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.
Perspective and Attitude – “…t seems these past months have been all about making movies! I’ve really missed that. After all, I began my career as a film actress during the turn of the second golden era of films. That was around the early ’80’s to early ’90’s. Then we hit a slump after the Marcos regime, but now it seems to have bounced back – baby steps, yes, but watch out for the indie generation. It has grown so fast and given fresh takes on story concepts and execution, and we’ve gotten global recognition. It’s just as exciting even if some purists say that we don’t make films like we used to. Well, that’s partly true. But why stick to what we used to do? Isn’t growth all about innovation especially in this fast evolving digital age?…I was all of 19 when I was tapped by Peque Gallaga to do the film. Then working on the comedy TV show “Champoy” together, he purposely mentioned that he wrote the role for me. Worried then that I was too in love (with a cute doctor) that I might not take the project seriously, I promised I would give it my all if he would just trust me. (I think he wanted to make sure so he cast the mother of my boyfriend! I won’t say who, ok?) Never having lived nor experienced much less to imagine being in the midst of war, I had no sort of personal contribution to the role and to the film itself in its entirety. Needless to say, my life’s journey in the film was in Peque’s hands. Watching it again made me realize that it was no small feat for the acclaimed director. Every scene involved teamwork and ensemble choreography captured by complicated camera shots, more often done in just one take, capturing only sheer truth and believability. I marvel now at how he was able to achieve all that unfailingly…I spent two months straight in the deepest jungles of Negros, and my perspective of and attitude towards my work was never the same after. “Oro, Plata, Mata” set high standards and great expectations which were hard to meet in other projects…” – Cherie Gil, Rappler, 08 March 2013 (READ MORE)
Favorite Roles – “…Kung sino man, sana ako na habang puwede pa! That’s one of my favorite roles, e. Kaiba-iba. I don’t mind playing it again. I played Kano. I was a drug addict, pusher/lesbian…Ang ganda-ganda! I think it’s still being credited in many film festivals internationally. If I speak to people from Israel Film Festival or people in that circle, if I mention Oro Plata Mata and Manila By Night, they remember. They remember Manila By Night as City After Dark. So they know these movies. Kahit nga daw si Quentin Tarantino, alam niya ‘yong City After Dark,” she says with gusto…Kasi nabitin ako doon, e. I have a lot of angst about that role because it was a very strong chance for me to get into the Urian league, and I was first nominated with that movie. Kabataan ko pa, [I was just] 17. Everybody clamors for this award-giving body, especially as respectable as Urian. ‘Yon [Urian] ang isang award na hindi ko pa nalalagay sa aking mantel. At that time, I was doing movies. Uso noon ang lagare. Konti lang kaming mga artista noon. We were doing four, five, six films at the same time. Ang daming pelikula rin noon, 100 films a year. I was doing lagare, so to the point na hindi pa ako nakapag-dubbing. Si Louella [Albornos, fomer charactress actress], she dubbed for me. To give her credit, she really did a great job kasi nga tomboy, e, so bumagay ‘yong boses niya na mababa. Pero ano na ‘yon, parang point against me na ‘yon na hindi ko nabuo ang trabaho…” – Candace Lim, PEP, 13 September 2007 (READ MORE)
Process of the work and Self-discovery – “…It was a perfect time two years ago because it was when I was going through a certain crisis, which I wasn’t secretive about. Two years after that, so many things, so many changes happened. I have done four soap operas, but I’ve never known where I have probably gotten the energy to do all that…I guess once you’re out there, you’re out there; there’s no way that you can correct [a mistake] and do it all over again. It’s the process of the work. And, ‘ika nga, theater is really a medium for actors…Dad is doing okay, he’s in the States with my mom, who is still very active in the church…we all do need inspiration, we all do need motivation, don’t we? But sometimes, you just don’t find it externally; we all just have to continuously dig down deep inside of us. Kasi minsan, may mga ginagawa tayo na nakakawalang-gana rin… I’ve been in the industry for 37 years, way too long. And this is a good transition time in my life because for the first time, for two years, I’ve been on my own. There’s a lot of self-discovery for me…” – Leo Laparan, PEP, 08 July 2010 (READ MORE)
Respect and Humane – “…From my perspective, I’m not sure if I can now consider this film the parody it’s meant to be, or more of an “exposé” into our real world of soap operas. It reflects many truths of what these extras, or talents, face. I myself, despite my ranting, have softened up to their plight. On one taping day, lo and behold, the first sight that greeted me were some 20 talents sitting on cardboard on the ground, in the heat of the sun, right in front of the main actors’ air conditioned tent. Talk about rubbing the point in. All this for P1,000 a day or P1,500 if you had speaking lines, or if you played a nurse, police or doctor, you get P2,000 because you have to bring your own uniform. A day may mean 28 to 36 hours straight for many of them. I’m fortunate that after decades in the business, I’ve earned a cut-off time of 2 am (which in effect actually helps talents go home earlier, if they’re in my scenes). I realize minimum wage stands at under P500, but these seemingly good talent fees don’t go straight into their pockets. They too have agents or talent suppliers who whittle away their earnings. (Just like we do.) I could be putting myself on a limb here, but I’m going to say it anyway: isn’t it high time we make the working environment in the soap opera world better for all to enjoy the work and find dignity in our choice of profession? Isn’t it time to raise the standards and expectations for the betterment of our teleseryes; from better story material, evolving from formulaic recipes. From more comfortable stand-by areas, to better and more respectful organization of everyone’s time, to humane working hours, and even maybe to plates and utensils (instead of styrofoam and plastics) for everyone?…” – Cherie Gil, Rappler, 30 March 2013 (READ MORE)
Cherie Gil and Vilma Santos – Mother and Daughter, Rosemarie and Cherie Gil both won a best supporting actress awards in a Vilma Santos films. Rosemarie was recognized in her heartfelt performance in Celso Ad Castillo’s “Burlesk Queen,” a best picture winner in 1977 Metro Manila Film Festival. Meanwhile, Cherie, won her best supporting actress via Eddie Garcia’s 1989 Metro Manila Film Festival best picture winner, “Imortal.” Both Imortal and Burlesk also won best actress awards for Vilma Santos. Vilma and Cherie did three films together before reuniting again in this year indie film, “Ekstra: The Bit Player.” Some highlights, both Cherie and Vi are regular staple in National Artist Ishmael Bernal’s filmography. Cherie’s most memorable Bernal film was “City After Dark” where she portrayed a lesbian drug pusher who’s in love with blind masseuse, Rio Locsin. Vi’s most recognizable Bernal film was “The Affair” or locally titled “Relasyon” where she played a sympathetic mistress of a chauvinistic teacher, Christopher de Leon. While Vi started her career as a child star, her relaunch into a mature actress was via Celso Ad Castillo’s “Burlesk Queen,” a period movie filled with sexual innuendo while Cherie Gil’s launching movie was Elwood Perez’s “Problem Child,” a modern movie filled with blatant sexual scenarios. Cherie’s other notable films were: Oro Plata Mata; Taga sa Panahon; Ito Ba Ang Ating Mga Anak; and Rosenda. Although Gil is no longer commands leading role status in films she ventured successfully into television and in recent years in stage acting, more notably in “The Graduate” and “Master Class.” Like Vi’s most memorable movie line: “Para kang karinderyang bukas sa lahat Kumain! (“You’re like a 24 hour take out restaurant, open whoever wants to eat!”), Cherie has her share of most memorable movie lines. Confronting the uprising singer in the movie “Bituing Walang Ningning,” Cherie uttered the lines to an equally combative Sharon Cuneta: “You’re nothing but a second rate, trying hard, copy cat!” Cherie is indeed someone to be cherish.
Palimos ng pag-ibig (1986) – “…The year was 1986. Palimos Ng Pag-ibig directed by Eddie Garcia was a smashed hit. Vilma co-starred with her soon to be ex husband Edu Manzano and Dina Bonnevie. Despite the mixed reviews from the critics, the film gave us, arguably, one of the most memorable lines in Philippine movie history. The scene was, Vilma, playing Fina was about to leave the house when Ditas, (Edu’s mistress and baby maker) knocked on the door, with her was her husband’s child. She forced herself in. Confronting Ditas, Fina: “Ilang gabi kang binili ni Rodel?” Ditas (Dina): “Isang Gabi lang, malakas ang kanyang punla at nangangailangan lang ng matabang lupa!” Fina: “Okey! So you’re fertile and I’m barren…pero sa mga pangyayari, para kang karinderyang bukas sa lahat ng gustong kumain! Paano mong mapapatunayang ang asawa ko nga ang ama ng batang iyan at wala siyang kasosyong iba?…” – RV (READ MORE)
Saan nagtatago ang pag-ibig? (1987) – “…For sure, the film has been well-acted. Vilma, once again awes us with her astringent putdowns in her familiar facial expressions and pertinent body language. That long monologue in front of the dying Tonton is an eloquent testimony to her acting talent. Tonton is worthy of notice as the retardate but we have to be assured that he is capable of doing the things he does in the film. Can he really remember the past with such clarity despite his brain damage? Nevertheless, he has captured the mannerisms and speech of the character he portrays. Alicia Vergel comes on too strong as the aristocratic Nyora Pacing who wears an eyepatch and walks with a cane. Ricky Davao vies for attection in his anti-hero role. Cherie Gil as Ricky’s flighty sister is less fierry but more believable. Gloria Romero delivers a sensitive portrayal of the weak mother with a dark past while Alicia Alonzo plays her sister who is privy to the family’s secrets. Eddie Garcia should be commended for toning down his confrontation scenes. His familiarity with this film genre shows in the way he manipulates the characters and builds up the scene. Still, one cannot help but questions the logic behind that sham marriage…” – Luciano E. Soriano, Manila Standard – Sep 5, 1987 (READ MORE)
Imortal (1989) – “…There are other laughable scenes. Vilma says, “My husband is (music rises ominously) — my husband is (music again) Impotent (music rises to a climax)!” You’d think the husband just contracted the AIDS virus or got castrated by Sparrow units! Shucks, I know several husbands who just can’t do it anymore, and I hear no heavy music when their wives complain. As a matter of fact, wives prefer their husbands to be impotent, rather than be sexually active with other women. Another terrible scene. The car ridden by Christopher and wife Cherie Gil falls off a cliff. Cherie who is pregnant is mortally wounded and dies. And Christopher looks at his dead wife, and holds aloft a new born baby complete with umbilical cord. This is absurd without a caesarian operation by a doctor. The worst scene is when Christopher digs up the corpse of Vilma at the cemetery, amidst thunder, lightning, wind and rain, and embraces her passionately, while she exhibits no rigor mortis, and apparently no smell of formalin. You don’t find this kind of idiocy in a television commercial. Most of my grandchildren, including Angeli who is only four months of age, enjoy commercials more than dramas…” – Hilarion& M. Henares Jr., January 14, 1990, Philippine Daily Inquirer (READ MORE)
Ekstra, The Bit Player (2013) – “…We screened the edited materials of the film yesterday (without the ending) and the performance of the entire cast is something we are so proud of. Nobody was trying to upstage anyone. It was team work – pure and simple. A brilliant cast!!! I ended up with tears on my eyes – because I could not stop laughing and laughing with how the story was unfolding, with so many hilarious real life incidents that an ekstra has to go through. Then again, without knowing it, I found myself in tears, and this time for a different reason — because of the atrocities that TV production people have to face due to the economics of the industry, the people at the bottom of the line like the extras often end up having to bear the brunt. Time for a wake up call maybe?…” – Mario Bautista, Showbiz Portal, 18 Mar 2013 (READ MORE)
Evangeline Rose De Mesa Eigenmann (born May 12, 1965) is a Filipino actress of Swiss German American, Spanish, and Filipino descent. Cherie Gil is the daughter of Filipino actors Eddie Mesa and Rosemarie Gil and sister to actors Mark Gil and Michael de Mesa. She was formerly married to Rony Rogoff, an internationally-renowned violinist. Together they have two children, Bianca and Raphael, in addition to her first child Jay…Cherie Gil is the daughter of Filipino actors Eddie Mesa and Rosemarie Gil and sister to actors Mark Gil and Michael de Mesa. She was formerly married to Rony Rogoff, an internationally-renowned violinist. Together they have two children, Bianca and Raphael, in addition to her first child Jay. – Wikipedia (READ MORE)
The Early Years – “…Nagsimula ako mag-build up ng stars more than ten years ago,” Rey goes down memory lane, “si Zandro Zamora ang una kong na-discover…” And then came somebody named Tessa Locsin, followed by Leila Hermosa, Susan Henson, Olivia O’Hara and Mitos del Mundo, Rio Locsin is his seventh discovery, Lucky 7th, you might say. “I discovered Rio in 1974,” Rey is now recalling the long and winding road that eventually led Rio Locsin to Stardom, “she was only 12 years old at that time, I saw her at the victory party given by her auntie, Juliet Garcia, who was chosen Miss Quiapo noong taong ‘yon. When I knocked on the door sa bahay nina Juliet sa Baesa Queezon City, a little girl came to meet me:maganda naka-ponytail, malaki ang mata, hindi mahiyain at vivong-vivo. Shrap pa mandin, kapag tinatanong, hindi pa natatapos ang tanong, sumasagot na kaagad. Smart na bata…Three months later, Rey brought Rio to Celso Ad. Castilo but one look at her and Celso Kid said, “Ne, magpalaki ka pa ng kaunti, She’s too young,” Celso Kid told Rey…
…In February 1976, Rio and her mama showed up unexpected at Rey’s clinic. When he saw how she had suddenly grown, he exclaimed, “Ay pude ka na! So pinagmake-apan ko, pinalagyan ko ng pula-pula sa pisngi, pinagbistida ko, pinaayusan ko ng tudo, I wrapped her properly, so to speak.”…At this point, towards the end of 1976, Celso Kid who was vacationing in USA wrote to Rey (Celso is Rey’s kumpare), telling him that he was making a movie called Burlesk Queen as soon as he came back and he was looking for a new face, Rey sent Rio’s photo and bio-data posthaste but the letter got lost in the mail. When Celso came back in early 1977, Rey brought Rio to him. By this time, tinuruan ko na siya ng mga seductive look, ‘yung pagpapapungay ng mata. Sabi ko, kapag nagusap kayo ni Celso at Ininglis-Inglis ka, Tagalog ang isagot mo, Si Celso kasi noong galing sa States, English nang English, Huwag kang kakabahan sa bi ko kay Rio, Whe he asked you if you wanted to go bold, tell him no, I want drama and musical…he didn’t remember having met Rio before.
Celso cast Rio as one of the burlesque dancers in Burlesk Queen, paying her P1,000. “Binago ko ngayon ang screen name ni Rio. Ayoko ng Leah Moran, dahil ‘yung Leah parang Lea Productions. Wala pa si Leah Navarro noon. Ayoko rin ng Moran dahil and dami ng Moran noon, may Margie Moran may Sofia Moran. At that time, kapapanalo lang ni Rio Diaz sa Mutya Ng Pilipinas of 1977 kaya Rio ang nagustuhan ko. “yung Locsin, ‘yan ang surname noong bini-build-up ko, si Tessa Locsin, I like the sound of Locsin, parang aristocratic, parang Aguilar, nice to the ears…During the kick-off parade for the film festival in December, 1977, Rio rode on the same float with Vilma Santos, the Burlesk Queen. “Maluha-luha ang beauty ko, Mahal,” Rey still sounds ecstatic up to now, “biro mo, katabi siya ni Vilma sa float at wave din siya ng wave sa mga fans bakit hindi pa siya kilala. Naka-white gown siya. The next day, nalagay din ang picture niya sa front page, wala nga lang pangalan, pero happy na kami. Umiyak uli ako, sa tuawa.” While Celso was shooting Pagputi ng Uwak, with Vilma Santos, and idea for a black and white movie came to his mind. He would call it Dalagang Pinagtaksilan ng Panahon and he would cast in the title role a fresh new face and he would make her into a big star like what he did with Rizza in 1970. So while budget and big stars were delaying the shooting of Pagputi ng Uwak, Celso decided to start work on Dalaga since he was not doing anything anyway on the set of Pagputi in the mountains of Majayjay, Laguna. Then bang, came the controversy, Vilma accused Celso of using her time and facilities to make his won movie and so on and so forth, in the process the name Rio Locsin kept cropping up in the headline and people became curious; who’s Rio Locsin and why is she in the middle of the battle between the screen giants? …” – Ricardo F. Lo (READ MORE)
Her Voice – “…Isa pang tsismis, nagpa-injection daw ako ng bust. Diyos ko, bakit ko pa gagastahin ‘yong pera para diyna? Di ipunin ko na lang, may savings pa ako. Pero in our family, ganoon talaga kami, my sister, she’s only 12 at mayroon na siya. Sa Mommy ko, ganoon din. Malaki. ‘Yong controversy between me and Lorna (Tolentino), that’s nothing. I never quarreled with her. There’s nothing for us to quarrel about. Hindi rin dapat i-compare kay Lorna. Unang-una, sabi ni Lorna, hindi daw siya bold star. Ako inaamin ko bold star ako. Bakit ko ipagkakaila? Everybody knows it. Besides, and sexy ni Lorna, di ba? Ako, deretsong-deretso…’Yong kaso namin ni Mommy, magulo. Up to now, hindi ko malaman kung saan napunta ang perang kinita ko. We did an accounting at lumabas that I earned some P1.7M in 15 months, payment for 33 films since August 1978 up to December 1979…That’s why we have a case. Hindi lang pera ang dahilan. May iba pa. But I rather not talk about them dahil masyadong personal. My point however, is that I want to decide for myself…Ngayon, I feel like I am starting anew. Masayang-malungkot. Mas gusto ko ang buhay ko noong hindi pa ako artista, Tahimik. Walang gulo. Ako, I never liked to be in the movies. Si Mommy lang ang may gusto. But now that I am her, I might as well make the most out of it. I want to save, I want to buy a house and lot. Papano ako kung wala na akong offers, ayoko namang magmukhang kawawa. Sayang naman, di ba, naghubad na ako pagkatapos wala pa ring mangyayari. I am now using my head.” – Ricardo F. Lo (READ MORE)
The Ghost – “…Medyo mabagal ang unand bahagi ng pelikula, lalo na kung isa kang viewer na alam nang tungkol sa multo ang istorya dahil sa sunod-sunod na press releases na isinasaad ng buod nito. Sa simula pa lang ng istorya ay inaabang-abangan mo na agad ang multo na kay tagal bago unang lumitaw. Medyo nagda-drag na nga at bigla na lamang na-revive ang aming atensiyon nang lumabas na si Rio Locsin sa eksena. Biglang nabuhay ang pelikula and from thereon ay naging absorbing na. Isang malaking dahilan kung bakit nagtagumpay ang pelikula ay ang pagka-casting kay Rio sa papel na Auring. Ibang-iba ang aura ni Rio sa pelikulang ito. She looks so ethereal, out of this world, ibang-iba kaysa sa mga taong cast din ng pelikula. Terrific ang screen presence ni Rio at talagang she is oozing with sex. Na-eclipse niyang talaga si Vi at Boyet. Kung iisipin mo’y maikli lamang ang role but her memory lingers kahit wala na siya sa eksena. ‘Yung mga pangiti-ngiti niya at patakip-takip ng bibig, very effective talaga. Magaling din sina Vi at Boyet in their respective roles, pero talagang getting attention ang role ng multo at perfect pa ang casting ni Rio rito…Somebody from the ECP script’s screening committee told us na mas maganda raw ang orihinal na script ni Ricardo Lee sa naisapelikula. Isang istudyanteng nagbabakasyon sa lalawigan si Cristy at naging takilyera sa isang sinehan. Pero ipinabago raw ito ni Vilma kaya’t nagmukhang propaganda para sa family planning ang papel niya. Ang orihinal na Cristy ay mahilig mag-fashion model kaya’t hindi katakataka nang isuot niya ang damit ni Auring na nakita niya sa kama nito. May nag-aakalang sa ending ng pelikula ay na-possess si Cristy ng kaluluwa ni Auring but the writer never intended it to be like this…” – Mario E. Bautista, Jingle Extra Hot Magazine, 1982 (READ MORE)
Important Actress – “…Matapos ang panimulang pag-buildup sa kanya bilang sexy star, nang lumaon ay agad na siyang itinuring bilang important actress, na idinidirek ng mga batikan sa larangan—the likes of Lino Brocka (Ina, Kapatid, Anak and Init), Ishmael Bernal (Manila By Night, Working Girls, Salawahan), Laurice Guillen (Kapag Puso’y Sinugatan). And, of course, ang isa ring multi-awarded director, Elwood Perez, na hanggang ngayo’y itinuturing ni Rio as her “launching director” at may likha ng Disgrasyada, na kanyang launching picture, shown on January 1979. Of Direk Elwood, Rio has a few good words to say. Simple, pero meaningful at kapani-paniwalang galing naman sa puso. Sa interview niya with PEP, walang pagbanggit o pahaging man lang, na regretful siya sa pagsisimula ng kanyang career, doing all those sexy roles na kinailangan upang siya’y pasikatin ng Regal Films. Nabanggit din namin ang magagandang pananalita ni Elwood sa isa sa mga aktres na sumikat sa idinirek niyang pelikula. “Wala kaming bad blood,” Rio now says about her former “launching director.” “Hindi ko makakalimutan si Direk Elwood… ‘Feel beautiful!'” lagi raw nitong bukambibig sa set. “O, wet your lips!” At sa simpleng pagbabalik-tanaw na yun, hindi makakalimutan ng aktres ang mga mabuting nagawa sa kanya ng nakatrabahong direktor. “Ang importante naman sa industriyang ito talaga, yung pakikipagrelasyon mo [sa mga katrabaho]. Kasi ‘yan naman talaga ang magiging legacy mo, ang iiwanan mo. Kung paano ka makipagkapwa-tao, kung paano ka makihalubilo sa mga tao. At least, may maiiwan ka.”…” – William R. Reyes (READ MORE)
Working with Charito and Lolita – “…The scene shows Rio intruding into the bedroom of Lolita, her balikbayan aunt, to gawk at the stateside dresses and beauty kit. It’s their first scene together and Brocka’s eager to know how Rio will fare. Rio fares very well. Lolit, as expected, delivers her lines flawlessly, Rio does the same. Lolit is pleased. So is Brocka. Rio giggles…An enthusiastic but respectful crowd meet the three stars as they walk down the stairs of the mansion for the pictorial in the spacious yard. The older women keep muttering they’ll be waiting for the showing of Ina… The younger fans call Rio Disgrasyada, referring to her blockbuster flick…” – Ronald K. Constantino, Expressweek Magazine, April 19, 1979 (READ MORE)
Rio Locsin is the daughter of the movie actress Charito Garcia. Locsin appeared in sexy movies with Lorna Tolentino as her rival. She married Al Tantay, but they separated after a few years. Now she’s married to a former basketball player, Padim Israel. She had 3 daughters, Paula & Jabba (daughters of Al Tantay), and youngest daughter Joses (for Ptr. Padim Israel). She played Darna in 1979. – Wikipedia (READ MORE)
Rio Locsin and Vilma Santos
Haplos (1982) – “…The only good thing about the film is its sound, which imaginatively uses various background noises for thematic effect. The reason Haplos fails is due largely to its direction. Well-written scenes come off stale because they are not dramatized. In one scene, Cristy decides to scare Al by putting on a furniture sheet while acting like a ghost. The camera was positioned in such a way that we can see both Cristy, masquerading as a ghost and the unwary Al. The scene failed to elicit a scare and neither is Al whose face is hidden by Auring’s movement. Or take the first shot of Auring as she paddles behind Al who is on a boat. She becomes a mere speck in the background. Instead of focusing on Auring in some way, all we got is a straight, simple shot of two boats crossing. Because the director does not know how to direct his actors, they end up delivering uninspired performances. Rio Locsin is the best of the leads, with Christopher de Leon a poor second. Vilma Santos apparently cannot decide how to approach her role. Haplos, simply put is a bad horror film…” – Jojo Devera (READ MORE)
Disco Fever (1978) – “…I’d rather be known as Victor Laurel. But really, this Travolta is a sensation. I met him in Studio 54 and how the crowd loves him. He’s a wonderful actor, singer, and dancer.” Cocoy, too is a seasoned dancer even before the Travolta fever. He has a catlike grace that gives the impression of strenght and his dancing ability has helped tremendously in his career. “The Travolta dance is typical of hero worship even in San Francisco, Los Angeles and other big cities. Mondays, everyone who has caught the fever, even 30 year olds shop and prepare for the disco on Fridays and Saturday and stay up till the wee hours of the morning…We were about to ask another question about Vi, his leading lady in Lea’s Disco Fever but Ate Josie came in to remind Cocoy that the Sampaguita people were waiting with sketches of his costume for Dyesebel, the movie he was going to make for the Gilmore Studio. But didn’t. As a parting shot, Cocoy revealed that he’d soon put a disco. The Third Kind or something in Makati…” – Nena Z. Villanueva, Expressweek, November 16, 1978 (READ MORE)
Simula ng Walang Katapusan (1978) – “…Luis Enriquez aka Eddie Rodriguez first directed a young Vilma Santos in 1968 Kasalanan Kaya, another love triangle genre starring the dramatic trio of Marlene Dauden, Eddie Rodriguez and Lolita Rodriguez. Vilma received an early acting recognitions from this film by receiving a FAMAS Nomination for Best Supporting Actress. When Enriquez directed Vilma again, it was a calculated risk that allowed a still young Vilma into a bikini-clad lead role opposite his director himself, Eddie Rodriguez. The film, Nakakahiya, a may-december affair between an older man and a young woman was an entry to 1975 Bacolod City Film Festival. Aside from making the the film a smash hit, Vilma received the festival’s Best Actress. Enriquez will direct Vilma in five more films, the last one was ExWife in 1981 where surprisingly Luis used in film credits his screen name, Eddie Rodriguez. Theri total number of colloborations were seven (Ex-Wife 1981, Halik sa Kamay Halik sa Paa 1979, Hindi Nakakahiya 1976, Ikaw Lamang 1971, Kasalanan Kaya? 1968, Nakakahiya? 1975, Simula ng Walang Katapusan)…” – RV (READ MORE)
Burlesk Queen (1977) – “…Furor is really an understatement. “Burlesk” swept the awards in that year’s MMFF, resulting in a controversy that led to the wholesale return of trophies. In spite of the scandal, “Burlesk” is still regarded by critics as the “quintessential” Filipino film. “Hinamon ni Brocka si Tinio ng suntukan (Lino Brocka dared Rolando Tinio to a fight),” Celso remembers. “Tinio, who was the head of the jury, heralded “Burlesk as the most beautiful Filipino film” past, present and future.” Vi’s turnaround: Adding fuel to the fire, ?Burlesk? had stunned moviegoers because it unveiled a new Vilma Santos?from ingénue to wanton woman. Vilma says of “Burlesk?” – “It marked a transition in my career. Working with Celso Kid is a privilege. He’s a genius.” With good humor, Vilma recalls a “quarrel” on the set of “Pagputi ng Uwak, Pag-itim ng Tagak,” which she produced in 1978. “It took so long to finish. I lost money on that. But we’re still friends.” Burlesk and Pagputi brought a lot of honor to me…” – Bayani San Diego Jr. (READ MORE)
The Cinemalaya Philippine Independent Film Festival – “…is a film competition and festival that aims to encourage the creation of new cinematic works by Filipino filmmakers – works that boldly articulate and freely interpret the Filipino experience with fresh insight and artistic integrity. It also aims to invigorate the Philippine filmmaking by developing a new breed of Filipino filmmakers. Each year, ten fresh talents are given a seed grant in order to create the film of their dreams. These films in the New Breed Full Length Category are then featured in festival at the Cultural Center of the Philippines every July and compete for the coveted Balanghai Award. Awards are also given in the Short Feature Category and the Directors Showcase. Along with these competition films are an array of exhibitions that include Tributes to Past Indie Mavericks of Pinoy Cinema, a Cinemalaya Kids’ Treats, World Premieres of New Digital Works (the Cinemalaya/NETPAC Prize), and other modules. Aside from the screenings are other exciting film-related events: the Cinemalaya Film Congress, a two-day conference that looks at all aspects of independent filmmaking and distribution; the Cinemalaya Sine Taktakan, a forum with the year’s batch of new Cinemalaya filmmakers; and a host of other events…The core project of the Cinemalaya is the annual Cinemalaya Independent Film Festival and Competition which provide financial grants for the production of, at most, 10 full-length feature films which will then compete for the Best Full-length Film award. It also awards financial grants to the production of five full length feature films by veteran directors in the Directors Showcase category…” – Cinemalaya (READ MORE)
Amor y Muerte (Love and Death) – is an erotic 16th Century period drama; an examination of the initial encounter between the Indios (natives) and their colonizers (Spaniards) and their conflicting views on love, passion, religion and sexuality. Credits: Starring – Althea Vega, Markki Stroem, Adrian Sebastian, Ama Quiambao, Mico Palanca, Kuya Manzano, Amante Pulido; Director – Ces Evangelista; writer – si Jerry Gracio
Au Naturel – “…The two other main leads of the independent production are Althea Vega and Gino Quintana, who have both appeared in several indie films. “Amor Y Muerte” is actually Markki’s second indie effort after his hilarious portrayal of a transvestite in last year’s Cinema One Originals entry, “Slumber Party”. In the auditions alone, Markki already left a good impression. A production insider told us of the screen tyro: “Very professional, alam niya ang needs ng role, pero go-go-go siya, a real artist.” From the get-go, the creative team behind “Amor Y Muerte” made no secret of the requirements from those who wished to vie for the roles of the three main characters – it called for the actors to go au naturel…Both male newbies, continued our source, are a joy to work with. “Nakakatuwa si Stroem kasi gustong matuto ng purong Tagalog for his career, mas type n’ya nagta-Tagalog…Nevertheless, Markki did face tough competition to win the role of the Spanish soldier in “Amor Y Muerte.” One of the actors who auditioned for the part was the older brother of a network star. “Na-teary-eyed kami sa audition niya, ‘yung internalized na internalized niya ‘yung loneliness and longing for the love of his life. Grabe…” – Arnel Ramos, InterAksyon, 20 February 2013 (READ MORE)
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Sana Dati – a story about Andrea Gonzaga (Lovi Poe) who has accepted her fate by agreeing to marry a man she does not love. This would be rich businessman and former politician Robert Naval (TJ Trinidad). But a few hours before Andrea’s wedding, a videographer named Dennis (Paulo Avelino) arrives and strangely reminds Andrea of the one person she truly loved but nobody in her family knows about—a man named Andrew Cesario (Benjamin Alves). Credits: Starring – Lovi Poe, Paulo Avelino, TJ Trinidad, Benjamin Alves, Ria Garcia, Carla Martinez, Liesl Batucan, Nico Antonio, Chinggoy Alonzo, Nonie Buencamino, Cai Cortez, Bong Cabrera, Gee Canlas; Director – Jerrold Tarog; Writer – Ramon Ukit
Beautifully Photographed – “…Though best known as a horror filmmaker, Filipino helmer Jerrold Tarog has also won acclaim with the first two installments of his ‘camera’ trilogy. Indie dramas revolving around characters who use cameras in their everyday lives, the camera trilogy comes to a conclusion this year with Tarog’s Cinemalaya entry Sana Dati. Beautifully photographed and boasting what look to be quite strong performances, the first trailer for Sana Dati has arrived and promises something quite different from what we’ve come to expect from the Philippines: a romantic drama that refuses to pander either to the mainstream cineplex crowd or the ultra low budget indie aesthetic and lands someplace really quite interesting…” – Todd Brown, Twitch Film, 31 May 2013 (READ MORE)
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Ekstra, The Bit Player – A socio-realist drama-comedy film, which follows a seemingly usual day in the life of Loida Malabanan (Vilma Santos) as she embarks on yet another shooting day of a soap opera as an extra. As the shoot goes on, we get a glimpse of the truth in the ruling system of the production as well as the exploitation on the marginalized laborers like her. Credits: Starring – Ms. Vilma Santos, Cherie Gil, Pilar Pilapil, Richard “Sir Chief” Yap, Eula Valdes, Ronaline Enriquez, Tart Carlos, Abby Niesta, Marlon Rivera, Vince de Jesus, Piolo Pascual, Marian Rivera; Director – Jeffrey Jeturian; Writers – Zig Dulay, Tonette Jadaone and Jeffrey Jeturian
Impromptu Audition – “…the indie dramedy also gives us a glimpse of Ate Vi’s able supporting cast that includes Cherie Gil, Pilar Pilapil, Eula Valdes and a standout Rosario “Tart” Carlos (yes, Doris of “Be Careful With My Heart” ) playing Loida’s best friend and fellow extra. Tart was particularly in a hilarious nod to Nora Aunor as she delivers a variation of Ate Guy’s classic line in “Minsa’y Isang Gamu-Gamo” in what looks like an impromptu audition that saw her and Ate Vi competing for the same role. As a kontrabida with a golden heart who has a soft spot for bit players, Cherie Gil looks like in peak form as she looks poised to own every scene she’s in. There are also cameos galore as the trailer also shows shots of Piolo Pascual, Marian Rivera, Richard Yap and Cherry Pie Picache. As the trailer ends on a touching note, its mostly comic scenes prompts one commenter to compare it to Jeturian’s 2004 sex comedy “Bridal Shower” even as most of the Vilmanians are singing praises for what they consider as an auspicious indie debut and another award-worthy performance of Ate Vi…” – Edwin P. Sallan, InterAksyon, 08 June 2013 (READ MORE)
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Porno – a powerful story about individuals linked by pornography. Three souls, one explicit illusion. To find the ultimate joy in their empty lives. A safe haven, where passion and love mean humanity, ecstasy means enlightenment; and the soul is the ultimate arbiter of the truth. Credits: Starring – Carlo Aquino, Yul Servo, Angel Aquino; Director – Adolfo B. Alix Jr.; Writer – Ralston Jover
The Brightest – “…His latest work Chassis (2010), about a mother trying to make ends meet as she lives under the container vans in Pier 16, premiered in the Pusan International Film Festival and was screened in the Vancouver Film Festival. It is also the first Filipino film to compete in the Mar del Plata International Film Festival. Alix has been recently listed by The Hollywood Reporter in its “Next Generation Asia 2010, which features the top 20 young entertainment personalities in the region deemed “the best and the brightest among their peers” from a vast region considered “the world’s biggest entertainment market.” He is now working on several projects including Kalayaan (Wildlife) which received script development support from the Hubert Bals Fund of the International Film Festival Rotterdam and Porno which was part of the Hong Kong-Asia Film Financing Forum. His 2013 film Death March was screened in the Un Certain Regard section at the 2013 Cannes Film Festival…” – Wikipedia (READ MORE)
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The Liars – Liars is the story of a journalist (Eloisa) whose exposé of the truth results in life-changing consequences to a baseball team of poor boys. Inspired by a true story. Credits: Starring – Alessandra de Rossi, Jan Harley Hicana, John Michael Bonapos, Cris Villanueva, Richard Quan, Jim Rocky Tangco, Sue Prado, Dax Alejandro, Arnold Reyes; Director – Gil M. Portes; Writer – Senedy Que
Mercurial Filmmaker – “…His films have also tackled a wide array of socially relevant themes including drug addiction (“Sa Piling ng mga Sugapa”), teenage pregnancy (“High School Scandal”) and, most recently, reproductive health (“Bayang Magiliw”). His latest film, “Liars” is another first for the mercurial filmmaker. Based on a real-life sports scandal, Portes’ entry to the Directors’ Showcase section of the 9th Cinemalaya Philippine Independent Film Festival is a fictionalized account of the incredible rise and the humiliating fall of a humble Filipino baseball team of young boys in an international baseball competition in the 1990s. Written by Senedy Que (“Mga Munting Tinig”, “A Mother’s Story), “Liars” is headlined by recently crowned Gawad Urian Best Supporting Actress Alessandra de Rossi as the reporter who exposes the team’s irregularities. …” – Edwin P. Sallan, InterAksyon, 19 June 2013 (READ MORE)
The Diplomat Hotel – A disgraced reporter (Gretchen Barretto) seeks redemption by leading her documentary crew to spend one night and tell the story of what really happened at the haunted and infamous The Diplomat Hotel. Credits: Starring – Gretchen Barretto, Art Acuña, Mon Confiado, Joel Torre, Sue Prado, Nico Antonio, Abe Pagtama, Sarah Gaugler; Writer/Director – Christopher Ad. Castillo
Haunted Sites – “…Best known internationally as a leader of the Filipino arthouse indie wave of the past several years, Cinemalaya – which, like other similar events, is also a funding body – is headed to darker grounds this year with the inclusion of Christopher Ad Castillo’s The Diplomat Hotel…Castillo – the son of iconic director Celso Ad Castillo (Snake Sisters, Burlesque Queen) – sets his film on the grounds of an actual hotel purported to be one of the most haunted sites in the world (you can read the history of the actual site here) for an experience that promises to chill. Check the latest trailer below for a taste…” – Todd Brown, Twitch Film, 29 May 2013 (READ MORE)
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Babagwa (Spider) – An Internet scammer falls in love with a wealthy spinster while trying to swindle her using a fake Facebook profile. Credits: Starring – Alex Vincent Medina, Joey Paras, Alma Concepcion, Nico Antonio, Chanel Latorre, Sunshine Teodoro, Raqs Regalado, Garry Lim, Kiko Matos, Marx Topacio; Executive Producer – Joji Alonso; Writer/Director – Jason Paul Laxamana
Intenet scammer – “…I didn’t know that he was one until I heard stories from his victims, some of whom I knew. So when I was composing the story, I thought, what if the scammer/poser was actually the one who falls in love with the person he/she is trying to victimize?” And that’s how “Babagwa” was crafted. To get the film made after it qualified for Cinemalaya, Laxamana knew he would be needing more than the P500,000 seed money that the film festival foundation granted…When she asked if I’m interested to partner with her for ‘Babagwa’, medyo na-pressure ako kasi mostly award-winning ‘yung mga films niya. Pero she believed in the project kaya ayun, natuloy ang partnership namin.” In casting for the top four roles in the film, Laxamana said he was fortunate to get the services of some really good actors, beginning with Alex Vincent Medina (“Palitan”, “Pascalina”, “Supremo”) who plays the role of the Intenet scammer. “Isa siya sa top three choices namin nung pumipili kami. Aside from his rugged look na bagay sa role, nakita ko na rin ang performance niya sa ibang indie films. Siya din yung pinaka-game na gawin ‘yung mga eksena, kahit medyo maselan,” he noted…” – Edwin P. Sallan, InterAksyon, 14 June 2013 (READ MORE)
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Rekorder – tells the story of a former 1980’s film cameraman who currently works as a movie pirate operating in present day Manila. He routinely smuggles a digital camcorder into movie theaters in order to illegally record films. One night he records something else… And the footage goes viral. Credits: Starring – Ronnie Quizon, Mike Lloren, Buboy Villar, Earl Ignacio, Suzette Ranillo, Archie Adamos, Abe Pagtama and introducing Belinda Mariano; Director – Mikhail Red; Writers – Mikhail Red, Ian Victoriano
Rushing Cinematic Boundaries – “…A year later, Mikhail submitted yet another short film entitled Hazard, a crime drama that tells the story of a father who takes his son to the outskirts of the city for a driving lesson and stumble upon a disturbing crime scene which ultimately makes them realize the differences in their moral stances. “Rekorder is much more daring, pushing cinematic boundaries further.” Mikhail said. He also added that we shall expect the similar aesthetic flavors he has used with his short films before, especially in terms of the film’s over-all mood, atmosphere, and surreal sequencing…In spite of all the challenges he have been through just to finish his full-length film, Mikhail is nevertheless grateful. “It was definitely a learning experience for me.” Mikhail proclaimed. His young and committed crew members also have had their fair share on this learning escapade. When asked if he is expecting to win anything for Rekorder, Mikhail did not buckle on saying that he does not need it at all. “I just want audiences to remember my films; I want them to think about it, it doesn’t matter if they react positively or disagree with it completely. As long as they were affected by it, and they remember my work, then I believe I am successful in a sense. I don’t need to win anything.” Mikhail asserted beautifully…” – Rhea Gulin, Outrageous Writer, 06 June 2013 (READ MORE)
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Debosyon – Mando (Paulo Avelino), a Bikolano devotee of Ina, Virgin of Peñafrancia, Patroness of Bikolandia, injures himself in the middle of the forest at the foot of the Mayon Volcano. He will be nursed back to health by a mysterious woman, Salome (Mara Lopez), living there. They will fall in love with each other. But when Mando invites her to come with him to the plains, Salome refuses, saying a curse prohibits her from leaving the forest. Salome holds a secret that will devastate Mando’s love for her. Mando relies on his devotion to the Virgin of Peñafrancia to lift the curse, making him realize just how inextricably linked are the virtues of love and faith. Credits: Starring – Paulo Avelino, Mara Lopez; Writer/Director – Alvin B. Yapan
Different Characters – “…“I feel happy and honored that people remember me for doing bad things on TV,” Paulo quipped during the recent launch of LG Optimus L Series of smartphones for which he is one of the brand ambassadors, along with actress Maxene Magalona and basketball star Kiefer Ravena. The actor was referring to his character as Nathan Montenegro, the mentally unstable antagonist of Coco Martin. The role also won for Paulo the Outstanding Supporting Actor award at the recent 10th Golden Screen TV Awards. Paulo admitted that “Walang Hanggan” opened more doors for him as an actor and sought after celebrity. This includes the LG endorsement and not just one but two Cinemalaya 2013 entries—“Debosyon”, which reunites him with director Yapan for the New Breed section, and “Sana Dati”, where he is directed by Jerrold Tarog for the Directors Showcase category. The 25-year-old said he has wrapped up both films which are now in post-production. “I’m very excited about these films because I’m playing roles that are different from the characters I have done before…” – Edwin P. Sallan, InterAksyon, 26 May 2013 (READ MORE)
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Instant Mommy – In order to solve a personal predicament, Bechayda (Eugene Domingo), a wardrobe assistant in TV commercials, pretends to be pregnant. Story of a summer’s journey of Bechayda amidst a highly visualized world where the video screen reigns supreme. Bechayda is a wardrobe mistress in TV commercials who pretends to be pregnant to keep her Japanese fiance (Yuki Matsuzaki). Credits: Starring – Eugene Domingo, Rico J. Puno, Luis Alandy, Archie Alemania, Shamaine Buencamino-Centenera, Tuesday Vargas, Matt Evans, Alchris Galura, Yuki Matsuzaki; Writer/Director – Leo Abaya
Instant Chemistry – “…How did Leo accomplish this? He told him outright, “We don’t have the money.” But Yuki direly wanted to do a regional film just like Instant Mommy that his agent quoted a reasonable fee. And it was a breeze from then on just like slurping the comfort food for many Asians — the Japanase ramen! When Leo called for online auditions, 40 Japanese actors responded. Four were shortlisted including Yuki; his videos clinched him the role. When he arrived and they met, he looked so ordinary that it made Leo a tad edgy. But when he started filming, his personality glowed and transformed Yuki into the actor Leo had in mind. Then there’s the qestion of whether Yuki and Eugene would have chemistry. “I thought at first wala. Pero when they started filming, again it showed. Their chemistry is fantastic…” – Edgar Cruz, Tribune, 03 July 2013 (READ MORE)
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Nuwebe – Inspired by the actual story of one of the youngest mothers in Philippine history, NUWEBE follows the story of Krista (Nadine Samonte) who at the tender age of 9 got pregnant from the sexual abuse perpetrated by her own father. Her story is complex. Krista refuses to see herself as a victim. With an almost documentary style, NUWEBE follows Krista’s story as she demonstrates a level of resilience uncommon to her age. Her mother on the other hand is torn between her love for her child and her love for her husband. Credits: Starring – Barbara Miguel, Jake Cuenca, Nadine Samonte, Anita Linda, Manny Castaneda, Renaissance Tuason, Isadora Villasquez, Archie Adamos, Mikael Liwag, Renerich Ocon, Blair Arellano, Mariah Fernandez; Writer/Director – Joseph Israel M. Laban
Level of Resilience – “…Krista’s story is complex. She refuses to see herself as a victim. With an almost documentary style, “Nuwebe” (Siyam) follows Krista’s story as she demonstrates a level of resilience uncommon to her age. Her mother on the other hand is torn between her love for her child and her love for her husband…” – Marinduque Rising (READ MORE)
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Purok 7 – A countryside dramedy (drama-comedy) that follows the story of 14-year-old Diana and her younger brother who live by themselves after their mother went abroad and their father lived with another woman. Credits:: Starring – Krystel Valentino, Miggz Cuaderno, Julian Trono, Arnold Reyes, Angeli Bayan; Writer/Director – Carlo Obispo
Personal Experiences – “…Shot in Tarlac, the film features the lighter side of country lifestyle as the main characters take advantage of the fun and thrills of the town festival to take hold of their sweet childhood. Krystel Valentino and Migs Cuaderno portray the siblings whose lives change drastically because of the choice of their father (played by Arnold Reyes). Carlo Obispo based the characters of his film on actual people he grew up with in Purok Siyete in Tarlac. “Maraming events dito na based sa personal experiences ko and based on people close to me,” says the writer-director…” – Jocelyn Dimaculangan, PEP, 04 July 2013 (READ MORE)
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Quick Change – Dorina believes she is a lady incarcerated inside a male body. She’s got herself a flourishing career, albeit in an illegal cosmetic surgery business. She is a mother figure to Hero, her eight year old nephew. She acts as a devoted wife to Uno. Between her job and her family, Dorina feels that she is one lucky woman. Until Uno falls in love with another tranny (transvestite). Credits: Starring – Mimi Juareza, Junjun Quintana, Migs Cuaderno, Natashia Yumi, Felipe Martinez, John Relucio, Giggle Esmeralda, Francine Garcia, Rolando Inocencio; Writer/Director – Eduardo Roy Jr.
Cosmetic Surgeons – “…We also realize that it’s just not about making movies; you need to say something about your film regardless if it’s a comedy, drama or romance. In our case, it’s drama. The human condition of this people we are trying not to push it too far. Like what you just described as a poverty film. You know in your face. My intention was to be tender. Since the subject was babies, I want to treat it very subtle. Even if there is poverty, I wanted to present that subtly just like a baby. Even the scoring was like a lullaby. Oh ok, it’s about babies even if you see this poverty, you will forget it because of the drama behind it, like why one of the mother’s escaped or why the inmate mother can’t hold her baby…I submitted my comedy concept to Cinemalaya. I hope that gets approved. I also have another concept that I am working on about fly by night cosmetic surgeons in the Philippines. I want to tackle the obsession of Filipinos on beauty. But it’s more underground…” – Michael Edillor (READ MORE)
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Transit – begins and ends in an airport during a father and son’s transit flight from Tel Aviv to Manila. It tells the story of Moises, a Filipino single-dad working as a caregiver in Herzliya, Israel, who comes home to his son Joshua’s 4th birthday. It was on that day that Moises, together with their Filipino neighbors, Janet and her daughter Yael, find out that the Israeli government is going to deport children of foreign workers. Afraid of the new law, Moises and Janet decide to hide their children from the immigration police by making them stay inside the house. Credits: Starring – Ping Medina, Irma Adlawan, Mercedes Cabral, Marc Justine Alvarez, Jasmine Curtis-Smith; Writer/Director – Hannah Espia
Mainstream to Indie – “…Transit’ was such a pleasure to work on. It’s so deep, the storyline, and also the preparation that we had to do for the film,” said the young actress, who was recently in Israel to shoot on location. Explaining her role in the film, Curtis said, “Ako po ‘yung anak ni Ms. Irma Adlawan na lumaki sa Israel. Half-Filipina, half-Israeli, so there’s a battle between cultures for my role, na kung Filipina ba ako o Israeli ako.” For her part in the project, Curtis said she understands not being given a “substantial fee.” “It’s a whole different environment, so we can’t apply what we do in mainstream to the indie world,” said the actress, who has starred in three TV series so far, and has several product and brand endorsements to her name. “And that’s fine, because at the end of the day, it’s all about the experience and learning more about this industry,” she said….” – ABS-CBN News, 05 July 2013 (READ MORE)
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David F. – “David F” is written as a triptych with 3 short stories hinged together by the story of David Fagan, a real life historical character in the early 1900’s. He is a black American who was a member of the American regimen that was sent by the US government during the Philippine-American war. He became famous (or infamous) when he deserted the US troops and joined the sides of the Filipino revolutionaries. He was declared as a public enemy of the US government when he lead a series of battle with the Filipino revolutionaries against American soldiers. He was promoted as colonel of the Filipino troops under Emilio Aguinaldo and married a Filipina. Credits: Starring – Quester Hannah (American theater actor), Sid Lucero, Art Acuña, Rocky Salumbides, Mitch Valdez, Jess Mendoza, Mariella Castillo, Dax Martin, Madeleine Nicolas; Director – Manny Palo; Writers – Liza Magtoto and Emmanuel Quindo Palo
American Soldier – “…Acuña’s second film in this year’s Cinemalaya is similarly inspired by real-life events. In “David F,” the actor portrays one of the captors of David Fagen, an actual American soldier who joined Philippine forces in the country’s war with the United States in the early 1900s. “It’s about a little-known anecdote back during the Fil-Am war when an African-American soldier started to side with the Filipinos and fight against the Americans,” Acuña said. “I’m one of the Pinoys who kidnapped David F. to turn him in for the bounty. Sid Lucero is the other Pinoy who does this with me. But then we start to argue about what we have to do, and then morality plays into the picture…” – ABS-CBN News (READ MORE)
The Cinemalaya Foundation has announced the finalists for the Short Film Category for the 2013 Cinemalaya Competition. The ten finalists in the Short Film Category are: Bakaw by Ron Segismundo, Katapusang Labok by Aiess Athina E. Alonso, Missing by Zig Madamba Dulay, Onang by Jann Eric S. Tiglao, Para kay Ama by Relyn A. Tan, Pukpok by Joaquin Adrian M. Pantaleon, Sa Wakas by Ma. Veronica Santiago, Taya by Philip Adrian Bontayam, The Houseband’s Wife by Paulo P. O’Hara, andTutob by Kissza Mari V. Campano.
The Ten Short Films Finalists:
Bakaw is a day in the life of a child who steals at the Navotas fishport.
Katapusang Labok depicts the struggles of fishermen who must deal with environmental abuse and the effects of coral harvesting on their livelihood.
Missing tackles the subject of forced disappearances.
Onang is the classic tale of a young probinsyana who seeks her fortune in the big city.
Para kay Ama is about a young Chinese-Filipino girl who discovers she has a half-brother when she meets him on the last day of her father’s wake.
Pukpok is one adolescent’s transition to manhood as he hurdles a case characterized by excessive blood, superstition and a man with failing eyesight.
Sa Wakas is a reflection on the bond of a father and daughter tested by cultural, political and religious hypocrisy.
Taya is about a 12-year-old boy who learns to play the game of life with a new set of friends. The film highlights how traditional Filipino games reflect the realities and disparities of our society.
The Houseband’s Wife is an essay about a typical OFW family, with the OFW wife as breadwinner and the husband left in the Philippines to care for the children. Technology and the internet bridges the physical distance but shatters domestic harmony when the wife, on a Skype video call, sees a bra, not hers, hanging in the marital closet.
Tutob begins when recent bombings in the region put authorities on alert. A mysterious, strange-looking native Maranao man dressed up in Muslim attire shows up. He is tasked to fetch a package from his boss’ contact. From a rural area in the mountains, he rides his motorcycle to the city to get the package. On his way back, he is stopped at an army checkpoint. Speaking Maranao, he says he doesn’t know what’s in the package, but the Visayan-speaking soldiers don’t understand him and insist on opening it.
The short feature category finalists were selected by the Cinemalaya Selection Committee comprised of Emilio Abello, VI, Lawrence Fajardo, Nic Deocampo, Mike Sandejas and Teddy Co. The Cinemalaya Independent Film Festival and Competition seeks to discover, encourage, and honor the cinematic works of Filipino filmmakers that boldly articulate and freely interpret the Filipino experience with fresh insight and artistic integrity. The works are narrative features that articulate Filipino identity and culture in digital format. The competition is held in three categories, the New Breed Full Length Feature, Short Feature and the Directors Showcase. Cinemalaya 2013 will be held on July 26 – August 4 at the Cultural Center of the Philippines and Ayala Cinemas at TriNoma, Greenbelt 3, and Alabang Town Center. It is a project of the of the Cinemalaya Foundation, Inc., in partnership with the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP), the Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP) and Econolink Investments, Inc. (EEI). Cinemalaya also features the Short Feature competition category as well as film exhibitions, seminars, conference, the Cinemalaya Film Congress, and other film-related events. – CCP (READ MORE)
204 films, 70 directors, 5 decades, Vilma Santos, one of the original Philippine movie queens, rose up to become the versatile actress that has been given the fitting title of “Star for All Seasons” because of her capacity to adapt to the changing mores and values of the Filipino woman, giving a face to their plight and struggles, albeit in success both critically and box-office wise in some of Philippine cinema’s classics such as Trudis Liit (1963), Lipad, Darna, Lipad (1973), Burlesk Queen (1977), Relasyon (1982), Sister Stella L. (1984), Alyas Baby Tsina (1984), Pahiram ng Isang Umaga (1989), Dahil Mahal Kita: The Dolzura Cortez Story (1993), Anak (2000) and Dekada ’70 (2002). This are top ten directors who contributed to her success. – RV (READ MORE)
Bernal gave Vilma Santos her first grandslam best actress awards and two consecutive Gawad Urian best actress (1982 and 1983). Their first film together was Inspiration (1972) and last was Pahiram Ng Isang Umaga (1989). – RV (READ MORE)
Inspiration (1972) – “…In a musical era of 1970s, “Inspiration” was quite an experimental film, with no musical numbers, better screenplay, well-written characters. Nestor and Bernal works well in establishing the character of Jay and Vilma. Their dialouges are not “corny” and very realistic. There is no over the top dramatic scenes inserted between musical numbers here. The parent played wonderfully by Merle Tuazon and Carlos Salazar were convincing. Although both Vilma and Jay played their roles effectively, Lilian Laing steals the film as Lola Jane. She was bubly and funny, a sex-starved, karate black belter, polo game afficianado, who loves life and considering she playing the old grandma who is also the solution to all the complication in life. Bernal was on his element here, a good story teller, pre-”Dalawang Pugad Isang Ibon, Pahiram Ng Isang Umaga and Relasyon.” Although he is directing a light comedy, written by Nestor Torre Jr., he managed to established all the characters without relying on corny dialouges common in this era…” – RV (READ MORE)
Now and Forever (1973) – “…By late 1969, movie producers had been tapping a Vilma Santos-Edgar Mortiz love team. Edgar was a Tawag ng Tanghalan winner. They started to be together in the movies, My Darling Eddie (1969) and The Jukebox King (1969)…In 1970, the love team of Vilma Santos and Edgar “Bobot” Mortiz was officially launched in the movie Young Love, together with the another popular love team during that time, Nora Aunor and Tirso Cruz III. The Vi and Bot love team went on to do 14 more movies in 1970—The Young Idols, Songs and Lovers, Sweethearts, Sixteen, Love Letters, Love is for the Two of Us, Mga Batang Bangketa, My Pledge of Love, Renee Rose, Baby Vi, Because You Are Mine, Edgar Loves Vilma, From the Bottom of My Heart, and I Love You Honey. All did well at the box-office…” – Rommel R. Llanes (READ MORE)
Dalawang pugad, isang ibon (1977) – “…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…” – Petronila Cleto (READ MORE)
Ikaw ay akin (1978) – “…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…” – Mario E. Bautista (READ MORE)
Good Morning, Sunshine (1980) – “…Junior – Now 66 years old (can you believe that?), he was Vilma Santos’ leading man in Good Morning Sunshine in 1980. Born Antonio Morales Barretto, he was born in Manila, but moved to Spain with his family when he was 15. He was already a popular singer in Spain when he tried Pinoy showbiz. After doing a series of local movies (another one of his films was Disco Madhouse with Lorna Tolentino and Rio Locsin) and record albums (Yakap is still memorable to me), he went back to Spain (his wife and kids were all living there) where he continued singing. Eventually, he managed the showbiz career of his wife, Rocio Durcal, but she died of cancer in 2006…” – Butch Francisco (READ MORE)
Relasyon (The Affair) (1982) – “…Napakadramatiko ang pagkompronta ni Vi kay Chris sa direksyon ng kanilang relasyon. Higit sa lahat, sa pamamagitan ng huling eksena, ang pagsasara ni Vi sa pinto ng kanilang bahay, ang pugad ng kanilang “relasyon”, inihayag ni Bernal na ang ganitong relasyon ay may hindi maiiwasang magwakas tulad ng sa tunay na buhay. Maaaring kamatayan o isang panibagong relasyon. Kung ang isang lalaki ay may-asawa, at mayroon na siyang relasyon o nagbabalak pa lang magkaroon ng relasyon sa ibang babae, dapat niya itong panoorin ng dalawang beses. Una, kasama ang kanyang misis at ikalawa, kasama angkanyang no. 2 o magiging ka-relasyon. Sa mga babaing katulad ni Vi sa pelikulang ito, mabuting panoorin ninyo nang nag-iisa ang pelikulang ito upang higit na maunawaan ninyo ang inyong relasyon o magiging relasyon.” – Mando Plaridel (READ MORE)
Broken Marriage (1983) – “…Christopher de Leon endows the character of Rene with the right sense of machismo and basic weakness. When Rene is compelled to act maturely, De Leon unflinchingly turns him even more childish with useless tantrums; and when Rene finally learns his lesson, De Leon adds a boyish smile as if the lesson were amusing. We watch De Leon, elated and entertained: he is never so old as to appear too distant nor is he too young as to seem undocile. Broken Marriage is a gift to this actor. He is not propelled here to be more manly; since his character is made to contribute to a lot of oversights, De Leon’s doesn’t have to put a mask of strength: he just has to be himself and act with ease. Vilma Santos is not about to be a letdown, not this time when the most important female roles are coming her way. A new intelligence she infuses in the character Ellen. Like De Leon, she turns Ellen into a woman-child, but the stress is less on her part as she has done similar roles before. Her beautiful face is flush receptive: the quiet moments of just observing the people around her are moments of perfect acting. Her body moves with an agility that is both funny and dramatic. Her two monologues – the first with her friends in the cafe when she informs them that she is bored, and the second with Rene when she tells him that they are not children anymore – are her best scenes: the camera lingers upon her countenance and she enunciates in return with ironic ease. She should watch out for next year’s awards race – there is simply no stopping her at the moment.” – Joselito Zulueta (READ MORE)
Pahiram Ng Isang Umaga (On Borrowed Time) (1989) – “…Bernal and Reyes go farther by including a scene in which the artist explains the origins of art. By the fireside at the beach, and watching the flame cast a glow on them, he notes that prehistoric men “discovered” art when they made outlines of shadows on the caves. Those artworks, though crude and primitive, still exist. Implicitly, Juliet’s death, no matter how saddening, is not going to be the end. Philosophical musings like these are not standard soap opera fare, and may alienate a lot of ordinary moviegoers (even the more cerebral ones who cannot accept the conventions of the soap opera genre). Woven unobtrusively into the plot, however, they add texture and enrich the drama. Juliet in a way will continue to live – in that portrait, in her young son who will survive her and hopefully continue her legacy whatever it may be, and in her good deeds. In the last scene, the imagery and symbolisms of life and death abound. Juliet dies at the break of dawn, the start of a new day (and life), but not without first making her last sentimental paean to life. Supported by the artist, her eyesight having failed completely and with the waves caressing their feet, the weak and dying cancer victim remarks how beautiful life is. True enough, this dying scene set on a beach, with the woman in white, dainty night gown, is one of the most exquisite, breathtaking moments in Philippine movies…” – Mario A. Hernando (READ MORE)
Ishmael Bernal (30 September 1938 – 2 June 1996) was an acclaimed Filipino film, stage and television director. He was also an actor and screenwriter… His Nunal sa Tubig (A Speck in the Water), Aliw (Pleasure) and Relasyon (The Affair) was among the 25 Filipino films shown in New York from July 31 to August 1999, organized by the Film Society of Lincoln Center, in partnership with the Philippine Centennial Commission, the Cultural Center of the Philippines, IFFCOM, the Philippine Information Agency, the Consulate General of the Philippines in New York and the Philippine Centennial Coordinating Council – Northeast USA. This series of Filipino films were presented at the Walter Reade Theater of the Lincoln Center, in celebration of the 100th year of Philippine Independence. – Wikipedia (READ MORE)
“…In a musical era of 1970s, “Inspiration” was quite an experimental film, with no musical numbers, better screenplay, well-written characters. Nestor and Bernal works well in establishing the character of Jay and Vilma. Their dialouges are not “corny” and very realistic. There is no over the top dramatic scenes inserted between musical numbers here. The parent played wonderfully by Merle Tuazon and Carlos Salazar were convincing. Although both Vilma and Jay played their roles effectively, Lilian Laing steals the film as Lola Jane. She was bubly and funny, a sex-starved, karate black belter, polo game afficianado, who loves life and considering she playing the old grandma who is also the solution to all the complication in life. Bernal was on his element here, a good story teller, pre-”Dalawang Pugad Isang Ibon, Pahiram Ng Isang Umaga and Relasyon.” Although he is directing a light comedy, written by Nestor Torre Jr., he managed to established all the characters without relying on corny dialouges common in this era…” – RV (READ MORE)
Ishmael Bernal (1938–1996) (30 September 1938 – 2 June 1996) was an acclaimed Filipino film, stage and television director. He was also an actor and screenwriter. Noted for his melodramas particularly with feminist and moral issues, his 1982 film Himala (Miracle) is often cited as one of the greatest Filipino films of all time. He is a National Artist of the Philippines. – Wikipedia (READ MORE)
FAIR USE NOTICE (NOT FOR COMMERCIAL USE): This site contains copyrighted materials the use of which has not always been specifically authorized by the copyright owner. We are making such material available in our efforts to preserve the film legacies of actress, Vilma Santos, and to make her career information available to future generations. We believe this is NOT an infringement of any such copyrighted materials as in accordance to the the fair dealing clauses of both the Canadian and U.S. Copyright legislation, both of which allows users to engage in certain activities relating to research, private study, criticism, review, or news reporting. We are making an exerted effort to mention the source of the material, along with the name of the author, performer, maker, or broadcaster for the dealing to be fair, again in accordance with the allowable clauses. – Wikipedia (READ MORE)
The oldest award giving body in the Philippines was the Filipino Academy of Movie Arts and Sciences simply called FAMAS. It was launch two years after the Maria Clara awards folded in 1951. FAMAS shared the same name with the American film academy; AMPAS until the later complained and the Filipino organization have to change theirs into the current acronym. FAMAS created a history of controversies throughout their more than sixty years in award-giving business mostly due to their questionable selection of winners. In 2006, FAMAS experienced another setback when two groups divided the organization due to a controversial election of its officers. As the legal battle settled, the battling groups decided to just hand out their own awards, one used the name FAMAS and the other the Maria Clara Awards. Like its infancy, the Maria Clara Awards did not reach its maturity and died the second time. This is not the first time FAMAS experience disgruntled “break-away” members forming their own award. Prior to 1976, FAMAS retained their status as the most prestigious recognition a Filipino actor could have. Charito Solis, who won best actress at the Asian Film Festival in 1967 used to proudly bring her FAMAS trophies on the film set to intimidate starlets and to instigate professionalism. The breakaway group of critics wish to distinguish themselves from FAMAS by successfully branded their award as not for actors who overtly act in films, they catered to the ones who are restrained and controlled. Hence, the term “Pang-FAMAS na acting” was born, which means over-acting.
The new group of practicing critics handed out their first award in 1976 and called themselves as the Manunuri ng Pelikulang Pilipino (The Filipino Film Critics) and their awards as Gawad Urian. The critics created a name for its credible choices of winners throughout the years. This untainted reputation made the Gawad Urian, the most sought after award in the Philippines.
Two years after the critics handed out their Gawad Urian, the Catholic Church joined the derby by handing out their own version of movie awards. The Catholic Mass Media Awards came to fruition in 1978 with the late Cardinal Jaime Sin in charge of the ceremony. CMMA honour not only films but also television, print, radio, and recently advertisement.
Five years afterwards, came the establishment of the Philippines’ counterpart of OSCAR. Consists of different guilds, the very first academy awards, now called Luna Awards, handed out in 1983. After 25 years, the Luna Awards cemented a reputation as “the popularity contest awards,” which means each guild votes for their favourites and not necessarily about merits. They tried very hard to adopt a new set of voting rules including different nominating group that represented each guild to resolve this issues but like the OSCAR, the results are sometimes questionable. The common consensus was that the Luna Awards remained far behind Gawad Urian. Two years after the creation of Film Academy of the Philippines’ Luna awards, another group joined the award giving business.
The Philippines Movie Press Club or the PMPC handed out their first Star awards in 1985. The Star awards were considered the Philippines’ counterpart of the Golden Globes. And like the Golden Globes, the Star also honours television. The only difference is that the Star Awards hands out their film and televisions ceremonies separately. Consists of publicists and entertainment writers, who are member of PMPC (Philippine Movie Press Club) the Star Awards followed the footsteps of Gawad Urian with very credible choices of winners but just like FAMAS, the Star Awards experienced the same fate with a disgruntled members formed their own version of the same awards. The Entertainment Press Society was born with their Golden Screen Awards in 2004.
Today, in addition to the Gawad Urian, FAMAS, Luna, CMMA, Star Awards, and Golden Screen, we also have the PASADO awards from an organization of academics; the YCC, Young Critics Circle Awards from a group of film students; the Gawad Tanglaw from an organization of film and arts’ instructors. Lately, the OMG Awards by the internet company, Yahoo Philippines, and the MTRC Awards by the board of censors joined the now, overcrowded award giving bodies.
Before 1982, the word grandslam were only used in sports. The term grandslam according to Wikipedia in terms of tennis is a singles player or doubles team that wins all four major tournaments (Australian, French, Wimbledon, US) in the same calendar year, is said to have achieved the “Grand Slam” or a “Calendar Year Grand Slam,” just like what Steffi Graf, the retired German tennis superstar did in 1988. Meanwhile the American Heritage dictionary described the term “grand slam” as follows: first, the winning of all the tricks during the play of one hand in bridge and other whist-derived card games. Second, the winning of all the major or specified events, especially on a professional circuit. And third, in baseball, a home run hit when three runners are on base. From this set of definitions comes the term “grand slam best actress” which basically winning all the best actresses awards from all major award giving bodies. And in 1983, the four majors were FAMAS, Gawad Urian, CMMA, and the FAP (or Luna now).
Figure 1: Best Actress from FAMAS, Gawad Urian, Film Academy of the Philippines, and CMMA
The Beginning – The Marcos administration created the Film Academy of the Philippines in 1981 under the guidance of first lady Imelda Marcos and Imee Marcos as Experimental Cinema of the Philippines’ director-general. ECP started to ambitiously produced films to showcase local talents for its inaugural Manila International Film Festival. The organization produced two memorable films, Peque Gallaga’s period film, “Oro, Plata, Mata” and Ishmael Bernal’s French influenced film, “Himala.” Come Gawad Urian night, both films received its stiff competitions from three other films, Mike Deleon’s “Batch ’81,” Lino Brocka’s “Cain at Abel” and Marilou Diaz Abaya’s “Moral.” For the Manunuri, the previous year produced only two stand out films, Mike De Leon’s Kisap Mata and Laurice Guillen’s Salome. A big contradiction this year, as not only they have the tasks of sorting out the best in each categories from these five films mentioned above but also other worthy films. Famous with their long heated debates, the local critics added the following films in their list of best films: Nora Aunor’s “Mga Uod at Rosas,” Vilma Santos’ “Relasyon” and Hilda Koronel’s “PX.” The three were cited not only for the overall production but also for the performances of the film’s lead actresses. Also cited were, ECP’s delicate horror film, “Haplos” directed by Jose Perez and two Lino Brocka films, the comedy “Palipat-lipat, Papalit-palit” and the drama “In this Corner.”
For Vilma Santos, The previous year, Pakawalan Mo Ako was a huge summer hit that earned Vilma a surprised best actress in FAMAS. That year also released Ex-Wife and Hiwalay, about marital problems. Art imitating life, as there were reports that Vilma and now, ex-husband, Edu Manzano were having some marital problems. But Vilma as trooper as she is, any personal troubles were not publicly noticeable as she goes on with her work, business as usual. Also, Vilma gave birth to her eldest son Luis “Lucky” Manzano.
By December of 1981, her film festival entry, Karma earned her another surprise best actress trophy after the FAMAS gave her the nod for Pakawalan Mo Ako. In an unrelated news, the entertainment industry were shocked to found that matinee idol, Alfie Anido died on Dec 31st. Like the death of Julie Vega and Rico Yan, it is still unknown the reason behind Anido’s death.
She is determined to make 1982 another successful year. She released a total of six films, out of six; two were certified record breakers, “Sinasamba Kita (I Idolized You)” released in August and “Gaano Kadalas ang Minsan? (How Many Times is Once),” released in November, both produced by Viva Films. The other four films (Relasyon, T-Bird at Ako, Never Ever Say Goodbye, Haplos) were mild hits. All of her hard work paid off because as early as January of the 1983 she was already poised to reap major awards.
Meanwhile for Nora Aunor, 1982 were a mixed bag of mild hits and failed opportunities. “Mga Uod at Rosas,” her collaboration with Lorna Tolentino and director Romy Zusara produced a mixed reviews from the critics. Her excellent performance did not help as the film were just mild hit with the audience. Her follow up films, “Annie Sabungera” and “Palenke Queen” both comedies also did not do well at the box office making the expectation from her next film higher, as she teamed-up with the hottest star of 1982, her closest rival, Vilma Santos in Danny Zialcita’s fast paced film, “T-bird at Ako.” T-bird’s high expectation wasn’t realized as the film earned just a modest income.
By December, all eyes were focused again on Nora and her most ambitious project to date, Ishmael Bernal’s “Himala,” produced by the Imee Marcos’ Experimental Cinema of the Philippines. The film was an entry to the Metro Manila film festival. Nora Aunor was again proclaimed the “queen of local festival” as she won her third Metro Manila Film Festival best actress. Nora’s momentum was rising and she was conditioned to make some serious dent in the following year’s award giving seasons. Critics were all going “gaga” with Aunor’s gigantic performance as Elsa. They said Himala was very effective in communicating its film’s message; it has moving moments and raw power.
Communicated It Really Well – “…Nestor Torre…he finds Batch ’81 the best movie made in 1982. “The movie had something very important to say and it communicated it very well…As for the best actress, it’s Nora Aunor in Himala. “It was a good role, and she communicated it very well. At least, Nora wasn’t api here for a change, It was quite a complicated role, but she handled it very well….Other choices were Gina Alajar and Lorna Tolentino in Moral…Vilma Santos, Nestor notes, is admittedly a “very hard worker but her physical structure really makes it difficult for her to be really effective—hindi malalim—and her voice is not that expressive.” Nestor adds, though, once in a while, Vilma “transcends her physical limitations, as in Rubia Servios…” – Nestor Torre Jr. (film critic), Parade Magazine, January 19, 1983
Moving Moments – “…Best Films: (in the order of preference) 1. Oro, Plata, Mata and Batch ’81; 2. Relasyon and Himala; 3. Moral. Best Directors: (in no particular order) 1. Ishmael Bernal for Relasyon and Himala; 2. Peque Gallaga for Oro Plata Mata; 3. Mike de Leon for Batch ’81. Actresses: 1. Vilma Santos for Relasyon; 2. Nora Aunor for Himala and Uod at Rosas; 3. Sandy Andolong for Moral and Oro Plata Mata; 4. Gina Alajar for Moral. Actors: 1. Mark Gil for Batch ’81 and Palipat-lipat, Papalit-palit; 2. Joel Torre for Oro Plata Mata; 3. Christopher de Leon for Relasyon. Most movies are usually flawed, and those in my list are no exception. However, apart from the standard criteria I am applying to them (the classic from and content balance), I am giving much weight on impact and emotional power. So, my top two are Oro and Batch. Himala is an ambitious film and much flawed, but it has visual beauty and emotional wallop.
Relasyon is more modest in scope, but I think is more successful on its own terms. Moral has many good things going for it, from direction and writing, to performances, but it does not match the four other films in impact (though it has some moving moments) and originality…” – Mario Hernando (film critic), Parade Magazine, January 19, 1983
Raw Power – “…Ding Nolledo…confesses to liking Himala “very much” but mentions that he hasn’t seen Oro Plata Mata…because the film exudes “raw power,” not to mention the excellent acting and the direction, which was like early Fellini, especially the middle part…Ding doesn’t agree with Moral’s rave reviews because “I’ve seen Moral in about 369 other films.” It’s not that original, he implies. As for best actress, it’ll have to be Nora in Himala. “She reminds me of the young Anna Magnani. Besides, the script fitted her to a T. The role practically coincides with what she is in real life…” – Wilfrido Nolledo (novelist, screenwriter, film critic), Parade Magazine, January 19, 1983
Himala won nine out of eleven local festival awards. A sort of repeat of what Vilma’s “Burlesk Queen” achieved in 1977 but without the complaints or sour grapes.
Body of Work – The success of Himala in the December festival has been overshadowed by the commercial success of Vilma Santos’ body of work. In fact, on Dec 14, 1982, Channel 9’s talk show, Let’s Talk Movies recognized Vilma Santos as their best actress for her body of work. Nora Aunor was nominated for her films excluding her epic movie Himala which was not qualified due to the show’s fiscal year requirements which covers December 1981 to November 1982 (More about this below).
On January 20, 1983, Vilma was crowned the Box Office Queen by the Metro Manila Theaters Association in their very first The 1st Cinehan Awards. Reporter Meg Mendoza wrote in an article for Prime Magazine, “…Vilma gave Viva Films its first biggest hit in Sinasamba Kita earning over P7M in Metro Manila alone. Then came T-Bird at Ako (a mild hit), Never Ever Say Goodbye (a sorry miss), Gaano Kadalas ang Minsan? (her biggest hit for that year) and Haplos. As early as January 20, 1983, Vilma began to reap several victories when she was awarded by the Metro Manila Theaters Association on their first Cinehan Awards together with Fernando Poe, Jr. held at the Philippine Plaza.
National Artist Nick Joaquin, in an article that came out in the Bulletin Today on February 11, 1983 wrote: “By emerging as box-office queen, Vilma Santos proved herself to be the Philippine Cinema’s Superstar – a title, it’s to be realized now, that can be bestowed only by the Cinehan.” So, on Cinehan Awards Night, Vilma was the very picture of the conquering heroine, drawing all eyes as she glowed and glittered, a rapture of radiance in her strapless white gown with lilac sash – and in white gloves yet! In her triumph joined both cinema and cinehan. Her pictures were all well done – and they also did very well at the box-office. In the same awards night, Ambassador Jaime Zobel de Ayala, another recipient of the Cinehan, upon receiving his award from Dean Lucresia Kasilag said: “I’m only a little bit sorry that Vilma didn’t give me the award. But it’s all right, I’ll try again next year. You’re my favorite star, you’re my muse! I’ll suffer in silence…”
Ironically, few weeks after her crowning as box office queen, Vilma released Ayaw Kong Maging Kerida, the result was average, proving the Romeo Vasquez and Vilma Santos screen charisma has subsided immensely.
Not to be outdone with Vilma’s latest feat, Nora’s “Himala” competed in the 1983 Berlin International Film Festival the following month. The film was the Philippines’ sole entry. The rave reviews were solid, Aunor’s performance was recognized by a nomination but unfortunately, according to Bernal, she lost the race by a mere vote. Would a similar fate awaits Aunor as the local award giving seasons begins?
First Major – By late February, the award-giving season in the country started. In their website, the Catholic Mass Media Awards recalled, “…The Archdiocese of Manila, through His Eminence Archbishop Jaime L. Cardinal Sin, organized the Catholic Mass Media Awards (CMMA) in 1978, in observance of the International Social Communication Day (established by the Universal Church to stress the importance of mass media and to instill a sense of responsibility in communicators). An outstanding way, in radio, print, advertising, television, and film. It was first given out in 1978; since then the CMMA was held every year onwards. In 1980, His Holiness Pope John Paul II graced the awarding ceremonies. Handing out personally the trophies to the winners, the Pontiff illustrated the significant place of mass media in today’s society, and its pervasive influence in the lives of the people…”
Just the previous year, the CMMA praised Nora Aunor’s acting in the late Mario O’harra film, “Bakit Bughaw ang Langit?” and she was adjudged their best actress. There is a great chance that Nora would repeat the feat, as many expected the church would favor a well-crafted film with religious theme.
On February 29, 1983, the fight between Nora Aunor’s “goliath” type of performance in “Himala (Miracle)” versus the “davidian” type of performance in Vilma Santos’ “Relasyon (the affair)” begins. The media were partly right, CMMA gave their best picture, screenplay, supporting actor/actress to Himala. But despite its, taboo story of a mistress, the Catholic Church’s award giving body favoured Vilma’s sympathetic performance.
Vilma won the first bout. Nora left empty-handed. The first blood has been drawn and Noranians, Nora Aunor’s fanatic fans were furious. The fight didn’t stop at the Catholic Mass Media Awards. The next one was a big one.
Second Major – Noranians expected a third Urian best actress considering the magnitude of Aunor’s performance in Himala and the positive reviews it received. Positive reviews that were written by the Manunuri critics themselves. Noranians dismissed Vilma’s win at the CMMA and expected that metal sculpted trophy was in the bag already. By the way, who are these critics anyway?
Practicing Film Critics – Movie writer, Billy R. Balbastro described the Manunuris: “…The Manunuri ng Pelikulang Filipino…is an organization of practicing film critics established in 1976. Most came from the Academe then with Nestor U. Torre becoming its first president. The Manunuri had its Gawad Urian in simple one hour-long rites at the CCP then. Dr. Bienvenido Lumbera Jr. became its second president. Other presidents include: Mario Hernando, Butch Francisco, Agustin “Hammy” Sotto, Gigi Javier Alfonso of UP. Each critic-member is expected to write regularly film reviews or film criticism which must be published in national publications. Each year too they give out awards for achievements in the movie industry, thus joining the FAMAS, the Film academy of the Philippines and the Philippine Movie Press Club’s Star Awards in this aspect of endeavor. During their first decade (1976 to 1985), they also came up with their Stars of the Decade: Nora Aunor, Vilma Santos, Vic Silayan and Phillip Salvador. The members of the Manunuri are: Mario Hernando (editor of Sunday Malaya), Bienvenido Lumbera Jr.(1993 Ramon Magsaysay awardee for journalism, literature and creative communication), Nicanor Tiongson (former artistic director of the Cultural Center of the Philippines, and former MTRCB chair), Butch Francisco (TV personality), Agustin “Hammy” Sotto (founding president of the Society of Film Archivists), Paul Daza (columnist), Gigi Javier Alfonso (dean of the UP-Diliman Open University and professor at the UP College of Mass Communication –UP-CMC), Ellen Paglinauan (dean of UP-CMC), Bro. Miguel Rapatan (DLSU), and Lito Zulueta (Inquirer sub-editor and faculty member of the UST Faculty of Arts and Letters)…”
The 1973 Scandal – Speaking of co-winner or “tie,” writer Rolfie Velasco pointed out in his article, “…FAMAS was the sole award-giving body for film in the Philippines from 1952 until 1976, when the Manunuri ng Pelikulang Pilipino (MPP) formed the Gawad URIAN (FAMAS was also contested by the Manila Film Festival, established in the 1960s, but a film festival cannot be considered as a major award-giving body). From 1952 to 1976, FAMAS alone has awarded the most foremost performers and craftsmen of Filipino films, from screen legend Rosa Rosal to master director Gerardo de Leon. Winning a FAMAS Award became the target obsession for many film craftsmen, for it was, after all, the Philippines’ counterpart of the Oscars. The awards itself, then held mostly in the Manila Hotel, was the biggest annual event in the Philippine movie industry…In 1973, the FAMAS was rocked by a terrible scandal. It awarded the first tie in the lead categories in the history of Philippine cinema. Before this, the only recorded tie was in 1968, when Tito Arevalo and Tony Maiquez shared the Best Musical Score honors. Because of the popular nominees with their loyal supporters, the tie in the 1973 best actress category became a hot topic with both Boots Anson-Roa (Tatay Na Si Erap) and Vilma Santos (Dama De Noche) sharing the honors. Because a tie in the lead categories was unheard of, the public dissented the vote. Therefore, for the next years, the FAMAS invited film critics to be members of its nominating and awarding committee. These critics left the FAMAS in 1976 to form MPP and subsequently, the Gawad Urian (Urian Award), named after the Tagalog word for gold standard…”
On April 15, 1983, the Gawad Urian was set to give out their hardware. It was known by many, that the critics or the Manunuris were pro-Nora Aunor. They gave Aunor their very first best actress award in 1976 for her excellent performance in “Tatlong Taong Walang Diyos (three years without God)”. They also gave Aunor a second nod in 1980 in her wonderful performance in “Bona” with Gina Alajar as co-winner.
When the winner was read, even Vilma was surprised. After so many years of snubs, she finally received the recognition she truly deserved. The critics finally came to their senses and recognized Vilma’s explosive and giant killer performance.
By winning the Gawad Urian, Vilma defeated not only Nora but also Lorna Tolentino and Gina Alajar both equally gave a felt performance in the feminist film, “Moral.”
Adding cherry to an already sumptuous plate, at the same night, on April 15, 1983, Vilma have to rush to another ceremony, she was crowned by the Guillermo Mendoza Memorial Foundation as the 1982 – 83 Box Office Queen of Philippine Movies at the Celebrity Sports Plaza with Fernando Poe Jr as the Box Office King, her second crown/title after January’s Cinehan Awards.
This was Vilma’s second major best actress wins in the same calendar year. She was half way there. People are now starts talking about the possibility of Vilma winning all the best actress awards.
Not to be outdone, Noranians regained from their disappointments as Nora Aunor received an award from a socio-political group, the TOWNS on April 23, 1983. Nora Aunor received (The Outstanding Women in the Nation’s Service) or simply TOWNS award from the former first lady, Madame Imelda Romualdez Marcos, at the Plenary Hall of the Philippine Convention Center. With the first lady handing out the TOWNS to Nora, people are started to insinuate that Nora Aunor’s defeat in two previous majors are politically motivated.
Third Major – The next race was the very first Luna Awards, back then, simply called the Film Academy Awards, Philippines’ counterpart of OSCAR.
On April 27, 1983 the First Film Academy of the Philippines Awards were held at the Manila Film Center. The FAP official web site provided some basic information about The Luna Awards, “…Established in 1981 as mandated by Executive Order No. 640-A, the Academy has been able to forge an alliance among the various guilds of the movie industry. Serving as the umbrella organization, the Film Academy oversees the welfare of the guilds thru an assortment of subsidies, projects and opportunities that would bring about the upgrading of the knowledge and expertise of the guild members. The principal function of the Academy is to give awards in recognition of the artistic and technical excellence of the performances and to accentuate the value of quality works of the people behind the outstanding films shown during the year. The Annual Luna Awards is intended to provide the necessary motivation in enhancing the craftsmanship of movie industry workers that will eventually uplift the quality of local films. The Academy also assists in the staging and managing of the annual Metro Manila Film Festival from which proceeds the Film Academy gets a share. Delegates to foreign film festivals are primarily sent thru the intercession of the Academy. The Academy also spearheads the collaboration of the movie industry with government agencies in order to gain opportunities for the guilds and its members…”
Academy insider, Jose N. Carreon wrote: “…At seven o’clock on a Wednesday evening on April 27, 1983, the Film Academy of the Philippines held its first ever awards night for distinguished works and performances in films exhibited in 1982. The venue was the Manila Film Center, one of the cultural edifices that were constructed under the auspices of former First Lady, Madame Imelda Romualdez-Marcos…The first ever Academy award winner was the late Rodolfo ‘Boy’ Garcia who was adjudged the best supporting actor for his role in Ito Ba ang Ating mga Anak?…Liza Lorena was best supporting actress for her role in Oro, Plata, Mata…The late Vic Macamay won the best sound award for Gaano Kadalas ang Minsan?…The best cinematography award was won by Romy Vitug for Sinasamba Kita…Sinasamba Kita by the late George Canseco was voted the best original song…The late Orlando Nadres won the best screenplay adaptation for Sinasamba Kita…Romy Suzara won as best director for Uod at Rosas…Manay Ichu’s MVP Pictures’ Batch ’81 was voted the first best picture of the academy awards…With the stage overflowing with showbiz people, the best actor and best actress awards were announced. Philip Salvador (for Cain at Abel) was declared best actor over Robert Arevalo (Santa Claus is Coming to Town), Mark Gil (Batch ’81), Christopher de Leon (Relasyon) and Joel Torre (Oro, Plata, Mata). The last winner of the night turned out to be Vilma Santos who was best actress for her performance in Relasyon. The other aspirants were Gina Alajar (Moral), Nora Aunor (Himala), Coney Reyes-Mumar (Pedring Taruc) and Lorna Tolentino (Moral). Then everything was history. After 25 years, we remember and we celebrate and we recommit ourselves for another quarter of a century. The Film Academy of the Philippines and its Luna Awards live on…”
Vilma Santos faces again a stiff resistance from Nora Aunor. In the end, Vilma received her fourth best actress award. And like when Nora received her TOWNS award, the former first lady, Imelda Marcos handed out the very first Academy award best actress to Vilma.
Vilma won her third major best actress in the same calendar year. One short of a complete overhaul.
Fourth Major – The award season of 1983 ended with the handing out of the FAMAS. The Manila Film Center was jam packed with not only celebrities but also a boisterous group of Noranians and Vilmanians. Unfortunately, Nora Aunor wasn’t nominated for her gigantic role of Elsa in “Himala” instead, she was nominated for her portrayal of an underdog lover of the late Johnny Delgado in Romy Zusara’s “Mga Uod at Rosas (The Worms and Roses)”. The competition didn’t stop with Vilma’s “Relasyon,” Noranians were worried about the other nominees too. Hilda Koronel was cited for her solo starrer, “PX” and Alma Moreno was nominated for her daring role as Cristina Gaston in the “Diary of Cristina Gaston.” The list of Nominees were completed with the inclusion of two veterans: Mona Lisa for her supposed to be supporting role in “Cain at Abel” and Liza Lorena for her surprising role in “Santa Claus is Coming to Town.” With this list comes a lesser expectation from Noranians, as Nora wasn’t nominated for her more intense role as Elsa. But this didn’t bother them as they raided the Manila Film Centre with so much fanfare.
The unofficial FAMAS website declared the winners, “…The 31st FAMAS Awards was held at the Manila Film Center on May 28, 1983. The Best Picture went to Cine Suerte’s Cain at Abel defeating Gaano Kadalas Ang Minsan [Viva Films], Himala [Experimental Cinema of the Philippines], Ang Panday: Ikatlong Yugto [FPJ Productions] and Sinasamba Kita [Viva Films]. The Best Actor went to Anthony Alonzo for Bambang defeating Christopher de Leon for Relasyon, Dolphy for My Heart Belongs to Daddy, George Estregan for Lalaki Ako, Dindo Fernando for Gaano Kadalas Ang Minsan, Fernando Poe, Jr. for Ang Panday: Ikatlong Yugto, and Philip Salvador for Cain at Abel. The best supporting Actor went to Tommy Abuel for Gaano Kadalas Ang Minsan while the best supporting Actress went to Sandy Andolong for Moral. Eddie Garcia won the best director Sinasamba Kita defeating Marilou Diaz-Abaya for Moral, Ishmael Bernal for Himala, Lino Brocka for Cain at Abel, Fernando Poe, Jr. for Ang Panday: Ikatlong Yugto and Danny Zialcita for Gaano Kadalas Ang Minsan. Gaano Kadalas Ang Minsan also won the best story for Tom Adrales; best screenplay for Tom Adrales and Danny Zialcita; best editing for Ike Jarlego, Jr.; best musical score and theme song for George Canseco and best sound for Vic Macamay. Joseph Estrada received the Hall of Famer Award for winning five times as producer. The most anticipated award was for best actress which went to Vilma Santos for Relasyon defeating Nora Aunor for Mga Uod at Rosas, Hilda Koronel for PX, Mona Lisa for Cain at Abel, Liza Lorena for Santa Claus is Coming to Town, Alma Moreno for The Diary of Cristina Gaston ..”
Unfortunately, for Noranians, their idol went empty handed again for the last time. Vilma claimed her fourth major best actress in one calendar year. The night for Vilmanians didn’t stop from Vilma’s win. Eddie Garcia won the best director award for a Vilma Santos’ blockbuster film, “Sinasamba Kita.”
Noranians were all mad as hell. Writer Bum D. Tenorio Jr., in his article for Philippine Star, described how the feisty Noranians reacted on Vilma’s win on their home turf, the Gawad Urian, “…Talk about Himala, it was because of this movie that two ladies in my neighborhood got into a nasty hair-pulling fight. Nora could have won the grand slam for Best Actress in all the award-giving bodies for this movie in 1982 except that her archrival and now Batangas Gov. Vilma Santos won for the movie “Relasyon” in the Gawad Urian. The feisty Noranians in the neighborhood could not accept this, while the Vilmanians gloated. This irreconcilable difference unfortunately turned ugly. In those days, fans were fiercely loyal. When Vilmanians talked about “Wonder V,” expect Noranians to come up with “Super G.” When Vilmanians mentioned how they got scared in “Phantom Lady,” expect a multitude of Noranians to thwart their claim by discussing “Fe, Esperanza, Caridad,” Nora’s suspense thriller. Even when Nora and Vilma starred together in a movie, say “Pinagbuklod ng Pag-Ibig” or the legendary “T-Bird at Ako,” competition between fans of both camps still raged. But in my community, the Noranians always prevailed!…”
Paranoia seeped in their brain as they hypothesized the reasons why Nora failed to win any awards. Sabotage according to them was the only reason. The political repercussion of the film being made under the Marcos administration resulted Nora Aunor being ignored by all award-giving bodies! Never mind that Vilma Santos deserved all the wins. Vilma Santos swept the entire best actress in four major award-giving bodies in one calendar year. The tag line “grand slam” was born.
In addition to the above majors, talk show, “Let’s talk movies” came up with their own film awards on its anniversary presentation at the end of 1982. The hosts, Behn Cervantes (filmmaker, film critic), Armida Siguion Reyna (film actress, producer) and Mario Bautista (movie reporter, critic, columnist) were quoted as who they think deserve the year’s accolade.
Behn Cervantes: “…Behn’s choice for best movie of 1982 comes easy, with one qualification (he has not seen Oro, Plata, Mata). “It’s Batch ’81 because it was innovative and more daring…As for the choice of best actress, “mahirap iyan,” Behn admits spontaneously. “It’s a difficult choice between Gina Alajar in Moral and Nora Aunor in Himala. Gina was beautifully flamboyant and effective as the funky character in Moral, while Nora was very cinematic in Himala. Nora is one actress who knows how to use her medium…Vilma is also good. She knows her craft, but somehow, at the moment of truth, physically she doesn’t quite hit me. There’s something very cutesified about it…”
Armida Siguion Reyna: “…Armida has said it in her TV show Let’s Talk Movies and she’s saying it again: her choice for best movie not only for the film fest but for the entire 1982 is Moral. “It’s very ‘today,’ NOW. You really get to identify with the characters in the movie…After Moral, Armida chooses Oro, Plata, Mata and Cain at Abel, respectively, as among 1982’s best…Armida chooses Vilma Santos as best actress for her performance in Relasyon. “I can’t explain my choice in the beautiful language of the Manunuri but I go by gut and alam kong maganda.” She is also more inclined toward Vilma because the actress made a number of good movies last year…”
Mario E. Bautista: “…For us, sinuman ang manalo kina Vilma Santos o Lorna Tolentino ay okey lang. Both Gina and Nora have won the Urian best actress awards twice. Gina for Brutal and Salome, Nora for Tatlong Taong Walang Diyos and Bona. Napakagaling ni Gina in portraying the role of the trying hard Kathy in Moral. Hindi biru-biro ang ganoong character na gagawin mong sympathetic dahil mas malamang na lumabas itong ridiculous lang kaysa nakakakuha ng simpatiya. But Gina succeeded in making her Kathy both ridiculous and sympathetic. As Elsa, Nora’s case is that of star and role merging into one, fitting into each other perfectly dahil alam nating ang karisma ni Guy sa kanyang fans ay siya ring karisma ni Elsa sa kanyang naging followers. Pero palagay namin, kung hindi magta-tie sina Lorna at Vilma, mananalo ng solo si Vilma Santos. Vi has never won the Urian. She should have gotten it in 1977 for Burlesk Queen but the trophy went to Daria Ramirez in Sinong Kasiping. Maraming acting highlights ang papel ni Vi bilang Marilou sa Relasyon. Sa confrontation scenes nila ni Boyet, superb siya roon sa tagpong sinusumbatan niya ito dahil ginagawa na lamang siyang tau-tauhan. Ang acting niya sa death scene ni Boyet na hindi malaman ang gagawin sa katarantahan is also awesome to behold…”
Unfortunately, despite their highly praises of Nora Aunor, the talk show hosts gave their nod to Vilma Santos due to their technical rules. An article from Movie Flash explained: “…In celebration of its first anniversary, Channel 9’s Let’s Talk Movies will have a special presentation on December 14 from 9:30 to 11:30 pm. The talk show hosted by Armida Siguion-Reyna, Behn Cervantes and Mario E. Bautista will distribute seven major awards to deserving artists who excelled in local pictures shown from Dec, 1981 to November, 1982. The Let’s Talk Movies awards differ from those of other award-giving bodies in that they honor a director or performer not for just a single work or performance in one movie but for a body of outstanding works or performances shown during the said fiscal year. This is in line with the show’s aim to help uplift local movies. To qualify, a nominee should have at least two significant contributions. Nominees for…best actress…are Gina Alajar (Init o Lamig, Pusong Uhaw), Nora Aunor (Uod at Rosa, T-bird, Rock ‘n Roll, Palengke Queen), Amy Austria (Katas ng Langis, Waywaya, Pusong Uhaw), Vilma Santos (Karma, Relasyon, T-bird, Sinasamba Kita, Never Ever Say Goodbye) and Maricel Soriano (Galawgaw, Mother Dear, Schoolgirls)…An award for best producer will be given to the company which has produced the most number of outstanding films during the year. Special citations will be given to movie personnel who made worthy contributions to the industry during the year…”
While Vilmanians celebrated their idol’s historical win, Nora Aunor redeemed their broken ego by lining up to the 1983 Manila International Film Festival on June 24th, Himala was chosen as the opening gala film together with Hollywood film, Gandhi as the closing.
After the awards season of 1983, Vilma Santos released three more films after the disappointment, Ayaw Kong Maging Kerida.
On June 9th, Viva Films released Paano Ba ang Mangarap? that turned out to be another box office hit. Few months afterwards, Regal films released Bernal’s Broken Marriage, the follow-up film after the successful grand slam film, Relasyon.
Finally, four days after Vi’s birthday, Viva Films released Marilou Diaz-Abaya’s drama, Minsan pa Natin Hagkan Ang Nakaraan, another box office hit. This film plus the two films mentioned above confirmed her bankable status. Not to be outshine again, “Himala” continued its relentless fight for recognition, winning the bronze prize at the 1983 Chicago International Film Festival on November of 1983 (Nov 4-18 1983).
Vilma Santos made history. The first grand slam win of Vilma Santos was repeatedly analyzed over and over again. Mostly to give accolade to Nora Aunor.
Joel David, in his article titled “Performances of the Age” wrote: “…the outstanding performance of the period belongs to that of Nora Aunor in Himala, which was honoured only by the MMFF….In Himala the director and writer seemed to have agreed to a mutual stand-off, thus amplifying the theatrical potential of an expansive locale with a protracted takes; stage-trained talents ensured the competent execution of histrionic stylizations, with the climax set on an open-air platform before a hysterical audience. It was a truly great actress’ opportunity of a lifetime, and Nora Aunor seized it and made it not just her role, but her film as well. Not since Anita Linda in Gerardo de Leon’s Sisa (circa the first Golden Age) had there been such a felicitous exploitation by a performer of ideal filmmaking conditions – and in this instance, Himala has the decided advantage of being major-league and universal….”
Arnel Resma Ramos’ article titled “Himala Revisited” praised Nora’s complex role: “…we believe that Nora Aunor should have swept all the best actress awards for that particular year…Aunor had the more complex role and only an actress of her calibre can pull off the part with much persuasion. It calls for a restrained, self-effacing acting style. And Aunor, the consummate actress that she was…strikes not a false note in her performance. It is, in one word, mesmerizing. And Himala is without a scintilla of a doubt the pinnacle of her cinematic achievements.”
In recent years, Himala was recognized in many film exhibitions around the world. Even international television network fell on the prey and held an international internet poll, raising Himala to its highest glory, proclaiming the film as one of Asia’s best film. They hail, finally, Aunor were given the citations its truly deserved!
Again, never mind that Vilma Santos gave the most effective performance in the history of local movie screen. The fact is, no matter what they do or say they can’t change history. Vilma Santos was the very first “grand slam” best actress winner.
The history continues – Three years after Vilma Santos registered the very first grand slam win, Philip Salvador replicated the honours by winning all the best actor in 1985 via Lino Brocka’s political drama, ‘Bayan Ko kapit sa Patalim.’ Salvador won five majors as Star Awards were added to the four. The next year, 1986, Nida Blanca followed suit with a best supporting actress grand slam for her outstanding performance in the film, “Magdusa Ka.” Then four years after Blanca’s came the most awaited turn for Vilma’s rival.
Noranians were ecstatic as their idol claimed all the best actress hardwares of 1990 for “Andrea Paano Ba Ang Maging Isang Ina.” A deserving consolation as the film bombed at the box office. Nora’s stiffest competition came from Vilma’s two films, Lino Brocka’s “Hahamakin Lahat,” and Laurice Guillen’s “Kapag Langit ang Humatol.” But the table was turned and Nora claimed almost all of the major awards except from CMMA where she was declared runner up to Gina Alajar.
By 1990, CMMA was relegated into the minor league of award giving bodies replaced by much more popular Star Awards. Two years after Nora Aunor claimed the honour as grand slam winner, Lorna Tolentino took the crown for her effective performance in 1992′s “Narito Ang Puso Ko.”
Then back to Vilma again. – In 1993, Vilma Santos successfully relived the life of the first PWA in Laurence Guillen’s “Dahil Mahal Kita: Dolzura Cortez Story.” Not only the film recorded the second grand slam win for Vilma as best actress of 1993, the film was also a smashed hit. The two years intervals prove to be a normal pattern as Vilma’s closest rival took all the trophies again in 1995.
Nora Aunor hit the jackpot via true to life film, the “Flor Contemplacion Story.” And not only did she won the grand slams, she added an international recognition winning the best actress at Cairo International Film Festival. In addition to the majors, Aunor also received the best performer from YCC and the box office queen title from the Guillermo Mendoza Memorial Scholarship Foundation, Inc. (GMMSFI).
The next years, two actresses claimed the grand slam honours. Sharon Cuneta as best actress for her effective performance in “Madrasta (the Stepmother)” and the best supporting actress awards for Gina Alajar in “Mulanay, Sa Pusod Ng Paraiso.”
Then back to Vilma Santos again after two years for the third time. Vilma Santos won all the best actress awards for 1998′s “Bata Bata Paano Ka Ginawa (Lea’s Story)”. Then like Aunor in 1995, she added an international recognition with her grand slam win. Vilma was cited as the best actress at the Brussels International Film Festival. And also received the YCC-Film Desk’s best performer award.
By 1999, the grand slams wins were alive and kicking. Elizabeth Oropeza won all the best actress hardwares for her very intense performance as a prostitute in 1998′s “Bulaklak Ng Maynila.” The same year, an unknown actress Glydel Mercado, surprised everyone as she won all the best supporting actress awards coincidentally from a Nora Aunor comeback vehicle, “Sidhi.”
Then in 2002, Vilma Santos for the fourth time claimed the grand slam title by winning all the best actress awards for her superb performance in the film, “Dekada 70 (the seventies).” At the same time, Vilma’s co-star, Piolo Pascual declared his arrival to the big league of fine acting by winning all the best supporting actor awards. The film also gave Vilma her second international recognition winning the best actress from Cinemanila International Film Festival. In addition, she also received hardwares from PASADO (Pampelikulang Samahan ng mga Dalubguro) and YCC-Film Desk in its annual Circle Citations.
In Conclusion – For Noranians, Nora Aunor should be given the honour as the very first grand slam win in 1976 as they argued Aunor won the best actress from FAMAS and Gawad Urian, the only major award giving bodies back then. Unfortunately, this wins didn’t create the tag line, grand slam. Also, Vilma Santos, as film producer won all the best picture award in 1978 for Pagputi ng Uwak Pagitim ng Tagak from FAMAS and Gawad Urian, still the only major award giving bodies. Unfortunately, no one said this is a grand slam win.
It was only when Vilma Santos won four majors in 1983 did the tag line “grand slam” came to its birth at least in Philippine award giving film history. And so, history will record Vilma’s achievements as the very first actress who claimed all four major best actresses in one calendar year based on the true meaning of the word “grand slam.” She is also the current record holder of the most grand slam wins, four [Relasyon (1982); Dahil Mahal Kita – The Dulzora Cortez Story (1993); Bata, Bata, Paano Ka Ginawa? (1998); and “Dekada 70” (2002)]. – Florencio “Rendt” Viray, V Magazine 2007, (READ MORE)
Mula sa mga Aninong Gumagalaw by Cesar Hernando – “Cesar Hernando’s Mula sa Mga Aninong Gumagalaw: Behind The Scenes 1971-2001 collects snapshots taken by the artist over te course of three decades working in Philippine Cinema. A Fine Arts graduate from the University of Santo Tomas, he begas as assistant director to National Artist Ishmael Bernal for his debut feature, Pagdating sa Dulo (1971). Later on, he would garner accolades and awards for his meticulously researched and imaginative designs for Mike de Leon’s kisapmata (1981) and AKO Batch ’81 (1982) as well as for Maryo J. de los Reyes’s Tagos ng Dugo (1987) starring Vilma Santos. But aside from the mainstream, he was also a key figure in the underground cinema of the 1980s — a precursor to the “indie” scene in the 2000s — by collaborating with a new generation of filmmakers including Palm D’Or recipient, Raymond Red. He would do production design on the latter’s first full-length feature, Bayani (1993). Hernando would also design Lav Diaz’s five-hour film, Batang West Side (2001). The term “aninong gumagalaw” is a literal translation in Filipino of “moving shadows” and was commonly used to refer to motion pictures in the 30’s and 40’s. All the images in the exhibition were all photographed using film. Likewise, all of the movies from where these images were taken were shot on Super 9 and 35mm films. Hernando has done some short deature films in 35mm like Maalinsangan ang Gabi (1993), Motorsiklo (2001), and Kagat ng Dilim (2006) starring Piolo Pascual. He is also a graphic designer and a professor at the University of the Philippines’ College of Fine Arts.” ****The exhibit runs from 15 July to 28 AUgust 2011 at the Bulwagang Fernando Amorsolo (Small Gallery) 4th floor, Cultural Center of the Philippines, CCP Complex, Roxas Boulevard, PAsay City. Museum Hours: 10am to 6pm daily, except Mondays and holidays. Admission is Free. For particulars, contact CCP Visual Arts at 8323702. – masscomm.upd.edu.ph (READ MORE)
Cesar Hernando’s Mula sa Mga Aninong Gumagalaw: Behind The Scenes 1971-2001 collects snapshots taken by the artist over te course of three decades working in Philippine Cinema. A Fine Arts graduate from the University of Santo Tomas, he begas as assistant director to National Artist Ishmael Bernal for his debut feature, Pagdating sa Dulo (1971). Later on, he would garner accolades and awards for his meticulously researched and imaginative designs for Mike de Leon’s kisapmata (1981) and AKO Batch ’81 (1982) as well as for Maryo J. de los Reyes’s Tagos ng Dugo (1987) starring Vilma Santos. But aside from the mainstream, he was also a key figure in the underground cinema of the 1980s — a precursor to the “indie” scene in the 2000s — by collaborating with a new generation of filmmakers including Palm D’Or recipient, Raymond Red. He would do production design on the latter’s first full-length feature, Bayani (1993). Hernando would also design Lav Diaz’s five-hour film, Batang West Side (2001). – masscomm.upd.edu.ph (READ MORE)
Haven’t work with Nora Yet – “…Cesar feels sad that he didn’t get to work with Nora Aunor in any of her movies and to this day regrets not having accepted the late director, Ishmael Bernal’s invitation to visit the set of “Himala” in Laoag at the time of its shoot in the early ’80s. Nevertheless, it was Cesar who designed the famous poster of “Himala,” which he says, Bernal liked very much. Moving shadows: Cesar Hernando’s “Mula Sa Mga Aninong Gumagalaw: Behind The Scenes 1971-2001” collects snapshots taken by the artist over the course of three decades working in Philippine cinema. A Fine Arts graduate from the University of Santo Tomas, he began as assistant director to National Artist Ishmael Bernal for his debut feature, “Pagdating sa Dulo” (1971). Later on, he would garner accolades and awards for his meticulously researched and imaginative designs for Mike de Leon’s “Kisapmata” (1981) and “AKO Batch ’81” (1982) as well as for Maryo J. de los Reyes’ “Tagos ng Dugo” (1987) starring Vilma Santos. But aside from the mainstream, he was also a key figure in the underground cinema of the 1980s – a precursor to the “indie” scene in the 2000s – by collaborating with a new generation of filmmakers including Palm D’ Or recipient, Raymond Red…” – Nestor Cuartero (READ MORE)
Kamera Obskura – “…A fictitious Filipino silent film is unearthed and unspooled in “Kamera Obskura.” Creating a “lost” movie about a prison escapee who acquires a magical movie camera and becomes a political pawn, helmer Raymond Red succeeds marvelously in conceptual and visual terms, but his soundtrack strategy is likely to sharply divide audiences. World-preemed at Cinemalaya, where it won a director prize, “Kamera” looks set for limited theatrical exposure locally and high visibility on the fest circuit. Real-life Filipino film archivists Teddy Co, Cesar Hernando and Ricky Orellana call a press conference to announce that an old film has been discovered in a warehouse. Minus credits and its final reel, the technically sophisticated black-and-white feature is thought to date from the late 1920s or early 1930s, a barren period in Filipino cinema. With tantalizing mystery surrounding its authorship and precise date of production, the movie is presented without interruption for approximately 70 minutes. Red and his technical team expertly capture the look and feel of silent cinema with the first images of Juan (Pen Medina, also co-scripting), a bedraggled prisoner who has served 20 years in solitary. Crawling through a tunnel into a dank cell, Juan uses a tiny shaft of sunlight and his spectacle lenses to create a camera obscura effect and “see” the outside word…” – Richard Kuipers, Variety, Aug 12 2012 (READ MORE)
The Writer – “…I’d say I’m not really a writer. I always think in images. And from the images, I create concepts. I took up a film course at the Film Institute of the Philippines, held at Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila (University of the City of Manila). Among my classmates was Doy del Mundo, who would write Lino Brocka‘s Maynila sa Mga Kuko ng Liwanag, and Mike de Leon’s films – Itim, Kakabakaba Ka Ba?, Kisapmata, Batch ’81. Doy introduced me to Mike de Leon, the grandson of Dona Sisang and owner of LVN Studio, and he’d bring me there to watch old LVN movies in 16mm or 35mm film formats (!) (Now, you can watch these films on DVDs). From FIP, I got to work as assistant director to Ishmael Bernal‘s first film Pagdating sa Dulo in 1971…Mainstream writing for a film means having big budgets like the English-titled rom-com movies of Star Cinema. Writing for independent movies are more experimental in nature. The films I’ve worked for as production designer for Cinemalaya projects of Raymond Red (Kamera Obskura) and Mes de Guzman (Diablo) have scripts but don’t have dialogues (!) kaya manipis ang scripts. They improvise on the set and let the actors do their own dialogue as long as it’s within the concept of the story. I’ve tried this with my own film Puso ng Kadiliman [Heart of Darkness] which is still on post-production stage. It is about an hour or so, and has no dialogue…” – Charlene F. Sawit, Postcards on Writing 5: Cesar Hernando tells stories through cinema, July 5 2012 (READ MORE)
Cesar Hernando – “…a University of Santo Tomas Fine Arts graduate, started as an as assistant director to National Artist Ishmael Bernal for Pagdating…Since then, he has emerged into one of Philippine cinema’s respected figures, winning awards for his designs in films like Kisapmata and Tagos ng Dugo, among others. He has also worked with some of the best directors in the independent cinema like Raymond Red in Bayani (1993) and Lav Diaz in Batang West Side. A filmmaker himself, Hernando also directed some films like Maalinsangan ang Gabi (1993), Motorsiklo (2001), and Kagat ng Dilim (2006)..” – Terence Krishna V. Lopez, Behind the scene photos of Philippine cinema’s greatest films, Bulatlat, July 20 2011 (READ MORE)
Eddie Villavicencio Peregrina (11 November 1944 – 30 April 1977), better known as Eddie Peregrina, was a singer and leading matinee idol of the 1970s. Dubbed as “the Original Jukebox King,” he was most famous for hit songs such as What Am I Living For, Together Again, Two Lovely Flowers and Mardy, among others. He died at the age of 32 after a freak car accident in EDSA…Eddie’s Mustang car collided with a trailer truck in EDSA Shaw underpass in 1977. He died a month and a week later (April 30, 1977) at the age of 32 at Polymedic Hospital due to internal hemorrhage. His early and tragic death shocked his millions of fans nationwide. – Wikipedia (READ MORE)
Alfie Anido (December 31, 1959 – December 30, 1981) was a popular Filipino matinee idol best remembered for his death at the age of twenty one. He was the eldest of four children of Alberto Anido and Sara Serrano, and was the brother of Albert Anido, another Filipino actor. Born Alfonso Serrano Anido, he was also a fashion and commercial model before he became a contract star for Regal Films, a leading Filipino film production company. He was dubbed as one of the Regal Babies, along with then-young actors such as Gabby Concepcion, William Martinez, Albert Martinez, Jimi Melendez, Maricel Soriano, Snooky Serna and Dina Bonnevie. He was famously linked with Bonnevie, his co-star in the 1980 camp classic Temptation Island. At the time of his entry into show business, he was in college at the Ateneo de Manila University taking up Management. To date, an air of mystery still surrounds the circumstances behind Anido’s death. The official version, contemporaneously reported in the mainstream Manila media, was that Anido had shot himself in a suicide.
This version has not been officially or authoritatively contradicted to this day. However, immediately after his death, rumors quickly spread that Anido was actually murdered, and that such fact was covered up owing to the prominence of the personalities allegedly involved. Fingers started pointing to the direction of the family of an ex-girlfriend whose father was a high ranking government official, Minister of Defense Juan Ponce Enrile. The rumor gained traction in Manila, which was then under the throes of the authoritarian rule of Ferdinand Marcos, whose government controlled the mass media during that period. Other versions on the death of Anido were printed in the alternative press such as the Philippine Collegian, the official student organ of the University of the Philippines, a hotbed of anti-Marcos activism. While the rumor that Alfie Anido was murdered still persists, with the aura of an urban legend, the fact remains that no evidence has been put forth to rebut the official version of a suicide. – Wikipedia (READ MORE)
Julie Pearl Apostol Postigo, better known by her stage name Julie Vega (May 21, 1968 – May 6, 1985), was a Filipina child actress, singer and commercial model. She remains very popular and well loved in her native Philippines, years after her sudden death at the age of 16 that triggered a massive outpouring of nationwide grief that is still vividly remembered by Filipino showbiz fans today. She won two FAMAS Awards for Best Child Actress during her brief showbiz career…Vega’s life story was most notably shown on film through The Life Story of Julie Vega, which was shown shortly after her death. Nadia Montenegro portrayed the ill-fated movie and soap opera actress and singer, Jimmy Morato and Alicia Alonzo portrayed her parents, while her real-life brother Steve and babysitter Flor Argawanon appeared as themselves. That’s Entertainment mainstays Jestoni Alarcon, John Regala and Hero Bautista also portrayed her brothers in the film. On television, through the October 2, 2003 episode of Maalaala Mo Kaya entitled Unan (Tagalog for Pillow) played by Angelica Panganiban. Vega’s parents were portrayed by Michael de Mesa and Rio Locsin. The said episode was well-received by both critics and Julie Vega fans alike and is noted for its use of actual footage of Vega’s burial which featured not only fans but also celebrities like Fernando Poe, Jr., Chiquito, Nida Blanca, Herbert Bautista and best friend Janice De Belen in mourning her death. The video footage was lent to the Maalaala Mo Kaya producers for the episode by the Postigos themselves. – Wikipedia (READ MORE)
Joel Alano (Joseph Emmanuel Alano in real life) was one of the most promising young actors of the 80s. He died of heart attack at the age of 21 years old. Today, October 28 is the 22nd death anniversary of the late actor.- James DR (READ MORE)
Rodel Naval (February 16, 1953 – June 11, 1995) was a well-known singer, songwriter and actor from the Philippines. He is best remembered for such songs as “Lumayo Ka Man” and “Muli”. Rodel was the last one in the family of seven kids to arrive in Toronto. He came to Canada as landed immigrant sometime in 1980. After a year in Toronto, Rodel decided to try his luck in Los Angeles, California. He had three live major concert performances at the Ebell Theatre, the Scottish Rite Temple and at the Ambassador Hotel. It was during one of these concerts that a talent scout discovered him and made an offer for him to perform at Las Vegas and Lake Tahoe. After Rodel had performed several times at Imperial Hotel in Las Vegas, his talent scout offered him to sign a contract as regular feature of the club. Few days before his new stint began, the stage of the club collapsed and several days later, the talent scout died of heart attack. Depressed, he went back to Los Angeles…He died on June 11, 1995, at age 42, barely three months after his father had died. He died of pneumocystis carinii pneumonia. The public had little knowledge of what he was going through, though very much apparent of pain was his signature song “Lumayo Ka Man”, whose music may have been inspired but the words were written by Rodel while grieving his mother’s death. Infused with emotion and quiet suffering, the public had little knowledge that the hit love song was his cry to heaven for a mother taken too soon. He left behind not only beautiful memories for his family and his fans but also several songs which Rodel did not have time to popularize because of his illness. – Wikipedia (READ MORE)
Ricardo Carlos Castro Yan (March 14, 1975 – March 29, 2002) was a Filipino matinee idol, model, actor and entrepreneur. He was under an exclusive contract in the ABS-CBN Broadcasting Network and was a member of their circle of home-grown talent named Star Magic. He was a Youth Spokesman for the Department of Education, touring the Philippines for free to promote education among youths, as well as establishing “Pinoy ‘Yan!”, a non-profit organization that aims to make young people stay in school and value education…Yan is one of four children, a grandson of former Foreign Affairs Secretary retired Gen. Manuel Yan. He was the brother of TV host Bobby Yan and, at the time of his death, was the boyfriend of Claudine Barretto. – Wikipedia (READ MORE)
11th death anniversary – “…Bukas, March 29, ang 11th death anniversary ni Rico Yan na bangungot ang ikinamatay sa Dos Palmas Resort, Palawan. Good Friday bukas at Good Friday din nang sumakabilang-buhay ang aktor noong 2002. Hindi pa uso noon ang social media pero mabilis na kumalat ang balita dahil sa mga text message na umikot at gumimbal sa showbiz. Bago namatay si Rico, nakatikim siya ng blockbuster movie dahil pinilahan sa mga sinehan ang Got 2 Believe, ang pelikula nila ng kanyang ex-girlfriend na si Claudine Barretto. Nailihim nina Rico at Claudine na hiwalay na sila habang ipino-promote nila ang Got 2 Believe na mahigit isang buwan na ipinalabas sa mga sinehan. Nakiramay ako noon sa mga naulila ni Rico. Pumunta ako sa burol niya sa La Salle Greenhills. Mainit na noon ang network war ng ABS-CBN at GMA 7 kaya nang dumating ako, humingi pa ng clearance sa kinauukulan ang security guard ng La Salle Greenhills dahil Kapuso raw ako. Dumagsa ang fans ni Rico sa La Salle Greenhills dahil sa kagustuhan nila na makita sa huling pagkakataon ang aktor na kanilang iniidolo. Inabangan ng media ang pagdalaw noon ni Claudine sa burol ng kanyang ex-boyfriend…” – Lolit Solis, Pilipino Star Ngayon March 28 2013 (READ MORE)
Ronnel Victor – “Former movie star Ronnel Victor, known for his boy-next-door roles, succumbed to cancer of the colon yesterday in Chicago, Illinois (2 p.m. Manila times). He turned 32 last June 21. “We done everything,” Victor’s first cousin Marnie Ommalin told the Inquirer from Dipolog City yesterday. She said Ronnel has a tissue transplant last January following months of chemotherapy for the cancer. Ronnel – real name, Ronnel Isip – became comatose after he suffered massive rectal bleeding last Sunday, the cousin said. He died yesterday after months of confinement at the St. Francis Hospital in Illinois. The cancer was diagnosed June 2000. The biopsy showed that the disease was already in the third stage. Colonic cancer is characterized by the presence of masses in the large intestine and sporadic changes in bowel movement. “His family was at his bedside when he passed away,” Omamalin said. “Before he died, he wanted to stay with his family.” The actor’s remains will no longer be flown to the Philippines and will instead be cremated in Chicago, the cousin said. Ronnel is survived by his parents, two siblings, two children and his partner of six years. The actor had left show business in 1993 but he recorded a Visayan album in 1996. He was a member of German Moreno’s “That’s Entertainment” on television and was discovered for show business by the late comedian-TV host Ike Lozada who also managed his career for awhile. From TV, Ronnel went on to make movies and was paired with the likes of Lotlot de Leon, Rita AVila and Sheryl Cruz. He starred in a number of youth-oriented movies mostly for Robbie Tan’s Seiko Films where he was a contract star. From playing boy-next-door roles, Ronnel later shifted to character roles. He played the role of a seminarianin the 1987 hit “Working Girls 2″ which starred Gloria Diaz, Dina Bonnevie and Dang Cecillio.” – Leah Saltero and Marinel Cruz, Philippine Daily Inquirer, Jul 2, 2002 (READ MORE)
Miguel Rodriguez was a soulwinner and former Filipino actor. A handsome hunk with features that made him look a bit like the late actor Chistopher Reeve, Miguel Rodriguez gave Richard Gomez a run for his money. Actually, the two were once together in the sitcom “Palibhasa Lalake” with Joey Marquez completing the wackiness…Mystery remains to cloak the death of actor and once-upon-a-time politician Miguel Rodriguez whose to His Gunshot body was discovered last February 7, 1998 by household help inside his house in BF Homes Internal Village, Talon, Las Piñas City…Speculations are running high on the real cause of the actor’s death. A certain Bernadette Puno, who claimed to be a cousin of Rodriguez, said the actor died due to “collapsed pancreas.” The autopsy report has not been released yet. Mediamen rushed to St. Jerome’s Parish Church in Ayala, Alabang, Muntinlupa City. – Wikipedia (READ MORE)
Sister Stella L. (1984) 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 (READ MORE)
Miguel Pamintuan de Leon, also known as Mike de Leon (born May 24, 1947) is a Filipino film director, cinematographer, scriptwriter and film producer. – Wikipedia (READ MORE)
FAIR USE NOTICE (NOT FOR COMMERCIAL USE): This site contains copyrighted materials the use of which has not always been specifically authorized by the copyright owner. We are making such material available in our efforts to preserve the film legacies of actress, Vilma Santos, and to make her career information available to future generations. We believe this is NOT an infringement of any such copyrighted materials as in accordance to the the fair dealing clauses of both the Canadian and U.S. Copyright legislation, both of which allows users to engage in certain activities relating to research, private study, criticism, review, or news reporting. We are making an exerted effort to mention the source of the material, along with the name of the author, performer, maker, or broadcaster for the dealing to be fair, again in accordance with the allowable clauses. – Wikipedia (READ MORE)
“…William Leary (deceased), my one and only business & appointments manager…” – Vilma Santos
The Musical Era – “…The success of Vi & Bot love team was evident with numerous films and it was only a matter of time that the idea of having Vilma have her own album came in 1969. There was a market and demand for Vilma’s very own long-playing vinyl. William Leary, Vilma’s manager asked musical director Dannie Subido to gather songs that will suit Vilma’s limited range. It was reported that Subido find the project challenging. They have to find songs that are light but will still give Vilma’s fans enjoyment. They decided to make it fun and sort of child like. They also wanted to make sure that the songs reflect Vilma’s current state of mind, that of a growing teenager. Sort of like early Britney, “no longer a child not yet a woman.” Her promotional interview clearly confirmed some of the issues teenagers are experiencing during this time. Body image, sex education, adulthood, friendship, and dating are some of the topics the album tackled which are topics that are still relevant today. “…as a singer…gosh…I feel a funny thing inside every time na naiisip kong, I was not a born singer. But every time I hear my records play, I couldn’t help but kid myself that I was made after all.” She commented when asked to evaluate herself as singer. What she really meant by that line, “I made it” is that by making her record a success no one cannot say that she cannot be sell records. This success proves that she can be a successful singer like her closest rival, Nora…” – RV (READ MORE)
Be Mindful – “…Ang nasirang si William Leary ang isa sa mga nagmahal kay Governor Vi. Noong kabataan ni Vi ay si William ang kanyang naging manager. Alagang alaga ni William si Vi. Noong early ’70s ang mga kabataang artista ay dapat na marunong kumanta at may isinaplakang awitin. At dahil sa kanyang pagmamahal kay Vi kaya’t nagtatag siya ng isang recording company, ang Wilears Record, kung saan iginawa niya si Vi ng mga isinaplakang awitin. Hindi naman nabigo si William dahil ang unang singles ni Vi na may pamagat na Sixteen ay naging Gold Record at si Vi pa nga ay naging nominado bilang Most Promising Singer sa Awit Awards. Sa pananagumpay ng awiting Sixteen, na sinulat ni Danny Subido ay naging pamagat pa din ito ng kanyang pelikula katambal si Edgar Mortiz. Natatandaan ko pa noon na pinagsabihan kaming mga Vis ni William na mag-ingat sa mga pananalita lalo na sa mga press people dahil kay Vi nagre-reflect ang mga negatibong ginagawa ng mga Vis. Katulad na lang noong 1984 CMMA awards night kung saan nominated si Vi sa Sister Stella L samantalang si Nora Aunor ay sa Bulaklak Ng City Jail, at si Nora ang nagwagi…..nagtanong si Manny Nava sa mga madre sa Archbishop Palace kung saan ginanap ang awards night kung bakit si Nora ang nanalo samantalang si Vi, katulad nila ay isang madre sa Sister Stella L…..sumagot ang madre na ang mga mata ni Nora ang nagpanalo sa kanya…..na sinagot ni Manny ng for your eyes only pala kaya nanalo si Nora?…” – Alfonso Valencia (READ MORE)
The Interview – “…It was a tough assignment. It was something that we never wanted to do, but nobody has ever said no to Mars Ravelo, and certainly we couldn’t be the first to do that. He wanted me to write a story about Vilma Santos. I have never written anything about her before. I haven’t met her personally even if I have been in the business for some time. I made all the possible alibis, but it came to the point that I was pushed to the wall. All of those assigned to write about Nora Aunor have done their piece. All those assigned to write about Vilma have also written theirs except me. One afternoon I bumped with Cleo Cruz who told me that Uncle Mars has asked her to help me make an appointment for interview with Vilma. She did more than that. She actually set up the interview. She told me that the following day Vilma will be shooting in an apartment in Cubao, and that her manager William Leary will also be there to meet me. I am left with no choice. The following day I went to the shooting set in Cubao. True to her words, William Leary was there. He told me everything has been set up and I might as well take the chance since there is a shooting break at that time. He led me to a small air conditioned room where Vilma stays. After a brief introduction with each other, a very formal interview started.
There was an issue then. Vilma Santos married Edu Manzano in the US, a story that both of them denied. I asked Vilma the question, and the answer was a short smile, and she showed us her wedding ring. We asked for details and she was kind enough to tell us everything that happened. We also asked her if it is true that she’s on the family way, she said yes, three months. We were surprised, why is Vilma Santos telling us all of these when she has denied it earlier, and she knows what we can write about all of those things. However no word was spoken and we went on with the interview. What we planned to be no more than a ten minute interview lasted for three hours. We can just imagine how the people on the set hated us then. After the interview we said goodbye, but alas Vilma Santos herself asked for a favor. She said she told us everything, but please don’t write about it yet until after her movie with Boyet de Leon then was shown. We never said yes to her request, meaning she said it all and it is up to us to write about it or not. To be honest, our first plan was to write all about it. It will be an expose. It will be a controversial story, and how can Miss Santos deny the taped interview? When we got home that evening, we sat in front of our typewriter and started writing our story. We talked about so many things, and we wrote almost all of them. When we finished, we were too sleepy we did not even copy read what we have written.
We were awaken by a call the following morning. Uncle Mars has learned that we already did the interview and he wants us to bring the story to him immediately. In a hurry, we got everything and went to Uncle Mars’ office. We gave him the manuscripts, and told him we didn’t even have time to copy read them. “It’s alright,” was his answer. His red pencil in hand, he started to read them. He was so quiet, and when he finished reading, he smiled at us and said just one word, “beautiful”. He immediately called the typesetter and asked that my article be set immediately. Then I excused myself and left. The article came out in Bulaklak Magazine. To our surprise, it ran for five pages. Why was it that long, “because the manuscript was also long”? And the worst was I wasn’t able to write that Vilma really married Edu in the US and that she was three months on the family way. I can’t believe it. I looked for my original manuscript; it was the same as what was published. I never thought that the article would be that long, and it would be that good. The next thing I heard was, “someone hates you”. Then came another incident. My good friend Lourdes Carvajal, more popularly known as Inday Badiday, or Ate Luds, yes she was the queen of intrigues, invited us to her show. The Metro Manila Film Festival was about to start. During one commercial break, she asked everyone’s opinion, “who do you think will be the festival’s best actress?”
To her surprise, we answered Vilma Santos. She laughed aloud and said, “but I bet you can’t say that on air”. We said we can. She challenged us to a bet, we accepted the challenge. When we went back on the air, Ate Luds immediately asked us who we felt would be the festival’s best actress, and we answered Vilma Santos. Everyone on the studio was surprised but of course we meant what we say. That article which we wrote and that television interview with Ate Luds turned the tides for us. And mind you, there is no turning back. We accidentally met Vilma Santos at the Broadcast City a few days after, and she was very nice. She thanked us for the article we wrote, and told us how she appreciates it that I kept to myself the things she told me in confidence. She also thanked us for our comment on television. And it seems we were suddenly awaken, hey no one has ever done that before. No one has ever thanked us for what we have written about them. And it really changed the tides. We left showbusiness for some time, tried some other beats, and we were away from all of the stars and the rumors and intrigues that showbusiness has to offer. We thought we will just have a quiet life, but one day Tita Nene Riego called us up, telling us that another respected editor at that time, Eddie Roque, is inviting us to write for his magazine. Suddenly we found ourselves in showbusiness again. We met new stars, but of course Vilma Santos was still there. She has remained as popular as before. She has also remained as nice as before. So to this day, Vilma Santos has been a friend. We may not agree on some issues. We may not like her all the time, but Vilma is still a friend no matter what. There were times when we would be Vilma’s critic, but wait till someone else says something bad and we feel we should be at her side to defend her. It is very seldom that you make friends in showbusiness, and for us Vilma is really a friend. For us, Vilma is not “the star for all seasons”. She is the star for all reasons. …” – Ed de Leon (READ MORE)
William’s Baby – “…Ang istoryang ito ay matagal nang ikinukuwento sa akin ni William. Wala pa akong asawa, pangarap na ni William na magawa ang pelikula. He had the story at hand. Siya talaga ang nag-negotiate para makuha ang istorya. Noong una nga raw, ayaw pumayag ni Baby Tsina at ng kanyang asawa dahil gusto na nilang kalimutan yun. Eh, si William alam ko yan kung magpilit, tsaka personal kasi niyang kilala si Baby Tsina, nakuha rin ang istorya,” salaysay ni Vilma…”Noong una kong mabasa ang script, ayoko sanang maniwala na nangyari talaga yun. Masyadong cinematic, eh. Para bang sa pelikula at sa komiks lang nangyayari. Until the day nga that I met the real Baby Tsina. Nang siya na ang makuwento sa akin ng naging buhay niya, lalo na after the crime at sa loob Correctional, saka ko lang nalaman na ang nakalagay sa script ay kulang pa pala. Mas matindi ang istorya niya, pero hindi na maaring isamang lahat sa pelikula. Baka namang masyadong humaba eh. Malakas ang istorya. I think the story alone will sell the movie. Lalo na kung iisiping isa itong celebrated case at nasundan ng mga tao noon sa mga diyaryo. Front page stories pa raw lagi iyang si Baby Tsina noon eh…” – Ariel Francisco (READ MORE)
Turning Point – “…The decisive divergence is Burlesk Queen. ‘I took a risk playing Burlesk Queen, Celso Ad. Castillo directing. I was 24. My American manager, William Leary, had persuaded me to accept the role. He had been my manager since he convinced me to do a record, Sixteen, that made good. I was no longer with Sampaguita but I went back there from time to time to make sweet sweet movies or musicals. That was my style. Then I did Burlesk Queen. It turned out to be a turning point. I won an acting award. Suddenly I was the drama queen. Celso Ad. Castillo is really good. In a way it was that film that made me a real actress. It changed my sweet image. And it made good at the boxoffice. ”However, later relations with Castillo proved to be painful. ‘I already had my production company, VS Films, and I got him as director for Pagputi ng Uwak. He really gave me a hard time on that film: it was two years in the making! And it sank VS Films into debt. Celso and I had a fight. As a director he’s very good but as an artist he has his quirks: merong sumpong. I hear he now works in Malaysia: sayang, he was good for Philippine movies. Pagputi ng Uwak nearly ruined me, financially and mentally, but it turned out to be a firstrate film and it won a lot of awards, it won VS Films a lot of prestige. But I still prefer Burlesk Queen.” The five productions of VS Films, which included Rosas sa Putikan, directed by Maning Borlaza, and Halik sa Paa, Halik sa Kamay, costarring Vilma with Eddie Rodriguez, all made money, including Pagputi ng Uwak. Nevertheless, by the time she had to shut it down, VS Films had her drowning in six million pesos’ worth of red ink. It took her some seven years to pay off that montrous debt. And it meant having to go back to making movies that were ‘pambata at pangmasa” movies like Darna and Dyesebel and Wonder Vi….” – Quijano De Manila (Nick Joaquin), Philippine Graphic Magazine 05 November 1990 (READ MORE)
The Records – “…Gaano kadalas ang Minsan? Grossed 7.3 Million in its few days run in Metro Manila in 1982 outgrossing “Sinasamba Kita” for Philippine movies all-time box office tally. With inflation and currency rate in consideration that will be around 95 million. But thats not the only exciting thing about these film. It was the only film that Vilma Santos and Hilda Koronel did while atleast when Hilda was still at her peak. Ofcourse, Ate Vi’s career remained as hot as ever while Koronel now accepts supporting roles. It was obvious that year that Hilda was also more glamourous than Vilma but looking at the two right now, Vilma maintained that slim, youthful look while Hilda struggled and visibly gained so much weight she can be mistaken as Ate Vi’s aunt or mother! After Gaano Kadalas, Hilda did a few more leading roles under Viva Films even co-starred with Nora Aunor but didn’t get the same results as Gaano. But like what William Leary says, “mahirap matalbugan si Vilma, Vilma is Vilma in any season and whatever movie!”…” – RV (READ MORE)
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Star For All Seasons 
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