performs. It's really something different from the both of them."

JC Santos says "If you know yourself and you give your true self to your partner, that can get your relationship to last. I always try and see how they interact with each other, but I'm so glad they don't have star complex at all... they're all really humble. If you look at the Meant To Beh script, you just have to execute it and I'm very lucky to have worked with them."

Make sure you watch the movie this December 25, bring your family because it's intended for you.

KUMAGCOW

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James Reid, Nadine Lustre, Cast Photos from the Till I Met You Press Conference

It's so successful that I felt we really didn't have to tell people to watch it. Nor did we felt that we had to even say that the premise of the story would work. It's new, it's a gamble, but I think judging from the ratings last Monday, it really paid off. I'm talking about TIMY, Till I Met You, the new James Reid and Nadine Lustre starrer made by Dreamscape and ABSCBN. 

I watched it at home and I personally loved it. I'm sure a thousand more did too. Anyway, I'm here to add more excitement by bringing you MORE photos from the press conference that happened a few days ago. Thanks to ABSCBN Corporate Communications for inviting us in the event! Aside from James and Nadine, we had JC, Zoren and Carmina, Pokwang, Angel Aquino too. Enjoy!

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