LJ REYES Renews Ties with GMA Artist Center

LJ Reyes doesn't have to prove anything. With a Best Actress and Best Supporting Actress award on her belt, she's one of the few stars from GMA that has done the legwork and succeeded in impressing critics in several award giving bodies. She's now taking everything in stride, taking care of Paolo and her kids. She also hosts a throng of shows, does influencer projects and is currently vlogging. Above all, she is a mother who would do everything for her family and her passions. Recently, she signed up again with GMA Artist Center. We got to talk to her the day after and it was so nice to see how she's managed to do all these things and more. I remember her telling us that GMA actually asks her what she wants to happen in her career, asks her what she wants to accomplish and do. I think that alone made the difference. 

LJ says "It's been a very colorful journey, I remember the rainbow colors of GMA when I do this. It's hard not to look back to the experiences, now that you have no work. I can't just leave my kids at home, I'm so happy and feel very rewarding to be still here in the industry. I didn't get to experience to be a child actor, Pao and I agree that it's better for them to have a private life, to have education, to do projects on the side but want it to be more normal. Even if they are not artists yet, there's social media. I feel both of them should have that for themselves as they are growing. I was able to experience that unlike Pao, which we both think they would prefer, they need to experience life. Anytime naman, if they were to choose to be part of this, we would be there to guide them. Aki wants to dance a lot, but now, he's a little conscious. He wants to post something that he would choose, and he's getting the hang of it."
About working with Pao, she says "Pao and I have worked in small projects already, but if we do have had the chance to make him a contrabida for me, we would probably laugh a lot in scenes, that would be really challenging if it happens. But that's very interesting, we talk about that often. We hope we would be able to produce it on our own, Pao has an eye for producing, we would want to grow as artists and we look forward to that." 

Here's part of our interview with LJ that afternoon

Make sure you follow her social media handles and Artist Center because definitely, she's going to have more projects and guestings this year. You bet you'll see her shine even brighter as she stayed with GMA.

LJ Reyes Launches Wonder Jane

If you're looking for LJ Reyes lately and haven't seen her in GMA shows, there is a reason for that. She's currently 6 months on the way and very happily married. She has a few businesses also but this one is keeping her busy. She just launched a new line of hygeine products called WONDER JANE and we talked to her about it.

LJ says “Aki and I always travel and my kid always go on public toilets, this kit saved me a lot of times and this small so you can bring it with you anywhere. Wonder Jane is from my real name, Lorna Jane. I wanted it to be simple and not too elaborate in packaging. I have other businesses but this I am really involved from scratch, I want to also have refill bottles and baby products in the future. It is made in the country, I want kids to bring it outside in their bags so they learn not to be messy.”

Wonder Jane Hygeine Kit Php 850

Undercover Wash - a liquid soap with no artificial fragrance. A cleanser for all parts of your body, no joke!

The Bug Rescue is a repellant for mosquitoes, no more dengue for kids and adults too! Lighlty scented.

The Anti Stink Bomb is to leave the toilet smelling really fresh so the next user won't complain after you use it!

The Hand Sanitizer is for disinfection without drying your skin!

The Bum Shield is a disposable seat cover, so you won't get scared using public toilets anymore!

She adds “It is important that I get my ideas and concepts out. These products have been tested by my friends and families, hopefully everyone will love this kit, I hope it can reach everyone because I would love it. The website will be available this Friday. I hope they could get the Wonder Jane Travel Kit and make it part of their lives. You may order through WonderJane.ph and get supplies from there starting September 15.”

This is promising but I hope she gets to have this in physical stores and channels because the website might not be enough to get her product out there. I have friends who would love this, I'm sure you do too so tell them all about it!

Keep it clean!

KUMAGCOW
Fresh Blogs Fast!

GMA's New Show D'Originals

Ladies, you've always dreamed of a perfect relationship right? But what if you suddenly find out that your man is not as "perfect" as you think he is? What if you found out that he's got another woman? Well, GMA wants you to see it on TV via this show called D'Originals. This stars Ms. Jaclyn Jose, LJ Reyes, Kim Domingo, Katrina Halili, Meg Imperial, Lovely Abella and a lot more!

LJ Reyes is here. She says "I am Marge and my character tries to hold my family together and while I'm busy with that, I kinda have problems with my own family. I will also have issues with my friends and their relationships, I enjoy meddling with their lives and I always get involved in situations that are very difficult for a woman. There's seduction, there's life that happens but you always have to do the right thing."

Kim Domingo plays Sofia a Zumba instructor and she's the girlfriend of Archie Alemanya's character named Art. She says "Watch for the things she does to catch her husband doing it with other women. We all have to be professional and know how to execute the scenes because there are times when it gets physical."

Katrina Halili says "My role here is Yvette and she's the other woman who's going to make Lando's life a living hell (played by Jestoni Alarcon)."

Meg Imperial plays Alice the sexy star who's had a past with Art trying to rekindle their romance as she tries not to get caught by the original one. She utters "There are a lot of reasons why there are women who go to miles of being the other woman,but they have their reasons."

Jestoni Alarcon who plays Lando says "This will teach people a lesson, the bad things that happen to people involved with a lot of women". Lando owns a security agency who's primary love is Josie played by Ms. Jaclyn Jose. 

Mark Herras is also here and he says "I am Caloy who just got back to the Philippines from his job as a singer from a different country. I didn't have a job or savings and we were left at home a lot of times so that's why we had a relationship too. We know life is crazy, but if a person has a partner we don't meddle with that so we don't have problems. We just need to find the single ladies."

Archie Alemanya plays Art who is an artist, plays around with 2 women because they can't help it. "I am shocked that there are men that do this, I need a one day sensual workshop with Meg and Kim."

Josie and Lando's son is Mikoy Morales who's exploring his sexuality, is also having problems. He's got a relationship with Elyson De Dios's character Darenn (of which he says is a straight guy but does go into relationships with gay men). They represent LGBT but it will be discussed more on the relationship of Mikoy coming out to his parents, how judgemental people are and the difficulties of maintaining their relationship. He also adds "Our relationship is a little on the cute side, being a little too young as well (16 year old boy), even if we didn't have physical contact, it was how the way our affinity with our family that matters."

Claui is Tim's youngest sister whilst Arnie Ross plays Precious who will also make matters worse as she partners with Yvette.

Adolf Alix the director says "The cast is different, we have a lot. The story is well researched and we interviewed real wives and other women who went into these relatioships. You know there are incidents like these seen in social media. You find it funny but if you think about it, these are real people. When someone watches TV and they emphatize with the characters they would really watch it. It's still a soap and based in emotions and we make sure there are real situations. If it's the rivalry between the other woman and the original one it would end early but there are family issues, domestic problems, we still need to discuss that other than just putting them on the spot. We have families and we can identify with the woman characters, limited time and budget but this series needs the emotions and characters and we move on to the next. I hope people understand the characters and what left them to do it. There are rehearsals, we talk about that how to execute. I enjoy making this a lot because I know how to handle them being I've done soaps with them in the past."

D'Originals will play from Mondays to Fridays right after Legally Blind and before Wowowin on GMA's Afternoon Prime.

KUMAGCOW

Fresh Blogs Fast!

10 Reasons Why You Should Watch Haunted Mansion by Regal Films this MMFF 2015

I had the chance to watch the movie in advanced so I think I'd be able to tell you reasons why you should watch Regal Film's entry to the Metro Manila Film Fest. I'll add a couple more reasons because we got to also talk to Direk Jun Lana and Janella Salvador after the screening and discussed scenes and more things about it without spoiling the movie. Let's start!

1. The story is interesting. You've got an interesting mix of the past and the future. There are several background information that isn't noticeable in the trailer which you'll find out if you discover the mysteries they put in it. There's a LOT!

2. They went over budget. They wanted this first salvo be something that would look good when you watch it in theaters and they've extended shooting just to give you scenes which can be only shot at night time. Even at the irk of Producer Mother Lily. It's not cheap.

3. Graphics are good, done in just specific scenes so you could still see some sort of realism as Direk puts it. You'll see that in the scenes of LJ Reyes specifically.

4. It was shot in a real mansion, owned by the Marcoses. They needed to make it grand and put in stuff to make it realistic. They also made graves at the back, which made people a little scared even if thet were the ones who put it there in the first place. 

5. You'll be scared, and you'll find interesting twists in the story. Don't be too complacent that the movie is already done. There's always a surprise waiting to happen. You'll be afraid over and over again.

6. Janella did a good job. She might even be nominated for best actress. 

7. If box office success isn't the measurement, they could even be in the running for Best Picture. Who knows?

8. The Marlo Mortel, Jerome Ponce and Janella Salvador love story is cute. Who's gonna win her heart? The answer might shock you, so you have to watch the film.

9. Janella is thankful for the trust given to her. The script has been made and updated for 6 years waiting for the right cast, and they just happen to be there at the right time. 

10. The friends, the enemies, the bullies and the cheerleaders actually make quite a stir. Some of them might die but you have to watch it to know who.

Here's our interview of Direk Jun Lana and Janella. 

Make sure you watch it on theaters today because it's something different. I saw people closing their eyes inside the theater, you might be doing that too. Trust me on that part. Congrats Haunted Mansion! I hope you do get good things on opening day!

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Dennis Trillo, LJ Reyes and Director Mike Tuviera for The Janitor

Director Mike Tuviera (center), Dennis Trillo and LJ Reyes for The Janitor

It's now out on theaters and this might be a little late already to post but here's a rundown of what happened during the blog conference of The Janitor. This is the same film that was shown in Cinemalaya's Director's showcase which stars hunky Dennis Trillo, LJ Reyes and a couple more people from ABSCBN and different networks. It's not usual that you see them in Star Cinema but since the film outfit is the one releasing it in cinemas, we got the chance to talk to them last week. I missed this during that festival so it's a good thing they're releasing it on regular theaters. It's more of a thriller, the plot is also rich with conflicts betweem Dennis and the other characters like Richard Gomez, Derek Ramsey and how the love of LJ Reyes makes it all worthwhile. LJ by the way was also lauded because it made them a bit more human according to foreign critics who watched the film. They also got to be invited in international festivals but they're still finalizing everything so watch out for that.

Dennis said he didn't have any hesitations accepting this film. He says he knows how the indie film industry works and it was more fulfilling for him because he's being praised doing his craft. He's been longing for projects like this and this was some sort of a jackpot for him seeing the roster of artists involved in it. Director Mike says he's flattered that the people have said it looks mainstream but he says he used the same equipment as those used in Hari ng Tondo because they helped each other doing that. LJ wanted to work with Dennis as a leading lady because she has worked with him in the past in supporting roles too. LJ was the perfect pick of Direk Mike, and so was the other characters... like a dream cast. They thought they would not be able to get them but suddenly, they all became available so that was a great thing. Two days before shooting, those impossible ones on Direk's list suddenly all came together, and they haven't even talked about payment yet.

Yasmien Kurdi, Rich Asuncion for GMA's "Yagit"

We had a treat a few days ago with GMA Artist Center ladies Yasmien Kurdi and Rich Asuncion at the Nail Cocktails nail salon in Tomas Morato, Quezon City. It's part of the Ultimate Bloggers Experience they promised us that day and it was awesome to have been able to talk to these two ladies from the Kapuso network. They've been very busy these past few months and I remember my last interviews with them quite vividly. 

Yasmien Kurdi and Richelle Asuncion is set to bring you "Yagit", based from one of the 80's most iconic series called "Mga Batang Yagit". They won't be using the same script but would make an updated version of it wherein everyone would be able to relate to. I used to watch this show when I was a kid and I knew most of the main villains because I got slightly afraid and scarred with Bella Flores when she was often hitting them with whatever she can grab at home, whilst sometimes she doesn't grab and throw anything but the kids themselves. It's drama, it's comedy, it's life all rolled into one. It did really good in the ratings before I'm sure because you won't probably see anyone not talking about it. It became part of the culture, part of every afternoon, and that's one of the reasons why this should be staged in this generation. They'll be heavily concentrating on the strengths of the show back then discussing family values, good manners, love and life.

When we asked Yasmien about how she got the role, she says "We were handpicked, we didn't have to really audition for the role. We have already taped for quite a while now, several months for Yagit. It's a different role for me, it's something new and something interesting. We're excited and interested about what will happen with the character in the script. I have already done so may scenes with the kids. In the beginning they were trying to learn the terminologies, the cameras they needed to look at, they are learning how it is on the set. They are all very promising, they have their own ways in acting and ways to attack a scene. I don't have favorites because they all do good." When asked about her kid Yasmien says "She's turning two in November, it's going so fast because I'm already having a two year old. My parents and I do enjoy my kid a lot. I can chase her around, watch cartoons with her and I'm very happy I get to spend time. I have a very supportive and loving husband, a very loving father to my daughter. I will rate him excellent or even more if that's allowed." and thanked her for the time we spent with her that afternoon.

Yasmien also shared what she has on her makeup kit, some beauty bloggers also did her make up that afternoon.

Looking gorgeous when she walked inside the nail spa is Rich Asuncion. I find her very beautiful and stunning in that pink number she pulled out from her closet. I sat beside her when she was getting her nails done whilst I was getting a foot scrub. It was relaxing and I got to talk to her more about her studies. She's doing good and she's almost going to get that elusive diploma pretty soon. It's so nice to see someone of her stature still eager to finish her studies even if she's already successful in show business. She also takes time to take care of herself and fancy natural products. She goes to spa's like once a month and usually just asks for home service. Her idea of relaxing is just staying at home, she goes out not that often. In Yagit, she's playing the role of Odette. She's the Executive Secretary of Donya Claudia who is the Mom of James Blanco's character. She's not naturally bad but since she likes James' character, she will be a little evil if the kids would be in the way. She says "The kids are remarkable, I find acting wise "Jocelyn" that she really studies the characters a lot and she really jumps into the character, "Ding" on the other hand is so natural that it's innate to act. "Tomtom" is hilarious and he's really a character, he always plays around with me while on set. Clauie is a little silent but looks so cute. Generally it's so fun to be with kids in the set. For me, it's a regular thing to be with new actors and young stars. It's a very light environment because they are kids. The downside would be that they'd forget that it is work. They are given only a few hours to do it. I see how people adjust to them and prepare everything. Director Gina Alajar is like a kid when they are shooting and I really find that fun as well." Here they are inviting you to watch it.

Yagit will start on October 13th, that's on Monday and you'll see Chlaui Malayao play Elisa, Zymic Jaranilla as Ding, Judie dela Cruz play Jocelyn, Jemwell Ventinilla as Tom-tom and Steph Yamut as Tiffany. This will be replacing hit show "Dading", you guys better watch it!

For more information about their artists:

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GMA Casts Remake of Drama Series YAGIT

It wasn't easy to choose the next big child star says GMA Executives and Director Gina Alajar.

I remember watching this when I was a kid and it involved a lot of drama about violence about children, adoption, relationships and the normal good versus bad point of view. During a very young age you get to kind of feel what it is like to be in their condition. The street kids, they all have stories. It's one of the reasons why another installment of the soap YAGIT is going to be done by GMA this year. We were in the final auditions a week ago, they didn't know that they were up for a surprise. 

Judie Dela Cruz auditioning for the role of Josie/Josielyn

Judie Dela Cruz did her monologue and we've all seen how good she was in convincing us how poor and needy she was in a few minutes. She had a mature vibe with her and I bet she's turning into an "Ate" or older sister here without any effort. Among the thousands who joined the auditions she's one of the few who had been called back for the final screen test. There's good reason too because she registers great in the camera especially in close up. Here eyes speak, so you can feel how she delivers Josie's lines at an entire other level. 

Cute boy no?? He's JM Andres. I think he's appeared on TV and some commercials already. He's auditioning for the role of Ding Reyes. As one of the kids, I find his enthusiasm and character really effective. I bet even small girls might go gaga over him. He also is a mean dancer. I can already see him apt for Sunday All Stars or something similar to that.

She's Chlaui Malayao. She's the little girl from the noodle commercial where she said "I love my hair, my Mommy, my kuya my lolo etc.". Her innocence just put us into a trance and she even cried on the spot without any help. She's auditioning for the role of Elisa. As one of the kids, she'll definitely going to play it cute. You'll love her once you see her, I know I did. She's also very charming and can sing a tune or two. For her age, she's a prodigy. I bet she's going to be a big star soon.

One of my favorite characters back then was Tomtom. This is the same role that Jemwell Ventinilla was actually auditioning for. This kid has natural comedic timing. He made us laugh profusely a couple of times and most of them are situational. That's a hard thing to do. Even if Director Gina Alajar was trying to be serious during the screen tests, she couldn't help but laugh when this kid cracks one or two jokes in between. He also did good but needs work on some of the angles, positioning and works with the camera but that can be easily managed. I bet if he gets casted in Bubble Gang, he'll prolly pass that!

Later on, they were called into the meeting room so they would know if they passed or not. Then Director Gina Alajar asked to have their parents and guardians to go with them too. When she broke the news, the kids just broke to tears... some just was so excited!

Their parents were also overjoyed! Honestly, GMA is gambling a lot here. They are literally going to cast some lesser known kids instead of the ones that are already on their stable. Yes ladies and gentlemen, these are the kids that are going to be the next stars of YAGIT.

The next time you'll see them, they're going to be in the remake of the 1984 classic. Jocelyn, Tomtom, Elisa and Ding will be a hit and they will be a regular name in your household pretty soon. They also mentioned that GMA stars Yasmien Kurdi, LJ Reyes, Rich Asuncion, James Blanco, Frank Magalona, Renz Fernandez, Maricris Garcia, Kevin Santos, Joana Marie Tan and Wowie de Guzman will be in it too. Looks promising? Of course it is! Let's see how Director Gina Alajar and their production executes this when it starts shooting hopefully next quarter. I'll watch!

For more information about their artists:

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