The MANZANOS: Luis and Jessy Reflect on Tumultuous Year

When I see Luis and Jessy, I feel like it's going to be a beautiful day. Their pleasant smiles has always been something people love, and for good reason, as they are very good people. This isn't the first time that I've seen Luis and Jessy, because back in the day, I've seen Luis at gym and several press conferences for shows in ABSCBN. Jessy on the other hand has been so genuinely lovely during an interview for "The Girl with the Orange Dress" which was her last film project(?) before going on a supposed hiatus. 

Luis then became very busy with a lot of things, including scandals which he addressed plus an exhausting electoral run that he admitted to have taken a toll on his mental health. He was lucky (literally) that he had Jessy on his side, that no matter what things may have happened these past few years. Jessy on the other hand went on recovery mode (since Peanut came) and also made sure they both spent time with her because they want too experience that too. Specifically on her formative years, but now reflects on it as the kid took Luis' mannerisms + naughtiness and and Jessy's innate kindness.

Jessy says "I really am thankful about a lot of things, not claiming redirections, but confidently I think we found our path as a couple. Me returning after 6 long years, finally I was reminded why I started in this career. I now have experience to bring, coming from real life. I am thankful for Star Magic and Hawhaw, I talk about work and things that make me happy. When Mumskie is asking stuff, it's mostly for updates about us and her son, she calls and really asks me, and treats me as her daughter. I am so lucky to have a very good MIL."

Lucky also credits Jessy and said "She shows me things behind the scenes (about her current shows), she's really happy. I also realized the programs that were battling it out on TV (media asked about his shows in same time slots in different channels). The magic of streaming is that you can go back and watch it. There's also the vlog where she's more open, more spontaneous. Recently people have been inquiring about hosting jobs, we've done it together in past shows and it may happen soon."

We also got to talk about how they actually fell in love. It was interesting because Luis was actually dumped twice before being officially a couple. It was crazy but he detailed that on this video:

Yes, it was a challenging few years for Luis and Jessy. To say that they've been through a lot is short of a joke, because it was complicated, scary, even dangerous. These two went through those issues together, and as Jessy puts it, she had to step up and be there for her husband especially during the most difficult times, more so after giving birth and being a full time home maker.

Tumultuous as it was, it was a challenge that never stood a chance because at the end of the day... they've got each other. They also told us about their relationship with Ms. Vilma Santos whom they've described treated Jessy as her own daughter since day 1. It's inspiring to see that despite of it all, love was there for them.  

Congratulations Luis and Jessy, can't wait to see your future projects and the ones you're already doing now!

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

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

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

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

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

 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Can't wait to see it in December!

Film Director Joyce Bernal for "Everything About Her" by Star Cinema

We're talking to Director Joyce Bernal who did this new film "Everything About Her" starring Vilma Santos, Angel Locsin and Xian Lim. A stellar cast means it would be difficult to put them into the character's shoes. Direk says "She's a given, a very good actress and I had to find something that irritates her so we can do her role. She's not a diva in real life but when she does it, she delivers. The people I meet and really look up to, that's where I got her back story. We worked on it and see what she wanted to build from that. About her in laws, about trying to prove herself. She's Vilma, she was a dream, and I got to work with her. When the script was given to me, I was so happy, that was around March last year. I haven't worked with Angel, but they're not perfect, when I read the script and analyzed it, I made them who they are. It's a long process, it's not a romcom and I admit it was really difficult to work with Angel and Xian, it was a challenge. Although I've worked with Xian and I don't have qualms with him, the characters in this movie so I had to make it easy in the scene. The role of Angel is very "Epal" and I had to think of ways to do that because she is different in her past projects."

"Xian and I was pressured because in the actors, he's the one who has to prove something and we prepared for it, he did his homework. He emails me about scenes but we end up just talking about it and talk so he gets prepared. Hopefully people wouldn't ask anymore why he was casted because you'll know once you watch the film. There are funny and sarcastic scenes from Vilma that you should also watch out for because this is not predictable. You think she's evil, but you'll see something else why they became that way. You'll see how the three characters get intertwined and at some point it's going to be serious as it is cancer. "

"Angel and Xian had to also work together and even if Luis and Kim might be identified with them, they had to make it look real and be in character. They did deliver for me and I hope that's what people will see. If you see Vilma bad in this movie, I wanted to actually have it be more than that, full blown, she never hesitated and she asks me about it, we agree and she never even fought me about anything. Luis visited the set and watched the scenes, we joked about him being biased."

"Vilma wants to be different every time and that's why we made her that way. We made her look evil, have mannerisms and sarcastic remarks. She's very concerned and she did made efforts, I didn't allow them to talk on the set because that's what I wanted to build in the very beginning. I didn't want them to throw lines behind scenes and just do it on set because they had to be distant."

This much awaited movie from Star Cinema will definitely make your trip to the movie house worth it. With the caliber of actresses, the good looking actor, and a new story line to work with, this is a refreshing view on what a Vilma Santos can do on the silver screen. It's a must watch and will show on January 27, 2016.

For more information about their artists:

Star Cinema

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http://www.starcinema.com.ph/

The Voice Kids Philippines

This is a moment in TV history that we should never miss. The Voice Kids will be shown on ABSCBN as usual and they have been doing the auditions since November last year. They have picked the best of the best during the blind auditions and as I quote the judges this year, you can pit them against the adults if given a chance but really, this is only for kids ages 8 to 14.

We met with the judges and hosts a few days ago and it was nice to know what they've thought about the contestants this season. It was completely out of the box but with the few that they've seen so far, they are impressed. Standard wise, Bamboo says he went down a bit because you can't be too technical judging these youngsters. Their talents are raw and you can really see that they need help in that department. He enjoys every single bit of it though because the kids have no lack in talent. Filipinos are the best singers and this is really a good testament to that in fact. Bamboo also sang with us because the venue had KTV. He sang it like Bamboo would haha. Even if it was a RnB song he put his spin on it if you know what I mean.

Gorgeous and simple in a little white dress, the Pop Princess Sarah Geronimo was there too and we talked to her a bit about her expectations in this show. She goes out and said she was really impressed with the kids and you can pit them with professionals and might still get away with it. She also says she sees herself in them because she went through the same thing when she was young. Some of these kids have around 30-50 singing contests that they joined and some of them are real champions. This one would be a cinch for them no doubt. Will the public be that kind too to these cute ones? We'll have to find out when The Voice Kids start!

Sarah was so nice too. She grabbed the microphone and made a duet with Rod Magaru. See? She really does make dreams come true! :)

This season is also Luis Manzano's first stint at The Voice Philippines. He will be hosting together with Alex Gonzaga. They'll be in different parts so they wouldn't be doing the hosting thing at the same time. Luis will mostly be in the back stage interviewing the contestants. 

They surprised Luis with this cake... then asked him some questions about The Legal Wife and Angel Locsin. It looks like they are very happy, especially when he told us about the lunch/dinner his whole family had with Angel. It was like she never really left that relationship. More so that his Mom star for all seasons Governor Vilma Santos said "Welcome Home" to her. Isn't that sweet? I know.

Well, more of these things and MORE will happen once you get to see the first day of The Voice Kids on ABSCBN.Watch the blind audition teasers here!

For more information about their program:

Voice PH

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http://thevoice.abs-cbn.com/

The Healing: Stars Vilma Santos, Kim Chiu Opens on Theaters July 25!

It was my first time to see her in the flesh. I was star struck!

This movie is all about faith. Filipinos have always gone to great lenghts just to get what they need. Health care is so scarce in rural areas and some resort to witchcraft, spiritists and other non earthly things. Director Chito Rono presents this suspense - horror movie starring the one and only Vilma Santos along with a powerhouse cast including Pokwang, Robert Arevalo, Martin Del Rosario, Janice De Belen, Mark Gil, Carmi Martin, Cris Villanueva, Allan Paule, Ces Quesada, Ynes Veneracion, Abby Bautista, Daria Ramirez, Chinggoy Alonzo, Simon Ibarra, Mon Confiado and the gorgeous Kim Chiu. This film also stars Joel Torre, Jhong Hilario, Ana capri and Ina Feleo produced by Star Cinema.

The stars alone would tell you that this is going to be a big hit. The cast really felt honored to be in the midst of Ms Vilma Santos and I could not blame them. The Director alone gave me goosebumps. You can't see how excited they are in this project because as Ms Janice De Belen said just to have one scene with the star for all seasons would immediately make this movie worthwhile. People are curious about cures and all that mumbo jumbo healing; and once there are people involved you can't discount their ability to believe in this since it's the only available way to cure people in the poverty line or those who are hopeless from a-z. Fan groups like Kim Chiu Global and Vilmanians even invited me to their block screening, imagine these guys spending for their idols... That's how much they love Ms Vilma and Kim! They love them back too. Ms Vilma Santos acknowledged all the help she's getting from her loyal Vilmanians and constituents in Batangas.

Did you see their guesting last Sunday on The Buzz? It was pandemonium. Ms Vilma Santos said she handpicked Kim Chiu because she is so good, and very raw, very natural. It would be a big mistake not to see that. Kim said this is really an honor for her to get to work and be in the movie with Ms Vilma. It's a dream come true for her! As with any other Vilma Santos film this will surely be part of Philippine cinema history and the chance alone to do this is huge for the cast.

Sir Rio the writer says that the film would only fail if Ms Vilma Santos didn't agree or accept this role. He also said without Chito Rono on the helm the execution wouldn't be also good because this calls for a huge vision, he was lucky to have been able to personally be asked to custom this role for the star for all seasons. Dicrector Chito Rono says there are a lot of other directors out there that have that spark or shine. He wouldn't name names but he is optimistic that there are a lot of them out there that's got promise. Ms Vilma also told us about her family and how proud she is of her boys. Each one is different and she has seen Luis Manzano do his own stuff and put his money where its supposed to be. Ryan Christian is doing good in school and he's grown so humble. They were worried about what his reaction would be with Senator Ralph Recto's defeat in the last elections but he stood up like a man and that takes a lot for a kid. It was heartwarming to see her kids grew up like she wanted to, and even more. She loves her family, and her youngest kid Senator Ralph Recto; and this is her secret why she was able to manage the province of Batangas since she became a governor.

I don't think I should spill the detils of the movie because that would be your responsibility. This is in celebration of Vilma Santos' 50 years in show business. You should watch it on Theaters on July 25, 2012. They are expecting you to be there!