Shoo-in for best actress – “…I’ve never seen a Vilma Santos starrer on the big screen. The first time was during a special screening of Uninvited on Christmas Day at Cinema 3 of Gateway Mall in Cubao. No, it’s not because I don’t like her nor her films. Neither is it because I’m a dyed-in-the wool Noranian. So, why? It’s because I’m not really a film buff. It’s because I am a sucker for Hollywood action movies that star Jason Statham, Jackie Chan, Cynthia Rothrock and Jet Li. I like slam-bang action more and drama less. That’s how it is and always been for me. The only time I get to watch Santos’ movies is when they’re shown on TV or when I browse the Internet. Clearly, Santos gave a nuanced performance in Uninvited. She perfectly foiled any attempt to make herself look glamorous. Her age is clearly defined in her role as Eva Candelaria…Santos has a clear and better grip of her character as a mother who vows to avenge her daughter’s traumatic death. While she’s done this before in Tagos ng Dugo, this time, Santos is not the victim herself and she goes to great lengths to clearly define the two roles apart. What’s highly palpable in this obra maestra by Dan Villegas is the way Santos’ character is presented and the way it is navigated in the course of less than 24 hours. Santos flips through her role with characteristic panache and clearly she’s a shoo-in for the best actress plum. Actually, it’s the ensemble acting that sets Uninvited apart from other festival-quality films. Aga Muhlach is unforgettable in the entire acting exercise. He is presented in a never-before-seen scenario that he convincingly portrays with aplomb. Muhlach plays his character with characteristic chutzpah, the kind that will jolt you in your seat. Nadine Lustre may have just a few scenes but she gallops in these with natural flair. Overall, Uninvited is a very dark movie that naturally seeps through the crisp-as-linen dialogues, nuanced personifications and a no-holds-barred narrative that is darker than dark…” – Alex Brosas, Daily Tribune, 26 Dec 2024

Challending Role – “…It’s been hard for me to find a role that will be suitable for my age and the role that will challenge me because, in my more than 62 years in the industry, I feel like I’ve already done every role and most of the characters appear to be repetitive…But with ‘Uninvited’ and my role, I feel I was somehow challenged…” – Vilma Santos Recto, Reported by Jan Milo Severo, Philstar, 26 November 2024

Bashing Lotlot – “…Huwag na silang magtampo kasi unang-una magkaibigan naman si mommy at si Tita Vilma. Inaanak ni Tita Vilma si Kiko, yung kapatid ko, so magkumare ang mommy ko at si Tita Vilma. My mom loves Tita Vilma dearly and Tita Vilma loves my mom dearly and pati kaming mga anak, so we’re grateful. I guess, yung mga iba lang na nag-iisip ng mga tampu-tampo, baka dahil nga sobrang siyempre loyalist sila kay Mommy. Pero wala naman pong ano, wala silang dapat ipag-alala at ipagtampo dahil Tita Vilma is also like family to us dahil ang relationship nga nila ni Mommy is magkumare. So hindi sila dapat magtampo, plus, trabaho po ito, nagtatrabaho po ako…(Vilma) She’s a very nice person. She’s beautiful in and out, she’s very caring. Wala po akong masasabi, hands up ako kay Tita Vilma…Super grateful! Grateful na nakukuha ako, napagkakatiwalaan ng mga producers to be part of their film. And this is actually my second film with Tita Vilma because last year is When I Met You in Tokyo, but wala kaming eksena dun…So this time it’s different because I had an honor to work with her up close, face-to-face, so very special…So she went to the tent where I was and then sabi niya, ‘Lot, so nice to see you!’ She was very warm, very welcoming and then nagyakapan kaming dalawa. And then sabi ko, ‘Tita, wag niyo po akong pababayaan, ha?’ Natawa siya, sabi niya, ‘Ano ka ba, kayang-kaya mo iyan…” – Lotlot de Leon, Reported by Rommel Gonzales, PEP, 30 November 2024

A-Game – “We are privileged and honored to have three of the finest actors in Philippine cinema leading this project. The legendary Vilma Santos, whose name alone is synonymous with excellence and timeless artistry; Aga Muhlach, who has continuously given audiences his heart and soul in every role; and the ever-versatile Nadine Lustre, who brings a new and electrifying energy to the screen…To say they have brought their A-game is an understatement—they have created performances that will stay with you long after the credits roll. This film would not have been possible without the direction and storytelling mastery of Dan Villegas, whose unique vision and meticulous approach have elevated Uninvited into something truly remarkable. His ability to bring out raw, authentic performances and weave them into a story that grips you from the very beginning has been awe-inspiring to witness. “To top this, is a collaboration with the brilliant directors of their generation, Antoinette Jadaone as one of our Producers and Irene Villamor as our creative producer…” – Bryan Diamante, Presidente and CEO, Mentorque Productions; reported by Reggee Bonoan, Bandera, 22 November 2024

Happy si Ate Vi for Lorna in Espanto – “…Unang inialok kay Vilma ang role ni Lorna sa Espantaho. Umingay pa nga nu’ng unang pumutok ang balita ang posibilidad na magsama sina Vilma at Judy Ann for that project. But it turns out na tinanggihan ni Vilma ang Espantaho and opted to do ang horror movie rin under Mentorque Productions with Nadine Lustre. If ever mapili sa natitirang slots sa MMFF, baka magkabanggaan ang movie ni LT with Judy Ann at ‘yung kay Vilma with Nadine. “Ay… naku,” napabuntong-hininga na sabi ni Lorna. Sey niya, “Pero maraming salamat kay Ate Vi, kay Ate Vi talaga ‘yung role na ‘yun. Kaya kahit magkasabay ang movie namin sa MMFF, okey lang kasi happy naman si Ate Vi na ako ‘yung nakuha for that role. So, happy lang. Let’s all be happy.” Tapos na raw ang shoot ni Lorna para sa Espantaho under Chito Roño’s direction, at ginagawa na lang ang special effects…” – Julie Bonifacio, Bulgar, 19 October 2024

I Love Judy Ann – “…Nag-meeting naman ako dun. Ang nangyari lang kasi, nagkaroon ng problema sa character na gagampanan ko. ‘Yun lang ‘yon pero inayos naman. But I will be honest. While meeting sa movie, I’ll say it, Espantaho, I was also meeting with direk Dan (Villegas) regar­ding the movie Uninvited. The last thing coz they were prepa­ring for the movie…of course, excited din ako to do the movie with Judy Ann (Santos). I love Judy Ann. Habang inaayos ang movie, nalaman ko na sinabmit ang script sa first para sa MMFF. Unfortunately, hindi napasok sa first 5. Hindi napasok. It was also Atty. Joji who told me, go ahead to do the one with Direk Dan because he is also my son. Sabi ni Atty. Joji, ‘do it and I will watch that movie!’ So dun ho lahat nanggaling ‘yon!…Na challenge ako! I promise we have a good movie!…” – Vilma Santos-Recto, Reported by Jun Nardo, Pilipino Star Ngayon, 22 November 2024

Fake Video – “…The video you see online is fake. It’s made by AI (artificial intelligence). It copied my voice. It used a video of me giving a message on social media. It claims that I’m promoting this product for diabetic patients. That’s not me. I could just imagine how much magic people are able to do with this new technology today. It’s no joke. It’s scary,” she told Inquirer Entertainment in a recent interview.(Despite the experience, Vilma said she has already learned to embrace technology, particularly social media.)…We must all learn to adjust. We need to learn at least the basics so that you don’t go through a generation gap with the young ones. The members of Gen Z are so good at it. We have to be able to relate to them. We need to be techies. While I agree that the young ones should learn from experienced people, seniors should never stop learning, as well. So I make sure that I’m able to communicate with them…” – Vilma Santos-Recto, Reported by Marinel Cruz, Philippine Daily Inquirer, 24 September 2024

No MMFF for Vi – “…Meanwhile, apologies to Vilmanians. Your idol Vilma Santos is not planning to have an entry in this year’s MMFF, even though she has begun shooting for a film directed by the esteemed Dan Villegas, which is expected to be submitted as a possible entry for the MMFF. The Star for All Seasons has told the media that she does not want to rush the completion of the film just to submit it to the MMFF selection committee for completed films. In fact, the film’s title, storyline and lead cast are still undisclosed. Villegas, in recent media interviews, revealed that the storyline and lead character are ideas proposed by Santos herself during a session with Villegas and her partner, scriptwriter-director Antonette Jadaone. Santos is quite busy and visible these days, attending talk-back sessions in retrospective screenings of her old films. These visibility efforts are believed to be part of a campaign to eventually draft her as a senatorial candidate for an unidentified party. While Santos has not declared any serious intention to run for senator, many are speculating about it. They point out that her nomination as National Artist might be part of the campaign to get her onto a senatorial ticket. Therefore, she wants to remain visible to the public and express her views on issues independently, rather than being confined to film shoots. Film industry insiders, however, feel that her presence in the forthcoming MMFF could help boost the festival’s box office gross…” – Danny Vibas, Daily Tribune, 13 Aug 2024

Uncertain Espantaho – Veteran actress Vilma Santos, who recently headlined When I Met You in Tokyo at last year’s Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF), is now considering new film offers, with a focus on meaningful and high-quality projects. Among these is an offer from Mentorque Productions for a film to be directed by Dan Villegas, as well as another potential project from Quantum Films titled Espantaho, which could see the Star for All Seasons sharing the screen with Judy Ann Santos under the direction of Chito Roño. However, Vilma revealed that the status of Espantaho remains uncertain…”The project with Direk Chito and Juday is still up in the air. It was supposed to be submitted to this year’s MMFF, but it didn’t make it into the top five entries. I’m not sure what the next steps will be, so I can’t say for sure if it will proceed…” – Vilma Santos-Recto, reported by Joseph Peter R. Gonzales, The Manila Standard, 12 August 2024

Wonderful Movies – “…Looking back at all those films, I realized it’s such a joy to see all the projects I did back in the day. When I think about it, it dawns on me that I have done wonderful movies.” – Vilma Santos-Recto, reported by Kate Adajar, Manila Standard, 15 August 2024

Media Buzz Deadline – “…It’s going to be something different…Expect a dark movie. (It’s) very challenging! Natsa-challenge ako sa character na gagawin ko (I’m really excited about the character I’ll be portraying)…Ayoko lang kasing magpa-pressure (I don’t want to feel pressured)…Whether we make it in time for the MMFF or not, basta gusto ko, kapag nag-shooting ako, I will feel comfortable (I want to feel comfortable when we start shooting)…It’s not about rushing or winning. At my age, ayoko nang nape-pressure. So, ayokong ma-stress (I don’t want to stress myself out). What’s important is that we finish a good film that we can all be proud of…” – Vilma Santos-Recto, reported by Nathalie Tomada, The Philippine Star, 28 August 2024

Aktor’s National Artist – “…Unparalleled versatility. Santos has played an extensive range of characters, showcasing her exceptional acting prowess. From iconic roles such as Darna and Dyesebel to complex portrayals like a socially conscious nun (“Sister Stella L,” 1984), a burlesque star (“Burlesk Queen,” 1977), an Aids and a terminally ill patient (“Because I Love You: The Dolzura Cortez Story,” 1992, and “Pahiram ng Isang Umaga,” 1989), and a rape survivor (“Rubia Servios,” 1978), her versatility is truly unmatched…Award-winning performances. Santos has won numerous acting awards from prestigious local and international bodies, including Gawad Urian, FAMAS, Catholic Mass Media, the Metro Manila Film Festival, PMPC Star Awards, and international film festivals in Brussels and Dhaka, making her the most awarded actress in Philippine cinema history…Cultural impact, enduring relevance…She has remained a significant figure in Philippine cinema, continuously leading in critically acclaimed films even as she turned 70. Widely-known as the longest reigning movie queen of Philippine Cinema, Santos’ ability to stay relevant in a rapidly changing industry is a testament to her talent and dedication…Her films have had a lasting impact on popular culture, addressing social issues and contributing to national discourse. Movies like “Dekada ’70” and “Bata Bata Paano Ka Ginawa?” have sparked important conversations on societal topics…Her transition from movie star to public servant underscores her dedication to using her platform to serve and uplift her fellow citizens, proving that her talents extend far beyond the screen…Champion for women…Many of her roles depict strong, empowered women, reflecting her advocacy for women’s rights and empowerment. Santos’ portrayal of resilient, determined female characters has inspired countless viewers…Legacy…advocate for quality and excellence. Santos’ commitment to excellence in both commercial and art films has set a benchmark in the industry. Her performances are marked by exceptional intelligence, sincerity, and brilliance, consistently raising the bar for cinematic artistry. With a relentless drive to reinvent herself, she ensures that each role she undertakes is fresh, impactful, and memorable…” – Aktor PH (League of Filipino Actors), Reported by Manila Times, 26 June 2024…Inspiration to peers…Santos is widely regarded as a role model within the entertainment industry. Her extraordinary talent and unwavering professionalism set a benchmark for both veteran actors and newcomers alike. She embodies the gold standard in acting prowess and stands as a revered industry icon, continuously inspiring her peers and the next generation of thespians…” – Aktor PH (League of Filipino Actors), Reported by Iza Iglesias, The Manila Times, 26 June 2024

Na-excite mag-stage play – “…The controversial apparations were the subject of the late Floy Quintos’ final play “Grace,” which recently finished its run in PMCS Blackbox Theater in Circuit Makati. “Grace” is set to have another limited run later this September, this time at the Areté’s Doreen Black Box Theater in the Ateneo de Manila University. Vilma managed to catch one of the final PMCS Blackbox Theater shows, which had her excited to try out stage acting. In a video captured by producer Noel Ferrer, the “Star for All Seasons” admitted to wanting to go onstage after the show concluded, pointing to her close association to Lipa.’Yung kalakihan ng issue ng pilgrimage every September 12, ‘andun ako,” Vilma said, adding that fellow Lipa residents know she’s a devotee of the Mother Mary. Vilma reiterated she wants to attempt theater acting after decades of performing onscreen. “Nainggit nga ako sa kanila eh, gusto ko nga umakyat sa stage kanina! I really want to experience it,” Vilma ended with crossed fingers…Santos said in the video that she personally knew Teresita Castillo, the former noviciate to whom the Mediatrix of All Grace allegedly appeared in San Sebastian Cathedral in Lipa City, Batangas in the 1940s. One of the messages the Mediatrix of All Grace reportedly said to Castillo on Oct. 17, 1949 was “Pray hard for China’s dream to invade the whole world. The Philippines is one of its favorites. Money is the evil force that will lead the people of the world to destruction. Prayers, sacrifices self-denials and the daily recitation of the Holy Rosary will soften the heart of my Son as I said before. The Cultural Center of the Philippines recently confirmed to Philstar.com that Vilma was among the nominees for the next batch of National Artist recipients. All nominees for the award will still undergo a rigorous, multi-step screening. Santos, said CCP, has so far completed the first step, which is the submission of requirements…” – Video by Noel Ferrer on Facebook; with reports from Deni Rose M. Afinidad-Bernardo, The Philippine Star, 26 June 2024

Josie and Essie – “…Besides the theme of a mother’s love, Anak and Expats also shed light on the abuses inflicted upon domestic helpers, which were portrayed contrastingly. In Anak, we see Josie being maltreated by her employers, and in a flashback scene, we learn that her passport is being kept from her. In Expats, the abuse is more subtle, to the point that the employers are unaware of the emotional damage, as it has always been masked by kindness and respect. Last March 2023, the United Filipinos in Hong Kong (UNIFIL-Migrante HK) protested the possible implementation of new regulations by Hong Kong’s Department of Labour that prevent OFWs from leaving their employers. “[If] we are treated justly and humanely, our working conditions [are] good and our rights as migrant workers inside our employer’s household [are upheld] and protected, no migrant domestic worker will be forced to terminate a contract, and we will not think of leaving our job,” said UNIFIL-Migrante HK chairperson Dolores Balladeres. Josie and Essie are two different personas reflective of migrant workers in Hong Kong—one endured abuse, and one experienced kindness—yet they complete a picture of a mother willing to sacrifice her happiness in exchange for another’s joy. This International Women’s Month, we remember how vital mothers are in shining light on a home—whether theirs or not—and how resilient and relentless love shapes this light in their hearts…” – Franz Sorilla IV, Tatler Asia, 26 March 2024

Happy Baby – “…Every day, Jessy and Lucky send me pictures and videos. Every day, we Facetime to see my Peanut. And yung apo ko, she’s so maarte and marunong tumingin sa camera talaga hahaha! That’s why I was telling Lucky and Jessy, you know, si Baby Peanut, believe you, me, artista yan! She can really flirt with the camera with her smiles. When you say, give me a pa-cute face, ang arte-arte niya haha! Now, in her latest videos, she’s wearing a headband, ginagaya talaga si Momsie. She’s my inspiration now. Everytime I wake up, I look at her videos. Whenever I hear her laughter, nagiging positive na yung araw ko. One thing I’m very, very happy about is it’s so obvious that she’s a happy baby…” – Vilma Santos-Recto, reported by Nathalie Tomada, The Philippine Star, 03 March 2024

Lana’s Dream Wish – “One epic movie with Vilma Santos before I retire. That’s all I ask.” – Jun Robles Lana, Director/Producer

International Best Actress – “…Maraming, maraming salamat po sa karangalang ibinigay po ninyo sa akin bilang Best Actress sa pelikulang ‘When I Met You in Tokyo.’ Sa inyo pong lahat, maraming, maraming salamat po,” she said, as she thanked the jury and her producers Weng Jamaji and Rajan Gidwani, the film’s directors, and her co-stars…Of course, to my associate director, Mr. Christopher de Leon, maraming, maraming salamat. Bru, para sa atin ‘to. Andito si bruha. ‘Yet, thank you, thank you very much…I’d like to take this opportunity to thank all our kababayans sa LA, sa mga nanood po ng ‘When I Met You in Tokyo.’ I learned na sold out po lahat ng tickets at nagustuhan po ninyo ang aming pelikula. Again, mula sa puso, sa inyong mga kababayan ko sa Los Angeles, maraming, maraming salamat po. Sa lahat po ng mga bumati, sa mga Vilmanians, to all my Vilmates, to all my friends, maraming, maraming salamat po sa pagbati. Mabuhay ang pelikulang Pilipino. Love you! Salamat…” – Vilma Santos-Recto, ABS-CBN news, 02 Feb 2024

Another Film – “…After bagging the Best Actress plum in the recently-concluded 49th Metro Manila Film Festival for When I Met You in Tokyo, Vilma Santos announces that she’ll be busy with showbiz projects this 2024. In considering her next career moves, she asserts that she is content with her comeback to the industry. The Star for All Seasons reveals a preference for film projects with compelling storylines that resonate with her, acknowledging that despite multiple offers, final decisions are yet to be made. Looking ahead to the upcoming year, she anticipates working on at least one movie annually. “I’m looking forward to doing at least one movie a year. But I’m dreaming that it would be in the league of Sister Stella L, Bata, Bata, Paano Ka Ginawa?, or Dekada ’70. I miss doing those kind of films,” she admits. Despite being a veteran Best Actress winner, Ate Vi points out that it doesn’t mean she’ll stop honing her craft. “It doesn’t mean that when you win an award, you’re already the best. Not it’s not. Every day is a learning process and you really have to hone your craft. You shouldn’t stop learning and improving. The object of the game is longevity so you just have to aim for the best. Make sure you love your career and it will love you back!” ends Ate Vi…” – Joseph Peter R. Gonzales, The Manila Standard, 08 January 2024

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