Vilma Santos-Recto is a popular multi-awarded actress and politician in the Republic of the Philippines. *** She is known as "Queen of Philippine Movies," "Queenstar," "Grand Slam Queen," "Box Office Queen," and "Star for All Seasons." *** This website is mostly about her iconic film career.
Enjoy! – Fernando Po Jr. gets a big kick watching Vilma Santos does the laudry in FPJ Productions’ rollicking comedy, “Batya’t Palu Palo,” which Pablo Santiago directs. Starring Dencio Padilla, Roberto Talabis, Angge, Royal Dahlen and the mainstays of FPJ. “Batya’t Palu Palo” is filmed in full color and will be shown sometime in April.
In Her Own Words – “…Kapag natatalo ka naman, especially that time (before her first Urian victory in 1982), talagang sumasama loob ko. Kasi nag-e-expect ka, ang kasunod nun, sana manalo ako. Kapag natalo, ang sakit. Pero ngayon, kahit paano natikman ko na naman yung mga awards na iba-iba. Kung hindi ka ma-recognize, fine. It’s an honor to have eight Urian Best Actress. Isa sa ginagalang talaga na award giving body is Urian. The judges there, aminin natin hindi basta-basta, mga critics talaga. Korona ‘yon sa akin. Achievement na malaki. Peron ngayon, nilalagay ko sa isip ko na hindi ibig sabihin na ikaw ang pinakamaraming natanggap na Urian eh ikaw ang pinakamagaling. Sinuwerti lang yun per movie na ginagawa mo, kung paano mo ginagampanan yung role mo. But at the end of the day, after the awards night, pantay-pantay ulit tayo…” – Starsstudio Magazine, July 2011
No Dragon lady Joel Lamangan’s Mano Po, My Love dominated the Metro Manila Film Festival awards Wedenesday evening when it won all the top awards – Best Picture, Best Actor (Christopher de Leon), Best Actress (Vilma Santos) and Best Director (Lamangan). In the Philippine movie industry, the term Best Picture actually means the least bad movie of the crop. By that measure, Mano Po 3 perhaps does deserve the award. At least Mano Po 3 is slickly and tastefully produced. It boasts of a prestigious cast and tries to address a few pressing issues that affect the Chinese community in the Philippines. All the looks good on paper and the movie does look good most of the time but the resulting movie, like its two predecessors, falls short on expectations. The Mano Po series was designed to present the travails of today’s Chinese. Most of the problems they face today are rooted from old traditions that originate from the great land they had come from. In the third movie, Vilma Santos plays Lilia Chiong Yang, a successful real-estate developer who does some important civic work on her free time. She helps the police capture kidnap gangs although it’s never explained how she assists them. She’s only shown accepting awards of grattitude for her courageous fight against crime.
Lilia’s perfect life is shattered when she bumps into the real love of her life, Michael Lim (Christopher de Leon). They went to school together but being an activist, he was compelled to flee the country to avoid being persecuted by the Marcos regime. Not long after Lilia marries Michael’s best friend, Paul yang (Jay Manalo). Of course, a flame is reignited when they meet again and plans for the 25th wedding anniversary of Lilia and Paul are shattered. Such soapy contretemps are old hat and it has nothing relevant to say about the Chinese. Consequently, the Chinese connection feels tacked on – the audience is sporadically reminded of Lilia’s heritage through elaborate scenes (the birth of Lilia in a small village in China) and some colorful costumes and Chinese dragon parades. Frankly, you’ll learn more about Chinese tradition from Mark Meily’s classic film Crying Ladies (2003). Likewise, the film’s social commentary is contrived and rings false, what with the stilted, elementary dialogue the actors have to deliver. Without the Chinese trappings, Mano Po 3: My Love is a typical Vilma Santos movie designed to highlight all the wonderful elements that make her a star for all seasons.
Again, she sobs, laughs and acts pensive in that distinctive fashion Santos is famous for in one sudsy scene after another. Yet even as an emblematic Vilma Santos movie, Mano Po 3 is below par. The Star was better in other films that had better material. In this movie, screenwriter Roy Iglesias and director Joel Lamangan shamelessly force the star to imitate Meryl Streep in a scene stolen from Clint Eastwood’s Bridges of Madison County (1995). And like the two first installments, Mano Po 3 features some strange casting. Jay Manalo is supposed to be a contemporary of de Leon and Santos but when you see them together, Manalo looks more like their son than a classmate. Lamangan’s storytelling is fluid and deliberate but being deliberate can be deadly when almost every scene is all talk. Talk is fine if the words are inspiring but when the lines are pallid and of the telenovela variety, we’s just rather stick to the Korean soap they show on TV. While actors deliver modulated performances, this writer feels that Christopher de Leon’s role is too small to warrant a best actor nomination and award. I think he should have listed in the supporting category but I’m opening a can of worms here. Let’s just be thankful that this is the last Mano Po movie to be ever made. (Star rating: one star 1/2 out of four) – Dennis Ladaw, The Manila Times, Feb 28, 2005 (READ MORE)
Love-Hate drama between “martyr” mother and “rebel” daughter – Star Cinema should be commended for deciding to make a film about a Filipino overseas contract worker who periodically leaves her family to ears much-needed dollars abroad. “Anak: is a bittersweet account of a mother’s dilemma: the money she brings in assures her children’s physical well-being, but her absence during their crucial growing years leaves them with a shaky foundation that takes its terrible toll on them, asw well as on her, when she finally decides to come home. Rory B. Quintos’ films hits intense emotional highs, especially in scene involving its veteran lead player, Vilma Santos, who feels her role so much that she comes across as a symbol of all mothers torn between their love for their children, and their need to earn money by working abroad to give their children a better life. Her pain is exarcerbated when they show their resentment over her long absences, as though she didn’t suffer from the separation as much as or even more than they. And everything comes to a head when eldest child (Claudine Battetto) flaunts her wayward life and vices in her mother’s face, to hurt her as much as she feels she has been hurt by her “uncaring” parent.
In addition, the film gains in significance by touching on some less personal issues related to the huge problems of our overseas contract workers and the families they leave behind: terrible working conditions, psyhological trauma, low self-image, the wearing down of traditional values, etc. Unfortunately, the production’s decision to focus on the mother-daughter conflict deprives the movie of enough time to dramatize these issues in an insightful way. Thus, the interesting characters played by Amy Austria and Cherry Pie Picache, who are cast as Vilma’s worker-friends, are glossed over and mainly used for “color” and as shoulders to cry on. This is a pity, because they too have compelling, instructive stories to tell, which could have lent greater texture and substance to the film’s handling of the complex OCW syndrome. Instead, the movie keeps harping on the love-hate drama between “martyr” mother and “rebel” daughter, with Claudine’s character sinking deeper into her pit of anger and recrimination. All too soon, the pattern becomes tedious, and we keep hoping that the movie discovers other, more productive dramatic and thematic avenues to explore. To make things worse, Claudine acts her guts out in her “hurt and angry” scenes, but she can’t seem to rise to the thespic occassion.
This may be because her character’s acts of rebelliosness are presented in too strident a fashion, making it difficult for the young actress to be truly sensitive to her character’s core of genuine pain. It’s also possible that Claudine has been acting too much of late, what with her daily TV soaps that require her to play triplets, so she has prescious little that’s fresh and real to give to her role in this film. Whatever the reason, she falls short of the mark, particularly in her demanding confrontation scenes with Vilma. For her part, the veteran actress is given major dramatic challenges in this movie, and she meets them with her intensity and commitment. More, she embraces them, pushing her scenes “beyond acting,” into emotional reality that is truly moving. If only her young costar had been as insightful, sensitive and giving… So, we thank Star Cinema for the good things in “Anak,” but we regret its deficiencies, which not even a Vilma Santos can fully compensate for. More films on our OCW’s are needed to truly do justice to their immense problems, and to their quiet heroism for love ones and coutry. – Nestor U. Torre, Philippine Daily Inquirer, May 14, 2000 (READ MORE)
Resigned – Roderick Paulate finally resigned last Friday from GMA-7’s Vilma! which he co-hosts with formeer good friend Vilma Santos. As adult stars, Paulate’s regulaar tv association with Santos started with the erstwhile VIP (Vilma In Person) almost four years ago in the now defunct City 2 of Broadcast City.- Manila Standard, , Mar 29, 1987 (READ MORE)
Kamust na si Vi? – I have a “new” job and in keeping with its requirements I tried to circulate these past few days. One does not go through life being an entertainment editor alone so I figured I must do something else. Or so I thought. Imagine when during my first meeting with some people who I thought were not in anyway connected, or interested, in showbiz I was initially confronted with the question: “Kamusta si Vi?” I was flabbergasted. “Pati ba naman kayo?” I would have proceeded to my usual defense spiel but on second thought I decided it was quite an edge, to begin with. I turned out one of them’s a true-blue Vilmanian and he claimed he “knew” me from way back. Now, that poses a problem. What if some of them are Noranians? Or avid supporters of Maricel Soriano, Sharon Cuneta and Snooky Serna? Would that jeopardize my new job? At any rate, the foregoing is nothing but an excuse to grant a request from someone who sells this paper and to accomodate a press release sent by Nestor Pulido, GMA-7’s vice president for publicity and promotions. Kamusta si Vi? Read on. Local television’s No 1 musical variety show, Vilma, scores a first when it holds this year’s summer show at the Raging Waters Resort in Los Angeles California.
According to Ray J. Benaza, president and general manager of Pride of Philippine Television, Inc. – the outfit responsible for this event – Vilma Santos has formally agreed to bring her show to the Filipinos in L.A. Dubbed “Pistahan sa Raging Waters with Vilma” the show will have a Filipiniana theme. The show will climax a week-long stay in L.A. of the country’s premiere actress along and tv performer along with her party from May 15 to 22. Among the activities lined up for the superstar are courtesy calls with Philippine Consul General Anolin and Los Angeles mayor Tom Bradley; tours of Universal Studios, Disneyland, Rodeo Drive, and Sea World in San Diego; meetings and autograph-signing with “kababayans;” and interviewing Filipino celebrities now residing in L.A. The grand show will be held at the Raging Waters Resort from 1 to 3 p.m. on May 21, Saturday (LA time). Among the guests who have agreed to perform in the show are Louie Reyes, Willie Nepomuceno and Mitch Valdez. Santos will also be doing production numbers with a Los Angeles dance group. Ariel Ureta co-hosts the affair. A victory party follows the show, with singing and other entertainment numbers, at the Camp Bonneli park and there will be a pitching of several tents in the campsite and declare the press as “Vilma Camp.” Choice video footage of the party and Santos’ other activities wil be shown in succeeding episodes of Vilma as soon as the group is back from L.A. – JC Nigado, Manila Standard, Apr 8, 1988 (READ MORE)
Star Awards – “…But the loudest screams were reserved for the arrivals of Sharon Cuneta and Vilma Santos…Vilma’s portion was very Hollywoodish. She sang and danced with a dozen dressed almost like her. The she proceeded to do her emceeing job with Christopher de Leon as partner…Other winners..best picture: Gaano Kita Kamahal…best director: Butch Perez; best actor – a tie, Christopher de Leon and Philip Salvador and best actress, Vilma Santos…” – Norma Japitana, Manila Standard, Mar 15, 1994 (READ MORE)
Para Hindi Pagsawaan – Ronnie Ricketts has earned his spurs as an action star. His movies earn millions so that producers, astute businessmen that they are, have been willing to stake their millions on his films, confident that their investment can be recouped in no time at all. But Ronnie is also shrewd when it comes to his career, and carefully chooses the films to star in. As a result, Ronnie is now in the league of such local biggies as Rudy Fernandez, Bong Revilla and Philip Salvador. Moviestars Productions’ Ikaw Lang is a far cry from the usual stories Ronnie had starred in. It is a love-drama, but Ronnie nonetheless accepted it because of the welcome change. First, it headlines him opposite the “Star for all Seasons,” Vilma Santos, one of the very top actresses he hasn’t done a move with. He had worked with Vi in a telemovie the much-awarded actress produced years ago, but this is the first time they’re together in a film. Ikaw Lang is a welcome departure from a long spate of action flicks he has been identified with. “So people would not get tired watching me in one action picture from another. Para naman hindi pagsawaan.” Ronnie is under contract with Movie Stars Productions and can’t say no to Mrs. Fely Ong, his producer in Pacwood Films, who gave him one of his best movie in years, Anak ng Dagat. She has been very supportive and treats him like a son. Since action is Ronnie’s forte, there are scenes in Ikaw lang, about 20 percent of the movie are scenes where he does a bit of action to please his loyal followers. “Its still action for me anytime. But sometimes, like this one, daopat mayroong change. Para naman hindi magsawa ang mga fans,” Ronnie explained.- Manila Standard, Jan 6, 1993 (READ MORE)
Nora Out, Vilma In! – “Superstar out; Vilma! and The Sharon Cuneta Show are in. This is according to the latest PSRC survey of the top 20 shows for January. Topping the list in the once-a=week evening program is Ramon Revilla Blockbuster in PPP on Channel 13 with a rating 51.7 percent…The Sharon Cuneta Show (13), 35 percent…Vilma! (7), 26.3 percent…” – Baba Flores, Manila Standard, Feb 25, 1987 (READ MORE)
Chicago International Film Festival – An invitation was extended to either Armida Siguion-Reyna or Vilma Santos to sit as a juror at the Chicago International Film Festival in October where two Filipino films will be in competition, Regal Films’ Ang Kriminal ng Baryo Concepcion (directed by Lav Diaz) and Seiko Films’ Burlesk King (by Mel Chionglo). Armida told Funfare that she has accepted the invitation. However, Vilma turned it down because she’s pressed for time. She has started shooting Star Cinema’s Anak (with Claudine Barretto as her daughter) and after that, she’ll start work on Peligro for Viva Films, with Christopher de Leon as leading man and director. Vilmanians will be happy to know that the Chicago Filmfest bigwigs have described Vilma as “the Meryl Streep of the Philippines” in the invitation. Take a bow, Meryl Streep, er, Vilma Santos! – Ricky Lo, August 9, 1999, Reposted by: Sol Jose Vanzi (READ MORE)
FAP – “Vilma Santos and Philip Salvador won the top awards at the 12th Annual Academy Awards of the Film Academy of the Philippines conducted at the reception hall of the Philippine International Convention Center Saturday night. Ms Santos won the best actress for the role she portrayed in the Dolzura Cortez Story. She portrayed the role of a woman dying of acquire immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS). Philip Salvador won the best actor award for his role in Masahol pa sa Hayop which was also judged best picture of the year…” – Manila Standard, April 26, 1994 (READ MORE)
Is Ralph Recto Married? – Is Ralph Recto, Vilma Santos’ current boyfriend, married? Is the woman and the baby beside him in the Recto family portrait that came out on March 26 issue of teh Philippine Star his wife and his child? These are but two of the question rained by people who saw the same photo in the said newspaper. Santos, on the other hand, does not hide the fact, that she is supporting her boyfriend’s father, senatorial aspirant Rafael Recto. A look at her car, which carries the candidate’s poster is enough proof. – Manila Standard, May 4, 1987 (READ MORE)
The Latest from Vilma Santos – On her trip to the U.S.A.: “Heaven! A complete rest na matagal ko nang hinahanap.” Nang bumili siya ng house & lot sa Los Angeles: “A very good investment. Pagkatapos ng commitments ko rito, babalik ako roon para magbakasyon ng six months.” On love and marriage: “Tipong talagang hindi ko pa natatagpuan ang lalaking hinahanap ko but definitely, hindi ako magiging old maid!” On Nora Aunor: “Kanya-kanyang suwerte lang. Kung medyo angat ako sa kanay ngayon gaya nang sinasabi ng iba, masaya. Palagay ko, suwerte lang ang nagdadala!” – Kislap Magazine, July 27, 1978
Five Most Beautiful – Please help us select local Entertainentville’s best of the best. Jot down the names of the five entertainment personalities you think have the most beautiful faces and sent the coupon to us. Be careful with your ranking. Your first choice gets five points; second, four; third, three; fourth, two; and your fifth choice, one point. Put only one name per blank. A personality can be voited for, only once, send your coupon(s) to Five Most Beautiful…
On May 1, 1976, ten Filipino critics agreed to discuss the annual award-giving situation in the local industry. All in agreement that there must be an alternative to FAMAS, the only award giving body in the Philippines. The ten critics, mostly academics, were Pio de Castro, Behn Cervantes, Pete Daroy, Mario Hernando, Bien Lumbera, Doy del Mundo, Manny Pichel, Nick Tiongson, Gino Dormiendo, and Nestor Torre. Most of them were part of FAMAS roster of judges. Most, questioned the recent years winners. According to the website, Wikepedia: “The 1972 Best Actress tie that materialized between major star Boots Anson-Roa and then-rising star Vilma Santos” was a good example of the disillusionments experience by the academics. “…the tie was unheard of at that time, which resulted in accusations of lessening prestige on the part of FAMAS.” Ironically, Gawad will have numerous ‘tie” winners in their future set of winners, including a string of ‘tie” involving their early favorite, Nora Aunor. Headed by Nestor Torre, the nine critics agreed to review films and release quarterly citations of best films with the final nominations and winners announce at the end of the year.
Over the years, the Manunuri Ng Pelikulang Pilipino (Filipino Film Critics) considered the equivalent of the United States’ New York Film Critics Circle, established themselves as the most credible award giving bodies in the Philippines. They are known for having a long discussion for each of their award categories resulting sometimes in heated debate and unfortunately the unavoidable “tie” between nominees. Since 1976, the group has eluded controversies that rival groups endured. The oldest award, FAMAS has experienced two renegade or break away groups resulting in costly legal battles and low television ratings. Another group, the Philippine Movie Press Club is considered second to Gawad Urian, Star Awards had experience a similar fate, they also had a break away group, creating their own awards, the Golden Screen Awards. With the advent of new awards, now ten, and still counting. Gawad Urian remained strong and the most sought after. Currently, the Manunuri are consists of: Rolando B. Tolentino, Grace Javier Alfonso, Butch Francisco, Mario A. Hernando, Bienvenido Lumbera, Miguel Q. Rapatan, Benilda S. Santos, Dr. Nicanor G. Tiongson, Tito Genova Valiente and Lito B. Zulueta
Vilma Santos has become a big part of Gawad Urian. Although she wasn’t considered their early favourite, they developed a long fondness to the actress, many considered as the Meryl Streep of the Philippines cinema. Fourteen best actress nominations spanning three decades and eight wins: 1982’s Relasyon, 1983’s Broken Marriage, 1984’s – Sister Stella L; 1989’s – Pahiram Ng Isang Umaga; 1991’s Ipagpatawad Mo; 1993’s Dahil Mahal Kita: The Dolzura Cortez Story; 1998’s – Bata Bata Paano Ka Ginawa; and 2002’s Dekada 70. Most of these films were cited when Vilma received the University of the Philippines’ highest honours, the Gawad Plaridel in 2005. Vilma also won two Gawad Urian special awards as the Actress of the Decade, for her body of work and Gawad Urian wins for the 1980s and 1990s. She also recieved a Gawad Urian best picture award in 1978, as film producer for the film, Pagputi Ng Uwak Pagitim Ng Tagak.
Vilma Santos did ten films in 1976, mostly for commercial release. The only serious contenders for award derby were the dramedy directed by Eddie Rodriguez, Hindi Nakakahiya, and Emmanuel Borlaza’s drama, Mga Rosas sa Putikan. Clearly, Vilma Santos wasn’t ready for the big league drama competition. Ganito Kami Noon…Paano Kayo Ngayon dominated the very first URIAN awards with nominations for several major categories and winning best picture, best director (Eddie Romero) and best screenplay (Eddie Romero and Roy Iglesias). Romero defeated a worthy bunch of directors, Bernal for Nunal Sa Tubig, Brocka for Insiang, Mike De Leon for Itim and lupita Concio for Minsa’y Isang Gamogamo. The acting awards went to Vic Silayan for Ligaw na Bulaklak and Nora Aunor for Tatlong Taong Walang Diyos. Vic Silayan’s stiff competition was from the very young Christopher De Leon in Ganito Kami while Nora’s four other competitors were Charo Santos (Itim), Daria Ramirez (Nunal sa Tubig), Hilda Koronel (Insiang), Lolita Rodriguez (Lunes, Martes …), and Mona Lisa (Insiang). Supporting actor went to Ruel Vernal for Insiang while Maya Valdez (Lunes, Martes …) and Yvonne (Ligaw na Bulaklak) were tie for supporting actress.
The next year, Vilma Santos were more equipped with three films: Castillo’s festival entry, Burlesk Queen; Bernal’s Dalawang Pugad Isang Ibon and Elwood Perez’ Masarap Masakit ang Umibig. The Manunuri took noticed and cited the three films in several categories, including best actress. Hubad Na Bayani was acclaimed as the best picture of 1977. Compensated for the noticeable absence on their very first award ceremony, Vilma Santos’ films Burlesk Queen and Dalawang pugad…Isang Ibon gave Hubad na Bayani a stiff competitions. Ishmael Bernal, the director of Dalawang Pugad snatched the best director award from remarkable nominees, Lino Brocka for Tahan na Empoy Tahan, Celso Ad. Castillo for Burlesk Queen, Mike De Leon for Kung Mangarap Ka’t Magising, Eddie Romero for Banta ng Kahapon, and Hubad Na Bayani’s director, Robert Ylagan. The acting went toBembol Roco for Sa Piling ng Mga Sugapa (he was using the screen name, Rafael Roco Jr. back then) and Daria Ramirez for Sino’ng Kapiling, Sino’ng Kasiping. Aunor wasn’t even nominated, Vilma was nominated for her breakthrough film, Burlesk Queen and Hilda Koronel for the slick and glossy film, Kung Mangarap Ka’t Magising. For the supporting categories, Vilma’s co-stars, Mat Ranillo III (Dalawang pugad… Isang Ibon) and Rolly Quizon (Burlesk Queen) were nominated for best supporting actor that went to Lito Legaspi for Sino’ng Kapiling, Sino’ng Kasiping. The best supporting actress went to Armida Siguion-Reyna for Tahan na Empoy, Tahan. Rosemarie Gil was nominated for Burlesk Queen.
Then in 1978, the Manunuri cited only three films for their top awards. Hindi Sa Iyo Ang Mundo Baby Porcuna, Ikaw ay akin and Pagputi ng Uwak Pagitim ng Tagak duke it out with Vilma Santos self produced Film winning. Pagputi won four awards including best director for Celso Ad Castillo; best screenplay for Castillo, Ishko Lopez, Lando Perez Jacob and Ruben Arthur Nicdao; best supporting actor for Joone Gamboa; and best sound for Gaudencio Barredo. Castillo’s main competitor for the best director award were Ishmael Bernal for Ikaw ay akin, a Vilma Santos-Nora Aunor starrer, Lino Brocka for Mananayaw, Eddie Garcia for the controversial local festival entry, Atsay and Danny Zialcita for Baby Porcuna. For acting categories, Christopher De Leon received her very first URIAN for Ikaw ay akin, defeating Dolphy in Ang Tatay Kong Nanay and Bembol Roco for Boy Pana. Vilma Santos wasn’t nominated for Pagputi or for her Brocka film, Rubia Servious instead she was cited together with he co-star Nora Aunor in Bernal’s Ikaw Ay Akin. Both lost to Beth Bautista for Hindi Sa Iyo Ang Mundo, Baby Porcuna. The supporting actor nod went to Joone Gamboa for Pagputi and Chanda Romero for Boy Pana.
Like the previous year, URIAN nominated only three films for their best picture award, Berbal’s Aliw, Zialcita’s Ikaw at ang Gabi and Brocka’s Jaguar fight it out with Jaguar claiming victory. The three directors also fought for the best director together with Maryo J. De Los Reyes who were nominated for High School Circa ’65. Jaguar also won the writing category for Jose Lacaba and Ricardo Lee. From last year’s big win as film producer and nomination for Ikaw Ay Akin, Vilma wasn’t even nominated for any of her films in 1979, particularly, Halik sa Kamay Halik sa Paa or Pinay, American Style. The female lead role award went to Charito Solis for Ina, Kapatid, Anak. Her stiff competition were Lolita Rodriguez and Nora Aunor both for Ina Ka ng Anak Mo. While Jaguar dominated the supporting acting categories, won by Menggie Cobarrubias and Amy Austria, the film’s lead, Philip Salvador failed to grab the best actor. The award went to Dindo Fernando for Ikaw…at ang Gabi.
1980 produced five high quality films. Eddie Romero’s Aguila; Brocka’s Bona; Abaya’s Brutal; Bernal’s City After Dark, Kakabakaba ka ba got the best picture nominations with Bernal’s film taking the top prize. All of these directors were nominated for best director together with Laurice Guillen for Kasal with Mike De Leon edging them out. Kakabakaba kaba will also win the best supporting actor for Johnny Delgado. In addition to the top prize, City After Dark received the best screenplay for Ishmael Bernal and the best actor for Bernardo Bernardo, a surprise winner against Dindo Fernando (Langis at Tubig) and Phillip Salvador (Bona). For the best supporting actress, Daria Ramirez won her second URIAN for Aguila. Like the previous year, Vilma was not nominated for any of her efforts, Langis at Tubig or Miss X. The best actress were a tie. Gina Alajar (Brutal) and Nora Aunor (Bona) were declared the co winners.
For their 6th year, the 1981 Gawad Urian cited four films for their best picture category: Romy Suzara’s Pepeng Shotgun, Mel Chionglo’s Playgirl, Mike de Leon’s Kisap Mata and Laurice Guillen’s Salome. Salome was the winner. The four directors were also nominated for best director together with Ishmael Bernal for Pabling. Guillen was also the winner for Salome. In addition to picture and director awards, Salome also won the best screenplay for Ricardo Lee and the best actress award for Gina Alajar. Alajar’s strong competitors were Charito Solis for Playgirl and Nora Aunor for the forgettable Bakit Bughaw ang Langit. Vilma Santos were again got the cold shoulder from the Manunuri as she wasn’t even cited for any of her films: Pakawalan Mo Ako (where she won a FAMAS), Hiwalay, Karma (where she won the best actress from Metro Manila Film Festival) or Ex-Wife. For male acting categories, Vic Silayan received his second best actor defeating the late Johny Delgado, nominated for Salome. Charito Solis received her second URIAN, this time for the supporting role.
1982 harvested a string of high quality films: Batch ’81, Himala, Moral, Oro Plata Mata and Relasyon, all vying for the best pictures Urian. Oro Plata Mata edged out the other four. It also won the best director honour for Peque Gallaga. Gallaga defeated Marilou Diaz-Abaya (Moral), Ishmael Bernal (Himala and Relasyon), Lino Brocka (Cain at Abel) and Mike de Leon (Batch ’81). The writing category went to Clodualdo del Mundo, Raquel Villavecencio at Mike de Leon for Batch ’81.
Noticeably ignored many times by the Manunuri, Vilma Santos was nominated for her sympathetic mistress role in Relasyon. She is up against Nora Aunor’s epical role for Himala, Gina Alajar and Lorna Tolentino’s feminist film Moral. The Manunuri surprised everyone by declaring Vilma Santos as their 7th best actress winner. The other award giving bodies (FAMAS, Film Academy of the Philippines, CMMA) also declared Vilma Santos as their best actress and the term “grand slam” were born in local entertainment industry. As for the other acting categories, Philip Salvador won the lead actor and Baby Delgado, supporting actress both for Cain At Abel, and Mark Gil won the supporting actor for Palipat-lipat, Papalit-palit. The Manunuri gave the Natatanging Gawad Urian to veteran actress, Anita Linda, who is still very active today. She starred in this year’s Venice Film Festival entry, Lola.
The following year, the Manunuri nominated only two films for their best picture, a quick turn around from a very promising 1982. Regal Films’ Broken Marriage joined Cine Suerte’s Karnal in a two way run for each categories. Broken Marriage won the top award for Mother Lily Monteverde of Regal and best director for Ishmael Bernal. Bernal defeated four worthy competitor: Maryo J. De Los Reyes for Saan Darating ang Umaga, Lino Brocka for Hot Property; Marilou Diaz-Abaya for Karnal and Laurice Guillen for Init sa Magdamag. In addition to best picture and director, Broken Marriage also win best screenplay for Jose Carreon, Bing Caballero and Bernal; Best Editing for Jesus Navarro; Best Sound for Rudy Baldovino as well Vilma Santos’ second best actress award. Proving that her win for Relasyon from last year wasn’t just a fluke, Vilma handedly won the trophy without much competition, literally. She won only up against one competitor, Cecille Castillo for Karnal. The best actor went to Phillip Salvador for Karnal, which just like the best actress category was up against one competitor, Vilma’s co-star, Christopher De Leon. The supporting categories were much more competitive, veteran ActorVic Silayan won her third URIAN for Karnal (he already won for best actor for Ligaw Na Bulaklak and supporting for Kisap Mata). He defeated Joel Torre (Karnal), Len Santos (Broken Marriage), Rey Ventura (Broken Marriage). Notice the four actors were from the two films, Broken and Karnal. Just like Vic Silayan, Charito Solis received her third URIAN, also for Karnal besting out co-star, Grace Amilbangsa and a surprise nominee, Liza Lorena for the melodrama, Don’t Cry For Me Papa.
Vilma Santos dominated the URIAN for the past two years, with the initial grand slam feat in 1982 for Relasyon and the dominance of Broken Marriage the following year. Her string of hits, like Gaano Gadalas Ang Minsan, Sinasamba Kita, and Paano Ba Ang Mangarap established her as the most bankable stars of the 80s. In the mixed of these glossy, commercial projects were quality films like Relasyon and Broken Marriage. Both films fared well at the box office and award. Would three in row be possible? Vilma’s 1984 film projects consists of: Lino Brocka’s Adultery, Marilou Diaz Abaya’s Alyas Baby Tsina and Mke De Leon’s Sister Stella L. The first two, managed to do well at the box office, but the last wasn’t lucky enough. It did poorly against Sharon Cuneta’s film, Bukas Luluhod Ang Mga Tala. Vilma’s dominance in the last two years revamped the interest for her rival, Nora Aunor to come up with more serious projects. And this year proved to be a good match, mano a mano. Nora came up also with three films: Gil Portes’ ‘Merika; Mario O’Hara’s Bulaklak sa City Jail and Condemned.
Come URIAN, Vilma and Nora received the attention their fans has been craving for since the mid 70s. The arrival of Sharon Cuneta as a threat to Vilma Santos’ supremacy at the box office and the impossibility that the Manunuri will give Vilma a third consecutive best actress put high hope to many Nora Aunor fans. They are all in high spirits as two Nora Aunor films were nominated for the best picture Bulaklak sa City Jail and ‘Merika against only one for Vilma, the box office flop, Sister Stella L. Another Regal Film, Sinner or Saint, completed the four nominated best picture films. Sadly, the Manunuri can’t ignore the quality of Mike De Leon’s film. Sister Stella L won best picture, director, screenplay (Jose F. Lacaba, Jose Almojuela and Mike de Leon), actor (Jay Ilagan), supporting actor (Tony Santos, Sr.), supporting actress (Laurice Guillen), editing (Jesus Navarro), music (Ding Achacoso), sound (Ramon Reyes) and the best actress to Vilma Santos! Vilma won three consecutive best actress, a feat at that time. She defeated Claudia Zobel for Sinner or Saint, Gina Pareño for Working Girls, Sarsi Emmanuelle for Boatman and two nominations for rival, Nora Aunor, ‘Merika and Bulaklak sa City Jail.
Meanwhile, De Leon defeated a bunch of good directors, Marilou Diaz-Abaya for Vilma’s Baby Tsina, Tikoy Aguiluz for Boatman, Pio de Castro III for Soltero, Mel Chionglo for Sinner or Saint and the two Aunor films, Mario O’Hara for Bulaklak sa City Jail and Gil Portes for ‘Merika. In the lead actor, Jay Ilagan who is also nominated in his other film, Soltero defeated, Tommy Abuel for Bukas May Pangarap, Ronnie Lazaro for Boatman and Phillip Salvador for Baby Tsina. In the supporting actor, Tony Santos Sr, Ka Dencio in SSL, defeated unknown actors Alfredo Salanga for Boatman and Cesar Aliparo for ‘Merika and two actor for Baby Tsina, Len Santos and the late Dindo Fernando. And in the supporting actress, Laurice Guillen defeated co-stars in SSL, Gina Alajar and Liza Lorena and for Bulaklak sa City Jail, Celia Rodriguez Perla Bautista.
Vilma Santos did two films in 1985, the comedy Doctor Doctor We Are Sick and the melodrama, Muling Buksan ang Puso both were deservingly ignored by the Manunuri. The critics refocused their attention to the comeback works of their favorite directors Bernal, Brocka, Castillo and Gallaga. The five best picture bets were Bernal’s Hinugot sa Langit, Brocka’s Kapit sa Patalim and Miguelito Ang Batang Rebelde, Peque Gallaga’s Virgin Forest and Celso Ad. Castillo’s Paradise Inn. Brocka’s Bayan Ko won the top award but the best director went to his rival, Ishmael Bernal for Hinugot sa Langit. Kapit also won writing for Jose Lacaba, and lead actor for Phillip Salvador. The lead actress went to a tie between, Gina Alajar for Kapit sa Patalim and the late, Nida Blanca for Miguelito, Ang Batang Rebelde. And the supporting acting categories went to Lito Anzures for Paradise Inn and Liza Lorena for Miguelito.
The start of mid 80s wasn’t as promising for the film critics, as happened in late 70s only three films were cited for the top award, Bagong Hari, Takaw Tukso and Unfaithful Wife. Takaw Tukso won. Takaw’s director, William Pascual won the best director and its lead role, Jacklyn Jose won the best actress, co-sharing the honour with Pilar Pilapil for Napakasakit Kuya Eddie. In another tie, Anita Linda for Takaw Tukso and Nida Blanca for Magdusa Ka were declared co-winners in supporting actress as well. The best actor went to Unfaithful Wife’s Michael de Mesa and supporting actor went to Napakasakit Kuya Eddie’s Aga Muhlach. As for Vilma, she did three box office hits in 1986, Asawa ko Huwag Mong Agawin, Palimos Ng Pag-ibig and Yesterday Today & Tomorrow. All three were commercial success but was ignored by the Manunuri. The following year, 1987, the Manunuri decided not to hand out any awards.
For the 1988 awards, the Manunuri rewarded four films with best picture nominations: Anak ng Cabron, Itanong Mo Sa Buwan, Kapag Napagod ang Puso, and Misis mo Misis Ko. Itanong Mo Sa Buwan, a Chito Rono film won the top honours as well as best director for himself. The acting categories went to Ace Vergel (Anak ng Cabron) and Jaclyn Jose (Itanong Mo Sa Buwan) for leading roles. The supporting went to Lito Pimentel (Kapag Napagod ang Puso) and Perla Bautista (Anak ng Cabron). Vilma did one film this year, Elwood Perez’ Ibulong Mo Sa Diyos that the Manunuri ignored.
By the end of 80s, Vilma Santos has curved her mark in the URIAN history. Three remarkable wins (1982, 83, 84), Could 1989 be added to the three year feat? The shortage of quality films were noticeable in the later part of the 80s. 1989 was an exemption. The Manunuri generously nominated five films: Willie Milan’s Ang Pumatay ng Dahil Sayo, Elwood Perez’ Bilangin ang Bituin Sa Langit, Augusto Salvador’s Joe Pring, Brocka’s Macho Dancer, Bernal’s Pahiram Ng Isang Umaga. Ishmael Bernal’s film about life and death, Pahiram ng Isang Umaga won him the best director award, best picture for Regal, best screenplay for Jose Javier Reyes, and best cinematography for Manolo Abaya, Eduardo Jacinto at Nonong Rasca. For the acting categories: Christopher De Leon for another Vilma Santos starrer Imortal and Gabby Concepcion for Pahiram were nominated for lead actor but both failed to win as Daniel Fernando claimed his very first URIAN for Macho Dancer. As Vilma’s best friend who took care of her finances in Pahiram Ng Isang Umaga, Vicky Suba was cited in the supporting actress but it wasn’t enough to dethrone Jaclyn Jose. Jose won the best supporting actress award, also for Macho Dancer. In the supporting actor, Eric Quizon, claimed his first URIAN as the volatile painter in Pahiram. Then the best actress, went to: IT’S A TIE! Again! Beating Helen Gamboa for Kailan Mahuhugasan Ang Kasalanan and a very strong performance from post child actress, Janice de Belen for Rosenda, Nora Aunor (Bilangin ang Bituin Sa Langit) and Vilma Santos (Pahiram Ng Isang Umaga) were declared co winners!
The new decade brought two worthy films from Vilma Santos: Laurice Guillen’s Kapag Langit Ang Humatol and Lino Brocka’s Hahamakin Lahat. The Manunuri took noticed and rewarded the films with nominations. Brocka did the Vilma starrer, Hahamakin Lahat for Regal and Gumapang Ka Sa Lusak for Viva Films, a Dina Bonevie drama. Gumapang proved to be the better of the two as it won the best picture and best director nominations. But Hahamakin earned best actor nomination for Gabby Concepcion. Meanwhile Guillen’s Kapag Langit earned the best picture nomination together with Andrea Paano Ba Ang Maging Isang Ina, My Other Woman and Gumapang. Surprisingly, Guillen won the best director defeating Lino Brocka, Maryo J. De Los Reyes (My Other Woman) and Chito Roño (Kasalanan Bang Sambahin Ka). Kapag Langit also earned nominations for writing, Emmanuel Borlaza and Salvador Royales; actress, Vilma Santos; supporting actress, Carmina Villaroel and Kristine Garcia; production design, Edgar Martin Littaua. It won two technical awards in addition to Guillen’s best director: cinematography for Romeo Vitug and editing for Efren Jarlego. The leading actor went to Christopher De Leon for My Other Woman and leading actress, to Nora Aunor for Andrea Paano Ba Ang Maging Isang Ina. The supporting awards went to Michael de Mesa (Ikasa Mo, Ipuputok Ko) and Gina Alajar (Biktima). Despite losing the best actress award, Vilma did not went home empty handed, she received the highest award as one of three top actress of the past decade (1980s). the other actress were Nora Aunor and Gina Alajar. Philip Salvador received the male category.
Vilma Santos did only one film in 1991. In comparison to two the previous year. Guillen’s follow-up film from last year’s Kapag Langit ang Humatol was Ipagpatawad Mo, a family drama about an autistic child. Laurice’s second film with Vilma as director proves to be a memorable one for Viva Films, known for their slick, glossy films. Guillen secured the best picture award for Viva defeating Lino Brocka’s Sa Kabila ng Lahat and a strong film from Carlos Siguion-Reyna’s Hihintayin Kita sa Langit. Last year’s best director Guillen missed this time. The best director went to Siguion-Reyna. Over all, Ipagpatawad mo earned nominations for best director for Laurice Guillen; best actor for Christopher De Leon; best supporting actor for Terence Baylon; best production design for Edgar Martin Littaua; best cinematography for Eduardo Jacinto; and best editing for Efren Jarlego. And won best picture for Viva films, best screenplay for Olive M. Lamasan and best actress for Vilma Santos. She defeated four of the most in-demand actress of the early 1990s: Dawn Zulueta for Hihintayin Kita sa Langit; Dina Bonnevie for Sa Kabila ng Lahat; Lorna Tolentino for Kislap sa Dilim and Nora Aunor for Ang Totong Buhay ni Pacita M. The other acting trophies went to: Richard Gomez, best actor for Hihintayin Kita sa Langit; Gabby Concepcion best supporting for Makiusap Ka sa Diyos; and Nanette Medved, best supporting actress for Sa Kabila ng Lahat.
Like the previous year, Vilma did one film, Maryo De Los Reyes’s Sinungaling Mong Puso. Although not nominated for best picture, Sinungaling won nominations for acting and other categories in 1992’s Gawad Urian. The Manunuri gave two films: Ikaw ang Lahat sa Akin of Regal Films and a co production of Regal and Reyna Films, Ikaw Pa Lang ang Minahal their best picture nominations. Ikaw Pa lang won the best picture together with best director for Carlos Siguion-Reyna. Sinungaling Mong Puso was nominated for best director, Maryo J. De Los Reyes; best supporting actor, Gabby Concepcion and best actress for Vilma. Three of the acting awards went to Narito Ang Puso Ko: lead actors to Gaby Concepcion and Lorna Tolentino; and supporting to Amy Austria while the supporting actor went to Tirso Cruz III for Kahit Buhay Ko. The Natatanging Gawad Urian was given to Mary Walter, the veteran actress who co-starred with Vilma in memorable films like Baby Tsina (1984), Dalawang pugad, isang ibon (1977), Lipad, Darna, lipad! (1973) and Edgar Loves Vilma (1972).
The following year, Vilma did two films, Guillen’s Dahil Mahal Kita The Dolzura Cortez Story and Chito Rono’s Ikaw Lang. Both did well at the box office and earned nominations from the Manunuri. Dahil Mahal Kita was cited for best picture and best director but lost to Jose Javier Reyes film, Makati Ave. Office Girls produced by Regal films. For acting categories: Saan Ka Man Naroroon won best actor for Richard Gomezand best supporting actress for Sharmaine Arnaiz. The best supporting actor went to Ronaldo Valdez for May Minamahal. Finally, the best actress went to Vilma Santos for Dolzura.
Vilma Santos did three films in 1994, all were commercial success: Nag-iisang Bituin, Relaks ka Lang Sagot Kita and Lipa: Arandia Massacre. The last two won awards at FAMAS including best picture for Lipa. However, the Manunuri deservingly ignored these films. Their top films were Regal films’ The Fatima Buen Story and The Secrets of Sarah Jane Salazar and Maq’s Wating. Fatima Buen, Kris Aquino’s first attempt to big league acting was the big winner with its director, Mario O’Hara defeating notable directors, Ishmael Bernal for Wating, Maryo J. De Los Reyes for Sarah Jane, Laurice Guillen for Bakit Ngayon Ka Lang. For the acting categories: Richard Gomez won best Actor for Wating, John Regala won supporting actor for The Fatima Buen Story and Chin-Chin Gutierrez won supporting actress for Maalaala Mo Kaya. For the best actress, the Manunuri decided to give their best actress to Gelli de Belen for The Secrets of Sarah Jane Salazar instead of Carmina Villaroel for Wating or Kris Aquino for Fatima. The only notable citation that was related to Vilma Santos was the best screenplay nomination Jose Javier Reyes earned for Nag-iisang Bituin. Lastly, the Natatanging Gawad Urian went to Leopoldo Salcedo, the character actor who co-starred with Vilma Santos in her breakthrough film Burlesk Queen in 1977. Also, Happy Days Are Here Again (1975), Darna and the Giants (1974), Biktima (1974), Anak ng aswang (1973), De colores (1968).
No Vilma Santos film in 1995. The big winner in URIAN was Star Cinema’s Sana Maulit Muli. The film won best picture defeating The Flor Contemplacion Story, a Nora Aunor starrer. Despite the failure of Flor to win the top award, the film won best director for Joel Lamangan and best actress to Nora. Nora shared the award with co-winner, Helen Gamboa for Bagong Bayani. Best Actor went to Aga Muhlach for Sana Maulit Muli. Supportings went to Ricky Davao for Ipaglaban Mo, The Movie and Jaclyn Jose for Flor. The next year, Vilma Santos did Ikaw Ang Mahal Ko, with the late Fernando Poe Jr. The forgettable film did poorly at the box office and was automatically ignored by the Manunuri. Six citations were given to six films this year, noticeably plentiful for the top honour in URIAN’s standard. Bakit May Kahapon Pa?, Istokwa, Madrasta, Mulanay, Radio Romance, and Segurista were all nominated with the last declared the winner. The film’s director, Tikoy Aguiluz also won the best director. For the best actress, Nora Aunor, again share the honour with another actress. She won for Bakit May Kahapon Pa, with Sharon Cuneta for Madrasta. Sharon will record a grand slam this year, winning the best actress in the other award giving bodies. The following year, 1997, Vilma Santos’ only film was with Christopher De Leon. This was their 20th film. Hanggang Ngayon Ika’y Minamahal, directed by Ike Jarlego Jr was a commercial success but was ignored by the Manunuri. Just like last year, six films were cited for the top honour, Batang PX, Damong Ligaw, Ligaya ang Itawag Mo sa Akin, Milagros, Minsan Lamang Magmamahal and Nang Iniwan Mo Ako. Marilou Diaz-Abaya’s Milagros won best picture and best director for herself. Best actress went to Zsa Zsa Padilla for Batang PX.
Vilma Santos did another breakthrough performance in 1998. Her performance earned her several Best actress trophies locally. Star Cinema won top honours from the URIAN in their 22nd ceremony for Chito Roño’s Bata, Bata, Paano Ka Ginawa defeating Marilou Diaz Abaya’s two important films, Jose Rizal and Sa Pusod ng Dagat both produced by rival company GMA films. The other competitions were both from Good Harvest films, Jeffrey Jeturian’s Sana Pag-ibig Na and Lav Diaz’s Serafin Geronimo, Kriminal ng Baryo Concepcion. All the above directors were nominated for best director that Abaya won for Jose Rizal. Bata Bata nominations for best editing for Jaime Davila; best music for Jesse Lasaten; best sound for Michael Albert Idioma and best supporting for Raymond Bagatsing. Despite losing in supporting category, Jaime Fabregas was declared the winner for Jose Rizal, Bagatsing won in the male lead role for Kriminal ng Baryo Concepcion. In addition to nominations and best picture win, Bata Bata won three more: best screenplay for Lualhati Bautista, best supporting actress for child star, Serena Dalrymple and best actress for Vilma Santos. The Natatanging Gawad Urian was given to comedian, Dolphy. Vilma and Dolphy did one film together, 1979’s Buhay Artista Ngayon. There is no Vilma Santos film in 1999. Despite this, Bata Bata Paano Ka Ginawa, now re-titled Lea’s Story continued its winning streak. Touring the festival circuit, the film earned Vilma, her first international best actress at a festival in Brussels. The film was also exhibited in different cities in Canada and the USA. The Manunuri awarded their top honours of 1999, Bayaning 3rd World including best director to Mike De Leon. Best Actress went to Elizabeth Oropesa for Bulaklak ng Maynila defeatingNora Aunor for her comeback film, Sidhi.
For the first year of the new millennium, Vilma Santos did one film. Rory Quintos’ Anak. The film was a commercial succes and earned two citations from the Manunuri: best actress nomination for Vilma and best supporting actor nomination for Baron Geisler. The Manunuri gave the best picture to Regal’s Tuhog while Tanging Yaman received the other top honours for best director for Laurice Guillen and best actress for Gloria Romero. Another veteran, Eddie Garcia won best Actor for Deathrow. The Natatanging Gawad Urian was given to the late Nida Blanca. Vilma and Nida worked together in Elwood Perez’ Ibulong mo sa Diyos. The Manunuri also handed out their Actress of the Decade award. Vilma Santos shared the actress category with rival, Nora Aunor and Richard Gomez received the actor.
No Vilma Santos film the following year, 2001. The Manunuri, rewarded Lav Diaz the best director and JmCN Productions the best picture for Batang West Side respectively. Then on 2002, Vilma Santos did another memorable performance in another Lualhati Bautista novel, Dekada 70. Dekada earned nominations in several categories at the 26th Gawad Urian. It shared top honours with Mga Munting Tinig, both proclaimed as 2002’s best picture. Best Director went to Munting Tinig’s Gil Portes while the writing went to Lualhati Bautista for Dekada. Other nominations for dekada went to Manny Morfe for production design and Albert Michael Idioma for sound. Christopher De Leon earned nomination for best actor for Dekada but lost to Jay Manalo, the winner for Prosti. The other awards won by Dekada were for acting. Best Actress went to Vilma Santos and best supporting actor to Piolo Pascual. The supporting actress went to Elizabeth Oropesa for Laman. The Manunuri gave their Natatanging Gawad Urian to film legend, Fernando Poe Jr. FPJ and Vilma did three films together, Batya’t Palu-palo, Bato Sa Buhangin and Ikaw Ang Mahal Ko.
As expected, there’s no Vilma film in 2003. The Manunuri bestowed their accolades to Star Cinema’s Magnifico. Its director Maryo J. De Los Reyes, previously ignored by the Manunuri finally got the best director award. Three acting awards went to Magnifico: best actor to child star, Jiro Manio; best supporting actor to Albert Martinez and best supporting actress to Gloria Romero. The best actress went to Cherrie Pie Picache for Bridal Shower. For the Natatanging Gawad Urian, Ricardo Lee joined the prestigious lists that includes Manuel Conde, Lamberto Avellana and Gerardo De Leon. Some of the Vilma Santos films that Ricardo Lee wrote were: Anak (2000), Dahil mahal kita: The Dolzura Cortez Story (1993), Hahamakin lahat (1990), Baby Tsina (1984), Haplos (1982), Relasyon (1982), and Miss X (1980).
The next year, 2004, Regal films asked Vilma to do the third installment to the Mano Po franchise. A Metro Manila Film Festival entry, MP3: My Love was a big hit and won awards. Despite a strong competition from Ebolusyong ng Isang Pamilyang Pilipino, Milan and Sabel, Cesar Montano’s self-produced film, Panaghoy sa Suba dominated the 28th Gawad Urian. The film won three major awards for Cesar Montano: best picture, director, and actor. Sabel won two acting awards: Wendell Ramos won best supporting and lead star, Judy Ann Santos defeated contemporary, Claudine Barreto for Milan and the two veterans, Nora Aunor for Naglalayag and Vilma Santos for Mano Po 3: My Love. The Manunuri gave the Natatanging Gawad Urian to veteran actress, Gloria Romero. Vilma Santos and Gloria worked together in films like: Saan nagtatago ang pag-ibig? (1987), Makahiya at Talahib (1976), Karugtong ang kahapon (1975), Lipad, Darna, lipad! (1973), Anak ng aswang (1973), Pinagbuklod ng langit (1969), Iginuhit ng Tadhana (1965).
The next two years, she did guest appearance as herself in 2006’s D’Lucky Ones and some TV guest appearances. Meanwhile the Manunuri rewarded Ang Pagdadalaga ni Maximo Oliveros as their top film for 2005 and its film director, Mes de Guzman the best director. Robin Padilla won best actor for La Visa Loca and Jaclyn Jose won best actress for Sarung Banggi. The next year, 2006, Kubrador won best picture and Jeff Jeturian the best director. For the top acting awards, Gina Pareno won best actress again for Jeturian’s Kubrador. And another Padilla won the best actor, this time Robin’s brother, Rustom won the best actor for his role as gay super hero, ZsaZsa Zaturnah. Eddie Garcia received the Natatanging Gawad Urian. Eddie Garcia’s most notable works with Vilma as an co-stars were: Mano Po III: My love (2004), Ibulong mo sa Diyos (1988), Yesterday, Today & Tomorrow (1986), Minsan pa nating hagkan ang nakaraan (1984) and Karugtong ng kahapon (1971). He also worked with Vilma as director in memorable films like: Imortal (1989), Palimos ng pag-ibig (1985); Sinasamba kita(1982); and Pinagbuklod ng langit (1969).
For the 31st Gawad Urian, Tirador was acclaimed as 2007 best film, and the film’s director, Brilliante Mendoza, pre-Cannes fame, won best director. Mendoza’s other film Foster Child gave Cherry Pie Picache the best actress. The Natatanging Gawad Urian went to Marichu Vera Perez Maceda, she produced several Vilma Santos starrer, most notably, Nakawin natin ang bawat sandali (1978), Pakawalan Mo Ako (1981) and Rubia Servios (1978). Indie films dominated 2008 Urian with Mylene Dizon for “100” and Coco Martin for “Jay” received the acting awards. Then the following year, veteran actresses Rustica Carpio and Anita Linda were the big winner, rewarded for their international film, “Lola.” For 2010, non-mainstream films continued to dominate the Urian with unknown Fe Virtudazo-Hyde for “Sheika” winning the best actress trophy. 2011 brought new breed of serious actors, Maja Salvador who co-starred with Vilma in 2006 tele-movie of Maala-ala Mo Kaya titled “Regalo” won the best actress for her performance in “Thelma” and Paulo Avelino won the best actor for “Ang Sayaw ng Dalawang Kaliwang Paa.” – RV, December 2009; Additional Source info: Manunuri, Wikepedia
“…There was a time in the 70s, particularly in 1973 and 1974, when a spate of Pinoy fantasy films featuring Pinoy superheroes graced our big screens. I think it was Vilma Santos’ Lipad Darna Lipad that started it all. It ushered in this wave of so-called trend in fantasy movies. Besides Darna, Vilma came up with Wonder Vi (1973), Phantom Lady (1974) and Vivian Volta (1974); Nora Aunor had Super Gee (1973) based on a popular komik serial; Superman and Batman had their local counterparts in Zoom, Zoom Superman (1973) with Ariel Ureta and Fight Batman Fight with Victor Wood. Vilma came out with another sequel of Darna titled Darna and the Giants, also in 1973; Dolphy had his own version of Captain Barbell in Captain Barbell Boom (1973). It was the movie, Supergirl (1973) which starred Pinky, that made a major impact among the moviegoers that time. It was a surprise hit that year. It was reshown several times due to insistent public demand…” – Simon Santos (READ MORE)
She defeated Nora Aunor’s high-wattage performance as Elsa, in another Bernal opus, in the heavily favored film production of Himala.
In Relasyon, Santos was both amusing and amazing as the contemporary incarnation of the beloved one, the querida. Critics and audiences, to this day, cannot seem to forget the very realistic death scene of Christopher de Leon as Emil that clocked more than one minute, taken in one continuous shot (no cuts), wherein Vilma’s Marilou was hysterically superlative.
Others (including this writer) found Santos’s exceptional acting evident in three memorable instances. The first is when she informs Emil of her pregnancy. Vilma’s face is almost pure, beaming at her lover affectionately, as she sends him off to work. Secondly, at Christmas Eve with girlfriends, she seems to be losing it, crying and laughing at the same time, enumerating how mistresses don’t celebrate special occasions, and prior to the credits, Marilou gives her love nest one more lingering gaze, eyes filled with acceptance and resignation on the fate of her affair.
Since the grand slam victory, spin masters gave her the tag “Star for All Seasons,” a creative counterpart to Aunor’s “Superstar” label.
She had other grand slam winnings after Relasyon, as Dolzura Cortez in The Dolzura Cortez Story, the AIDS-stricken sex worker; as Lea, the modern-day mother of two kids from different fathers, and as Amanda Bartolome, in Dekada ‘70, the mother coping with the turbulent 1970s and the harsh realities that growing children face.
The world of Philippine showbiz remains colorful and exciting as long as Vilma Santos’s supremacy continues.
Of late, she has been in the news again. With Aunor’s much-hyped TV comeback, Noranians are proclaiming hosannas for the superstar and, as expected, the “rivalry” between the two is brewing anew.
“That rivalry that I have with her, matagal na ‘yun,” says Santos. “I think, especially in the world of Philippine entertainment, universally accepted na yung if there is a Vilma, then Nora is immediately part of the equation. However, that so-called competition, matagal na ‘yun. Those were the days when we were still 37,” she laughs. “What’s important is that we are both working, we have very exciting projects and that the public, especially our fans, continue to support us.”
Always an actress – “Acting will always be in my blood,” articulates the actress. “I consider myself fortunate because I have already achieved all the things that an artist would want to achieve in his or her career.”
Ate Vi elaborates: “When I was younger, I had done my dream roles — gumanap na ako bilang Darna at Dyesebel. These are the roles that young stars dream of now. Kahit papaano, napagdaanan ko na ‘yan. I was able to make good and relevant films like Sister Stella L, ‘yung mga ginawa ko with direk Ishma (Ishmael Bernal), ‘yung Relasyon, Broken Marriage. Na-experience ko rin to become a box-office queen once in my life.”
Fans are looking forward to her latest movie project. “This October, my movie with Kim Chiu begins; shooting na kami,” Santos happily reports. “Since once in two years lang ako gumagawa ng pelikula, pinipili ko na kung ano ‘yung gusto ko at may maibibigay akong bago.”
With Chito Roño as its director, The Healing (tentative title) is a film about the lives of people who believe in the power of alternative medicines and witchcraft.
What drives her passions? Queen Vi smiles. “It’s because I am inspired. I have my family with me, giving me all the inspiration and the adrenaline to work harder and be inspired. I am now the mother of the province of Batangas, and so far, so good. I’ve been serving Batangas for 14 years now. But the most important thing at this point in time is that I want my family to be healthy. Kayamanan na ‘yun.”
Always a public servant – Aside from the project with Kim, the Star for All Seasons is at the forefront of the Bear Brand Powdered Milk’s Laki Sa Gatas Nutrition Education Advocacy.
The Laki Sa Gatas Advocacy is now on its fifth year. The company behind the brand visits 5,000 public schools nationwide yearly, providing school children with milk so that they acquire the habit of milk drinking. It reaches out to more than 2.5 million mothers and children via interactive information campaign.
“I believe that health is number one,” she pronounces. “That’s why my priority programs are geared toward health. Before, education used to be my top priority, but I soon realized, how can our students learn if they are not healthy? How can they become competitive if they do not get the proper nutrition?
“That is why in Batangas, I am initiating programs for the rehabilitation of hospitals, for the promotion of health cards and various nutrition programs,” Santos adds.
Always a mom – Any conversation with Santos will not be complete without talking about her eldest son, Luis Manzano. The young Manzano has announced his interest to run for the Lipa City mayor’s seat.
“I can’t stop him from the doing what he wants,” Ate Vi says. “I told him it’s not easy to be a public servant, it’s not easy to sacrifice all the things he has right now. I told him that if he’s really serious in entering, he must really have the heart for it, and that his life would not be the same.
“I would like to believe that I have set a good example,” she muses. “He grew up seeing how I work. When he was young I used to bring him with me on important occasions. I think that was an eye-opener for him, so in case he’s going to try politics he already has the foundation. If that is what he really wants, I’ll support him.”
With regard to his son’s love life, Santos quips, “As a mother, I’ll just be here to support him. I am here not to meddle or not to impose on anything when it comes to his love life.”
Vilma Santos-Recto clearly knows what is important to her — a blissful family, an exhilarating acting career, a progressive province. She is a queen in many ways and a woman in every way. – Alwin M. Ignacio
“…There was a time in the 70s, particularly in 1973 and 1974, when a spate of Pinoy fantasy films featuring Pinoy superheroes graced our big screens. I think it was Vilma Santos’ Lipad Darna Lipad that started it all. It ushered in this wave of so-called trend in fantasy movies. Besides Darna, Vilma came up with Wonder Vi (1973), Phantom Lady (1974) and Vivian Volta (1974); Nora Aunor had Super Gee (1973) based on a popular komik serial; Superman and Batman had their local counterparts in Zoom, Zoom Superman (1973) with Ariel Ureta and Fight Batman Fight with Victor Wood. Vilma came out with another sequel of Darna titled Darna and the Giants, also in 1973; Dolphy had his own version of Captain Barbell in Captain Barbell Boom (1973). It was the movie, Supergirl (1973) which starred Pinky, that made a major impact among the moviegoers that time. It was a surprise hit that year. It was reshown several times due to insistent public demand…” – Simon Santos (READ MORE)
The Plot: “Botanist, Tere’s (Nora Aunor) long stable relationship with business executive Rex (Christopher Deleon) was shaken when Sandra (Vilma Santos) came into their lives. A pill popping liberal career minded, Sandra made Rex’s monotonous life colourful and exciting. He later realized that both women complete his existence.” – RV (READ MORE)
“An unusual story of three people caught in the unexplainable intricacies of love and need. The five year old relationship of Rex and Tere is put to a test as Sandra, the kooky, talented and aggressive designer rocks the picture perfect and peaceful relationship. The solid and unruffled engagement cracks as Rex is immediately smitten by Sandra’s dynamic persona. The film features the superstar team-up of award winning artists Nora Aunor and Vilma Santos and the drama king, Christopher de Leon.” – Database of Philippine Movies (READ MORE)
“Ang ‘Ikaw ang Akin’ ay tungkol sa isang paboritong paKsa sa ating puting-tabing: ang trianggulo ng pag-ibig. Si Rex (Christopher de Leon) ay batambatang tagapamahala ng isang pagawaan ng dyipni. Limang taon na silang magkatipan ni Tere (Nora Aunor), isang dalubhasa sa paghahalaman. Mapayapa at maayos ang kanilang pagsasama hanggang makilala ni Rex si Sandra (Vilma Santos), isang designer. Nagsimulang magkaroon ng sigalot ang pagsasama nina Rex at Tere. Hindi makapagpasiya si Rex kung sino ang pipilijn sa dalawa na kapwa naging matimbang sa kanya. Sa huli, nataios ni Rex na ang pag-ibig at pag-aangkin sa isang nilalang ay isang masalimuot na damdaming hindi nararapat sarilinin ng isang tao lamang.” – Manunuri (READ MORE)
The Reviews: “…After 37 years, Ikaw Ay Akin becomes a materialist indictment of the patriarchal deceit cisgender passion must contend with, opening up the queerness that emerges from feminine confidence as zone of alternative feelings. And, of course, Nora still punctures the assault with an imperturbable will to punctuate the sentence, despite the adages of her time failing to utter competitive affection, convincing Vilma that the encounter isn’t just about female rivalry, but also masculine decadence…” – J. Pilapil Jacobo, Young Critics Circle Film Desk, 21 November 2015 (READ MORE)
“…Bernal, testing the tensions of triangular love (for geometry books, one of his characters wittily says) for some time now, plunges deeper into character analysis and metaphorizing. In Lumayo, Lumapit ang Umaga, the triangle was unevenly explored: the first love was sketchily drawn. Dalawang Pugad, Isang become a choice for a more stable relationship. Walang Katapusang Tag-araw was a strange reverse of characters for two women and an unusual development of love into hatred and hatred into love, where therefore the triangle was essentially illusions. Ikaw ay Akin finally sets an interlocked triangle on its bases and looks at it (from all 3 angles) squarely in the face. Except for some scenes with overdrawn energy, the viewing is intelligent entertainment. However, after an interesting beginning and development one feels the resolution is too simplified…and too calculated. Charing (Nora) is the confident, authoritative, ultra-responsible mother-figure who fits very nicely with Rex’s (Boyet) tentative character: orphan-psyched, retreating… an incomplete figure. Sandra (Vilma) outs a very colorful character: agressive, creative, lively – but underneath it all, essentially a clinging vine. They are such convincing characters, and all their needing and suffering come accross very easily from the celluloids. With just a few scenes they are rounded out. Charing and her orchids – a reflection of her care for Rex and her discerment between experiment and commitment; Rex and his parachute – a give-away of his secret longing to get away from all the givens of his life (the inherited business, cons of orphan’s loneliness even his 5-year relationship with Charing!) Sandra and her designs – creating is at once product of her character and a need (initiating a realtionship with Rex is expression of need more than any romantic feeling). When Rex, balancing the triangle, verbalizes all these into a very basic “She needs me; I need her needing me plus your caring for me,” clearly sided heavily on Sandra’s side, it is unbelievable that it should all boil down to plain need, that decisions on love could be made this easily. Questions: While one is at verbalizations, why not mention the giving side of love, appraise or even applaud it a little instead of leaving it implicit in Charing’s character – which could be, come to think of it, the key out of tanglejails of possession? Ofcourse Bernal might have been considering less subtlety in a bid for a more popular style. Granting that, one may still appreciate the five selections of environmental details that areally delineate characters and character development – a fine effort to bring setting characters and action into a unified direction – but are triangles the curret favorite in the moviemarket? If this means it is a main concern in many lives today, then…what a hell!…” – Petronila Cleto, Pelikula, Atbp (READ MORE)
“…Unlike other superstar team-ups that fail to exploit the golden opportunity of pulling in sure audiences to watch a serious work, Bernal’s greatest achievement lies not so much in putting his three big stars together but in making use of them to lure their fans and followers intos eeing a mature, sensible film. And his cast serves Bernal very well. In the hands of a capable director, Christopher de Leon proves that his forgettable appearance in such odious films as “Topo-Topo Barega” and “Disco Fever” are mere lapses in judgment that do not entirely discredit his craft. He also shows enough gallantry by not getting into the way of his leading ladies, whose roles are undoubtedly more demanding than his. As the uptight Sandra, Vilma Santos has the script’s choicest, wittiest lines. She makes the most of them and succeeds in giving a fairly accurate portrait of an emotionally insecure young woman. And when she tells Rex: “sabi nila liberated ako, front lang. Kalog daw, front din. Alam mo namang kulang-kulang ako. Pag wala ka, magkakalat ako. Para akong manok, takbo ng takbo wala namang ulo.” She likewise handles her final breakdown exceedingly well. Nora has less lines but she nevertheless manages to conveys her emotions very effectively. In that family reunion-party which is so engrossed in gossip and banter, she remains so detached, speaking nary a word — a triumph for both Bernal and her. The hurt in her eyes continues to build up until that disrupted dinner scene where she rushes to her room and, unable to contain herself, finally cries. The most stable of the three, you could really believe her when she tells Rex: “Galit ako sa ‘king sarili, dahil sinasaktan mo na ako nang todo-todo pero lalo ka namang napapamahal sa akin.” The film is greatly enhanced by Jose Carreon’s vibrant script, Mel Chionglo’s superb production design, the Vanishing Tribe’s fine musical score, and Augusto Salvador’s brisk editing (few scenes last longer than a couple of minutes). But the lion’s share of credit goes to Bernal. I particularly like his splendid use of meaningful pauses and oppressive silences, as in Sandra and Tere’s accidental first meeting at Rex’s house, Sandra’s soundless dinner with her father that leads to her breakdown, and the long, quiet ending scene where Sandra and Tere never say a word and yet succeed in finally communicating with each other. Our viewers are discomfited by this exhausting process, what with the underdeveloped tastes of our mass audience perpetuated by irresponsible irectors. But one fervently hopes for Bernal, who apparently believes he owes the audience his best even if they are more likely to love his third best more, that they would get the film’s message and, perhaps, even accept and like it.” – Mario E. Bautista, Philippine Daily Express, 1978 (READ MORE)
“…Mas challenging ang role ni Ate Vi rito kumpara kay nora…mas magaganda ang mga dialogues ni Ate Vi na nakakatuwa at magaling ang pagkakadeliver niya ng mga linya. Sexy siya ha at magaganda ang mga damit na ginamit niya rito. Maigsi ang buhok na medyo curly. Bagay na bagay sa kanya. Komento ko lang ay medyo matinis pa ang boses ni Ate Vi rito…Vilma-Nora Scenes: a) sa sine parang sa tingin ko ay di sabay ito kinunan sa tingin ko lang ay di sila magkaeksena rito bagamat pareho silang nasa sinehan. b) bahay scene – ang ikli ng pagsasama nilang dalawa rito na parang pinasabik ang mga manonood kung may iringan ba or acting sa acting ang magaganap, pero walang naganap na ganun! c) No Dialogue Scene – Grabe!! Ang galing ng eksenang ito. First time kong makanood ng ganitong ending…walang salitaan, sagutan, walang murahan, walang away, wala as in wala except labanan ng facial expression, eye acting ika nga. Kainis lang ang director na ito kasi pinaglaruan lamang ang imahinasyon ng mga manonood at ng mga Vilmanians-Noranians!…” – Dream Forest, V Magazine Issue No. 7 Literary Issue 2006 (READ MORE)
“…Makikita sa Ikaw Ay Akin ang dalawang magkaibang estilo ng pagganap na ipinamalas nina Nora at Vilma at kapwa akmang-akma ito sa buong katauhan ng mga karakter na kanilang ginampanan. Sino ang mas mahusay sa kanilang dalawa? Kani-kaniyang opinyon, depende sa mga nakapanood ng pelikula. Maraming nagsabing mas pinaboran daw ni Bernal si Vilma sa dahilang mas maramin itong mabibigat na eksena kaysa kay Nora, ngunit paano makakalimutan ang huling tagpo sa Ikaw Ay Akin kung saan mahabang katahimikan ang naging daan upang higit na magkaintindihan sina Tere at Sandra tungkol sa kanilang pag-ibig kay Rex. Kung totoong mas pinaboran ng direktor si Vilma ay nakabawi naman ito ng husto kay Nora pagdating sa nabanggit na eksena. Kakaiba din ang husay na ipinamalas ni Christopher de Leon, maaring alam niyang ang Ikaw Ay Akin ay pelikula ng dalawang malalaking aktres kung kaya tama lamang ang bigat ng pagganap na ipinamalas ng aktor sa papel ni Rex. Napagwagihan ni Christopher ang Pinakamahusay Na Pangunahing aktor mula sa Manunuri Ng Pelikulang Pilipino nang sumunod na taon samantalang kapwa nakatanggap ng nominasyon bilang Pinakamahusay Na Pangunahing Aktres sina Nora at Vilma sa Ikaw Ay Akin ngunit kapawa sila natalo ni Beth Bautista para sa kanyang mahusay na pagganap sa Hindi Sa Iyo Ang Mundo, Baby Porcuna. Hindi matatawaran ang tagumpay ng mga manlilikhang bumuo sa Ikaw Ay Akin na nagtaas ng kalidad ng dramatikong pelikulang Pilipino, nagturong umintindi ng husto sa damadamin ng mga taong tunay na nagmamahalan.” – Jojo Devera, Sari-saring Sineng Pinoy (READ MORE)
“…While the previous year was less productive in terms of quantity, Vilma Santos came back with a big bang the following year with twelve films. Most of these films were adult dramas. Three notable films were the critically acclaimed “Pagputi ng Uwak, Pag-itim ng Tagak” directed by Celso Ad Castillo and produced by Vilma herself. The local film festival entry, “Rubia Servios” directed by the late Lino Brocka. And lastly, “Ikaw ay Akin” directed by Bernal. “Ikaw ay Akin” reunited Vilma with rival, Nora Aunor. The film also featured Christopher De Leon, who won the local critics’ best actor and best actress nominations for Aunor and Santos as well as best director nomination for Bernal. Aside from Ikaw, Bernal also did two other films, both starring Alma Moreno, “Lagi na lamang ba akong babae?” and “Isang gabi sa iyo Isang gabi sa akin” with Elizabeth Oropeza…” – RV (READ MORE)
“…“Ikaw Ay Akin,” 1978, Ishmael Bernal. A refreshing change of role for the superstar, cast here as a smart and sophisticated horticulturist at odds with best friend and real-life rival Vilma Santos. Notable for its experimental and long closing shot of the two friends’ reunion, with only their eyes talking…” – Mario A. Hernando, Philippine Daily Inquirer, 01 October 2011 (READ MORE)
What do Vilma Santos and Sharon Cuneta have in common, aside from being married to senator-husbands (Senator Ralph Recto and Senator Francis Pangilinan)?
The answers are as follows:
Both Vilma and Sharon are the highest paid actresses of the Philippines.
Both won the Brussels Independent International Film Festival best actress trophy (Bata, Bata…Saan Ka Ginawa? for Vilma and The Crying Ladies for Sharon).
Both were directed by award-winning directors Lino Brocka, Joel Lamangan and Olivia Lamasan, among others.
Both were Urian best actress awardees, with Vilma having the most Urian ever, 8, to Sharon’s one.
Both shared Urian best actress honors with Nora Aunor (Pahiram ng Isang Umaga for Vilma, and Madrasta for Sharon).
Both were grand slam winners, with Vilma having a record 4, to Sharon’s one.
Both had a slew of movie and box-office queen titles between them, but apparently Vilma seems to have an edge as the Philippines’ Longest-reigning Movie and Box-office Queen, given her longevity and continuing winning streak.
Both were PMPC Star TV awardees for best musical-variety host and show, but records show that Vilma had the most awards from the PMPC group and the CMMA for her defunct musical-variety show Vilma!.
Both had demonstrated excellent track records as two of the most disciplined, hard-working and professional entertainers in the business.
Both had been successful in their married life (second chance), and as mothers. Interestingly, like Vilma, Sharon sacrificed her career in favor of motherhood, albeit temporarily, with fruitful results. Three beautiful daughters for Sharon and two handsome sons for Vilma.
Both guested in and acted as substitute host for their respective TV shows Vilma! and Sharon.
Both continue to rake in hefty talent fees for endorsing products.
Both have graced the TV screen with memorable performances in Maalaala Mo Kaya.
Both had numerous blockbuster movies from Viva Films.
Both enhanced each others’ careers, directly or indirectly, such as when Sharon sang the theme songs for Vilma’s memorable and ever popular box-office hits Langis at Tubig and Sinasamba Kita.
Both have handled their money well, based on published accounts of their ‘healthy’ and enviable net worth (source: the tabloids).
Both figured in the top 100 Philippine Movers and Shakers based on public opinion and marketing research data, confirming the Filipinos’ high regard and admiration for the two charismatic celebrities.
And the list goes on…
Vilma Santos and Sharon Cuneta. Sharon Cuneta and Vilma Santos. – They are like two peas in a pod, like Yin and Yang, like Successful Twins, despite the age gap of thirteen years. It seems that the documented and observed Mutual Admiration, Respect and Friendship of the Star for All Seasons and the Megastar with each other are even more legendary than that of Amalia Fuentes and Daisy Romualdez and Thelma and Louis’ special bonds.
What are the divine secrets of the Vilma-Sharon Sisterhood, that it seems to grow sweeter and closer through the years? – It all began when the teen-age singing sensation and her Ate Vi were neighbors at the Dasmarinas Village in Makati . Sharon gushed: “Vilma has always been one of my favorites, from way back. Everybody knows that. When I was younger and not yet in the movies, our family used to live in Dasma, at the corner of Paraiso and Morado Streets. Vilma naman lived nearby, also on Morado St. So I grew up passing by her house everyday and looking at it. Fan na niya ako!” (Source: Ricky Lo) As Fate would have it, the two friends cum showbiz rivals have had inevitable collision courses, such as when their TV shows would compete for higher TV ratings and commercial endorsements, and when, at the height of their rivalry, Sharon ’s Bukas, Luluhod ang Mga Tala clobbered Vilma’s Sister Stella L. at the box office. An old Movie Flash magazine review of both movies by Mario Bautista entitled Pinaluhod Talaga ni Sharon si Vilma had Mr. Bautista acknowledging Sharon’s clout at the box-office with the ‘bakya’ and comics appeal of Bukas, but praising to the hilt Vilma’s tour de force performance in Sister Stella L., the winner of most awards at the 1984 Urian, including Vilma’s historic third Urian best actress win for the classic movie.
Vilma and Sharon’s last ‘clash’ was at the 2002 Urian where Vilma made history (again) when she won her eighth Urian best actress trophy for Dekada 70, beating Sharon who was nominated for her heartfelt performance in Magkapatid. Through the years and after equally successful film and TV careers for two of the most beloved Pinoy celebrities, Vilma and Sharon never seem to run out words of praise for each other. Says Sharon on her role model in the latter’s 25th, anniversary in showbiz: “Ate Vi, you know I love you. And I’ll always always look up to you.” She continues: ‘I learned from the examples set by Vilma Santos. I learned to be an idol because my idol is a good one.’ I remember one time Vilma was asked how she felt about my winning, I think as Box-Office Queen and she said, ‘She deserves it!’ I’ll never forget that. That’s why I love that woman!”
Was there jealousy between the two? – “Never! I really look up to her. Time and again, I say I never wanted to take anybody’s place. I always wanted to take my own place in the business, but never to take somebody else’s place. I learn from Vilma’s examples,” Sharon concludes. (excerpts from Ricky Lo’s 1997 article, Sharon on Vilma).
Respect begets respect – Vilma Santos’ humility and professional ways really impressed Megastar Sharon Cuneta, herself a successful multi-media artist. Will they appear in a movie someday? What about the legitimate stage? Will they, ehem, compete as Future First Ladies? Will they interview each other on TV? Or co-host an awards show? Will Sharon oblige to hand the National Artist Award to Vilma in the near future? Will Sharon allow her Ate Vi to direct her in a movie? And vice versa? The possibilities are really endless and mind-boggling… when Sharon meets Vilma. – Mario O. Garces, FAP Forum, Mar 25, 2008 (READ MORE)
Sharon Cuneta-Pangilinan, better known as Sharon Cuneta, is a multi-awarded Filipino singer, actress and TV host dubbed the Megastar of Philippine Entertainment, and fondly called “Mega” by fans and people from the entertainment industry. Her success in the movies (53 starring roles), television (10 shows) and recording (40 albums) make her possibly the greatest Filipino entertainer of all time. Her popularity has translated well into the field of advertising, where she is the highest paid and most effective Filipino celebrity endorser. Cuneta’s long list of endoresements run the gamut from fastfood chain to bank, from make-up line to electronics, from ice cream to tele-communication company. On November 22, 2011, following months of speculations, Sharon’s big move to TV5 was made official by signing a staggering 1 Billion contract with the Kapatid Network – the highest ever paid to a Filipino artist. She parted ways with ABS-CBN, her home network of 24 years, on a cordial note. Her daily afternoon talk show Sharon: Kasama Mo, Kapatid premiered on May 14, 2012 and has been hailed as an engaging program that aims to entertain and to inspire. The show provides the perfect platform for Sharon to be in touch with her audience, reaffirming her stature as a well-loved icon who is now more accessible to fans and viewers alike. – Wikipedia (READ MORE)
NOTE: It was reported in February of 2011 that Sharon Cuneta and Vilma Santos will do a horror film under the direction of Chito S. Roño. Unfortunately, the film didn’t materialize as Sharon decided to move to another network station. It was reported that her multi year contract to TV5 was worth one billion pesos, considered the highest contract ever recorded in local entertainment history. The Chito S. Roño horror film was completed this year and was released on the 25th of July (2012), Vilma was paired wtih new star, Kim Chiu. The film was a huge success. Sharon is currently hosting a television talk show while Vilma is gearing up for re-election as Governor of Batangas. She hasn’t appear on Sharon’s talk show. There’s is no plans for future movie for the two.
The Plot: Sister Stella L. is the award-winning masterpiece by Mike De Leon. It’s about a nun, Sister Stella Legaspi, who becomes involved in labor strikes after learning about the government’s neglect of the poor and the working class. Her sworn duty to fight for the poor and the oppressed turns personal when her journalist friend Nick Fajardo is tortured and the union leader Dencio is kidnapped and killed. What follows is her eye-opening and the tear-jerking battle against cruelty and injustice. The film broke censorship barriers back in 1984, during the final years of the US-backed Marcos dictatorship, for its realistic portrayal of labor struggles, and extrajudicial killings, hauntingly mirroring the reality of Philippine society today under Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo. – Filipinas for the Rights and Empowerment
The Reviews: Hindi kami nakakilos sa aming inuupuan matapos panoorin ang “Sister Stella L”. Para kaming sinampal, tinamaan ng kidlat right between the eyes. Masyado kaming naapektuhan. Gusto naming sumigaw. Talagang gagalitin ka ng pelikula. Kay raming eksena ang talagang titiim ang bagang mo. Manggigigil ka, magngingitngit ka. At pahahangain ka. Gusto mong sigawan ng bravo, yakapin at suubin ng papuri ang mga gumawa nito. Si Mike de Leon na siyang direktor. Si Lily Monteverde na naglakas-loob na i-produce ito. Ang scripwriters, ang mga artista, at lahat na ng kaugnay sa pelikula. Alam mong itinataya nila ang kanilang kaligtasan sa paggawa ng ganitong uri ng pelikula. At bilang manunulat, naroon ang hangarin mo upang tulungan ang pelikulang ito na mapanood ng lalong nakararaming mga pilipino. ..nang walang putol!
Ang “Sister Stella L” ay kasaysayan ng isang madre, ng isang Pilipino, at ang pagkakamulat ng kanyang mga mata sa mga kaapihang sosyal na nagaganap sa kanyang paligid. Sa pagsisimula ng istorya as siyam na taon nang naglilingkod sa kumbento ng Caritas si Sister Stella Legaspi (Vilma Santos). Guidance counselor siya sa mga taong may problema na tulad ni Gigi (Gina Alajar), isang unwed mother. Minsa’y dinalaw siya ni Nick Fajardo (Jay Ilagan), isang peryodistang dati niyang katipan. May sinusulat itong artikulo tungkol sa mga aktibistang pari at madre. Agad inamin ni Stella na siya’y “walang masyadong alam sa socio-political involvement ng mga madre at pari.” Siya ang ginawang ehemplo ni Nick sa artikulo nito ng mga madreng kulang sa kamulatan. Nag-react dito si Stella at sinabi sa kanya: “ Hindi ba involvement din ang trabaho ko rito sa Caritas?” Madalas ma-depress si Gigi at kay Stella ito sumasandal. Nang minsang sabihin sa kanya ni Stella na kaya niyang dalhin ang kanyang mga problema ay sinumbatan siya nito: “Madaling magsalita. Hindi naman ikaw ang nahihirapan. Paano mo alam, hindi ka naman dumaan sa hirap? Nagbuntis ka na ba? Laging masakit ang suso mo. Nahihirapan kang tumae.” At nang patuloy pa ring malamig si Stella ay sinabi nito: “Bakit hindi ka gumaya sa ‘kin? Nagagalit, nagmumura, nagpapabuntis?”
May kaibigang madre si Stella, si Sister Stella Bautista (Laurice Guillen). Involved ito sa social action work at kasalukuyang tumutulong sa Barrio Agoho, isang factory town, na kung saan ang mga manggagawa sa Republic Cooking Oil ay nagbabantang mag-aklas. Naakit si Stella L. na tingnan ang uri ng trabaho roon ni Stella B. Sa araw ng kanyang pagdalaw sa Agoho ay tiyempo namang pagsisimula ng welga roon. Tuwang-tuwa si Stella B. Sumasama raw siya sa picket line dahil “pag may mga madre at pari sa picket line, nahihiyang pumasok ang mga eskirol.” Sa paglapit niya sa picket ay naabutan si Stella L. ng placard at siya man ay napabilang na rin sa welga. Puno pa siya ng mga katanungan: “Ano ba ‘tong napasukan ko? Anong gagawin ko?” Sabi naman ni Stella B.: “Basta gawin mo lang ang gagawin ko.” Sa paglipas ng oras ay nakausap niya ang mga manggagawang nagwewelga, nakitulong siya sa pagsandok ng kanin, sa paghugas ng plato. Nakilala niya ang lider ng mga welgista na si Dencio (Tony Santos) at ang asawa nitong si Auring (Anita Linda). Nang makita ni Nick ang mga larawang kuha sa welga at kabilang doon si Stella, nasabi nito sa kanyang editor (Liza Lorena): “Kilala ko si Stella. Madali siyang maimpluwensiyahan. Baka kung ano na ang napulot noon sa tokayo niyang radikal.” Nagsimula namang kuwestiyunin ni Stella ang trabaho niya sa Caritas. Binalaan siya ng kanyang superyorang si Juaning (Adul de Leon): “Hindi social action ang linya natin. At tandaan mo ang sabi ng Papa: huwag tayong humalo sa politika.” Sa kanyang mga alinlangan kung tama ang pasiya niyang maglingkod sa Agoho, ito ang payo ni Stella B.: “Paano mo malalaman kung hindi mo susubukan? Hindi ang mga tao ang dapat makinig sa ‘yo, ikaw ang dapat makinig sa kanila.” Dahil sa kanyang karanasan sa Agoho, nasabi ni Stella kay Gigi: “Ang kahirapang nababasa’t naririnig ko lamang ay naging buhay na sa akin. Ako pala’y nangangapa ring tulad mo.” Namulat ang mata niya sa “pang-aabuso sa mga naaapi” at na-touch siya ng “pag-aasikaso ng mga ito.” Aniya: “Sila na ang nangangailangan ay kami pa ang kanilang iniintindi.”
Duda pa rin si Nick sa involvement niya sa welga. Pasulpot-sulpot lang daw siya roon, patulong-tulong. “Kapag nagsawa ka,” anito, “uuwi ka rin sa komportableng kumbento.” Si Stella B. ay kinailangan namang magpunta sa Davao upang tumulong sa isa pa nilang kasamahan doon, lalong nangamba si Stella L. na iiwanan siya nito sa Agoho. “Baka hindi ko kaya,” aniya. Sabi naman ni Stella B. “Puro ka baka, e, kailan mo pa malalaman?” Pinatawag uli si Stella ni Juaning. Sabi nito: “Hindi payag ang kongregasyon sa trabaho mo sa Barrio Agoho.” Sa pagbabalik niya sa Caritas, nagpatiwakal naman si Gigi. Lalong naguluhan si Stella. “Parang bumaliktad ang mundo ko,” aniya. “Marami akong tinatanong. Bakit nga ba ako nag madre?” Sabi naman ni Stella B.: “Madreng lansangan ka pa rin hanggang mamatay ka.” Natuloy ang pag-alis nito, na ang akala’y pinoproblema niya na baka may pagtingin pa rin siya kay Nick. Bilin pa nito: “Kung mahal mo siya, sundin mong feeling mo. Marami namang paraan ngpaglilingkod sa Diyos.” Si Nick ay nagkaroon din ng problema sa trabaho niya. Isang artikulo niya tungkol sa karanasan ni Stella B. sa Isabela na pinamagatan niyang “A Nun’s Story: Military Atrocities” ang hindi pinalathala ng kanilang publisher. “I-rewrite mo,” sabi ng editor niya. “Bawasan mo’ng tapang.” “Ano?” balik niya. “Gawin kong love story?” “Sabi ko, i-rewrite mo, hindi babuyin,” anang editor. Pero sa bandang huli ay nag-give up na rin ito. Tanggapin na raw lamang ang kanilang mga limitasyon. “Hindi lahat ng legal ay makatarungan.” Nagbitiw si Nick sa trabaho niya sa Tribune at lumipat ng pagsusulat sa Malaya.
Nagbalik si Stella L. sa Agoho at naging mas aktibo na siya sa picket line. Nang minsang lalabas ang trak ng mga produkto mula sa pabrika ay siya pa ang nag wika: “Mga kasama, magkapit-bisig tayo.” Samantala’y nagsimula ang pangha-harass kay Dencio at sa pamilya nito. Una’y ginulpi ang anak niyang si Roger, pagkatapos ay binaril ang bahay nila. Ang huli’y kinidnap si Dencio. Nang papaalis na sina Stella at Nick upang humingi ng tulong, sila man ay kinidnap din. Nakita nila ang pagpapahirap kay Dencio. Sila man ay sinaktan din at si Stella ay binastos pa ng mga sanggano. Pinakawalan din sila. Di naglaon, ibinalik si Dencio. Patay na. Sa harap ng mga manggagawa, ipinahayag ng asawa nitong si Auring na tuloy ang welga. Nagsalita rin si Stella at sinabi niya: “Ilang beses akong pinaalalahanan na ako’y isang madre lamang. Pero una sa lahat, ako’y isang tao, ako’y isang Kristiyano.” At isinigaw niya: “Katarungan para kay Ka Dencio. Mabuhay ang uring manggagawa.” Sa last scene ng pelikula’y nagsasalita ng diretso si Stella L. sa mga manonood: “Marami pa akong hindi alam at dapat malaman tungkol sa kasalukuyang kalagayan ng ating sistema ng lipunan. Kailangan pa ‘kong patuloy na mag-aral at matuto. Pero ang mahalaga’y narito na ako ngayon, hindi na nanonood lamang. Nakikiisa sa pagdurusa ng mga di makaimik, tumutulong sa abot ng aking makakaya. Kung hindi tayo ang kikilos, sino ang kikilos? Kung hindi ngayon, kailan pa?”
More than anything else, ipinakita ni Mike de Leon bilang isang socially committed at responsible na director ang iba pang posibilidad ng pelikula bilang art at bilang medium of communication. ‘Yung mga laging pumipintas sa pelikulang lokal at nagsasabing walang kuwenta’t saysay ang mga ito, panoorin ninyo and “Sister Stella L” for it is Filipino moviemaking at its best: aware, concerned, and with a universally relevant message. It also shows that an artistic film can be entertaining and as a matter of fact, is necessarily intellectually entertaining (but an entertaining film is not necessarily an artistic one).
The movie succeeds in delivering its message because all the elements that went into its completion are excellently executed. It is that rare kind of movie which has no false moves. The screenplay is brilliantly developed and constructed by Pete Lacaba, Jose Almojuela (who is also the assistant director), and Mike de Leon himself. The cinematography of Rody Lacap deserves nothing but superlatives and the musical score by Ding Achacoso is served in a silver platter (napakagaganda ng mga awiting “Sangandaan” at “Aling Pag-ibig Pa” na nilikha niya para sa pelikula). The editing by Jess Navarro and the production design by Cesar Hernando also deserve the highest commendation. We cannot help but gush dahil lahat ng aspeto ng produksiyong ito ay maganda.
The movie is sure to elicit all sorts of reactions from various quarters. The bigoted and the narrow-minded will no doubt readily brand it as the work of communists and subversives. The involved will merely find it interesting. But the enlightened will declare it as a socially committed work of art. No doubt that some concerned quarters will be offended. Some of the speeches are so frank and fearless. Dencio says in a May 1st rally: “Ang mga manggagawa ang lumilikha ng yaman ng bansa. Panahon na para ipakita ang lakas ng ating pagkakaisa, na makamtan ng bayan ang tunay na kalayaan. Ang manggagawa ang nagpapaandar ng makina, nagpapalago ng puhunan.” Pero ano ang nangyayari? Tayo ang namamatay sa gutom, ang naghihikahos. Hindi magbabago ang ating lipunan kung uupo lang tayo sa isang sulok at maghihimutok. kundi tayo ngayon kikilos, kailan pa?” Nang mamatay siya, sabi naman ng asawa niyang si Auring: “Noon, ang paniwala ko talaga, gano’n ang buhay, may nasa itaas, may nasa ibaba. May nag-uutos at may nagsisilbi. Pero kung tatahimik ka na lang lagi, ang konting meron ka, aagawin pa sa ‘yo. Patay na nga si Dencio pero tuloy ang welga.” Sabi naman ng anak niyang si Roger: “Kung kikilos tayo, dapat ngayon na. Ngayon pa lang, pinapatay na kami. Kaya mas mabuti pang mamatay ng lumalaban kaysa habang buhay kang nagtitiis.”
To make a film like this comes under the heading “they said it couldn’t be done.” Mike de Leon does it, splendidly. In these days when local film faces such problems as exorbitant production cost, commercialism, lack of an intelligent and responsive audience, and censorship, it is heartening to note that movies like this are still being made. Matthew Arnold said that art and society shape each other so artists should deal with serious subjects of moral and social value. This is exactly what Stella L. accomplished, for it allows the viewer to meditate on life and help him gain some insights. Surely no film is an island entire of itself because each movie is made by several men, but the distinguishable personality of an exceptional director is almost always imprinted on his film. We have never really liked the works of Mike de Leon that much and his movies (like “Itim”, “Kung Mangarap Ka’t Magising”, and “Kisapmata”) seemed nothing more to us as exercises in self-indulgence. Starting with “Kakaba-kaba Ka Ba?” though, he demonstrated a newfound cause in making movies, which is further reinforced by “Batch ‘81”. Now, Stella L., offers the pleasure of watching a director as he is hitting full stride, his craft and competence marching in step with history. His deft hand is quickly evident in the cinematography. There is no imposed prettiness in the photography, no straining for arty effects, but the texture is rich and palpable to validate reality, with the effective use of color-acting on the viewer to reinforce the temper and tenor of the story.
De Leon handles his intimate and delicate material powerfully, persuasively and penetratingly. He not only executes the technical aspects marvelously but also knows how to work with his actors, both individually and in the here all-important ensembles. The crowd scenes are a delight, with some sequences presented with the veristic quality of a documentary, and each scene is played for maximum impact, immaculately crafted and made with care and conscience, with dedication and devotion. If we now sound so much like an avid de Leon fan, it is because Stella L. is the kind of work that makes a reviewer long for new adjectives of praise. One knows very well that de Leon works for reasons other than money. This makes the strength, sensitivity and symetry of his direction deserve the highest praise and the sweet of music of thunderous applause for it is just better than perfect. Local cinema gives us very few occasions to rejoice and this is one of them.
In the large and uniformly excellent supporting cast, Laurice Guillen stands out as Sister Stella B. She is one film director and actress who is really ablaze with talent. As the instrument to Stella L.’s involvement in a much more worthy cause, she imbuesher role with just the right mixture of intensity and charm. Equally memorable are Tony Santos as the beleaguered labor leader, Anita Linda as his courageous wife, and Liza Lorena as the sympathetic magazine editor who is willing to compromise. Gina Alajar is very effective in a very short role as the unwed mother. In the male lead role, Jay Ilagan proves once more that he is indeed one of our most competent young actors available.
And now, Vilma Santos. Playing the title role, Vilma tries a part that is totally different from her past roles and proves that she has indeed become a highly skilled professional. Her role is somewhat reminiscent of Audrey Hepburn’s in Fred Zinnermann’s “The Nun’s Story”, where a young nun discovers in a hospital at the Congo that she is first a nurse and only second a religious. But Stella’s awakening is much more vital and revolutionary than that of Sister Luke in the Hepburn movie. Vilma’s transformation from an innocent bystander to that of an active participant who is audacious enough to be in the thick of battle is truly quite awesome to behold. We could almost see and feel the internal changes in her. In a sense, the role is somewhat tailor made for her because her beauty is appropriate to the part of Stella L., but she also succeeds in transcending her established personality, delivering her lines and gestures with vigorous conviction and playing it to perfection that one can safely predict that she will again be running in the best actress derby come next year. And so, to Vi, Mike and Mother Lily, our heartfelt gratitude for giving us a film that has the power to cause insomnia. – Mario E. Bautista (READ MORE)
Must the ability to entertain the audience be the constant guiding criteria in the film and in the performing arts? While certainly, one does not minimize the importance of the entertainment function of the arts, the film Sister Stella L shows that it is not much the ability to entertain that is crucial as the ability to stir and maintain interest. For, as in this film, one cannot really say that the audience is entertained, regaled with spectacular sights, provided a pleasant diversion or titillated by teasing or amusing scenes, but the audience is invited, through the skills of the performers and director, to engage in immediate issues which concern us today. This film thus poses a challenge to our usual notions and expectations of Philippine cinema, as it is not a romantic or domestic drama, a comedy or an action film. The fact that such a film as this appears at this point implies a belief in the development and maturity of the local audience who can, at least from the responses of previewers so far, be receptive to harder stuff.
Sister Stella L deals with the contemporary social issues through the experience of various characters, among them Sister Stella L (Vilma Santos) and Nick, her former boyfriend now a journalist (Jay Ilagan), Sister Stella B (Laurice Guillen), the union leader Ka Dencio (Tony Santos) and his wife (Anita Linda). Again, the film differs from most productions nowadays in its immersion in contemporary social reality. The characters, too, possess a strong active aspect of people engaged in a meaningful cause, the people’s struggle for social justice. The nun that Sister Stella B portrays typifies in her strength and honesty the person who has gone beyond purely personal and selfish concerns to embrace the larger role of service to the people. No doubt, it is a refreshing and exhilarating experience to see characters who realize themselves fully as human beings by transcending petty selfish interest and giving of themselves to people in need of support and protection. Because of this, the spirit of the film is highly optimistic and reassuring because it makes us strongly aware of the forces in our midst working for change and of the fact that history is moving forward with these forces assuming the active role.
The central issue of the film has to do with the involvement of religious like Sister Stella L and her senior, Sister Stella B, in socio-political affairs. We know, for instance, that one point of view will have priests and religious secluded behind convent walls where their activity is restricted to praying. They are to have nothing to do with life around them as social and political concerns are thought to corrupt their purity and bring in wordly moral dangers and temptations. Or that priests and religious should remain apolitical, not taking sides in socio-political issues, but as men of God, considering all men as brothers who will, in the end, become docile and receptive to preachings of love and unity. The other point of view believes that it is not as simplistic as all that. In fact, it believes that the adoption of a neutral attitude can only serve to dull one’s moral sensibilities and because one shirks from making moral choices, one also renouces one’s responsibility as a human being. In truth, it is of utmost importance, perhaps particularly so for religious, to have a fine and acute sense of moral discernment as applied to social relations, in which the idea of truth and justice operate. The religious who makes grand sermons on love and unity may not himself understand the meaning of truth and justice, because love and unity do not exist in the abstract but are social ideals possible of attainment – only and only when exploitative relationships are destroyed. Otherwise, one contents oneself with hypocrisies. What for instance, would be the love of the rich factory owner intent on profits for the worker, and vise versa. Workers’ wages are only to keep workers alive and in a measure of health for him to have enough strength to operate the machines of work in the fields. Is it enough for factory owner and worker to meet in church and perhaps occupy the same pew – or will religious feel sufficiently edified at the sight? But priests and nuns are citizens of this country as much as any of us and are thus part of the body politic in which they have the right to take active part. Likewise, they are as human as anyone else, and as human beings, they have the drive toward concreteness and totality realized only in social interaction. The Church, too, cannot afford to take a position of alienation and withdrawal, because by doing so it will only continually lose its influence in a time of urgent and pressing realities; otherwise, it will only end up as an outmoded medieval institution. The Church is continually called upon to make moral decisions, and it is through these that the people will know whether it truly supports their cause or whether it only acts as a liaison for exploitative interests.
In the film, for instance, there is a conflict between Sister Stella L and her superior who wants her to stay in the convent to act as guidance counsellor and not to engage in labor activities in Barrio Agoho where a strike in an oil factory is taking place. For a while, she obeys her superior to be spiritual adviser to an unwed mother, portrayed by Gina Alajar, who, however, throws her back the question of what does she know at all, as a nun, of human suffering. The task of counselling this individual soul lost in her private hell is fruitless and Gina eventually commits suicide, which serves to show the nun the narrow limitation of such a task. Sister Stella L henceforth knows that she must make the choice of the larger and more challenging field of the workers in struggle. It is also important to note that Sister Stella B tells her fellow nun that although her immediate superior may not approve of her social participation, it is possible that higher superiors will – thus showing that such is still possible within the fold of the congregation. Also, at one time, there arises the question of whether Sister Stella L will stick it out as a religious or continue her activities outside the convent. Upon consultation with her friend, Sister Stella B, she decides to carry on the struggle as a nun, and by so doing, show the importance of such a function for her fellow religious, as well as its validity as a position within the religious orders.
The central event in the film is the strike of workers in an oil factory in Barrio Agoho where nuns show their support for the workers by participating in the picket, thereby lending valuable protection. The factory owner (Ruben Rustia) sends goons to harass the picket line, and makes use of the military, which readily lends itself to protect the minority interests of wealthy property owners against the majority interests of the workers. When the strike continues despite inclement weather and hunger, the factory owner resorts to kidnapping the union leader, Sister Stella L, and her journalist friend. All are maltreated and tortured, but the old union leader is finally “salvaged” and thrown into a dump. In the confrontation between the factory owner and Sister Stella L, the former shows himself to be hostile to the workers and to the participation of the nuns: “Kung pati ang mga madre ay nagpapagamit sa mga Komunista, mabuti pang magbago na lang ako ng relihiyon.” To which the nun answers: “Mabuti na ngang magbago kayo ng relihiyon upang hindi parehong Diyos ang sambahin natin.” The murder of the union leader, Ka Dencio, only lends more fuel to the workers’ resolve to continue the strike, which is now led by his wife, with the militant participation of Sister Stella L. The latter’s exhortation to the workers – and by extension to the audience – to engage in the struggle ends the film.
A secondary theme is the issue of press freedom, which is explored, in the first-hand experience of Nick, the young journalist. He writes a series on the politicization of the religious and their active participation in mass actions. In the beginning, his motivations are somewhat confused – and this his editor points out clearly to him – because he may be using this as an excuse to follow and communicate with Sister Stella L, who used to be his girlfriend. The journalist, however, understands the futility of the religious confining themselves within convent walls and poses the challenge for involvement. Sister Stella L takes up the challenge – in fact, the journalist’s articles contribute to her politicization. When she gets more and more involved, he becomes protective and anxious for her safety. His articles on the subject barely squeeze through censorship and he experiences increasing difficulty in getting published. Sister Stella L and he are kidnapped by goons and they are physically assaulted even as they witness the torture of the union leader. Instead of intimidating them, the experience completes their politicization and in the end Sister Stella, militant and committed, finds her true social role.
Because this movie deals with issues, it has more than the usual amount of dialogue compared with other films. This, however, does not work against it. Since what is talked about is drawn from the very stuff of social reality and thus concerns a large number, it is able to sustain interest. Too much dialogue would be a defect if it dwelt on banalities or inanities or if it narrated incidents rather than portrayed them. In this case, dialogue is necessary for the exploration of issues, as well as for the portrayal of how the characters reckon with ideas and develop in their social consciousness. The audience is not bored provided the things talked about in the film have a bearing on their lives. Filipinos, after all, are a talky lot (think of the large amounts of time spent in coffee shops over coffee or beer). Moreover, these are talky times, because the larger public is rapidly developing critical awareness, and there is now a greater need for interaction and exchange in the interest of survival. There are references in the film which may, at first, seem extraneous, such as Sister Stella B’s mission to Davao where she joins a fact-finding group. However, such references serve to extend the “area of responsibility,” if we may borrow the expression, from Manila to the far-flung provinces. Thus, the unity of the film is not only in the events that engage the characters in Manila but also in a larger over-all spirit of solidarity in which vibrations of sympathy throughout the islands give strength and comfort to those of a common cause. For a heart-warming film, the entire cast deserves congratulations, particularly Vilma Santos who reveals another aspect of her multi-faceted talent. From her usual soft and sweet romantic roles, she can be transformed into a strong and militant woman without losing any of her charm and beauty. Jay Ilagan, Tony Santos, Anita Linda and Liza Lorena are also in their best form. Mike de Leon as director, Jose F. Lacaba as scriptwriter are likewise to be congratulated for making a truly human film and for contributing to the cause of workers for justice and of the religious for the recognition of their social role. Not to be overlooked is the producer Lily Monteverde of Regal Films who has this time shifted from puerile erotic dramas to make a courageous film for which she will always be well remembered. – Alice G. Guillermo, Who Magazine May 30, 1984 (READ MORE)
THERE WOULD HAVE BEEN two important Filipino films in this year’s prestigious Cannes Film Festival: Sister Stella L., directed by Mike de Leon and Kapit sa Patalim, directed by Lino Brocka. Both smuggled out to France and both vitally political in thrust, the two films were reportedly disowned by the Philippine embassy in France. Supposedly under instructions from the Philippine goverment, the embassy sent the following disclaimer to the festival directorate: “There are no Filipino films in the Cannes Film Festival.” The two films nevertheless made it to the festival site, though only one was screened as scheduled. Brocka’s film was in the category “In Competition,” and was tested against the works of such eminent directors as Werner Herzog, Wim Wenders, and Satyajit Ray. Early on, Kapit sa Patalim (which acquired a second title, Bayan Ko, in deference to another film project which had been approved before Brocka’s project) was rumored to be a strong contender for the Best Film award. Critic Bertrand Tavernier was quoted as saying, “It’s a toss-up between Wim Wenders’ Paris Texas and Brockas’s Bayan Ko.” De Leon’s film was to have had special screenings, on the unanimous request of the Cannes’ board of critics. Sister Stella L., however, suffered from the rush of subtitling work that descended upon Cannes’ select group of translators and De Leon opted not to show the film without subtitles. He nevertheless had the distinct honor of holding a retrospective under the sponsorship of the French Cinematheque right after the festival. The film eventually competed at the Venice Film Festival. Under its original title Sangandaan (Crossroads), Sister Stella L. was invited to the Venice Film Festival in 1984, the second Filipino film (after Genghis Khan in 1951) to be honored with such recognition. – – Agustin L. Sotto and Pet Cleto, Philippine Panorama Dec 02 1984 (READ MORE)
“…Sister Stella L is undeniably, an angry film. It reeks of the pungency of a dictatorial regime and immersed in the canker of political and social repression. It is Jose F. “Pete” Lacaba’s film more than it is Mike de Leon’s. It is ideologically furious and liberalistic that you might surmise the film as left-leaning rather than simply a hard nudge at the Marcos government. Interesting to note of Lacaba’s background in the underground movement after the imposition of Martial Law in 1972, which, as most of the intellectually enlightened ended being rounded up by the military, thus his exclamation is compellingly evident in Sister Stella L…in the film’s first minutes, we witness a kind of relevancy we could not deny exists nowadays: the separation of the Church and the state, particularly on affairs that have a lasting effect on the people. “Hindi ang mga tao ang dapat makinig sa yo, ikaw ang dapat makinig sa kanila” (“The people should not be the ones listening to you, instead, you should be the one listening to them”), Sister Stella Bautista quietly ripostes, summarizing the supposedly inherent role of the laity in its profession of faith and service. A reversal of such an adage practically prevails in the Church’s current social rearings, despite the invisible boundary. But is activism a justification for the intrusion? Probably dependent on the circumstances. The motivation is noble and not of selfish traditionalism, that the film likewise bestows the necessity of religious congregations to act as a force to mobilize. Maybe the film is too radical in its approach, and frankly, Mike de Leon would possibly agree to that. Like most people would notice, Sister Stella L. is undoubtedly, not a Mike de Leon film. He has a hand in its production, but it is certainly not his. It has all the footprints of Pete Lacaba firmly planted in, from its conception to structure, similarly like what he did with Lino Brocka’s hard-line Bayan Ko…Kapit sa Patalim (1985) and Orapronobis (1989).” – Etchie (READ MORE)
“…In Mike de Leon’s “Sister Stella L,” Vilma Santos plays Catholic nun Sister Stella Legaspi. Searching for meaning behind the words in the Bible that teach people to serve the poorest of the poor, she is led to the picket line of striking workers. Gradually, she begins to see her role as a Christian to be amongst the poor and the oppressed in society. Eventually, the management (and military?) try to break the strike through terror and torture, something that is happening to this day. Different strategies of the strike are debated as well as the “sides” between the workers and capitalists. Although there is a simplistic framing of the “evil capitalist,” the issues raised by the union leaders ring very true today, especially in this economic crisis. No Filipino movie could be complete without a love story, or at least the background of one which thankfully doesn’t dominate this movie. Vilma Santos shines as the unsure but strong-willed nun in the beginning to a militant defender of the people by the end. It is a similar role she plays 18 years later in “Dekada ’70.” The movie ends in an almost-cheesy PSA but the message is clear and bold coming out after the Ninoy Aquino assassination. “If we do not act, who will act? If not now, when?…” – Identity & Consciousness (READ MORE)
“…Nearly a day after watching Philippine President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo’s deliverance of the State of the Nation Address (SONA) in Manila, Filipinos in New York, unconvinced by Arroyo’s speech, gathered for a in-door forum to discuss “the REAL State of the Nation Address” (SONA) at the BAYANIHAN Filipino Community Center followed by an outdoor march along Roosevelt Avenue in Woodside, Queens. Amongst the special guest speakers at the forum was none other than the real-life inspiration for the 1984 Filipino film “Sister Stella L” featuring actress Vilma Santos, Mother Mary John Mananzan…Aside from serving as the Chairperson for the Association of Major Religious Superiors of the Philippines (AMRSP), Mananzan has the distinguished title of Chairperson Emeritus of GABRIELA Philippines, the largest federation of women’s organizations in the country working for fundamental economic and social reforms. While in New York, Mananzan was happy to be joined by fellow members of Filipinas for Rights and Empowerment (FiRE), one of only a handful of Filipino women’s organizations in the US that are also members of GABRIELA-USA….” – Anakbayan New York-New Jersey (READ MORE)
“…When “Sister Stella L.” starring Vilma Santos was shown in 1984 by Regal Films, it was up against Viva’s new Sharon Cuneta komiks mo-vie, “Bukas Luluhod ang mga Tala,” which clobbered it at the box office. Although it didn’t succeed at the box office, “Sister Stella L,” the story of a sheltered nun who becomes an activist, withstood the test of time. It won many awards and has been constantly praised through the years for being an excellent example of socially relevant filmmaking. Last Friday, the UP Film Institute (the haven of pornographic gay films) did something right and paid tribute to “Sister Stella L†on its 25th anniversary. Ate Vi, now Gov. Vi of Batangas, was candid enough during the open forum that at the time she did the movie when she was about 28 years old, the political issues that were delineated in the film (made at the time that the protest rallies against the Marcos regime was raging after the murder of Ninoy Aquino) were not really that clear to her. “Hindi ko pa talaga ganap na naiintindihan ang mga sitwasyon noon,” she says. “Basta ginawa ko lang ang pinaaarte sa akin ng director naming si Mike de Leon. But now, I’m more aware of the conditions shown there. Talaga ngang relevant pa rin up to now ang “Sister Stella L.” dahil ang mga sitwasyon na pinakikita roon, lalo na ang labis ng kahirapan ng mga manggagagawa, nangyayari pa rin hanggang ngayon sa ating paligid. It was only when I ran for mayor in Lipa City that I came to understand what “Sister Stella L.” was all about. Kaya proud akong kahit hindi maganda ang naging resulta nito sa takilya, heto’t patuloy pa rin siyang pinupuri at pinararangalan ng future generations. Hindi gaya ng ibang movies na nakalimutan na. I’m really proud na sa career at buhay ko, nagkaroon ako ng chance na gampanan si “Sister Stella L.”. Hanggang ngayon, gaya ng tauhan doong si Ka Dencio, marami pa rin tayong kababayan na naghahanap ng katarungan. Sabi nga sa movie, “kung hindi tayo ang kikilos, sino ang kikilos? Kundi ngayon, kailan pa?” In the panel discussion that preceded the showing of the film, the resource persons aside from Gov. Vi were Mother Lily Monteverde (the film’s producer), Pete Lacaba (the film’s scriptwriter), Laurice Guillen (who won best supporting actress for her role as the other Sister Stella in the film), production designer Cesar Hernando, and critics Mario Hernando and Roland Tolentino, with Prof. Ed Piano as moderator who cited Gov. Vi’s numerous accomplishments…” – Mario Bautista, People’s Journal March 25 2009 (READ MORE)
The Plot: Namatay ang tatay ni Ana (Vilma Santos) at dahil rito’y naghirap sila. Napilitan siyang magtinda ng sabon at tumigil sa pag-aaral. Sa kabila nito hindi siya humingi ng tulong sa katipan na si Freddie Villasenor (Christopher DeLeon). Dahil sa hirap ay napilitang pumasok si Ana sa isang escort service sa tulong ng kanyang kaibigang si Bernadette Santos (Deborah Sun). Nakilala ni Ana si Bernard San Diego (Antony Castelo) sa kanyang trabaho bilang escort girl. Sa gabing iyon nakita siya ng kapatid na babae ni Freddy. Nang yayain ni Freddy si Ana para magpakasal pumayag na ito at pumunta siya sa bahay ni Freddy para makilala ang pamilya ni Freddy. Hindi nila alam ay inimbitahan ng kapatid ni Freddy si Bernard San Diego. At sa hapag ng kainan ay binisto nito ang tunay na trabaho ni Ana. Umalis nang umiiyak si Ana at nagkagalit sila ni Freddy. Pinuntahan ni Bernard si Ana para humingi ng paunmanhin ngunit naabutan sila ni Freddy at nag-away sila ni Bernard. Inakala ni Freddy na talagang may relasyon si Bernard at Ana kung kaya iniwanan niya ito. Nagbalik si Ana sa kanyang trabaho. Nagkaroon ng secret admirer ito. Yung pala ito ay si Bernard. Nalaman rin ni Ana na buntis siya at ang ama ng dinadala niya ay si Freddy. Inalok ni Bernard si Ana ng kasal at pumayag naman ito sa kabila ng pagtutol ng kanyang mayamang ama. Lumaki ang bata at apat na taon na ito nang magdesisyon ang ama ni Bernard na tigilan na ang pagsasama ng dalawa. Inalok si Ana ng malaking halaga ngunit tumutol ito. Nang umalis ang ama ni Bernard ay pinaiwan nito ang isa sa kanyang mga tauhan para gahasain si Ana. Dumating si Bernard at nagaway sila ng tauhan ng kanyang ama. Sa kaguluhan ay nabaril ng tauhan ng kanyang ama si Bernard mismo. Sinet-up ng ama ni Bernard si Ana. Pinakulong at kinuhang abogado si Freddy. Sa hukuman ay nakuhang magduda ni Freddy sa dating katipan. Nagpunta ito sa bahay ng ina ni Ana upang kausapin ang batang anak ni Ana. Natuklasan ni Freddy ang tutuong nangyari at ang testigo ay ang anak ni Ana. Sa closing ng kaso ay inihayag ni Freddy na walang kasalanan si Ana at ang pumatay kay Bernard ay ang tauhan ng sarili nitong ama. Napawalang sala si Ana at nalaman ni Freddy na ang bata’y ang sarili niyang anak.
The Reviews: Prinudyus ng Sampaguita Pictures, ang “Pakawalan Mo Ako” ay isa sa mga pruweba na nasa ikataas na puwesto si Vilma Santos nang bagong dekada otsenta. Mula umpisa hanggang sa huli’y umiikot ang istorya sa karakter ni Vilma bilang si Ana, isang escort girl. Markado ang papel ni Vilma at makikita ito sa mga eksena sa kulungan at hukuman. Ang Pakawalan Mo Ako ay mula sa panulat ni Pete Lacaba at iskrinplay nina Pete Lacaba, Mao Gia Samonte at Isko Lopez. Kung ikukumpara sa mga ibang pelikula ni Elwood Perez mas pulido at makatotohanan ang mga eksena’t dialouge ng pelikula. Tulad ng konprontahin nga ma ni Bernard si Ana sinabi nito na: “Puta, Puta! Puta! Hindi lang naman kayo ang unang nagparatang sa akin ng ganyan! Puta! Puta! Putang Ina n’yong lahat…” At nang unang dalhin ni Bernard si Ana sa bahay nito at pagtangkaang gahasain, pumiglas si Ana at sabay kuha sa pera at sabay sabing: “kukunin ko ang bayad sa halik may sukli ka pa!” At siyempre ang eksena sa hukom kung saan paulit ulit niyang sinasabi ang salitang: “Sinungaling!…” Ang musika ni Lutgardo Labad ay minsan nakakaabala sa tunay na eksena ngunit angkop na angkop ang theme song ng pelikula, ang “Dati” na kinanta mismo ni Antony Castelo. Merong mahahabang linya si Christopher DeLeon sa bandang huli at nakuha naman niyang bigyan ng buhay ang papel niya bilang abogado ng taga-usig kahit na parang pilit ang pagpapalit niya ng panig para sa tagapagtanggol sa bandang huli, sa kanyang closing remarks. Alam niya marahil na talagang pelikula ito ni Ate Vi. Mahusay rin ang pagganap ni Antony Castelo bilang isang matigas na ulong anak ng isang mayaman. Sa papel na ina ni Ana, nakaka-distract ang hindi tunay na boses ni Mila Ocampo. Bilang ama ni Bernard San Diego, very one-dimensional ang papel ni Subas Herrero. Ang pinakanakakatuwang papel ay ang papel na kaibigan ni Ana na ginampanan ni Deborah Sun. Meron siyan eksena sa hukuman kung saan tumistigo siya at natural na natural ang pagkababaeng bakla niya. Mabilis ang pacing ng pelikula at walang mahusay ang pagkakaedit nito. Hindi ako nagtaka kung bakit nanalo si Ate Vi para sa pelikulang ito mula sa Famas. Ito rin ang bale hudyat ng pagsibol ng bagong Vilma Santos pagpasok ng dekada otsenta dahil sa sumunod na taon ay nagkasunod sunod na ang parangal sa pagarte ni Ate Vi mula sa iba’t ibang award giving bodies. – RV (READ MORE)
“Dalawangpu’t Anim na taon na ang nakakalipas nang una nating napanood ang pelikulang Pakawalan Mo Ako (Now on 2012, PMA is 31 years old!) . Tumabo ito sa takilya at nagbunga ng pagkapanalo ni Ate Vi ng Best Actress mula sa Famas para sa taong ito. Prinudyus ng Sampaguita Pictures, ang “Pakawalan Mo Ako” ay isa sa mga pruweba na nasa ikataas na puwesto si Vilma Santos nang bagong dekada otsenta. Mula umpisa hanggang sa huli’y umiikot ang istorya sa karakter ni Vilma bilang si Ana, isang escort girl. Markado ang papel ni Vilma at makikita ito sa mga eksena sa kulungan at hukuman. Ang Pakawalan Mo Ako ay mula sa panulat ni Pete Lacaba at iskrinplay nina Pete Lacaba, Mao Gia Samonte at Isko Lopez. Kung ikukumpara sa mga ibang pelikula ni Elwood Perez mas pulido at makatotohanan ang mga eksena’t dialouge ng pelikula. Tulad ng konprontahin nga ma ni Bernard si Ana sinabi nito na: “Puta, Puta! Puta! Hindi lang naman kayo ang unang nagparatang sa akin ng ganyan! Puta! Puta! Putang Ina n’yong lahat…” At nang unang dalhin ni Bernard si Ana sa bahay nito at pagtangkaang gahasain, pumiglas si Ana at sabay kuha sa pera at sabay sabing: “kukunin ko ang bayad sa halik may sukli ka pa!” At siyempre ang eksena sa hukom kung saan paulit ulit niyang sinasabi ang salitang: “Sinungaling!…” Ang musika ni Lutgardo Labad ay minsan nakakaabala sa tunay na eksena ngunit angkop na angkop ang theme song ng pelikula, ang “Dati” na kinanta mismo ni Antony Castelo. Merong mahahabang linya si Christopher DeLeon sa bandang huli at nakuha naman niyang bigyan ng buhay ang papel niya bilang abogado ng taga-usig kahit na parang pilit ang pagpapalit niya ng panig para sa tagapagtanggol sa bandang huli, sa kanyang closing remarks. Alam niya marahil na talagang pelikula ito ni Ate Vi. Mahusay rin ang pagganap ni Antony Castelo bilang isang matigas na ulong anak ng isang mayaman. Sa papel na ina ni Ana, nakaka-distract ang hindi tunay na boses ni Mila Ocampo. Bilang ama ni Bernard San Diego, very one-dimensional ang papel ni Subas Herrero. Ang pinakanakakatuwang papel ay ang papel na kaibigan ni Ana na ginampanan ni Deborah Sun. Meron siyan eksena sa hukuman kung saan tumistigo siya at natural na natural ang pagkababaeng bakla niya. Mabilis ang pacing ng pelikula at walang mahusay ang pagkakaedit nito. Hindi ako nagtaka kung bakit nanalo si Ate Vi para sa pelikulang ito mula sa Famas. Ito rin ang bale hudyat ng pagsibol ng bagong Vilma Santos pagpasok ng dekada otsenta dahil sa sumunod na taon ay nagkasunod sunod na ang parangal sa pagarte ni Ate Vi mula sa iba’t ibang award giving bodies.” – RV (READ MORE)
“…Elwood Perez and Vilma Santos collaborated in seven films. The first one was the trilogy that he co-directed with two other director, Borlaza and Gosiengfiao (these three are the most underrated and under appreciated directors in the Philippines), the remake of Mars Ravelo comic super hero, Darna in Lipad Darna Lipad. The film was a record-breaking hit Box-office Film. They follow this up with a more mature projects as Vilma started to switched her image from sweet to a mature/versatile actress, pairing her with Christopher DeLeon in five films starting with Masarap Masakit Ang Umibig in 1977. The Perez-Santos-DeLeon team produced several blockbuster hits and also gave Vilma two FAMAS best actress awards. Both wins contributed to her elevation to the FAMAS’ highest honour, the “Hall of Fame” award she received in 1989. The wins were for Pakawalan Mo Ako (1979) and Ibulong Mo Sa Diyos (1988)…” – RV (READ MORE)
“…The second memorable film experience for me was during early 80s where I saw the free sneak preview of “Pakawalan Mo Ako” at Gotesco Theatre near University of the East. I was one of the lucky ones who managed to get in. My college mates weren’t. They got stocked in the pandemonium outside. I was worried sick as I took the long escalator and saw them being crashed by the crowd. The security guards have to closed the gate of the lobby. Fans became so restless and broke the glass windows (where they displayed posters and still photos) . Inside, It was crowded, hot and wild. We were seeing a more mature Vilma Santos. The moviegoers reacts to every scenes from the very beginning up to the very end (the courtroom scene where Vilma cried and swear, “Liars! Liars! You’re all Lying!”)…” – RV (READ MORE)
“…Natatangi ang pelikulang Pakawalan Mo Ako (MVP Pictures, 1981) dahil sa matagumpay nitong pagtatangkang ilahad ang proseso tungkol sa pag-ibig at pagbabahagi ng sarili nang buo ang pagkatao. Nilinaw ng pelikula ang mga personal at pang-ekonomiyang salik na naghatid sa pangunahing tauhan tungo sa pagpuputa at inilalantad ang bunga nito gaya ng madamdaming pagsasadula ni Vilma Santos. Nang muli silang magkita ng kasintahan, ibang babae na ang kanyang nakatagpo, mas may tiwala sa sarili at mulat na sa kalakaran ng mundo. Nakakaantig ang transpormasyon ng kanyang karakter mula biktima ng nasawing pag-ibig at di-makalingang propesyon tungo sa pagbabago at paninindigan ng kanyang pagiging babae. Mapangumbinsi rin ang pagganap ni Christopher de Leon dahil sa kanyang sensitibong pagpasok sa katauhan ng isang abogadong makiling sa sistema ng batas. Sa unang tingin, tila makababae ang punto de bista ng Pakawalan Mo Ako dahil sa paglalahad ng babae bilang biktima pa rin ng ispontanyong reaksiyon ni Bernard, ang lalaking nagnanasa sa kanyang katawan. Subalit madulas ang daloy ng iskrip nina Pete Lacaba, Mao Gia Samonte at Iskho Lopez, konsistent ang disenyong biswal at sinematograpiya. Malinis ang editing at akmang-akma ang musika. Ngunit habang hinihimay ang naratibo, unti-unting natuklasan ang melodramatikong proposisyong ipinapakain ng pelikula. Isang proposisyong taliwas sa pagnanasang patuloy na makibaka, magmahal at mabuhay…” – Jojo Devera, Sari-saring Sineng Pinoy (READ MORE)
The Plot: They are half-sisters, connected by blood. But to Divina (Vilma Santos), Nora (Lorna Tolentino) is just her late father’s illegitimate daughter. Yet, despite the harsh treatments she gets, Nora remains awestruck and continues to adulate her strong-willed older sister. But even the meekest of people can only bear so much. Nora leaves the confort of home to hid her own place under the sun, and in due time, she and Divina are to meet again to settle the score once and for all. – Viva Films
They are half-sisters, connected by blood. But to Divina, Nora is just her late father’s illegitimate daughter. Yet, despite the harsh treatment she gets, Nora remains awestruck and continues to adulate her strong-willed older sister. But even the meekest of people can only bear so much. Nora leaves the comfort of home to find her own place under the sun, and in due time, she and Divina are to meet again to settle the score once and for all. But will the scars of yesterday prevail or will they forget the wounds especially now that they direly need each other. – Wikepedia
The Reviews: “Napanood namin ang “Sinasamba Kita” at hindi nga pala kayang iarte ni Lampel Luis ang role na napunta kay Lorna Tolentino. Parang komiks talaga ang istorya ng pelikulang hanggo nga sa nobelang komiks. Melodramatiko at kung minsan ay mahirap paniwalaan ang mga sitwasyon. Pero mapupuri na rin ang iskrip ni Orlando Nadres dahil nagawa niyang credible ang mga tauhan sa istorya. At talagang mahuhusay ang acting ng mga artista. Napakagaling ni Vilma Santos sa papel ng mataray na business executive. Para talagang alam niya ang bawat kilos at hakbang na ginagawa niya. Very sympathetic namang tunay si Lorna sa kanyang role bilang inaaping kapatid. At for once, hindi nasapawan si Christopher de Leon ng kanyang co-star. Kontroladong-kontrolado ang acting niya rito. Si Phillip Salvador nga ang nagmukhang dehado, iba pati ang hitsura niya sa pelikula. Mukha siyang tumandang hindi mawari. Maganda rin ang theme song ng pelikula. At dito kami naniwalang totoo ang kasabihang it’s the singer not the song.” – Mario E Bautista (READ MORE)
“Muli na namang ipinakita ni Vilma Santos ang kanyang husay sa pagganap sa pelikulang “Sinasamba Kita”. Consistent ang characterization ni Vilma sa naturang pelikula, at nagmukhang supporting na lahat ang kasama niyang may malalaki din namang pangalan.” – Arthur Quinto (READ MORE)
“Sobra pala ang lakas ng “Sinasamba Kita.” Tuwang tuwa sina Vic at Mina del Rosario. They started with 38 theatres, by the weekend, 41 theatres na ang nagpapalabas ng pelikula. After 6 days, kumita na ito ng P5,207,416.00. After a week’s time, almost P6 million na ito.” – Billy Balbastro (READ MORE)
“1982 was a banner year for Vilma Santos. Aside from the acting gem, “Relasyon,” she also established her bankable status, thanks to Viva film’s “Sinasamba Kita”. This film grossed 6.2 million in just 6 days, a box office record! Directed by Eddie Garcia, the film featured Vilma as the “bitchy-rich” anti-heroine executive, Lorna Tolentino, Christopher DeLeon and Philip Salvador. The intertwined love quadrangle between the four characters enhanced by crisp dialogue, glossy production design and catchy theme song made this movie effective and very commercial. Two scenes stands out, both involved Vi and Lorna. (By the way, Lorna’s name in this film was Nora and Vilma was Divina, which made us wonder if this is supposed to be a Nora-Vilma film.) In one scene, Vilma was waiting for her younger sibling Lorna, when she finally arrived, she accused the younger sister of wearing her perfume, the accusation made Lorna defensive and replied: “…bumili ako para sa sarili ko nagustuhan ko kasi ang amoy!” In which Vilma countered: “…for godsake, Nora, bakit hindi ka magkaroon ng sarili mong identity!..Hindi kita anino!” Another scene, Vilma caught Lorna wearing the same designer clothes: Vilma: “Iniinsulto mo ba ako? Anong gusto mong palabasin bakit ginagaya mo ang damit ko?” Lorna: “Ate naman ano naman ang masama kung gayahin kita?” Vilma: “Alamin mo muna ang iyong limitasyon…baka nakakalimutan mo kung saan kita pinulot…kinikilala kitang kapatid pero hindi tayo magkapantay!” Lorna: “Napakaliit naman pala ng pagtingin mo sa akin…” Vilma: “Imposible naman lumaki ang pagtingin ko sa taong tinutulungan ko lang?…kung sabagay magkaiba tayo ng ina…bakit kaya pinatulan ng papa ang iyong ina?” Lorna: “huwag mo naming insultuhin ang inay, patay na siya…” Vilma: “Hindi ko siya iniinsulto sinasabi ko lang sayo ang totoo! Magkaiba tayong dalawa, hindi mo ako matutularan at hindi kita tutularan! Nora, ang hindi mo maabot huwag mog pagpilitang abutin, wala kang pang pakpak k’ya huwag lumipad ng pagkataas-taas!” – RV (READ MORE)
“Dahil Father’s Day ngayon, nais nating bigyan ng magandang tribute ang nakilala nang ama ng maraming artista ng iba’t ibang henerasyon na si Eddie Garcia. Hindi lang mahusay na bida at kontrabida si Eddie kundi mahusay rin siya bilang isang film director. Taong 1961 nang idirek ni Eddie ang kanyang unang pelikula titled “Karugtong Ng Kahapon” kunsaan bida sina Mario Montenegro, Rita Gomez, Ric Rodrigo at Marlene Dauden. Higit na 36 movies pa ang dinirek ni Eddie na iba-iba ang tema…Sinasamba Kita (1982), Kuwento ng magkapatid sa ama na sina Divina (Vilma Santos) at Nora (Lorna Tolentino). Hindi buo ang pagtanggap ni Divina kay Nora at trato niya rito ay hindi parang kadugo. Pero iniidolo ni Nora si Divina. Hanggang sa pumagitna sa kanila si Jerry (Christopher de Leon) na lalong magpapalalim sa hidwaan ng magkapatid at galit naman sa manliligaw ni Divina na si Oscar (Phillip Salvador). Nanalo rito si Eddie bilang Best Director sa FAMAS Awards…” – Ruel Mendoza, Abante, 15 June 2019 (READ MORE)
Star For All Seasons 
You must be logged in to post a comment.