Tag Archives: ARTICLES

News and Articles

Vima Santos on Motherhood

Posted on by Standard

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

A fresh-looking Vima Santos greeted us at the presscom of her movie, “Anak.” Full of energy after a three week vacation in the States, she answered our question about her film with zest and pride.

Favorite song

What is your memory of “Anak?” It was a favorite song of mine. I always ran to the radio whenever they played the song. When the project was offered to me, I responded favorably to it right away.

Do you still feel challenged by the dramatic situations of the story? Of course. The challenge is always there Kahit na nasa Hall of Fame ‘ko. We have lots of comfrontation scenes in this movie and they are all difficult. I remember doing a scene in which I had two pages of dialogue. After doing the blocking. I asked for time to concentrate because the director would take a continuous shot. The point is to never be over-confident and always turn to the director for help.

How significant is “Anak” to you? This is the first time I am portraying a domestic helper and our one week of shooting in Hong Kong enabled me to talk to some of them and understand them better.

Lonely

Most of them are sacrificing mothers and they’re lonely because they are far away from their families.

Was it easy for you to relate to your character in the movie? I internalized my being a mother is real life and the fact that I am also working, hindi nga lamang abroad. It helped me a lot remembering what Mama did to me when I was young.

As a mother, what are your particular about? The health of my children. If you want me to get upset, just tell me that one of my sons is sick!”

What kind of a mother are your to your teenage son Luis? I am quite liberal dahil iba naman ang henerasyon ngayon as compared doon sa kinagisnan ko. Curfew hour for me then was midnight. But now, ganung oras pa lamang nagsisimula ang kanilang mga happenings.

No communication gap

I have no communicatin gap with my son. We talk about everything under the sun, including sex. Also, I allow my son to reason out with me since the saying mother knows best is not applicable in all circumstances.

Has Luis given you a headache? Sa awa ng Diyos ay wala pa namang grabeng sakit ng ulo idinudulot sa akin. Mabait siyang bata and he knows his responsibilities. But I recall punishing him over a failure to deliver good grades. I am particular about his studies. When he showed me his low grades, he promised he would do something about it. The third grading period came and there was no improvement, so I reminded himd of his promise. He was grounded for one week and was not allowed to use the telephone.

Was ther a time when you neglected your motherly duties? It was campaign season and you know how busy candidates are. Hindi ko nabantayan si Luis because I was busy campaigning, and he stayed in somebody else’s house at nagtampo. Vilma says her greatest joy is being a mother to Christian who is only four and Luis who is already a handsome teenager. Her greatest fear is to “lose” them one day, when they move out to have their own families. She says 85 percent of her life is devoted to being a loving mother! – Remy M. Umerez Philippine Daily Inquirer, May 12 2000 (READ MORE)

2002 Best Actress Awards

Posted on by Standard

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

Novel to Film “…”Dekada ’70,” the eagerly awaited filmization of Lualhati Bautista’s seminal novel in the explosive ’80s, has eight nominations. Best director nominee Chito Rono successfully focuses the novel’s many-sided dimensions on a mother’s stirring from domestic conventions and sensibilities as her family copes with the changes wrought by a collapsing order. The movie, written by Bautista herself and nominated for best screenplay, manages to provides viewers, particularly the young, with the feel of the Marcos years, reacquainting them with a particularly sordid passage in history when innocence was ravaged and continuity was ruptured. The wonder is that the movie did not get the lion’s share of the technical design (Manny Morfe), and sound (Albert Michael Idioma and Alex Tomboc) – should at least suggest its achievement. Vilma Santos and Christopher de Leon are strong contenders for best actor and best actress, while yound actor Piolo Pascual is nominated for best supporting actor. The 26th Gawad Urian of the Manunuri ng Pelikulang Pilipino, the society of respected film critics, will be held on May 17 at the AFP Theater…” – Lito B. Zulueta, Philippine Daily Inquirer, April 28, 2003 (READ MORE)

The Light “…Topping the Urian for surprise value was the join award for Best Picture to “Dekada ’70” and “Mga Munting Tinig,” This was unexpected because “Dekada” was a major production that took many months to make, while “Munting Tinig” was a small low-budget film that was shot in only a few weeks. Despite this, both films were cited as the best local movies for 2002. A possible interpretation of the twin awards could be “Dekada” is cited for tackling asn important period in the country;s political life with extensive resources of a major studio, while “Munting Tinig” is honored for its ability to dramatize a simple, heartwarming tale that provides much-needed inspiration, despite its limited budget. In other words, the two films’ contrasting approaches are both needed by local movies today, hence the decision for them to share the Urian’s Best Picture award…The Best Actress trophy that Vilma Santos won for her performance in “Dekada ’70” is another noteworthy decision because, when the film was first shown, even veteran observers rapped Vilma for her relatively “passive,” “colorless” and “undramatic” portrayal in the movie. This was because her character, the wife and mother in the movie’s central Bartolome family, spent most of the film’s running time meekly following her husband’s dictates, like most women in the ’70s. Some people took this as a weak thespic stance, and we had to point out in some articles taht his wasn’t true at all. In fact, given the convention of the movie’s time frame, this “passivity” was an astute artistic decision on Vilma’s part, and thoroughly merited by her character and the period in which she lived. In fact, what Vilma did in “Dekada” was more difficult because it was so controlled and subtle, it would have been far easier for her to melodramatically tear up the scenery and act up a storm. Gratifyingly, by the time the film awards season came around, enough people has seen the light, and Vilma went on to win a phalanx of Best Actress trophies, now including the Urian…” – Nestor U. Torre, Philippine Daily Inquirer – May 24, 2003 (READ MORE)

Star Awards “…Star for All Seasons Vilma Santos still gets the jitters when accepting acting awards. She bested five other equally worthy nominees to the best actress throne in last Saturday’s Star Awards for Movies at the UP Theatre. She won for her moving portrayal of a timid mother empowered by the death of her son in Chito Rono’s period drama, “Dekada ’70,” which was an official entry in the Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) last December. Ironically, Ara Mina, who edged out Vilma from the best actress derby in the MMFF, was not among those cited by Star Awards. Vilma competed with Sharon Cuneta (“Magkapatid”), Maricel Soriano (“Mano Po”), Claudine Baretto (“Kailangan Kita”), and Alessandra de Rossi (“Mga Munting Tinig”)…” – Marinel R. Cruiz, Philippine Daily Inquirer, March 11, 2003 (READ MORE)

Actress-Lipa City Mayor Vilma Santos, new actor Yul Servo, and the independent film, “Mga Munting Tinig,” proved that the local movie industry recognizes talent and good films, veteran or newcomer, when they bagged top honors at the 19th Star Awards for the Movies held last Saturday night at the UP Theater in Diliman, Quezon City. Santos was named “Movie Actress of the Year” for her role as a mother who experienced awakening during the ’70s turmoil in “Dekada ’70.” Santos, one of the country’s most awarded actresses, admitted she still feels the tension from the announcement of nominees to the winner. “Nakakakaba pa rin po hanggang ngayon (I still feel nervous even now),” she said in her acceptance speech. Meanwhile, newcomer Yul Servo was named “Movie Actor of the Year” for playing a young husband subjected to extreme culture shock when he finds life hard in a Manila suburb in the controversial movie, “Laman.” The rest of the major trophies went to Gil Portes, “Movie Director of the Year” for “Munting Tinig;” Piolo Pascual, “Movie Supporting Actor of the Year” for “Dekada ’70”; and Kris Aquino, “Movie Supporting Actress of the Year” for “Mano Po.” “Mga Munting Tinig” won most of the awards, copping with seven out of 16, including Child Performer of the Year (Brian Ronquillo), Musical Score (Joy Marfil), Production Design (Arthur Licdao) and Original Screenplay. According to its director and scriptwriter, Portes, the group completed “Munting Tinig” in only 15 days. He added, “This movie just won in the Sta. Barbara International Film Festival and is the first locally produced movie bought by Warner Bros. for worldwide distribution.” Other winners at the 19th Star Awards were “Agimat” for Best Special Effects; Jordan Herrera, New Movie Actor of the Year for “Gamitan;” Nancy Castiglione, New Movie Actress of the Year for “I Think I’m in Love;” Ogie Alcasid for “Kailangan Kita,” Best Movie Theme Song; and Lualhati Bautista for Best Adapted Sceenplay, “Dekada ’70.” Special awards given were the “Darling of the Press” for Onemig Bondoc, the “Male Star of the Night” for Bong Revilla, the “Female Star of the Night” for Maricel Soriano and the “Lifetime Achievement Award” for Sen. Ramon Revilla, Sr. Trivia host was Charlene Gonzales. Hosts of last night’s Star Awards were Cesar Montano, Bong Revilla, Philip Salvador, Kris Aquino, Maricel Soriano and Vilma Santos. Performers were Sharon Cuneta, Jolina Magdangal, Ogie Alcasid, Jaya, Angelika de la Cruz, Patricia Javier, Karylle, and Zsa Zsa Padilla. – Sol Jose Vanzi, March 10, 2003 (READ MORE)

Gawad Urian Awards “…Gawad Urian best supporting actor Piolo Pascual (“Dekada ’70”) arrived early at the awards ceremony Saturday night and reserve a seat for “Dekada ’70” costar Vilma Santos, who would later be declared best actress. Vilma and Piolo played mother and son in the moving Chito Rono movie based on the screenplay by Lualhati Bautista, who won for best screenplay. Piolo was very affectionate to “mom” Vilma, hugging and kissing her when she arrived. He was seen clasping her hands moments before his name was announced as best supporting actor at theTeatro Arturo Enrile in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City…The movie critics’ group paid tribute to writer Ricardo “Ricky” Lee by naming him the recipient of the Natatnging Gawad for lifetime achievement for his invaluable contributions to the film industry for more than three decades. The award was handed to him by three of the many actresses who breathed life to his creations – Vilma (“Relasyon”), Dina Bonnevie (“Gumapang Ka Sa Lusak”) and Gina Alajar (“Salome”). Lee has so far written about 120 screenplays and won some 50 awards. His most recent work, Marilou Diaz-Abaya’s “Bagong Buwan,” was honored by many local and international award-giving bodies…Edu Manzano was very effective as the show’s only host. He kept the audience awake and laughing with his witty remarks, delivered with his trademark deadpan expression. Even Piolo and Vilma were not spared from Edu’s jokes. he imitated Piolo after the young actor delivered a very emotional acceptance speech. When Vilma said she was sharing her award with her costars in “Dekada ’70,” particularly to her “eldest son” Piolo, the camera caught Edu having his own dramatic highlights.” “What?” he asked his ex-wife in mock surprise, “Anak natin si Piolo?…” – Marinel R. Cruz, Philippine Daily Inquirer, May 20, 2003 (READ MORE)

On Edu, Ralph, and Luis

Posted on by Standard

On Edu, Ralph, and babies – “…It’s been over five year since Vilma Santos and Edu Manzano have gone their separate ways and a little over years that Vilma had lived-in with current flame Ralph Recto, but still, Vi and Doods have remained the closest of friends. “It’s better this way, no more constant bickering. May respeto pa rin naman kami sa isa’t-isa, so all is well between us.” says Ms. Santos. Edu was rumored to have had an affair and that triggered the break-up. “We really didn’t know why and how we parted ways. We could not pinpoint the problem. It just happened. We gradually drifted apart and before we knew it, we were so far away from each other that any holding on proved to be futile,” said Edu. “Hindi namin talaga alam kung ano ang nangyari, because had we known the root, we would not be apart from each other now.” Vilma no longer makes as many movies as she did before. A lot of showbiz insiders said that the timing of Edu’s marriage to Vi was all wrong. Vi was then making a lot more dough than her husband was and this fact contributed much to the strain in their relationship. Vilma’s romance with Ralph Recto started tongues wagging and a lot of speculations cropped up, especially so, since Edu, after the break-up had remained unattached for a long time. Talks circulated that Edu left Vilma because she was first to fall-out of the bonds of marriage. “Hindi totoo iyan,” Vilma was quoted in an interview “nauna si Eduardo at alam niya iyon.” But the past is past and Vilma can now look back with a smile on her lips. “Mas maganda ang relasyon namin ni Eduardo ngayon.

We are friends. I know I can count on him kung mayroong malaking problema. We understand each other, kaya nga may ganitong arrangement.” Vilma says she is happy now for Doods who has found his right girl. “Naiintindihan ko naman si Edu and I’m happy for him. If he thinks Maricel is right for him, I know Edu when he makes a decision, then, I am happy for them both. Wala naman akong hinangad kundi matagpuan na ni Doods ang babaeng para sa kanya. Ako naman, I’m very happy and contented with my personal life kaya I wish him all the best.” Asked if she is against Edu having a child with another woman, Vi replied: “Bakit naman? We now lead separate lives at sa mga ganung sitwasyon, hindi na pinagtatalunan pa. I’m not against Edu having a child with any woman, basta ba alam kong nagmamahalan sila and having a baby will make their happiness complete, bakit naman ako magagalit? Siguro naman, If I decide that I too would want to have a baby with the man I am living with, Doods will not make it difficult for me. Hindi siya hahadlang dahil he also has my happiness at heart. Like I said before, mayroon na kaming arrangement and we’re both contented with the ways things have turned out, so walang problema.” Talks are spreading like wildfire that Vilma is about to move out of her Magallanes digs and that she has bought a house for her current hearthrob. “Unfair naman iyon. I wanted to buy this house for my family, kay Lucky. Just because Ralph is not visible in the movie scene, eh pagiisipan na siya ng hindi maganda.

I intend to keep this phase of my life private and hindi naman siya showbiz personality so why can’t we spare him from the intrigues? Iba naman ang mundo niya.” Vilma has other plans aside from just staying as an actress all her life. “I plan to go into production and television, ibabalik ko rin ang VS Films. I have plans pero hindi pa naka-set. There are so many factors to consider at hindi bigla-bigla ang ganitong desisyon. Sabi nga ng marami, I’m not getting any younger daw and many people would like to see me retire from film making. Sabi ko nga, as long as there are people who still watch me on the screen, as long as there are fans supportive of my career, nandito pa rin ako. When that time comes na aalis ako sa showbiz, hindi naman totally na mawawala ako. Siguro, behind the cameras na lang ako. Directing maybe. Producing, why not? But that wuold still be a long time. I’m enjoying my profession and no one can stop me from enjoying what I want most.” Not even having a baby? “I know I’m not getting any younger and I’d like to have another baby after Lucky. Sino ang makapagsasabi, maybe this year, bakit nama hindi?…” – Lulubelle Lam, Manila Standard, Mar 29, 1989 (READ MORE)

Luis knows his limitations – “…Lipa City Mayor Vilma Santos-Recto denies reports that she is having problems with her 17-year-old son Luis, the boy TV fans remember as Lucky, who is the offspring of Vilma and her first husband, actor Edu Manzano, now Vice Mayor of Makati City. Luis, who is a high school student at the San Agustin College in Makati, lives with Edu in the Vice Mayor’s Ecology Village residence during weekdays while Vilma stays in Lipa City attending to her constituents. On weekends, both Vilma and Lucky move to her Green Meadows residence where the actress- politician relaxes and plays Mom before going back to Lipa on Monday. Luis was reported to be so in love with his Filipino-American girl friend Nicole that he is allegedly neglecting his studies. Vilma, who is married to Batangas Congressman Ralph Recto, reacted sharply to these reports. “Luis knows his limitations,” Vilma is quoted by Malaya’s Ethel Ramos. “While Edu and I do not stop him from falling in love, for that is but natural among boys his age, we keep reminding him that he is too young to get involved seriously. Edu an I want him to finish his studies first before he becomes involved seriously with any girl…” – Sol Jose Vanzi, Oct. 21, 1998 (READ MORE)

Family is First Priority – “…A prominent resident of Lipa has told Manila Standard columnist Isah Red that his city’s mayor, actress Vilma Santos, spends only three days of each week in Lipa, and the rest of the week in her Metro Manila residence. “For the past weeks, she’s been working only for three days a week: Monday to Wednesday,” Isah quotes his source. The writer adds that “the multi-awarded actress might have been overwhelmed by the scope of her duties as a local government official, plus the numerous problems in the city that need to be addressed.” Vilma had told everyone from the very beginning that she’s going to divide her time between her family and her duties and obligations to Lipa City as mayor. Her supporters claim that even when she’s not in Lipa, she is in constant touch with her Lipa-based staff, monitoring activities from wherever she happens to be. But Isah’s source says that is not enough. “She has to make herself visible to her constituents. Nothing is decided upon (at the City Mayor’s office) after Wednesday. People who want to do business in the city have to wait until the following Monday to get things done, especially those whose documents need the approval or signature of the mayor,” he complained. Vilma claims that “It’s already a sacrifice for me to be away from my kids for three days.” The actress tries to make up by staying in the mayor’s office beyond the regular office hours. “Now I also need to be with my children and my husband for the weekend,” Mayor Vilma Santos- Recto said. Her husband, Batangas Congressman Ralph Recto, holds office in Metro Manila because he reports for work at the Batasang Pambansa complex which houses the House of Representatives…” – Sol Jose Vanzi, Nov. 21, 1998 (READ MORE)

Luis Manzano is a better actor than dad Edu Manzano – “…Yung movie na ginawa naman namin ni Eduardo (Edu) eh romance. Bagong kasal lang kami noon, hindi ko pa siya nakita at naka-eksena talaga na really heavy. That time nung [kasama] kami nina Dina (Bonnevie) sa Palimos ng Pag-ibig, mas nataon si Eduardo sa action eh so hindi ko talaga na-pick up ‘yung dramang-drama na acting [sa kanya]. But dito kasi, first time with my son meron siyang moment dito na isang eksena na nadala ako bilang nanay. But kung sino ang mas magaling, magaling naman si Eduardo, pero mas magaling si Lucky (Luis)…” – Bernie Franco (READ MORE)

“…Ralph. “He is the most secure man I have known. I want to grow old with him.” Luis. “Who he is today, he worked hard for. I am proud of him.” Ryan Christian. “He is very passionate. One time he told me he wanted to get into politics and showbiz. And I told him, ‘It’s hard anak’ and he shot back ‘Bakit ikaw mommy?…” – Boy Abunda, The Philippine Star, July 31, 2009 (READ MORE)

Leron Leron Sinta Films

Posted on by Standard

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

Leron leron sinta (1972) – Directed by Emmanuel H. Borlaza, written by Nestor Torre, produced by Tagalog Ilang-Ilang Productions, featured Vilma Santos, Edgar Mortiz, Jay Ilagan, Florence Aguilar, Lillian Laing, Karlo Vero, Beth Manlongat, Ruben Tizon, Angelito, The Family Birth Control, Julius Obregon, Romeo Miranda, Rene Baraza, Lito Ladores, Eric Domingo, Caloy Distrito, Raffy Engle, Geoffrey Beltran, Catalino Almario Jr., Tacio Tangkad, Bayani Casimiro, Lito Calzado, Daisy Romualdez, and Manny Paner. (READ MORE)

Leron leron sinta (1964) – Directed by Rosa Mia, written by Gina Leonardo and Chari C. Araullo, adapted for screen by Medy Tarnate and Leticia Roxas, produced by Sampaguita Pictures, featured Susan Roces, Eddie Gutierrez, Liberty Ilagan, Introducing Ramil Rodriguez, Meldy Corrales, Bella Flores, Gina Pareno, Vic Pacia, directed by Rosa Mia. (READ MORE)

Celso Ad Castillo’s Vilma Santos Films

Posted on by Standard

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

“…Mr. Castillo, who directed more than 60 movies including “Asedillo” in 1971 and “Burlesk Queen” in 1977, died in his home in Siniloan, Laguna. In 2007, Mr. Castillo was diagnosed with stage 1 lung cancer. Born in Siniloan in Sept. 12, 1943, Mr. Castillo is the son of lawyer Dominador Ad Castillo and Marta Adolfo. He graduated in 1964 from the Manuel L. Quezon University with a degree in English Literature. Mr. Castillo started as a writer for a komiks magazine, until he was commissioned to write a script for a spoof of the British superspy James Bond in 1965. He directed his first movie, Misyong Mapanganib in 1966. But it was the film Asedillo in 1971 that made Mr. Castillo popular. Based on the story of a Filipino rebel of the 1920s who was hunted down as a bandit by the American colonial government, the movie gave its lead actor, Fernando Poe, Jr. his second Best Actor trophy from the Film Academy of Movie Arts and Sciences (FAMAS)…Before he died, he has just launched his tell-all book Celso Ad Castillo: An Autobiography and His Craft…” – Jeffrey O. Valisno (READ MORE)

Castillo gave Vilma Santos her first mature role in Burlesk Queen resulting with her first local film festival best actress award. He also directed Pagputi Ng Uwak Pagitim Ng Tagak where Vilma Santos starred and produced. The film received several best picture awards and was considered one of Castillo’s best works. – RV (READ MORE)

Tag-ulan sa tag-araw (1975) – “…The two main characters, Christopher Deleon and Vilma Santos obviously carried the film with surprising maturity. Considering this was their first team-up and both were very young. In 1975, both were still in transitions, from teenybopper stars of the musical era to serious actors. Christopher Deleon’s performance was quite impressive as the apologetic Rod, except for some scenes where you can see his nostril moves, he gave a very affecting performance. Vilma Santos equally balance the equation with a touching show of emotions that we seldom see in her early films that are mostly musicals, fantasy or comedies. Three scenes stand out. First was in the bus where she confronted her “Kuya Rod” to not to give-up on their relationship. Second when her parents caught them in the balcony. She begs them to stop beating up her “Kuya Rod.” And then finally, the driving to the abortion clinic scene, she cried her heart out begging them to stop and cried for help to her “Kuya Rod,” who was running behind and trying very hard to stop the car. Celso Ad Castillo successfully gave us a very moving film. Even with the very annoying number of voice-over scenes, scenes that you will hear the two main characters talks but you will see them not opening their mouth, the film has so many good qualities that you will forgive these flaws. We probably attributed these flaws to the style of many films in the 60s and 70s…” – RV (READ MORE)

Burlesk Queen (1977) – “…Burlesk Queen is much more than a gripping commercial melodrama. It is also a scathing commentary on the sarcastic sexual politics that has become the atmosphere of Philippine society: of hardworking women and the good-for-nothing men they serve (in other words, a patriarchal society gone awry). It is also a fervent reminder of the redemptive and equalizing power of art, which is the reason why it will always be a threat to those who hold power. Multi-faceted, committedly acted, and very well-directed, Burlesk Queen, I opine, is an unsung masterpiece.” – Francis Cruz (READ MORE)

Pagputi ng uwak, Pag-itim ng tagak (1978) – “…Celso Ad. Castillo’s Pagputi ng Uwak, Pag-itim ng Tagak (When the Crow Turns White, When the Heron Turns Black) injects political overtones into its story, about a poor young man (Bembol Roco) who, when abandoned by his upper-class lover (Vilma Santos), joins the Hukbalahap rebels. Ad. Castillo in this film demonstrates an amazing visual language–not flashy, but quietly, lyrically brilliant. He also demonstrates a more masterful grasp of music and song than possibly any other Filipino director–the film is a model on how to use kundimans, ballads, pop songs to differentiate social classes, to satirize and comment on the narrative action.” – Noel Vera (READ MORE)

Celso Ad. Castillo began directing films mid-60′s at an early age, but he has since then gained reputation for many other aspects of the craft particularly scriptwriting and acting. In the Filipino movie industry, he holds the unique repuation of being controversial, trendsetter,enfant terrible and messiah of Philippine cinema, and his track record justifies it: he introduced artistry and commercialism in sex films (nympha) when the two were considered incompatible, and introduced sex in artistic projects ( Ang Pinakamagandang Hayop sa Balat ng Lupa/The Most Beautiful Animal on Earth)when moralistic repression was in vogue. An unfortunate and unfair consequence of the controversy is the recognition due him as one of the finest film commentators on the Philippine social scene, with a visual fluency unmatched by any other contemporary filipino film director. – Celso Ad Castillo Web-site (READ MORE)

Related Reading

Early Female Directors

Posted on by Standard

Karugtong ang Kahapon

Before Marilou Diaz Abaya (Minsan Pa Nating Hagkan Ang Nakaraan, 1983; Alyas Baby Tsina, 1984), Rory Quintos (Anak, 2000), Olivia Lamasan (In My Life, 2009; Maalaala Mo Kaya? Regalo episode, 2005), and Laurice Guillen (Dahil Mahal Kita: The Dolzura Cortez Story, 1993; Kapag Langit Ang Humatol, 1990; Ipagpatawad Mo, 1991), Fely Crisostomo, Maria Saret, Leody Diaz, and Consuelo P. Osorio were the only known female directors. They have become part of Vilma Santos’ filmography.

Fely Crisostomo is a Filipina film director and actress. She was the first woman to win the FAMAS Award for Best Director in 1967.- Wikipedia (READ MORE)

Fely Crisostomo’s Vilma Santos Films

Susan Kelly

Maria Saret is a Filipina film director and writer. She was first recognized for her 1966 screenplay of the film Miranda: Ang lagalag na sirena starring teen star, Marifi. In 1973 she directed her first feature film, the drama about women in prison, “Bakit may bilanggo sa anak ni Eba?” starring Gina Pareño, Rosanna Ortiz and Alona Alegre. Saret was nominated for the 1989 FAMAS best director award for the movie Lorenzo Ruiz, The Saint…A Filipino! She won the best screenplay at the Film Academy of the Philippines for the same film.

Maria Saret’s Vilma Santos Films

– Vi co-starred with Dante Rivero (their second film, after Mga Tigre ng Sierra Cruz), Anthony Alonzo, Sandy Garcia, Cloyd Robinson.(READ MORE)

Sweethearts

Leody Diaz is a Filipina film director and actress. Her earlier credit consists of 1965’s Labanang Babae (The fight of Women) as an actor and as the writer of Bella Bandida (Bella, The Woman Bandit), She started directing in 1967 via Target: The A-go-go Generation, a comedy musical which became her main genre of her body of work.

Topical, Realistic Themes “…Tony and the Tagalog Ilang-Ilang Productions plan not only to produce big budgeted films for international competition next year, but to bring into local movies topical, realistic themes like student power, social unrest, violence in our midst, etc. But meanwhile, the gring has to go on. Right now he is filming Blue Seal Mata Hari under the direction of Leody Diaz, where he is experimenting on teaming up Filipino actors with colored women and vice – versa. And for the first time, he said, a Filipina actress, sex siren Liza Belmonte, consented to be kissed by a colored man in this film. So it goes too with Tony, where he is paired with two colored women with kissing scenes…” – P. Oden Amurao, Republic Weekly, 03 October 1967 (READ MORE)

Leody Diaz’s Vilma Santos Films

Jukebox King

Consuelo P. Osorio is a Filipina film director and actress. Her earlier acting credits consists of 1949’s Bulakenyo and 1984’s Bagets Part 2, her first and last films.. Like Leody Diaz, Consuelo became active in late 60s to early 70s directing singing teen stars in musical-comedy or musical-drama genres. Peque Galaga, the popular director of Oro Plata Mata fame, was quoted saying, Consuelo P. Osorio of Premiere Productions as his early mentor because, “It was she who tutored him on points such as casting that would spell success in surviving in the industry.”

Ateng Osorio – “…I asked the receptionist who was the TV writer present that day and she mentioned the name: Consuelo Osorio, also known as Ateng Osorio. She told me which studio she was working that time and I proceeded to find her. Unfortunately, upon entering the TV barn, a production assistant told me that she actually went to the cafeteria to have coffee. So I went to the cafeteria and tried to find her. I asked the person at the till to point out to me Miss Osorio, and she did. She was seated at a table, smoking, talking to another lady, and both of them, I noticed, were looking at me. I approached them and introduced myself. She gave me a handshake and introduced the other lady: “She’s Mitos Villareal, our director.” After shaking Miss Villareal’s hand, I didn’t hesitate to tell them that I was there because I want to become a writer for TV and the movies. They both smiled. “You’re a bit too young to work as a writer,” Ateng told me. “Besides, you look more like an actor than a writer! We immediately noticed you the moment you entered this room. You are unusually fair. You are even fairer than Jeanne Young. Leave your phone number with me, I’ll find something and I’ll give you a call….Well, perfect timing. I need someone your age. I am auditioning today and tomorrow for new talents for BBC Channel 2. Since I already know that you can do it, you’re in. I need you to come for taping on Saturday night. Come with me and I’ll give you the script.” I wanted to say no, but for some reason, I couldn’t. Besides, this lady was super nice and I didn’t want to say no to her. So I went with her and we proceeded to the office and the producer of the show handed me a blue mimeographed script. It says: PROGRAM: Dulambuhay ni Rosa Vilma WRITER: O.B. Pangilinan MAINSTAY: Vilma Santos. To make the long story short, I ended up appearing with Vilma Santos and Walter Navarro. I played Walter’s younger brother in that episode. Thank God all my scenes were take one. And after the show aired, all my friends teased me non-stop about it. Ateng Osorio was directing films that time as well and she wanted to cast me in them but I begged off. I finally told her that acting is not what I wanted to do. I want to write. She then said: “I’m committed for seven months to direct movies which I have already written myself. After they are all finished, we’ll discuss a movie I will be directing for Barangay Pictures. I have a storyline. You will write the screenplay…” – Jose Mari Lee, Pinoy Comics TV Movies (READ MORE)

Consuelo P. Osorio’s Vilma Santos Films

  • I Do Love You (1970) – Eddie Peregrina-Vilma Santos film with Esperanza Fabon and Bebong Osorio. (READ MORE)
  • Jukebox King (1969) – Eddie Peregrina-Vilma Santos film with Edgar Mortiz, Esperanza Fabon and Bebong Osorio. (READ MORE)
  • Mardy (1969) – Eddie Peregrina-Vilma Santos film with Esperanza Fabon and Bebong Osorio. (READ MORE)
  • My Darling Eddie (1969) – Eddie Peregrina-Vilma Santos film with Edgar Mortiz, Esperanza Fabon and Bebong Osorio. (READ MORE)

Other Female Directors

  • Ophelia Paris (1973) Directed by Celia Diaz-Laurel. The first movie of Vilma Santos and Cocoy Laurel, the other films are: Disco Fever and Pinay American Style (READ MORE).
  • Mga Reynang Walang Trono (1976) Directed by Amalia Muhlach (Amalia Fuentes). “…Amalia directed Vilma’s episode in Mga Reyna and agreed to second billing to Vilma in Asawa Ko. No doubt about it, Amalia Muhlach Sumilang Fuentes, is a Vilmanian. To seal their sisterhood and camaraderie, Vilma is Ninang to Liezl Martinez and to the latter’s son Alfonso. Why, Liezl even sang a song ’’Wind Beneath My Wings’ to her surprised mother that night which drove the strong-willed and still beautiful Amalia to tears…” – Mario O. Garces (READ MORE)

2002 Metro Manila Film Festival

Posted on by Standard

Hindi ako kumbinsido na isang Ara Mina ang tumalo sa isang Vilma Santos sa nakaraang Metro Manila Film Festival Philippines. Isang malinaw na pang-iinsulto ito sa kakayahan ng Star for all Seasons bilang aktres. Hindi namin minamaliit ang kakayahan ni Ara Mina. Pero para sa amin, hindi pa siya ganap na aktres para talunin si Vilma. Kung pagbabasehan ang performance niya sa Mano Po, compared kay Vilma sa Dekada ‘70, hindi ito sapat para pumantay kay Vilma. Sa katunayan, ang performance ni Vilma sa Dekada ‘70 ang masasabi naming pinakamahusay niya. Napakahusay ng transformation ni Vilma bilang isang ina na sunud-sunuran sa kanyang asawa to a mother na nakikipaglaban para sa karapatan ng isang ina para sa kanyang pamilya. Kahit si Kris Aquino na co-star ni Ara sa Mano Po ay hindi kumbinsido na tinalo nito si Vilma. Vindicated kuno si Ara Mina sa pagkakapanalo nito. Vindicated saan? Pinaingay lang ng Regal Films ang kanyang performance kaya tumatak sa isip ng ilan na pang-Best Actress ang performance niya. Ang nakakapagtaka, ilang araw bago ang awards night, pinaingay ng Regal ang pangalan niya for Best Actress. Mukhang siguradung-sigurado na silang makukuha nila ang majority awards. At nangyari na nga. Nakuha ng Regal movie ang majority ng awards. Kahit nga sa Best Actor award, nakakapagtaka na talunin ni Eddie Garcia sa Mano Po si Christopher de Leon sa Dekada ’70.

At ang nakakabaliw pa, ilang oras bago ang awards night, may tumawag sa Star Cinema office na taga-MMFFP para sabihing in-elevate nila si Piolo Pascual para sa Best Actor category. Pero nung presentation na, balik ito sa Best Supporting Actor. Di ba, normally may deliberation na tinatawag? Ibig sabihin ilang oras bago ang awards night ay nagdi-deliberate pa sila? Ni hindi nila iprenesent kung sino ang board of judges. Kahit ang souvenir program kung saan naglalaman ng composition ng members ng bawat committee ay wala. Deliberate bang hindi pinamigay para hindi ma-pinpoint kung sino ang sisisihin sa mga kapalpakan? Umpisa pa lang ng MMFFP ay palpak na. Announcement pa lang ng 7 official entries ay nagkagulo na. At tama ba namang iurong ang deadline para ma-accommodate ang ibang entries dahil hindi pa ito tapos? Hanggang sa kailangan pang mag-usap-usap ang mga producers para alamin kung ano ang kanilang decision sa bagong ruling na ipinalabas. Bakit kailangang producers ang masunod kung may sinusunod na rulings taun-taon? Kulang sa paninindigan ang pamunuan ng MMFFP ngayong taon. Sa interbyu ni Mayor Rey Malonzo sa The Buzz, nagpaliwanag ito sa mga naganap na kapalpakan. Ipinipilit niya ang kanyang katwiran na nasusupalpal naman ng mas mabigat na ebidensya. Tulad na lamang sa hindi pagkasama ni Lualhati Bautista sa dalawang kategorya, ang Best Original Story at Screenplay.

Aniya, nabanggit naman daw, baka hindi lang narinig dahil sa studio problems sa PICC. Isisi pa ba kay Lani Mercado ang kapalpakan eh ang husay nga nitong mag-present? Bakit ayaw tanggapin ni Mayor Rey Malonzo na lantaran ang kapalpakan sa MMFFP ngayong taon? Ewan pero nakakawalang gana na yang MMFFP na yan. Taun-taon na lang may gulo, kontrobersya at higit sa lahat, umiiral ang kapangyarihan ng ilan. Kaya kung kami sa ilang film production like Star Cinema at Imus Productions, mag-isip-isip sila ng maraming beses kung sasali pa sila next year. At kung sasali man sila, gumawa na lang sila ng ka-cheapang pelikula para matalo man sila, hindi masakit. At kung iisip man sila ng pang-entry next year, huwag na silang mag-strive for cinematic excellence and globally competitive movies dahil hindi sila kikilalanin at bibigyan ng parangal. Sayang lang ang efforts nila. Magpatuloy pa rin sila sa paggawa ng pelikulang magaganda pero ipalabas na lang nila sa regular showing at huwag magpagamit dyan sa mga kung sinu-sinong malalaking tao sa industriya at pulitika. Kay Direk Chito Roño, ipagpatuloy mo ang paninindigan mo. Wala ka ng kailangang patunayan bilang isang direktor dahil ginawa mo ang alam mong pinakamahusay mo, pero yung hindi ka kikilalanin, hindi mo na kasalanan yun. Salamat sa pagsasabuhay mo ng pelikulang Dekada ‘70.

At para kay Vilma Santos, mananatali pa rin siyang pinakamahusay na aktres para sa inyong lingkod at sa kanyang mga tagahanga. Binastos man siya ng MMFFP, marami pa rin ang naniniwala na siya pa rin ang rightful winner. Hindi ang MMFFP ang sisira sa legacy ng isang Vilma Santos. Sa awards derby next year, pupusta ako na aanihin niya ang prutas na hindi niya inani ngayon sa MMFFP. Sa MMFFP, nakakalungkot na hinayaan ninyong dungisan ng ilan ang imahe ng taunang parangal na ito. Hindi ninyo dapat hinayaan na gamitin kayo ng mga gahaman. You are not indebted sa iilang makapangyarihan kundi sa sambayanang Pilipino. Tiyak na may magri-react sa aking sinulat sa kolum na ito. Ito ang nararamdaman ko. Matindi ang epekto sa akin ng mga pangyayari at kung paanong tumimo sa aking puso at isipan ang Dekada ’70, ang pelikulang nagpamulat sa akin kung gaano kasarap magkaroon ng isang pamilya at makipaglaban para sa iyong minamahal. Kay Vilma, Boyet, Piolo, Direk Chito, Lualhati Bautista at sa Star Cinema, maraming salamat sa Dekada ’70. Mabuhay ang tunay na pelikulang Pilipino! – Eric John Salut, Pilipino Star, December 31, 2002, Reposted by: Sol Jose Vanzi (READ MORE)

The Light “…Topping the Urian for surprise value was the join award for Best Picture to “Dekada ’70” and “Mga Munting Tinig,” This was unexpected because “Dekada” was a major production that took many months to make, while “Munting Tinig” was a small low-budget film that was shot in only a few weeks. Despite this, both films were cited as the best local movies for 2002. A possible interpretation of the twin awards could be “Dekada” is cited for tackling asn important period in the country;s political life with extensive resources of a major studio, while “Munting Tinig” is honored for its ability to dramatize a simple, heartwarming tale that provides much-needed inspiration, despite its limited budget. In other words, the two films’ contrasting approaches are both needed by local movies today, hence the decision for them to share the Urian’s Best Picture award…The Best Actress trophy that Vilma Santos won for her performance in “Dekada ’70” is another noteworthy decision because, when the film was first shown, even veteran observers rapped Vilma for her relatively “passive,” “colorless” and “undramatic” portrayal in the movie. This was because her character, the wife and mother in the movie’s central Bartolome family, spent most of the film’s running time meekly following her husband’s dictates, like most women in the ’70s. Some people took this as a weak thespic stance, and we had to point out in some articles taht his wasn’t true at all. In fact, given the convention of the movie’s time frame, this “passivity” was an astute artistic decision on Vilma’s part, and thoroughly merited by her character and the period in which she lived. In fact, what Vilma did in “Dekada” was more difficult because it was so controlled and subtle, it would have been far easier for her to melodramatically tear up the scenery and act up a storm. Gratifyingly, by the time the film awards season came around, enough people has seen the light, and Vilma went on to win a phalanx of Best Actress trophies, now including the Urian…” – Nestor U. Torre, Philippine Daily Inquirer – May 24, 2003 (READ MORE)

2002 Gawad Urian Best Actress

Posted on by Standard

Novel to Film “…”Dekada ’70,” the eagerly awaited filmization of Lualhati Bautista’s seminal novel in the explosive ’80s, has eight nominations. Best director nominee Chito Rono successfully focuses the novel’s many-sided dimensions on a mother’s stirring from domestic conventions and sensibilities as her family copes with the changes wrought by a collapsing order. The movie, written by Bautista herself and nominated for best screenplay, manages to provides viewers, particularly the young, with the feel of the Marcos years, reacquainting them with a particularly sordid passage in history when innocence was ravaged and continuity was ruptured. The wonder is that the movie did not get the lion’s share of the technical design (Manny Morfe), and sound (Albert Michael Idioma and Alex Tomboc) – should at least suggest its achievement. Vilma Santos and Christopher de Leon are strong contenders for best actor and best actress, while yound actor Piolo Pascual is nominated for best supporting actor. The 26th Gawad Urian of the Manunuri ng Pelikulang Pilipino, the society of respected film critics, will be held on May 17 at the AFP Theater…” – Lito B. Zulueta, Philippine Daily Inquirer, April 28, 2003 (READ MORE)

The Light “…Topping the Urian for surprise value was the join award for Best Picture to “Dekada ’70” and “Mga Munting Tinig,” This was unexpected because “Dekada” was a major production that took many months to make, while “Munting Tinig” was a small low-budget film that was shot in only a few weeks. Despite this, both films were cited as the best local movies for 2002. A possible interpretation of the twin awards could be “Dekada” is cited for tackling asn important period in the country;s political life with extensive resources of a major studio, while “Munting Tinig” is honored for its ability to dramatize a simple, heartwarming tale that provides much-needed inspiration, despite its limited budget. In other words, the two films’ contrasting approaches are both needed by local movies today, hence the decision for them to share the Urian’s Best Picture award…The Best Actress trophy that Vilma Santos won for her performance in “Dekada ’70” is another noteworthy decision because, when the film was first shown, even veteran observers rapped Vilma for her relatively “passive,” “colorless” and “undramatic” portrayal in the movie. This was because her character, the wife and mother in the movie’s central Bartolome family, spent most of the film’s running time meekly following her husband’s dictates, like most women in the ’70s. Some people took this as a weak thespic stance, and we had to point out in some articles taht his wasn’t true at all. In fact, given the convention of the movie’s time frame, this “passivity” was an astute artistic decision on Vilma’s part, and thoroughly merited by her character and the period in which she lived. In fact, what Vilma did in “Dekada” was more difficult because it was so controlled and subtle, it would have been far easier for her to melodramatically tear up the scenery and act up a storm. Gratifyingly, by the time the film awards season came around, enough people has seen the light, and Vilma went on to win a phalanx of Best Actress trophies, now including the Urian…” – Nestor U. Torre, Philippine Daily Inquirer – May 24, 2003 (READ MORE)

Anak natin si Piolo? “…Gawad Urian best supporting actor Piolo Pascual (“Dekada ’70”) arrived early at the awards ceremony Saturday night and reserve a seat for “Dekada ’70” costar Vilma Santos, who would later be declared best actress. Vilma and Piolo played mother and son in the moving Chito Rono movie based on the screenplay by Lualhati Bautista, who won for best screenplay. Piolo was very affectionate to “mom” Vilma, hugging and kissing her when she arrived. He was seen clasping her hands moments before his name was announced as best supporting actor at theTeatro Arturo Enrile in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City…The movie critics’ group paid tribute to writer Ricardo “Ricky” Lee by naming him the recipient of the Natatnging Gawad for lifetime achievement for his invaluable contributions to the film industry for more than three decades. The award was handed to him by three of the many actresses who breathed life to his creations – Vilma (“Relasyon”), Dina Bonnevie (“Gumapang Ka Sa Lusak”) and Gina Alajar (“Salome”). Lee has so far written about 120 screenplays and won some 50 awards. His most recent work, Marilou Diaz-Abaya’s “Bagong Buwan,” was honored by many local and international award-giving bodies…Edu Manzano was very effective as the show’s only host. He kept the audience awake and laughing with his witty remarks, delivered with his trademark deadpan expression. Even Piolo and Vilma were not spared from Edu’s jokes. he imitated Piolo after the young actor delivered a very emotional acceptance speech. When Vilma said she was sharing her award with her costars in “Dekada ’70,” particularly to her “eldest son” Piolo, the camera caught Edu having his own dramatic highlights.” “What?” he asked his ex-wife in mock surprise, “Anak natin si Piolo?…” – Marinel R. Cruz, Philippine Daily Inquirer, May 20, 2003 (READ MORE)

For the first time in the history of the Manunuri ng Pelikulang Pilipino’s Gawad Urian Awards and probably in any national award giving ceremony, for that matter a tie was announced in the Best Film category. Star Cinema’s Dekada ’70 and Gil Portes and Ray Cuerdo’s Munting Tinig were declared as the best of the 2002 produced films. The Urian is known as the award-giving body that has most often declared ties. Allow me to explain why. A certain standard of excellence in every category has been set by the critics. In the case of the best film, it has to be one that is technically proficient in all aspects such as sound, music, production design, editing and cinematography. Beyond technical excellence and artistic sense in storytelling, it must always have a theme that is not pretentious. The film should successfully capture that “truth” grounded on the Filipino experience. Based on these, it is, thus, possible to have more than two films hitting the grade. Declaring ties, therefore, is only tantamount to saying that there may be more than one film which deserved to be called excellent.

It certainly happened this year for Dekada ’70 and Mga Munting Tinig. Both hit that mark of excellence. Congratulations to all those who contributed to the creation of these two momentous films. The Manunuri ng Pelikulang Pilipino has always dedicated itself to selecting and recognizing the best films. When the group was created in May 1, 1976, it declared itself as an alliance of consumer activists who write articles, not for PR, but as independent reviews that give citations and awards. The present group has never deviated from the same objectives and values as that of the first group. Three members who were part of the original one are still with the present crop of critics. They aim to continue awarding the best works and performances; encouraging continuous dialogue on film; and exploring and redefining the responsibilities of the industry practitioners and filmmakers to the public. The Gawad Urian recently held at the AFP theater started with a production number featuring Regine Velasquez, who was draped with filmstrips. She changed into two elegant gowns during the opening salvo.

The other artists who participated in the production were Janno Gibbs, Anna Fegi, JR, Jose Illana, Arni Hidalgo, Rufa Mae Quinto, Marissa Sanchez with the Sex Bomb dancers, and video assists by Michael V and Ogie Alcasid. Capping the evening was a musical number by Aiza Seguerra, 1728, 604 and Ciara Sotto. The presentors were Richard Gomez, Lucy Torres, Assunta de Rossi, Cherrie Gil, Rudy Fernanadez, Dingdong Dantes, Tanya Garcia, Jeffrey Quizon, Giselle Tongi, Judy Ann Santos, Maricel Soriano, Danica Sotto, James Blanco, Angelu de Leon, Vhong Navarro and Butch Francisco. Memorable “thank you” speeches started with Ricky Lee’s, who praised film artists and producers with whom he has worked. He also expressed his appreciation to the Manunuri ng Pelikulang Pilipino for finally recognizing and presenting a Natatanging Gawad Urian to a scriptwriter. Piolo Pascual was in tears and had a litany of names to thank as he completed his grand slam for the Best Supporting Actor category with his Urian award. Elizabeth Oropesa earned a good round of applause as she thanked her “Honey” when she received her Best Supporting Actress award.

Jay Manalo seemed rather touched by the Best Actor Award and thanked all his children quite a number, which did not escape the audience’s interest. Gil Portes was in high spirits when he finally bagged the Best Director award, after numerous nominations from the Manunuri. Vilma, who won the Best Actress Award, thanked the special people in her life, including host, Edu Manzano, who was miming on the side, hoping Vilma would include him in her speech. He certainly got the crowd in the theater roaring with his antics when he embraced Piolo and declared that he was a long lost son…The special award, Natatanging Gawad Urian, was presented to Ricky Lee for his numerous outstanding screenplays. A special reading was performed by Gina Alajar and Dina Bonnevie. Vilma Santos read the citation for the Ricky Lee’s recognition. The Gawad Urian Night was not too overwhelming, but friendly and exciting. It was not glittering, but it was colorful. It was not ostentatious, but it was substantial. It was not huge, but it was meaningful. Also contributing significantly to the successful presentation this year was the masterful and witty hosting by Edu Manzano. – Sol Jose Vanzi, May 20, 2003 (READ MORE)

2002 Gawad Urian

A few days before the Urian Awards last Saturday, some movie writers attending the presscon of Jose Llana said they already know the winners in the acting categories. Vilma Santos as best actress for “Dekada ’70,” Jay Manalo as best actor for “Prosti,” Beth Oropesa as best supporting actress for “Laman,” and Piolo Pascual as best supporting actor for “Dekada.” They claim to have heard this from some Urian members. The day before the awards night, we attended the presscon of “Huling Birhen sa Lupa” at Viva and Director Joel Lamangan told us he already knew Beth and Jay, who are shooting the film with him on location in Batangas, would win because he was requested to let them leave the set to attend the awards night. True enough, when awards night came at the AFP Theater, these are really those who won. Maybe the Manunuri should be more discreet next time to prevent such leakage. But the show itself is indeed smooth and slick, starting with the great opening number by Regine Velasquez. The tribute to Ricky Lee, who won the Natatanging Gawad Urian for his work as a scriptwiter, is particularly good. Singers Michael Santana, Ana Fegi and Janno Gibbs sang songs from Ricky’s films, Gina Alajar and Dina Bonnevie read excerpts from his scripts, Nora Aunor, Sharon Cuneta and Beth O. sang hosannahs to him, then Vilma Santos handed him the actual trophy.

Ricky, a founding member of the Urian himself (we left it at the same time in 1980), deserves the award because he is really the first scriptwriter to become a household name. We just wish he delivered a shorter acceptance speech since there’s beauty in brevity. Another winner who rumbled on and on is Piolo Pascual, who really put on an act along with Judy Ann Santos, who presented him his award. He’s the only one who scored a grand slam this year, so we can understand why he is a tad too emotional for comfort. Jay Manalo was more coherent and even managed to make a roll call of all his kids with various women, including his current wife, Raiza. Beth O., in turn, looked like a blushing bride as she received her award (her second best supporting actress plum from the Urian after “Milagros”), thanking her much younger husband, Joel Valdez, so sweetly. Mercifully, she gave a very short speech. Another winner who is obviously so overwhelmed is Gil Portes, best director for “Munting Tinig,” as he kept on giggling while delivering his acceptance speech. As for Ate Vi, this is her eighth Urian best actress trophy after “Relasyon,” “Broken Marriage,” “Sister Stella L,” “Pahiram ng Isang Umaga,” “Ipagpatawad Mo,” “Dahil Mahal Kita (Dolzura Cortez Story),” and “Bata, Bata, Paano Ka Ginawa.” This makes her the winningest actress ever and her Vilmanians have reason to gloat.

The concept of singing the songs from the nominated best films (by Tex Ordonez, Jose Llana, Jay Ar and Arnee Hidalgo) is good, along with the idea of lining up all the winners on stage for a final tribute before they announced the last awardee, Vilma Santos. Ate Vi was inexplicably already on stage but without a trophy, so you already know she’d be handed the award for the last category, which is the best actress award. But the production number involving Rufa Mae Quinto, the Sex Bomb, Marissa Sanchez, Michael V. and Ogie Alcasid was a dud. They tried to be funny spoofing Katya Santos and Mother Lily but only ended up being silly and corny. Host Edu Manzano did a fairly good job and even stole the scene when he too cried as ex-wife Ate Vi delivered her acceptance speech. In fairness, the Urian had a good roster of presentors like Rudy Fernandez, Maricel Soriano, Richard Gomez, Lucy Torres, Cherie Gil, etc. Unlike other award-giving bodies who just call on stage whoever is available inside the theater to act as presentors. As Rudy Fernandez himself pointed out, “Ang Urian talaga, mahilig sa tie,” so this year, the tie is in the best picture category, with Star Cinema’s “Dekada” and Teamwork Productions’ “Mga Munting Tinig” sharing the honor. – Sol Jose Vanzi, Malaya, May 23, 2003 (READ MORE)

2002 Star Awards Best Actress

Posted on by Standard

Novel to Film “…”Dekada ’70,” the eagerly awaited filmization of Lualhati Bautista’s seminal novel in the explosive ’80s, has eight nominations. Best director nominee Chito Rono successfully focuses the novel’s many-sided dimensions on a mother’s stirring from domestic conventions and sensibilities as her family copes with the changes wrought by a collapsing order. The movie, written by Bautista herself and nominated for best screenplay, manages to provides viewers, particularly the young, with the feel of the Marcos years, reacquainting them with a particularly sordid passage in history when innocence was ravaged and continuity was ruptured. The wonder is that the movie did not get the lion’s share of the technical design (Manny Morfe), and sound (Albert Michael Idioma and Alex Tomboc) – should at least suggest its achievement. Vilma Santos and Christopher de Leon are strong contenders for best actor and best actress, while yound actor Piolo Pascual is nominated for best supporting actor. The 26th Gawad Urian of the Manunuri ng Pelikulang Pilipino, the society of respected film critics, will be held on May 17 at the AFP Theater…” – Lito B. Zulueta, Philippine Daily Inquirer, April 28, 2003 (READ MORE)

The Light “…Topping the Urian for surprise value was the join award for Best Picture to “Dekada ’70” and “Mga Munting Tinig,” This was unexpected because “Dekada” was a major production that took many months to make, while “Munting Tinig” was a small low-budget film that was shot in only a few weeks. Despite this, both films were cited as the best local movies for 2002. A possible interpretation of the twin awards could be “Dekada” is cited for tackling asn important period in the country;s political life with extensive resources of a major studio, while “Munting Tinig” is honored for its ability to dramatize a simple, heartwarming tale that provides much-needed inspiration, despite its limited budget. In other words, the two films’ contrasting approaches are both needed by local movies today, hence the decision for them to share the Urian’s Best Picture award…The Best Actress trophy that Vilma Santos won for her performance in “Dekada ’70” is another noteworthy decision because, when the film was first shown, even veteran observers rapped Vilma for her relatively “passive,” “colorless” and “undramatic” portrayal in the movie. This was because her character, the wife and mother in the movie’s central Bartolome family, spent most of the film’s running time meekly following her husband’s dictates, like most women in the ’70s. Some people took this as a weak thespic stance, and we had to point out in some articles taht his wasn’t true at all. In fact, given the convention of the movie’s time frame, this “passivity” was an astute artistic decision on Vilma’s part, and thoroughly merited by her character and the period in which she lived. In fact, what Vilma did in “Dekada” was more difficult because it was so controlled and subtle, it would have been far easier for her to melodramatically tear up the scenery and act up a storm. Gratifyingly, by the time the film awards season came around, enough people has seen the light, and Vilma went on to win a phalanx of Best Actress trophies, now including the Urian…” – Nestor U. Torre, Philippine Daily Inquirer – May 24, 2003 (READ MORE)

Star Awards “…Star for All Seasons Vilma Santos still gets the jitters when accepting acting awards. She bested five other equally worthy nominees to the best actress throne in last Saturday’s Star Awards for Movies at the UP Theatre. She won for her moving portrayal of a timid mother empowered by the death of her son in Chito Rono’s period drama, “Dekada ’70,” which was an official entry in the Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) last December. Ironically, Ara Mina, who edged out Vilma from the best actress derby in the MMFF, was not among those cited by Star Awards. Vilma competed with Sharon Cuneta (“Magkapatid”), Maricel Soriano (“Mano Po”), Claudine Baretto (“Kailangan Kita”), and Alessandra de Rossi (“Mga Munting Tinig”)…” – Marinel R. Cruiz, Philippine Daily Inquirer, March 11, 2003 (READ MORE)

Actress-Lipa City Mayor Vilma Santos, new actor Yul Servo, and the independent film, “Mga Munting Tinig,” proved that the local movie industry recognizes talent and good films, veteran or newcomer, when they bagged top honors at the 19th Star Awards for the Movies held last Saturday night at the UP Theater in Diliman, Quezon City. Santos was named “Movie Actress of the Year” for her role as a mother who experienced awakening during the ’70s turmoil in “Dekada ’70.” Santos, one of the country’s most awarded actresses, admitted she still feels the tension from the announcement of nominees to the winner. “Nakakakaba pa rin po hanggang ngayon (I still feel nervous even now),” she said in her acceptance speech. Meanwhile, newcomer Yul Servo was named “Movie Actor of the Year” for playing a young husband subjected to extreme culture shock when he finds life hard in a Manila suburb in the controversial movie, “Laman.” The rest of the major trophies went to Gil Portes, “Movie Director of the Year” for “Munting Tinig;” Piolo Pascual, “Movie Supporting Actor of the Year” for “Dekada ’70”; and Kris Aquino, “Movie Supporting Actress of the Year” for “Mano Po.”

“Mga Munting Tinig” won most of the awards, copping with seven out of 16, including Child Performer of the Year (Brian Ronquillo), Musical Score (Joy Marfil), Production Design (Arthur Licdao) and Original Screenplay. According to its director and scriptwriter, Portes, the group completed “Munting Tinig” in only 15 days. He added, “This movie just won in the Sta. Barbara International Film Festival and is the first locally produced movie bought by Warner Bros. for worldwide distribution.” Other winners at the 19th Star Awards were “Agimat” for Best Special Effects; Jordan Herrera, New Movie Actor of the Year for “Gamitan;” Nancy Castiglione, New Movie Actress of the Year for “I Think I’m in Love;” Ogie Alcasid for “Kailangan Kita,” Best Movie Theme Song; and Lualhati Bautista for Best Adapted Sceenplay, “Dekada ’70.” Special awards given were the “Darling of the Press” for Onemig Bondoc, the “Male Star of the Night” for Bong Revilla, the “Female Star of the Night” for Maricel Soriano and the “Lifetime Achievement Award” for Sen. Ramon Revilla, Sr. Trivia host was Charlene Gonzales. Hosts of last night’s Star Awards were Cesar Montano, Bong Revilla, Philip Salvador, Kris Aquino, Maricel Soriano and Vilma Santos. Performers were Sharon Cuneta, Jolina Magdangal, Ogie Alcasid, Jaya, Angelika de la Cruz, Patricia Javier, Karylle, and Zsa Zsa Padilla. – Sol Jose Vanzi, March 10, 2003 (READ MORE)

1998 Best Actress Awards

Posted on by Standard

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

Urian Best Actress Award – “…Actress and Lipa City Mayor Vilma Santos won her seventh Urian Best Actress Award last Sunday night at UP Theater for her performance in Star Cinema’s “Bata, Bata, Paano Ka Ginawa?” Vilma Santos won her first Gawad Urian Award for Best Actress in 1982 for the movie “Relasyon.” She again earned the best actress award in 1983 and 1984 for the movies “Broken Marriage” and “Sister Stella L.,”for “Pahiram ng Isang Umaga” in 1989, which she shared with Nora Aunor (“Bilangin ang Bituin sa Langit”). Succeeding awards came for “Ipagpatawad Mo” in 1991 and “Dahil Minahal Kita: The Dolzura Cortez Story” in 1993. In her acceptance speech, Vilma shared her award with her co-nominees – Nida Blanca, Elizabeth Oropesa, and Rosanna Roces. 8-year-old Serena Dalrymple took home her first Gawad Urian award for Best Supporting Actress for her performance in “Bata, Bata Paano Ka Ginawa.” Another first-time Gawad Urian winner was Jaime Fabregas, this year’s recipient of the Best Supporting Actor award for the movie “Jose Rizal.” Raymond Bagatsing won his second consecutive Gawad Urian Best Actor Award for the movie “Serafin: Kriminal ng Baryo Concepcion.” He received his first Urian best actor award (for “Milagros”) last year. The movie “Jose Rizal” went home with the most technical awards. Although “Bata, Bata Paano Ka Ginawa” won this year’s Best Picture Award, Marilou Diaz Abaya took the Best Director honors for “Rizal.’ Other awards received by “Rizal” were Best in Sound (Michael Albert Idioma), Best in Music (Nonong Buencamino), Best Production Design (Leo Abaya), and Best Cinematography (Rody Lacap). The other winners were: Best Editing, Danny Gloria for the movie “Gangland” and Best Screenplay, Lualhati Bautista for “Bata, Bata, Paano Ka Ginawa?” The “Natatanging Gawad Urian” was bestowed on actress Mona Lisa who started her career in 1938 in Parlatone Hispano Filipino’s “Ang Pagbabalik.” Her most recent work was under Nick de Ocampo, “Mother Ignacia…” – Sol Jose Vanzi, March 30, 1999 (READ MORE)

Film Academy of the Philippines Best Actress – “…GMA Films probably heard the bad news from the grapevine before the Film Academy of the Philippines’ 17th Annual Academy Awards started Sunday night, and decided to boycott. The table reserved for GMA Films remained conspicuously vacant throughout the awards night held at the PICC. Their hunch, or inside info, was right. The much-acclaimed movie José Rizal, failed to win any award. GMA’s staunch competitor, Star Cinema, romped away with most of the major awards. Best Picture was Star Cinema’s Bata, Bata, Paano Ka Ginawa? The film directed by Chito Roño, which tackled women’s issues, gave Vilma Santos another Best Actress award. The movie also won Best Supporting Actress honors for child star Serena Dalrymple. Carlo Aquino was named best supporting actor and Manny Morfe, for best production design. Birador, another Star Cinema film, bagged the best director and best editing awards for Edgardo Vinarao, best cinematography for Juanito Pereira and best screenplay for Senen Dimaguila. Rudy Fernandez was named best actor for portraying a struggling policeman in Birador. This is his second award from the Film Academy of the Philippines after Batuigas: Pasukuin si Waway in 1984. Other awards went to Pusong Mamon, which won the best musical score and best theme song awards for Dennis Garcia, originally of the Hotdogs Band. Best Sound was received by Ramon Reyes for GMA Films’ Sa Pusod ng Dagat. The awards itself had generated controversy when José Rizal’s producers, Butch Jimenez and Jimmy Duavit, and two production staffers Rody Lacap and Nonong Buencamino, were considered ineligible to be nominated and therefore ineligible for any award…” – Sol Jose Vanzi, April 27, 1999 (READ MORE)

FAMAS Lifetime Achievement Award – “…Multi-awarded dramatic actress Vilma Santos can no longer be nominated for the FAMAS Best Actress Award, since she had been elevated to the Hall of Fame for having won five FAMAS Best Actress trophies over the years. But on its 47th year, the Filipino Academy of Movie Arts and Sciences, the oldest cinema award- giving body in Asia, wants to give Vilma due recognition for her continued excellence and longevity as a Box Office Queen. The body also wants to recognize her contribution to the industry by being a model public servant and popular Mayor of Lipa City. On April 8, FAMAS Awards night, Vilma will be bestowed this year’s FAMAS Lifetime Achievement Award. Vilmanians would consider this, plus the grand slam and the Hall of Fame honors, as proof that their idol, Ate Vi, is way above her arch rival Nora Aunor. But Noranians would be quick to retort that nothing can match the glory and recognition Nora Aunor received when she was named Centennial Artist during the Philippine Centennial celebrations. As much as their fans love to fight over who is better or more popular, the two actresses are actually very good friends in real life, calling each other “kumare” and running to each other’s assistance whenever necessary…” – Sol Jose Vanzi, March 28, 1999 (READ MORE)

Brussels International Film Festival Best Actress – “…Here is a much-deserved birthday gift for Lipa City Mayor Vilma Santos: she has just won the Best Actress award at the just-concluded Brussels International Film Festival for her portrayal as a single mother in Star Cinema’s Bata, Bata, Paano Ka Ginawa. The film’s director, Chito Roño, was named Best Director in the same event. “Bata, Bata” was Vilma’s only movie for 1998. It was shown four months after she was elected Lipa City Mayor. Before it went to Brussels, Bata, Bata won for Vilma the Best Actress trophy at the Urian Awards, the Star Awards and the Film Academy Awards. She could have also won the FAMAS award, but as a member of the FAMAS Hall of Fame, Vilma is disqualified from competing in the FAMAS Best Actress category. The story was written by Lualhati Bautista, also the author of the controversial “Sutla,” starring Priscilla Almeda…” – Sol Jose Vanzi, Nov. 16, 1999 (READ MORE)

Hawaii International Film Festival – “…Four local movies have so far been chosen by Christian Gaines of the Hawaii International Film Festival for exhibition in the prestigious event in November. Four more will be picked in July when Gaines returns to Manila. Hawaii filmfest ’99 is focused on the Philippines. The first four movies selected were Chito Roño’s “Bata, Bata…Paano Ka Ginawa?,” Joel Lamangan’s “Sidhi,” Carlitos Siguion Reyna’s “Kahapon May Dalawang Bata,” and Gil Portes’ “Saranggola.” Of the four, only “Saranggola” has not yet been commercially released. Gaines viewed a rough copy (interlock) of “Saranggola” whose post-production work is yet unfinished. “Saranggola” stars Ricky Davao and Lester Llansang as father and son. Script by Butch Dalisay. Also being eyed for Filipino movies’ participation is the Sundance (Utah) filmfest (Robert Redford’s very own project), where Gaines is in charge of the world cinema division. “Saranggola” is an aspirant to the June Manila Film Festival. Gaines is inviting Cesar Montano as juror and Vilma Santos as special guest to the Hawaii filmfest, where “Jose Rizal” was shown last year…” – Sol Jose Vanzi, April 17, 1999 (READ MORE)