Laughter and Pain Abound "In His Mother's Eyes" This November 29

When Ms. Flor Santos (7K Entertainment producer) held the mic during the media conference, I was a little uncomfy - and feel her pain while she lengthily talked about not getting this in the Metro Manila Film Festival. I felt the same because I've been able to see some parts of the movie, early on, the trailers give little clues at how this would have been perfect for the occasion... but I guess fate had other plans. This film called "In His Mothers Eyes" would have been a nice addition to the stellar artists lined up for the festival. Imagine a Vilma, Nora, Sharon and Maricel fight in the box office, that would have been one heck of a lineup no? So now that it didn't happen, they're going to show this film earlier on November 29. You would expect this to be a little funny at times, but the story touches a little bit close to home with the life of one of its lead stars LA Santos, and it was a story so many in the same predicament, and Filipinos needed to see on the silver screen.

Maricel Soriano and Roderick Paulate have not been together in a film for a little over 11 years. When this was pitched to them, the script certainly was one of the factors why they said YES to the project. Add to that, the genius writing of Gina Marissa Tagasa (done various TV, Movie and ABSCBN projects) and Jerry Gracio (a Palanca multi-awardee), and Director FM Reyes taking charge, we got the impression from the cast that it would have been a mistake not to be in this film. LA Santos, plays Tim, a special kid who's mom Lucy (played by Ms. Maricel) had to leave to work abroad. His Guncle Bibs (Roderick Paulate) had to take care of him in her absence, which proved quite a difficult task because of the special needed care he had to do because of his condition. Seeing several trailers, their lines were things you would have to endure and try not to cry about as it was intense in several scenes, it was heartbreaking!

Maricel says "That part in the trailer where he pushed me, it was something I learned was caused by me changing his patterns. It was essential to tell the story. I think it also helped us that we are both orphans now in real life. We talk about being siblings and we already have something to start on. We have been with Regal Films in the past, fundamentally we are connected."

Roderick says "The pain of my character is certainly deep. The questions I asked here needs to be heard by siblings, and loved ones especially if you are going through the same situation. The relationship is there, but if you don't talk about it, nothing will get explained, nor will you get answers. The mere question of arriving, he didn't even ask Lucy. I guess it stems from the way our Director does things, he's not that nice (he kids). During the makeup test, he initiated to talk to me and Maricel. He told us how he adores us, our tandem, but he wants a different way to do it this time. He knows how to twist emotions of people especially because he's worked in TV for quite a long time. We have different personalities once we go out of our tents, it's about a family and we need to take that story and love across. He has his requirements and we do it on set. I remember getting called by a Director asking about LA Santos because the trailer alone already impressed him, that he promised to watch it when it comes out in theaters." 

LA says "I respected the role, it's a ton of research, I also talked to the parents from Best Buddies Foundation whom we all had a lot of help from during filming. I also talked to Clarence who is a special kid, I went with him, listened to his stories, and I'm so amazed about the heart they give in everything they do. He's got immeasurable empathy with people. I am amazed about him being in this spectrum, it's a wide one and kids are special in different ways. I want people to see this especially Filipinos. To hopefully, have them understand their plight because it's so difficult to see what they've been going through."   

Direk FM Reyes adds "I distinctly remember when I was a little guy, they were small then, and they are still small now (he kids about Roderick and Maricel). I'm a fan of their work, I am a friend, a lot of their films when you watch them, you get nervous, but since I knew them a bit I get to forget getting starstruck."

Here's our video coverage of the event, please enjoy!

In His Mother's Eyes hits theaters this November 29th. Cast also includes Ruby Ruiz, Rochelle Pangilinan, Elyson De Dios, Ogie Diaz, Maila Gumila, Bong Gonzales (of Sparks Camp), the lovely Vivoree (go watch our interview with her on our YouTube channel @kumagcow), Nolo Lopez, Skylee Alcalde and Inah Evans. Make sure to watch this Maricel Soriano, Roderick Paulate and LA Santos starrer because it's a great time to laugh and cry, learn things in one movie. This is produced by 7K Entertainment.

Waiting for MMFF 2023 Nod: Maricel Soriano Starrer "In His Mother's Eyes"

Intense scenes from Roderick Paulate and Maricel Soriano won't be shortchanged.

The Metro Manila Film Festival is near and I'm sure there must have been tons of films submitted in hopes to become part of it. This is special especially these holidays because being part of it isn't just economically rewarding, but has that certain prestige to be chosen amongst some of the best in the industry.

There's a Maricel Soriano, Roderick Paulate and LA Santos project called "In His Mother's Eyes" that wasn't included in the first four films, but I'd reckon it could break expectations if it does become part of the list (eventually) especially with the caliber of acting involved in it. Seeing Maricel Soriano almost stripped down and dependent on her capability to deliver emotions like no other gave me goosebumps during a special screening (of short clips to get a gist of the film).

Family Love

Multi awarded actor Roderick Paulate takes on a challenging drama, gives funny when it is needed in the film.

LA Santos got hospitalized in one scene, it was that intense. Boy has acting chops people should see. And his Mom said, much of the story is what he experienced in real life.

The film also discusses a few social issues. To answer a few questions like how you would measure Motherhood, the sacrifices people have to endure as OFW's and how it ultimately affects the family. There's also the point of LGBTQIA+ and the challenges to raise a child with special needs. All these in one movie that will make you laugh (the scenes with Ruby Ruiz must be seen!), cry and change your outlook on people. 

7K Production head honcho Ms. Flor Santos told us the story of how Ms. Maricel Soriano got the role and says "When they did Ang Sa Iyo Ay Akin, I was in China and they were locked in during the pandemic. He was a Mama's boy (LA Santos), he was crying and panicked a lot during different instances in the shoot, Maricel was there to calm him down. It was then agreed to continue this film, and just thinking about back then, I thought it was impossible. This is also the reunion of Roderick and Maricel, which is why we also had the best people at the back and front of the camera. To get this to foreign festivals, streaming platforms, I'd love that to happen. I know choosing Roderick Paulate had a lot of naysayers, but I wanted him to do this especially since I know he will do justice in the role. He exceeded expectations. I think it's God's way of telling us, we're good people, we are blessed."

I'd be disappointed if this doesn't get included in the MMFF 2023 lineup, as "In His Mother's Eyes" could very well cop acting awards based on what I've seen so far. The framing, photography, is also equally amazing. Here's hoping we don't have a let down.

Be Scared with The Heiress

Just watched The Heiress this evening at SM Megamall. This is their premiere night so we did expect the stars to arrive. This stars Janella Salvador, McCoy De Leon and the diamond star Ms. Maricel Soriano.

Ms. Maricel says "It was a joy to do this because we were laughing non stop while shooting scary scenes. Our knees hurt, Direk and I made sure you will still get scared with this movie."

True enough, it went discussing Fillipino folklore. They are the different kind of witches who specialize in making bugs, creatures to come out of your body. This will take your hallucinations into the next level, and show you how creepy it is to battle (or live with) a real deal mambabarang. Now don't go upsetting them in their own home, you might get the bitter end of the tale and get the curse if they do it to you, or maybe someone else will.

Maricel Soriano in this film is intense, she always is anyway so we expect nothing less from the diamond star (oooh and yes watch out for the very iconic lines!). You'll also be fond of Janella and McCoy's love story because they do have good chemistry (as Guia and Renz). I guess those loveteam things are gone, and it's cool to see them being paired with other actors. Though I hope not because I like Elisse and him together (sorry off topic). The movie creeps on you, just like the critters in the movie. I'd be scared for you if you didn't watch it!

Anyway, here's some scenes from the red carpet!

This will show on theaters on November 27, go see it for the fright! This is under Regal Films!

Restored Classic Films Showcased in Trinoma and Greenbelt

It's been a while since I've seen Maricel Soriano on screen, but it all was grand when I got to see her film "Ikaw Pa Lang Ang Minahal" remastered and in full digital format at Trinoma Mall a few days ago. It's the last day today and if you haven't seen it yet, I hope you do because it's the last day today April 24.

This is a project spearheaded by ABSCBN's Film Restoration Project in partnership with Ayala Malls. Tickets only cost Php 220 but can be discounted to Php 180 if you are a student. During the premier of this remastered film, they unveiled the new movie poster and true enough this Maricel Soriano and Richard Gomez starrer was just so gorgeous on screen. They have worked a lot on color grading, touching texture, even the music from Ryan Cayabyab. There are other titles which will be shown aside from this and I'd be glad if they extended this run.

The evening was star studded as cast members from the movie, even those behind the scenes made us all eagerly watch this film which Maricel Soriano laments "“Maraming salamat sa ABSCBN and I love how they restored it. This is one of the most amazing films even if I didn’t win all the awards, I am happy it made me more hungry to learn and do more films. I hope the future generations get to see this masterpiece.”

Again if you haven't catched these movies, there will more soon. ABSCBN

and Ayala will make sure you have a place to watch these really good movies!

KUMAGCOW

Fresh Blogs Fast!

Mr. Dingdong Dantes... This Hurts!

That moment when Mrs. Real couldn't take it anymore and confirms that Mr. Real had another Mrs. Real. Slowly.. it happened!

P.S.

Mr. Dingdong Dantes, please get your face checked after that scene. Argh!I am super sure that thing would just hurt your face! Ouch!

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Director Andoy Ranay, Dingdong Dantes and Maricel Soriano for "Ang Dalawang Mrs. Real"

It was a great day to get to know people from the show "Ang Dalawang Mrs. Real" which is one of the great prime time offerings  in GMA. I've written about Lovi Poe in the past and this time we'll get to know them (people in front and behind the cam) a little better as we got to talk with Director Andoy Ranay, Dingdong Dantes and the Diamond Star Ms. Maricel Soriano.

Director Andoy Ranay

Direk Andoy Ranay has been working behind the camera for years now and just recently, he has been the talk of the town because of the hit movie "Diary ng Panget" (Diary of an Ugly) which catapulted the career of James Reid, Andre Paras, Nadine Ilustre and Yassi Pressman. He said that the ready market of readers was one of the reasons why it became successful and he also attributes that project with VIVA getting the rights on it. The second one he's making isn't really a sequel but another book being made into film just like when they used to do it with Filipino comics in the past. It was a big surprise because he says these unknown actors were all lucky as fans of the book immediately supported the movie. The second project "Talk Back And You're Dead" is also banking on the fan base but they're also glad that they are also working with a giant production such as Star Cinema. There are going to be new actors and he knows the material is very good even if it was written by young ones. He adds "This is more serious and intense. I need to know how to get their psyche and know them as a person. Their life experiences are not much but the friendly approach is being done so I can get something from them". Direk Andoy also says "Working with veteran actors is easy, more so if you are in the leagues of the people you're working with in "Ang Dalawang Mrs Real". I still want to learn a lot, that's where I came from... the theater. My passion is acting too. I impart what I learn from that to kids... but working with Maricel is a dream. I watch her during the early years but I try so hard to also not be overwhelmed. This project was offered to her but we only knew each other as friends. Now as a director, she asked for a dinner so we can get to know each other. She assured me that she will give her respect, talent and everything to me. Her presence really is like that so I try not to be star struck every time we meet on the set."

With regards to the show, comparisons he says was not too present because he knows he's telling a different story. The legal wife was on the point of view of the wife. This one's more on the guy's side and the issue of bigamy. This is where they concentrate and not too much on the other women in his life. They are concentrating on the families and the three big actors on the project. You can expect that there will be a big confrontation soon and he mentions that they are brewing that right now. Maricel will release or unleash her madness soon. Direk Andoy says he is inspired just to work with Dingdong, Lovi and Ms. Maricel. He also says he appreciates how much effort they put into this and even better on the next few taping days. It only takes them a few takes because they really know how to do it already. They don't really give any inputs because they want Direk Andoy to take charge. If they did that, Direk Andoy would have given them the Director position..  and we laughed a bit about that. 

Direk Andoy was a joy to interview and he was very nice too. He didn't give out that aura of being too strict while we were there and says the rumors before were really not true. I've seen it myself that evening.

Lovi Poe Shines in GMA's New Drama "Ang Dalawang Mrs. Real"

Gorgeous goddess and premier drama actress Lovi Poe is at it again. After the very successful shows in the Kapuso network, she's back to play the role of Sheila Salazar - Real in long awaited "Ang dalawang Mrs. Real". She'll be playing opposite Diamond Star Maricel Soriano and paired with third sexiest man in the world Dingdong Dantes. 

Her role in this series would be a lot different than those which she has previously played as she'll be a lot adventurous and strong willed. She's going to give it all for her man. Her vulnerability will also show in the series, much like any woman in her situation. Playing as her husband Anthony Real is Dingdong Dantes. She fell in love and got married with him, not knowing that another one exists. 

Lovi says “My character here as Shiela has a strong personality and is a bit boyish. As compared to my role in ‘Akin Pa Rin ang Bukas’, my character there was a little too weak, she just became strong when she sought revenge. In this one, she already was strong in the beginning but when she found out what happened… no matter how strong she was as a woman, when our hearts get broken.. we just sometimes give up. I think that's exactly what’s going to happen”.

Lovi Poe is excited about this project as she is going to work with critically acclaimed actors like Ms. Maricel and Dingdong. Will she fight for the love or give up once she finds out about the affair? Don't miss this very special Teleserye from GMA on June 2; to be shown during the GMA Telebabad time slot. This is another promising project after Lovi Poe's hit shows "Akin Pa Rin Ang Bukas", "Legacy" and "Yesterday's Bride" proven with high ratings and great performances bar none.

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