It's been years since Encantadiks had seen a whiff of what have been DanAquil, the love between Aquil who commands the army of Lireo and Danaya, one of the 4 Sanggres who controls the Gem of the Earth (played by Alfred Vargas and Diana Zubiri). These two live super happy and separate lives now, but recent videos of their 2005 series resurfaced and have been talked about on different platforms, bringing nostalgia to many Encantadiks the world over!
The two have been loved during the Etheria: Ang Ika Limang Kaharian Ng Encantadia (Etheria: The 5th Kingdom of Encantadia) and also the sequel Encantadia: Pag-Ibig Hanggang Wakas (Encantadia: Love Until The End). They proceeded to do several more projects under GMA including a reality show in mid 2006. They also had a film during the same year together with legends Eddie Garcia and Gloria Romero. It was directed by Nose Javier Reyes under Seiko films, plus a 2003 flick Liberated under Direk Mac Alejandro. In 2016, they had different roles for the second chapter of Encantadia as Alfred did Amarro, while Diana did the role of LilaSari, which were both so colorful. Rocco Nacino and Sanya Lopez then took on their Aquil and Danaya roles which catapulted their careers too.
Alfred's appearance in Encantadia marked his comeback in GMA-7. Then in 2011, he started making several series in ABSCBN's stable, and then moved to concentrate on public service during that time.
Alfred reacted to the videos that came out on FB and TikTok and said "This may have happened a long time ago but I'm so glad to see that there are still a lot of people who still get "kilig" with our pairing. When I was tagged and sent this video, I was so elated how it still trended on the platform. Diana and I had a really good working relationship which is why we remain friends until now. I hope we can make more movies or be in a series soon.
I hope GMA or ABSCBN would see how fans remain so happy to see them together after all these years. Will they be given the chance to reprise roles or maybe paired in new shows soon?!
Looks like there exists a movement to make an action comedy flick called "Batang Paco". Direk Rechie Del Carmen has confirmed they are already building an ensemble cast for it. Known for character driven films, she wants to make this intricately done by choosing apt ones for roles, because this isn't just going to be action and comedy, but will also contain family drama which Producer Ana Abiera Del Moral says Direk Rechie understands, and needs to have meaningful emotional core, so they could breathe new life to these characters once the film starts rolling.
They also divulged the appearance of Chichi Rita, who's wit and charm will rival lead actors Empoy Marquez and Ms. Aiai Delas Alas comedic powers, it's going to be more fun than usual. The cast also includes Mon Confiado, Ynez Veneracion, Richard Quan, Alma Concepcion, Lara Morena, Natasha Ledesma, Gerard Acao, Kookoo Gonzales, Josh Ivan Morales, Kim Rodriguez, Jovi Vargas and Quentin Molo among others. It's going to be a crazy time and very Manila, written by one of the most successful writers in cinema, Ms. Gina Marissa Tagasa. This will be under MiVida Productions Inc., and "Batang Paco" will hit theaters on February 18th, stay tuned for that!
Got to watch the movie and musical entitled "The Heart of Music" starring prime actress Gladys Reyes, together with the very talented singer-actors Robert Sena, Isay Alvarez, Angel Guardian, 80's heart throb Rey PJ Abellana, Ms. Marissa Sanchez, dance couple JopayPaguia, Joshua Zamora, and a throng of new child actors in the mix..
It's a very light-hearted story of a woman who happened to change the lives of a family using the power of love, singing and music.There are also several scenes where they teach life lessons about family, relationships, building dreams, aspirations, and the harsh realities of raising children.
It had the right touch of Filipino humor, culture, and as Ms. Gladys put it, it was a dream role for her. She's been doing dramas for most of her acting life and one of her bucketlist items was to do a musical. She prepared for this by old school Karaoke style, but also involved a voice coach since it would really need execution that wasn't so familiar to her as a primetime drama actress.
Despite its shortcomings (albeit a few), it gave most of its spirit to how people could learn a thing or two about family, of having good manners, things that would fit be watched by children. I heard a lot of feedback from those who got to watch the screening that this would be perfect to show this to kids who are under the Department of Education (Elementary Schools), and I totally agree. It does make sense since it has little elements that they could learn from, and it'll be quite entertaining as a medium because it is after all filled with music and singing, done by some of the most talented folks in theater, and PH entertainment.
Here's the fun mediacon on video, please enjoy!
This shows on December 10 in cinemas nationwide! And as Ms. Gladys said, this could beat those big Hollywood movies, see if it does on theaters! This is Directed by Paolo Bertola and written by Mario Gatdula Alaman (who also did the music).
Screenings (the advanced ones) have already begun for the movie musical "Nasaan Si Hesus?". It is a story about folks, their community and their unending thirst to find the reason for their existence, slated to show in SM Cinemas this December 3rd, nationwide!
It was cool to see several iconic 80's and 90's stars be part of the cast. It's a musical, so the caliber of singers must fit the characters of the original stage production. From Janno Gibbs, to Rachel Alejandro, Geneva Cruz, Jeffry Hidalgo (I almost thought they would complete Smokey Mountain), comedienne Ms. Marissa Sanchez, the well loved vixen Salome Salvi, Ms. Via Antonio, Chloe Jenna, Cecil Paz, new stars Rachel Gabreza and Giani Sarita. Not to mention multi awarded actor Bembol Roco and musical mainstay Jerald Napoles.
Much of the songs were made by Mrs. Lourdes Pimentel (Bing for her closest friends in the industry). This is also directed by Dennis Marasigan (including screenplay). The project is an adaptation of the original work done by Ms. Pimentel and Nestor Torre who wrote and directed the piece.
Much of the story delves on a community trying to find answers on everyday struggle. They eventually find out how God took care of things, and how it changed their lives. It's also interesting how they managed to show how faith comes into play, not just having someone to believe in but how blessed they are despite their circumstances. This film is the handy work of production firms Balin Remejus Inc and Great Media Productions Incorporated. If you want to know more about it, follow the social channels of Great Media Productions and Management (especially on FB). It's time you see how talented Filipino singers and actors are, and this might be a sure fire way to prove how faith helps in anything.
Try to find yourself in the characters, and connect with it!
If you're in the look out for indie films, there's a lot being showcased at the CINEGOMA: RK Rubber Film Festival. It's an open film festival hosted by RK Rubber Enterprise Corporation to feature student and non-professional films that tell stories of resiliency, grit, determination and the Filipino spirit. They are also making sure the film makers are going to be featured in several locations across Quezon City.
This is their 6th installment, so far from the initial 6 films independently produced when they started, they now have a little over 50 films shown in several locations. They also have some of the films released in other provinces like Olongapo City prior to this launch in Quezon City. They also did a parade to promote the CINEGOMA Film Festival around Quezon City Circle grounds with a full on band, street dancers, participants and the UST Salinggawi Dance Troupe. 6th installment not only means film, but workshops and several mainstream works that are exhibited for the filmmakers and the public.
Xavier Cortez the CEO of RK Rubber who heads the festival says "I feel pressured because of the introduction but this is the 6th year of the CINEGOMA Film Festival. Thank you to the organizers, to the employees of RK Rubber, the production department of the same corp, the logistics department and operations, to RK Rubbers Cebu, Cagayan de Oro, the RK Rubber Davao and to the media who went here for the opening of CineGoma. You are giving them voice, to those who volunteered and supported CINEGOMA and provided expertise and experience, to help make sure we get to understand how go organize this show and emman dela Cruz. We also have the sales department of Manila who got us huge projects to contribute here. If we are this big and do this every year, there will be more than 40 films that will benefit from it. Folks have never got tired of CINEGOMA because the independent and small filmmakers are being given experience, so they too can tell their stories. Each of you have stories, unique ones that can change the lives of others. Because if we do that, there will be a huge impact on communities, and I hope this 6th CINEGOMA becomes bigger in the next few years as we imagined it to be."
He adds "I feel proud that my once schoolmates are now cheering for a person who wants good things to happen with filmmakers. I get teary eyed, because they're so proud of me too. For all who participated, full length or shorts, congratulations to all of you! I'll do my best to make this better, give more opportunities for filmmakers and this is all for you!"
Here's what happened at QCX that morning:
This year's categories are separated into Student, Commercial, Pro, made with AI and RK which are meant for RK Rubber Enterprise employees only. As mentioned by Sir Xavier, prizes amount from 5,000 pesos to 25,000 pesos depending on the award category. This will run from November 24-29, and the awards will be given at the Quezon City University on the last day. Make sure you watch the films at Sine Pop and exhibitions around Quezon City during this time because after all, it's the City of Stars! (Please check schedule on CINEGOMA social channels).
This is certainly a great way to showcase their talents, and hopefully, the ones who have a lot of promise gets noticed especially the students. They were very eager to showcase their work during the festival launch. Congratulations to RK Rubber Enterprise Corporation for mounting this every year!
Actor Carlos Morales aka Carl Woodruff Jr. in real life just made an impression with his movie WILD BOYS during its premiere night last June 3rd at Gateway Cinemas. This is a totally different hat from his sexy film stints in the 2000's with titles like "Laro sa Baga" which he did with Chito Roño, "Babaeng Putik", "Red Diaries", "Bigasan" and more. His directorial debut was in 2015 for the film "Piring" and it has gotten screenplay and 2nd best picture nods at the World Premieres Film Festival.
He took a hiatus in 2020 because of the pandemic and practiced his nursing profession in the US. He wanted to go back since he's done film making at the New York Film Academy (2016) knowing that he's so passionate about the craft. He finished filming WILD BOYS and then sought a July-August play date.
This is his passion project, and together with his friends, a throng of very supportive actors, he was able to quench his thirst for music and dance. WILD BOYS had all original tracks and several dance numbers included in the film. Think of it as a Filipinized version of Magic Mike, which had a great spin in building individual characters. I thought I was going to hate it, but no, it was super entertaining!
The film includes hot brothers Aljur and Vin Abrenica, excellent character actors Martin Escudero, Kristof Garcia, Nico Locco (who did his character crazy), Hashtag Jimboy Martin, former PBA Pro Arwind Santos, Christian Ty, Billy James, super hot Christian Singson, Rash Flores, and new guy Pedro Red. The film also includes Paul Alvarez, Rolando Inocencio, Cataleya Surio, Mariposa, CJ Garcia, Ms. Krista Miller, Ms. Ina Alegre, the funny Atak Araña, and new comeback comedy queen Inday Garutay.
Story wise, the film tend to be a bit raw. They have made the effort to introduce each one, and since it's an ensemble cast, it took a huge chunk of the play time. I felt it was necessary and folks in the cinema appreciated it. If the plan was doing a series, it begged a sequel because they definitely could do a lot with the WILD BOYS.
The film also talks about poverty, resilience, reaching for their dreams. Since this is WILD BOYS, you'll see them get naughty at times and slowly make the wishes of matrons and gays a reality. The film is R-13 and will be shown in cinemas very soon.
Sitting with a throng of screaming Noranians inside a full cinema was certainly not what I expected to see in the screening of FANEY (The Fan) at the Gateway Cineplex just this evening. This is a film by Director Adolf Alix Jr., made as a tribute to the one and only superstar Ms. Nora Aunor who passed a few weeks ago.
This is the handy work of producers RS Francisco, Frontrow International, Intele Builders, Noble Wolf and AQ Films. It is written for cinema by the Director himself, and quite hard to do since it's election season and the energy is pretty down because of our loss, she's a national artist of course!
They
coincided the screening with the superstars birthday, which is today
May 21st. Editors surely had sleepless nights just to make sure it got
shown on this date. Laurice Guillen is good at her craft, uttering iconic lines of Nora Aunor, she made it felt how it is to be a loyal fan. Doing it on screen was no easy job, but she took us along for the ride.
She was flanked by Direk Gina Alajar (who played her daughter) and Kapuso Actress Althea Ablan (as her grandchild) in the film. Direk Gina's character was more of a protective one, who didn't understand how becoming a fan of Nora Aunor meant you would need to have lots of sacrifices including your own family.
If you are a fan of the Superstar, you'll really have to pay attention to the references of this film because a lot of it will be based on Nora Aunor's movies. You'll get moments to ask yourself if what you are watching is real, or a line from another project of hers. It's like every scene would become a test if you know this movie they are referring to or not. Add to that their family dynamics, how they unleashed their anger because they couldn't believe her passion, her loyalty to her idol, and how it has affected their families too. It also showcases the bond, the reasons on how a Noranian is built different and why they remain and adore her to this day.
This film also has gems, like Bembol Roco who brought Nora centric romance in the movie. There's also Roderick Paulate who did several scenes that would rival his fun movies in the 80's, Ms. Perla Bautista who at 85 still felt sharp with her character. You will also get to feel the rivalry between Ms. Nora and Vilma Santos, as there will be bouts of it in the movie. Althea Ablan on the other hand did good as she represents a generation who understands why Noranians are still Noranians. Bring lots of tissues if you are a fan, because this is all about Ms. Nora Aunor and YOU as a fan. The real stories they shared are all incredible, and told by the people themselves, front and center.
It's a well made piece, stay for the ending because you'll feel the nostalgia that her life brings. It is a proper tribute for the Superstar, the National Artist we all adore and love.
I've asked myself a couple of times, I didn't get to answer why. One, I wasn't quite familiar with the superhero group even if I was a big fan of films from the outfit. But when I heard that THUNDERBOLTS was in SM Cinemas this month, I saw Filipinos lined up like clockwork. This is a film by Marvel Studios, spread by Disney in theaters, and I got more than what I bargained for.
1. Thunderbolts had really good actors. Even though I didn't know most of them, one thing they didn't lack is the ability to convey emotion, Florence Pugh, Lewis Pullman, Geraldine Viswanathan, David Harbor, Wyatt Russel and Sebastian Stan all made it easy to digest because characters were believable, funny at times, and easy to relate to. It's like you know them even though you really don't know them.
2. Florence Pugh as Black Widow is different, but I like her take despite of us being a more Scarlett Johansson fan. While new, she took this on like a pro so you'll see her as a bored working assassin from Russia. Trained and gifted as a kid, she becomes her own persona. She doesn't become a hero overnight and this is her movie (even though they're a group).
3. Bucky is back, Sebastian Stan gains a suit and played politics as a day job. By no means that would hamper him from becoming the Winter Soldier that he is. He is still explosive as ever. That iconic arm of him gets clowned by fellow heroes, and this isn't an exception. You'll be reassured though that he's got it all together. He's more matured, and I love it.
4. Lewis Pullman plays Bob. Just Bob. You need to see how he changes. He's extra. But he's just Bob.
5. Director Jake Schreier had a brilliant vision. Executed it well, and doesn't need a forensic scientist that these things are connected. There will be various times you'll see Easter eggs in the middle and end credits scene like what normal Marvel movies do.
6. David Harbor is an absolutely adorable human being. His character might be funny most of the time, but that's where he's going to just chuck you with his ability to pull heartstrings. Then attempt to make you cry, he's going to do a remarkable job in doing it.
7. Wyatt Russel's version of the US Agent is a tiring and frustrating one. He reminds me of a Taco. Watch out for his story.
8. Hannah John Kamen as Ghost wasn't given much of an interesting scene although this counts as her origin of some sort. Maybe she'll be in future MCU scenes where we'll get to see even more of her abilities. Maybe she was too hard to edit in.
9. It ain't a filler, I think it's a necessary prelude to something big.
10. It was able to pull its own weight. It might have mentioned bigger ones but it's a story worthy to be known now. Definitely deserves to be seen in SM Cinemas, because it feels different. It wouldn't really make justice if it's just seen in a computer/phone screen if you want to stream.
NASHIE BOY BONUS
It's also a great movie to watch with friends who equally love the Marvel Cinematic Universe. I met Nash Aguas, his wife Mika Dela Cruz, Nashies Admin Philip, my neighbor Rai and actor Andre Garcia (whom I also haven't seen in a while). Man, I couldn't hug them but I miss them a lot. Nash is different, but still the same humble guy I've met back in the day. So proud of him and his achievements. It was also my first time to see Mika in person, super cute couple. Ugh, this moment made the movie even more special!
Regal Entertainment's scary movie offering "UNTOLD" was just given an advanced screening and scream party at the SM City North Edsa's THE BLOCK. It was witnessed by Regal Entertainment head honchos Keith Monteverde and Roselle Monteverde. While Jodi Sta. Maria is out of the country filming an international project, actresses Sarah Edwards and Kaori Oinuma attended the screening to say hi to lucky students, fans and media covering the event.
Jodi plays Vivian Vera, a reporter/anchor for a TV station. The film was easy to absorb at first, but it is a psycho thriller, full of jump scares and g0re. It was also very claustrophobic because much of the entities come from different directions. This is also about PTSD, mental health, and family.
Keith and Roselle Monteverde, Regal Entertainment Inc. is personally working on this film
This seems like a huge experiment for Jodi, and the film is full of things that would make you question realities. You get scared for a while then end up being in a flashback, or immerse in a supposed alter reality then see it being true. You also won't be able to invest too much on characters because one minute they're goody two shoes, the next day they're going to the underworld. Her involvement with all of them is consistent though, which again, made this story line cerebral, it makes you think and question every time what is true, what is happening now, and what's not.
The entertainment value certainly is enough for a Jodi Sta Maria film, and if you doubt her capability to scare, I've seen several people in my row screaming at times. Much of the content is psychologically heavy, and you'll feel the struggle on why the characters are doing what they are doing, even after the "afterlife". The narrative is stressful, so make sure you are ready for this horror film because by any standards, Jodi did justice with hear character. You'll also love some not so serious things that JK brings, which gives relief despite the heavy plot.
Director Derrick Cabrido may have had a field day doing this with an actress that is capable of playing complex personalities. She did phenomenal, and the script certainly has been researched well. If you are practicing witchcraft (not that I'm insinuating you are), you'll also be seeing a lot of clues why we say that. This is another layer that you should discover when you watch it on theaters on April 30.
If you want a really good thriller and scare this month, you should take your family and friends to the cinemas and watch THE CARETAKERS.
This is a film masterfully crafted for the silver screen by Director Shugo Praico. After watching it in SM North Edsa - The Block last night, I would agree with the R13 rating because for starters, it's pretty intense, has quite a few twists as expected, and would require a more mature audience because of scenes apt for that age. I'd reckon comparing it with Regal Entertainment's Shake Rattle and Roll series but with a fresher, grander pov, but still does those scare and revenge plots quite good.
It also gives a lot of importance to musical scoring, something this film has definitely done remarkably well because the surprises in the story would require that, and make you feel a bit invested with Iza Calzado and Dimples Romana's characters. Which reminds me, this certainly screams masterclass because 2 of the most formidable actresses in the country are doing these interesting characters. It's like 2 geniuses working on one project, and to do something extreme like this would show their range, unquestionable, done like pros. The cinematography is also something to be lauded. It felt like a Hollywood film inside the cinemas. The color grading is amazing and you can feel how they took time editing this film to make sure you're seeing something good in theaters.
Ms. Iza says "This is horror of course, but in hindsight, it's a story of mothers who would want to fight for their rights in owning the lot. Horror was used as a tool to tell that story. Though this has a huge back story, of the one who owns the lot on paper, or the ones that took care of the property for years. Are they really after the home, or are they just making sure the next generations would still see it. Working with her, it was super easy. Our co stars, the production, it was light and easy on set because I love learning from people. As a mother, as a business woman, I admire her on so many levels because she's smart. On set, you won't have to think about it, our energy levels are the same, I can depend on her and that makes part of the work done. She's not there to overshadow other artists, it was a very good dance. Production was also A+, we were spoiled and made everything easy. We even had coffee, fruits, food handy. I've always loved that concept where you go to work and just relax in the same way. The shoot was efficient, you have producers and staff that does their job fast. There was no lack of preparation, we finished it in 8 days. We even had delays but did it super fast. It's also a zero waste production, it was a great experience. The ecological aspect of the film is also seen in the way they made it. We hope this would also translate in what people would learn from the movie."
Dimples added "After watching the film, being in the real estate industry gave me somewhat an advantage to do this character. My husband and I invest heavily in that industry and when this story was presented to me, it wasn't far from what I think of land and its use. It could nurture, or destroy you. It made me think about how owning a title doesn't necessarily mean you are the rightful one to own a property. It makes you think in a bigger picture, and how we are all just property managers in one way or form. Over time, you get to think a lot about ownership even if you lease or sell the property to another person. This is not just horror but has so many underlying stories in it. Philippine cinema is evolving, and stories won't seem to be what it is on paper. This is the first movie I'm doing with Iza and I hope people see how special it is. We don't usually have projects because we often get the same character, but she guested in one project. Working with her is bliss, I know it would be fun but didn't realize it would be THIS FUN. When we are working on set, we usually see it as relief, but we're both moms and we see how we get to do a lot on set rather than just the things we do at home. She's one of the reasons why I see motherhood as a noble profession, I was doing teleseryes left and right, but working with her was intentional, but super easy because of her. She's like family. It was a very good experience, so many firsts, and hope you will see that in the film."
We also got to talk to the other cast members particularly Marco Masa, Jake and Jessica Taylor about their experience being in the film. Jake and Jessica are famous on YouTube and on Facebook, and this was a first for them. Marco on the other hand is quite seasoned despite his age and shared how he was so glad to be included in this project (he's been in a few on his own, and super thankful for the numerous projects he's in). Other stars like Inka Magnaye, Ashley Sarmiento, Althea Ruedas, Erika Clemente, Erin Rose Espiritu completes the cast. Listen in!
This is a movie that's entertaining, will teach you about the value of family, love, having responsibilities and taking ownership. This will be out on theaters tomorrow so if you have time to go to cinemas, this should be on your list. It will be on over 100 theaters and is under Regal Entertainment and Rein Entertainment.
This is one scary place... and makes you ask who the rightful owner is!
Just got out of the cinemas after watching the Marvin-Jolina reunion movie called Ex Ex Lovers. It certainly brings back memories of the 90's couple we've seen on TV and the movies.
Marvin Agustin and Jolina Magdangal Escueta play parents to soon to be wed characters of JK Labajo and Loisa Andalio. It felt like we were in a time space warp because the loveteam still works. Before the screening, we talked to Marvin and Jolina in the sidelines and they said that it was easy to make this film because once the film rolls, Jolina just turns into a worm squirming and giddy like they used to. She also adds how they never even have to talk about the scenes because it was like they never even had to lift a finger, effortless in fact. They're both so glad about how the new generation of folks get to be fans of what they are doing on screen, something they have been trying to do for years. They even read feedback on Reddit about how those who didn't quite adore them in the past are now fans of the tandem.
The movie is cute, has little spots of laughter, and some serious drama scenes that involves family. They also have filmed most of this film in Malta, which makes some of the scenes so picturesque. The quality of the cinematography is impeccable, and the story is quite nice. I bet Marvin Jolina fans would LOVE this not just because they are here, but it has its own merits.
Go watch EX EX LOVERS in cinemas nationwide. It will also be shown in selected countries as distribution was confirmed by them earlier. I heard US, North America and the Middle East is included. Go see it and expect the kilig! This is produced by Project 8, Cornerstone Studios, and distributed by Warner Brothers.
Finally had the chance to talk to the cast of EVERYTHING ABOUT MY WIFE yesterday at their mediacon. For starters, Jennylyn Mercado has been heavily missed, and she's working with her hubby Dennis Trillo in this movie. They're also doing this with Sam Milby, a proper character for the man who looks like a true blue Cassanova, so when they showed this a couple months back, I was so excited for it.
The event was also graced by co-stars Ms. Carmi Martin, Alex Agustin, Polo Laurel, Joyang of TikTok fame, Chico Alicaya and Karlo Aranza.
The plot is simple, Jen and Dennis' characters are married, they get bored and irate over the continuous yapping, felt about to give up, then Sam's character comes along. With a sculptured physique, smooth talk, will they give up their marriage or stay? Imagine the situations left for imagination, the journey must have been filled with hurt, funny clap backs, thirst traps and romantic talk.
Director Real Florido says "There is a need for romcom films. I've been doing indie movies, started it about 10 years ago. I've done 2 Cinemalaya entries, but I feel it's not Indie vs Commercial films anymore. The lines are blurred. You make it now because you are a filmmaker. Romcoms have the same importance as with other genres. We tell stories that inspire and sometimes pull heartstrings. It's one of the reasons we do films like these, because they want to see it and the public demands it. Filipinos are suckers for love, we want that fleeting feeling, we want to laugh and cry with the characters we see on screen. We do that with friends, we talk about our relationships, open up about it, and we relate to them too. It's always a part of conversations, and makes us feel alive."
Dennis told us "It's fun to make films like these because it's relatable, to do characters that are universal. For artists like us, we do these like ourselves, we are husband and wife in real life. Some of the scenes here are things we also do."
Jen added "Like what Dennis said, it's familiar territory. We enjoyed it though, and working with my husband is such a joy. It's feels so good to do scenes, and I'm sure when people see it, they will relate to our characters."
Sam says "It's hard, a challenge for me to do this character. They say I shine when I'm evil, but Miguel is a Cassanova, a womanizer. Direk was there to help me out. I'm a shy introvert, so this one is overly confident, and I try to be out of my comfort zone to do this."
Here's the whole mediacon on video, please sub, and enjoy!
The producer CreaZion Studios was represented by their CEO RJ Agustin. For those who want to see it, the film will be shown on February 26th. The premiere night will be on the 25th at SM Megamall if I'm not mistaken so if you want to see the stars, you should go there! This is produced by CreaZion Studios and GMA Pictures. Jen and Dennis was thought to have produced this too but no, because this came before Green Bones and their production outfit was launched last year.
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!).
