Tag Archives: FILMS

FILMS – ITO ANG PILIPINO (1967)

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Basic Information: Directed: Cesar Gallardo; Story: Augusto Buenaventura; Screenplay: Augusto Buenaventura; Cast: Joseph Estrada, Mario Montenegro, Barbara Perez, Eddie Garcia, Gloria Sevilla, Johnny Monteiro, Vic Silayan, Yolanda Guevarra, Eddie Infante, Elsa Boufard, Jose Vergara, Ely Ramos Jr., Jose Garcia, Rafael Jimenez, Romy Diaz, Jose Padilla Jr., Anita Linda, Lou Salvador Jr., Angelo Ventura, Jay Ilagan, Vilma Santos, Rene Rueda, Avel Morado, Ben Datu, Lou Salvador; Executive producer: Joseph Estrada; Original Music: Ariston Avelino; Cinematography: Felipe Sacdalan; Release Date: Disyembre 30, 1966 – Enero 9, 1967; Production Co.: Emar Productions; Film Poster: Video 48

Plot Description: Story of Tomas Ronquillo (Joseph Estrada) before the Spanish revolt of 1896. His struggle to fight for his family and the oppressive Spaniards.

Film Achievement: The 15th Filipino Academy of Movie Arts and Sciences Awards Night was held 1n 1967 for the Outstanding Achievements for the year 1966. – Best Picture – Ito ang Pilipino — Emar Pictures; Best Actor – Joseph Estrada; Best Supporting Actor – Eddie Garcia; Best Story – Augusto Buenaventura; Best Cinematography – Felipe Sacdalan; Best Director Nomination – Cesar Gallardo; Best Actress Nomination – Barbara Perez; Best Supporting Actress Nomination – Gloria Sevilla — Ito ang Pilipino

Film Reviews: – “…In 1966, Estrada was “just” an actor portraying a bandit fighting the Spaniards, led by Eddie Garcia. Directed by Cesar “Chat” Gallardo, an important scene in the film featured the late Vic Silayan telling the young Estrada that he would be the country’s next president-to which, Estrada’s character answered in disbelief, saying it was impossible, because he could neither read nor write! Prophetically, the historical film presaged the actor’s political career. Who would have known that he’d become the 13th president of the Philippines?! At the screening, Estrada’s leading lady, Barbara Perez, who was first seen in 195’6′s “Chabacano,” was in the audience to watch the “lost” film revived by the Society of Filipino Archivists for Film (SOFIA). The actress shares: “Back then, I kept getting in and out show biz, especially when I had to give birth!…” – Rica Arevalo (READ MORE)

“…Director-scriptwriter Totoy Buenaventura, one of President Joseph Estrada’s favorite filmmakers, is this year’s lifetime achievement awardee of the Manila Film Festival. A Manileño, Buenaventura was born on Feb. 2, 1933 in Tondo, Manila, where he also finished elementary (Magat Salamat Elementary School) and high school (Torres High School). He took up bachelor of arts at Far Eastern University in downtown Manila. Buenaventura wrote scripts and directed films set in Manila, many of which starred Joseph Estrada. The Manila Film Festival honored him with a best director award in 1971 for “Ang Uliran.” Buenaventura’s writing and directorial credits include “Geron Busabos,” “Ito ang Pilipino,” “Erap Is My Guy,” “Bakya Mo Neneng,” “Kumander Alibasbas,” “Diligin Mo ng Hamog ang Uhaw na Lupa,” and “Sa mga Kuko ng Agila,” all starring Josesph Estrada…” – Sol Jose Vanzi, June 5, 1999 (READ MORE)

Ang Giting ng Pilipino – “Ang katutubong giting ng mga Pilipino ang pinapaksa ng pelikulant Ito Ang Pilipino ng Emar Pictures. Ang pakikipaglaban ng magigiting na bayani upang matamo ang kalayaan ay siyang nagpapagalaw sa pelikulang ito na tinatampukan nina Joseph Estrada at Barbara Perez. Kasama rin dito sina Mario Montenegro, Johnny Monteiro at Elsa Bouffard. Sa iba’t ibang yugto ng panahon mula kay Lapulapu, nagpamalas ang lahing kayumanggi ng kagulat-gulat na giting at tapang sa mga bansang nang-alipin sa ating kapuluan. Sa panahon ng pananakop ng mga kastila, hindi mabilang na pagbabangon ang nakatala sa kasaysayan upang malagot ang gapon ng pagkakaalipin. Sa kabila ng pagiging maliit at mahinang bansa, ang Pilipinas ay hindi nawawalan ng mga anak na hindi natakot magbuwis ng buhay sa maraming mararwal na larangan alang-alang sa kalayaan, maging noong lumunsad ang mga Amerikano at nitong huli ay nang pataksil na manalasa ang mga Hapones. Napapanahon madin ang pelikulang katulad ng Ito Ang Pilipino upang maipakilala ang katutubong kabayanihan ng mga Pilipino.” – Tagumpay Magazine, 21 December 1966 (READ MORE)

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Hotdog: Unang Kagat (1975)

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Basic Information: Direction: Raul T. Silos; Story: Bert R. Mendoza; Cast: Dennis Garcia, Connie Angeles, Greg Lozano, Ella del Rosario, Jess Garcia, Edward Campos; Special appearances: FPJ, Joseph ‘Erap’ Estrada, Nora Aunor, Vilma Santos, Boots Anson-Roa; Original Music: Hotdog; Cinematography: Fortunato Bernardo; Release Date: 30 May 1975 (Philippines); Production Co: Crown Seven Film Productions

Plot Description: No Available Data

Film Achievement: No Available Data

Film Review: “…Formed by brothers Dennis and Rene Garcia in 1974, Hotdog crashed the music and concert circuit at a time when fans’ musical taste and preference were heavily influenced by imported acts playing trite disco and funk tunes, as Pinoy groups — though highly-talented were relegated to doing covers and cheap imitations of foreign hits to remain relevant. Hotdog became an instant sensation when it launched its distinctive sound that came to be known as Manila Sound, an original Pilipino music distinguished for exuberant songs that featured catchy, captivating lyrics in Tagalog and Taglish that directly appealed to the ordinary Filipino listeners’ everyday moods and sentiments. Through Manila Sound, Hotdog succeeded in revolutionizing the formal and stilted music scene that led to the establishment of a new and lasting identity for mainstream Filipino music and blazed the trail for OPM to take root and flourish from the late ‘80s onward. Its rise to musical stardom has been phenomenal. Its songs, all written by Dennis and Rene Garcia — became smash hits, topping the local charts from the mid-’70s to the mid-’80s and remaining at the forefront of the most recognized and acclaimed tunes in popular Filipino music. Hotdog has released more than three dozen hit singles that eventually attained gold and platinum status. One of its big hits, Bongga Ka, Day (1974), reaped greater success when it spawned a motion picture of the same title featuring the band, together with a stellar cast composed of Fernando Poe Jr., Joseph Estrada, Nora Aunor, Vilma Santos and Boots Anson-Roa in cameo roles. Another hit that was turned into a successful movie starring Nora Aunor was Annie Batungbakal, which was about the story of a disco-loving saleslady. Another popular song, Manila, a tribute to the capital city, has become an anthem of millions of Filipinos working overseas who continue to long for their native land…” – Peter Osias, The Philippine Star Nov 21 2011 (READ MORE)

“…Last Thursday, we joined 70s fans at “Hotdog: The Reunion” at PICC tent which suffered from the awful sound system where half of what Rene Garcia was saying couldn’t be understood. Most of the group was new, although Maso Diez was there, but the crowd expected Ella del Rosario to sing her big hit “O Lumapit Ka” even if a new girl did quite well. Top favorites at the show were still “Manila,” plus “Bongga ka Day” and “Annie Batungbakal,” which movies of the same title had been produced by Guy’s NV Productions, directed by Maryo J. de los Reyes, starring Guy and favorite leading man of the season Lloyd Samartino (now in TV5’s “PS I Love you ” teleserye). Even earlier, in 1974, the first Hotdog album “Unang Kagat” resulted in a movie with the band in 1975 with cameos of FPJ, Erap, Guy, Ate Vi, and Boots Anson Roa. The 4th reunion concert showed the band headed by the unassuming genius of Dennis Garcia as still the leader of the Manila Sound genre that fused Tagalog with Taglish. In the show they paid tribute to contemporaries VST & Company, Boyfriends, and Hagibis. The disco group VST with Vic Sotto, Val Sotto, Joey de Leon, Homer Flores, and Spanky Rigor had made famous the songs “Awitin Mo isasayaw Ko” and “Disco Fever” while the audience rose to their feet when Hotdog interpreted VST’s “Rock Baby Rock.” The Boyfriends’ pop and disco hit “Bakit Labis Kitang Mahal” covered by both Lea Salonga and Dingdong Avanzado in their albums was Hotdog’s next tribute. Then, of course, came the Hagibis with their campy imitations of the Village People in “Katawan,” which to this day is a favorite in dance parties…” – Bibsy Carballo, Journal, Dec 04 2011 (READ MORE)

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Bukas Sisikat Din Ang Araw (1988)

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Basic Info: Direction: Mitos Villareal; Cast: Snooky Serna, Gabby Concepcion, Ernie Garcia, Vivian Foz, Vilma Santos, Tita Muñoz, Augusto Victa, Celina Chase, Julio Diaz, Melissa De Leon, Roland Montes; Released date: 17 March 1988

Plot Description: No Available Data

Film Achievement: 1988 FAMAS Best Supporting Actor Nomination – Ernie Garcia

Film Review: Seeing this soporific melodrama is like a long journey into the night. One wishes that it soon ends for a radiant sunrise to follow. But alas this movie only ignites small sparks of interest to keep us from yawning. The film’s bleak cinematography makes it a visual turn-off, the script needs tightening, the cerebral plot is too familiar and that bit of social relevance has not been smoothly integrated into the story. Serna (Estrella) plays a young, pretty and brainy lawyer but who has not been using her mind well in her romance with company manger Concepcion (Gerry). She feels like a whore each time Gerry brings her to his home but is too weak to resist his bedroom charm. Estrella has just passed the bar and since she’s brilliant, her law office forthwith sends her abroad to handle some cases. It must have taken her several years because when she returns home her child sired by Gerry is already a grown-up girl (Celina Chase). Serna with her sweet and fragile looks, does not project the image of a bright lawyer who is making a headway in her career. We never see her in the law firm she works for or even scanning over some paperwork. She is not smart to tackle her problem from the legalistic point of view. She gets pregnant but we don’t see her wih a bulging tummy and she delivers a bay which she gives to her cousing Aida (Vivian Post) and her husband Roel (Ernie Garcia) for adoption. Estrella does not inform Gerry of her pregnancy when she should have. So off he goes to Germany on official business with Carina (Melissa de Leon), daughter of company owner Dona Mercedes (Tita Munoz).

Melissa is a novice version of elder sister Pinky de Leon and for a new comer in a dramatic role, her acting is good enough. Munoz is noted for her strong personality on screen but here she delivers a restrained portrayal perhaps because her voice was dubbed by someone else. Dona Mercedes, as written in the script, is a confusing character. She is not an avaricious woman who is content with the profits Gerry brings into the company. Gerry employs fair labor practices but his assistant Atty. Cruz (Augusto Victa) is anti-labor. In a sudden change of heart, Dona Mercedes falls for the scheme of Cruz which triggers a labor strike. Gerry is already home but Cruz calls the shots. And yet, before this, Dona Mercedes has made it clear to her daughter that she needs Gerry. Gerry, by the way, has gotten married to Carina abroad but their relationship turns sours. Once home, Carina immediately seeks her old beau Randy (Julio Diaz) who is now married. Villareal’s treatment is not cinematic. She relies too much on dialogue to make the story move. Estrella’s pregnancy delivery of her baby and developments in her career are simply verbalized. Carina orders Randy to abandon his wife in exchange for a juicy position in her company but we don’t see him working. The illicit lovers vanish from the scene after their poolside dalliance and resurface much later.

The film’s main weakness is in the script. The trips of Estrella and Gerry and Carino go beyond realistic expectations. And to think that Estrella has only been sent by her office to handle a case or some cases and the couple to close a deal with a business associate. It takes years before they return. In one scene, Carina realizes her love for Gerry who is by then packing his bags to leave her for good. Carina pleads for him to stay but he has already made his decision. The next scene shows Carina in a hotel room with Randy and her she tells him that she is calling it quits. But why go to bed with him in the first place? Actually the central plot which has been complicated by too many subplots is about the romance between Estrella and Gerry. We know that they have to be back to each other’s arms to fullfill a happy ending. Villareal and her scenarist contrive a familiar device. Randy kills Carina with a gun in Gerry’s house where she has sought refuge. And for the coup de grace, Randy’s wife (Vilma Santos) suddenly appears on the scene to kill her philandering husbang. So as not to waste the much vaunted acting prowess of Santos, she is made to deliver a passionate monologue after shooting Diaz. Santos appears too late in the story and she should have an ealier scene to motivate her criminal act in the end.

Being an avowed womanizer, Randy’s murder of Carina seems out of character. Unless he has fallen hard for Carina, which is unlikely, Randy can simply hook another rich woman to replace her in case his wife rejects him. The most incredulous scene happens in a hospital where the doctor refuses to give medical aid to labor leader Roel who has been shot by a security guard during the strike. “I don’t think he’s gonna make it,” says the negligent doctor who should be shot too. And yet, Roel is able to tell Gerry that Lilet is his daughter by Estrella. Concepcion shows traces that he is intent on tackling mature roles but he doesn’t strike us as a believable young executive. The most powerful performer in the film is Vivian Fos. Garcia suits the role of a labor leader but the script does not give him much to do. The same applies to Diaz whose debonair look makes him a credible playboy but his character lacks depth. This meadering melodrama shows no promise of a brighter tomorrow for the local cinema. – Luciano E. Soriano, Manila Standard, Mar 28, 1988 (READ MORE)

“…Ate Vi made around 198 films from 1963 to 2002. This includes cameo appearances in Dugo at Pagibig sa Kapirasong Lupa, Mga Mata ni Angelita, Huwag Hamakin Hostess (with Nora Aunor and Alma Moreno with Vilma getting Orestes Ojeda in the end), Candy, No Other Love, Charot, Rizal Alih, Engkanto, and ‘Bukas Sisikat Din Ang Araw’, a Gabby-Snooky starrer, produced by friend Gabby Concepcion…” – The 28th (READ MORE)

“…Ernie won many acting awards. He was Aliw Awards’ Best Actor in 1988 for his portrayal in Rolando Tinio’s Filipino translation of William Shakespeare’s “Hamlet.” He also garnered two Best Supporting Actor trophies from FAMAS and PMPC Star Awards for Movies in 1989, in the late Mitos Villareal’s directorial opus “Bukas Sisikat Din ang Araw” which starred Gabby Concepcion and Snooky Serna and where he played the role of a labor union leader…” – Crispina Martinez-Belen (READ MORE)

“…Ang tatay ni KC Concepcion na si Gabby Concepcion ay isa rin sa mga kaibigan ni Vi. Ilan ding pelikula ang ginawa ni Vi at Gabby katulad ng Pahiram Ng Isan Umaga, Sinungaling Mong Puso, Hahamakin Lahat, Ibigay Mo Sa Akin Ang Bukas at Asawa Ko Huwag Mong Agawin. Sa pelikulang Bukas Sisikat Din Ang Araw, kung saan si Gabby ang prodyuser ay naging special guest si Vi na sa totoo lang ay halos kasinlaki ang billing niya (Vi) sa mga major characters nito. Isa sa mga anak ni Gabby, anak niya kay Grace Ibuna ay inaanak ni Vi katuwang sina Lorna Tolentino, Alma Moreno, Snooky Serna at Maricel Soriano. Noong last episode ng Vilma show sa GMA 7 ay isa si Gabby sa mga special guests ni Vi at nag-compose pa ng tula si Gabby para kay Vi. Noon namang nagkaroon ng problema si Gabby dahil sa kontrobersiya sa Manila Film Festival noong 1994 ay isa si Vi sa mga naging sabihan niya ng kanyang mga problema. Si Gabby ay naging best supporting actor ng Star Awards for Movies noong 1992 para sa pelikulang Sinungaling Mong Puso, best actor ng Urian noong 1992 para sa Narito Ang Puso Ko at best supporting actor ng Urian para sa pelikulang Makiusap Ka Sa Diyos noong 1991…” – Alfonso Valencia (READ MORE)

Filmography: Ang erpat kong Astig (1998)

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Basic Information: Directed: Felix E. Dalay; Cast: Jinggoy Estrada, Carmina Villaroel, Rufa Mae Quinto, Bea Bueno, Melisse Santiago, Efren Reyes Jr., Caridad Sanchez, Dick Israel, Alicia Lane, Veronica Veron, Benedict Aquino, Bernard Fabiosa, Gerald Ejercito, Jam Melendez, Martin Gutierrez, Bebong Osorio, Boy Gomez, Resty Hernandez, Manny Pungay, Falcon Laxa, Pong Pong, Nash Espinosa; Vilma Santos; Producer: Vic del Rosario Jr.

Plot Description: At a relatively young age, Joe Cuartero (Jinggoy Estrada) is already a widower.

Film Accomplishments: No Available Data

Film Reviews: Watch for the funny opening scene featuring Vilma Santos, Edgar Mortiz and Edu Manzano playing rival lawyers and Vilma as the presiding judge!

“…At a relatively young age Joe Cuartero (JinggoyEstrada) is already a widower. With his wife gone Joe’s life is now centered on his young daughter Tweety (Bea Bueno). But Tweety is under the care of his bothersome in-laws and for Joe to get back his child he must send Tweety to a private school. The devoted father that he is Joe agrees and does everything he can to provide Bea with good education. Bea for her part starts looking for someone who could be her second mother and she takes a special liking on Ms. Celia (Carmina Villaroel) her teacher. Everything seems to be going well for both father and daughter but one day Joe figures in a case of mistaken identity…” – Mav Shack (READ MORE)

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Apoy Sa Ibabaw, Apoy Sa Ilalim (1977)

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Basic Info: Screenplay, Director: Ben Feleo; Cast: Romeo Vasquez; Chanda Romero; Lorna Tolentino; Barbara Luna; Original Music: Demet Velasquez; Cinematography: Max de la Peña; Release Date: December 9 1977; Production Co: VS Films – IMDB

Plot Description: No information available except that the Vilma Santos’ birthday celebration was added as bonus feature of the film.

Film Achievement: No Available Data

Film Review: “…Ate Vi made around 198 films from 1963 to 2002. This includes cameo appearances in Dugo at Pagibig sa Kapirasong Lupa, Mga Mata ni Angelita, Huwag Hamakin Hostess (with Nora Aunor and Alma Moreno with Vilma getting Orestes Ojeda in the end), Candy, No Other Love, Charot, Rizal Alih, Engkanto, and ‘Bukas Sisikat Din Ang Araw’, a Gabby-Snooky starrer, produced by friend Gabby Concepcion…” – The 28th (READ MORE)

Victoria Lorna Aluquin, better known as Lorna Tolentino, sometimes known as L.T., an abbreviation of her screen name (born December 23, 1961), is a Filipina actress, host, executive producer and widow of actor Rudy Fernandez. Together, they bore two sons named Ralph and Renz. She was born on December 23, 1961 in Concepcion, Tarlac and later moved to Manila. Her dad is from Liliw, Laguna. She is also the stepmother of actor Mark Anthony Fernandez. She is first cousin to actress Amy Austria and a niece of actor Jerry Pons. She was married to Rudy Fernandez from 1983 till his untimely death in 2008. They had two children. She attended the elementary grades at St. Anthony School where she also finished high school She took up a Bachelor of Arts course at St. Paul College in Quezon City, and also at the University of Santo Tomas and Maryknoll College. She started her career as a child actress. Later, she portrayed the young Susan Roces in Divina Gracia and has a total of at least 60 movies. She has won eight film awards and garnered 20 nominations (mostly for Best Actress in FAMAS). She’s also one of the Grandslam actresses in the Philippine Cinema together with Nora Aunor, Vilma Santos and Sharon Cuneta. She won her Grandslam Best Actress for Narito Ang Puso Ko (1993). – Wikipedia (READ MORE)

Huwag Hamakin: Hostess (1978)

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Basic Info: Direction: Joey Gosiengfiao ; Story, Screenplay: Toto Belano, Tito Sanchez; Cast: Nora Aunor, Alma Moreno, Orestes Ojeda, Bella Flores, Vilma Santos; Original Music: Demet Velasquez; Cinematography: Rey de Leon; Film Editing: Segundo Ramos; Release Date: August 25 1978; Production Co: JPM Productions

Plot Description: This is a film directed by Joey Gosiengfiao and features Nora Aunor and Alma Moreno with Orestes Ojeda and Vilma Santos in a controversial guest appearance.

Film Achievement: No Available Data

Film Review: “…Mas dramatiko ring isinakonkreto ito ng mahusay na pagganap ni Nora Aunor bilang katulong na namasukan bilang hostess upang matustusan ang pag-aaral ng lalaking iniibig, pinapanood natin siya habang dumaraan sa proseso ng lumbay, pagkabigo at pagtanggap. Matingkad ang kanyang pagkakaganap dahil hinahatak niya tayong damhin ang kanyang mga dilemma habang nakikibaka siyang matanggap ang pagtataksil ng kasintahan. Katangi-tangi rin ang pagganap ni Alma Moreno at totoong nabawasan ang kanyang hysterical gestures sa pelikulang ito ngunit wala rin naman siyang ipinakitang bagong kakayahan para pangatawanan ang papel ng isang babaeng pilit ibinabangon ang sarili upang di-tuluyang masadlak sa kinagisnang uri ng pamumuhay…” – Jojo De Vera (READ MORE)

“…Si Orestes ay isa sa mga seksing aktor noong kalagitnaan ng dekada 70s kung saan ang dekadang ito ang pinakatugatog ng kanyang katanyagan. Kinahumalinag siya sa pelikula niyang Ang Boyfriend kong Baduy noong 1976 kung saan ipinareha sa kaniya ang limang naggagandahan babae na sina Amalia Fuentes, Barbara Perez, Celia Rodriguez at iba pa. Sa pelikulang Huwag Hamakin: Hostess dalawa sa mga sikat na artista ang itinambal sa kanya na sina Nora Aunor at Alma Moreno na gumanap bilang mga hostess sa kanyang buhay…” – Wikipilipinas (READ MORE)

“…Ate Vi made around 198 films from 1963 to 2002. This includes cameo appearances in Dugo at Pagibig sa Kapirasong Lupa, Mga Mata ni Angelita, Huwag Hamakin Hostess (with Nora Aunor and Alma Moreno with Vilma getting Orestes Ojeda in the end), Candy, No Other Love, Charot, Rizal Alih, Engkanto, and ‘Bukas Sisikat Din Ang Araw’, a Gabby-Snooky starrer, produced by friend Gabby Concepcion…” – The 28th (READ MORE)

“…Do you always succeed in packaging a movie? “Often, yes, But, alas, I have failures too.” For instance? “Well, some reasons for failure are due to wrong chemistry of the cast, to the vehicle (story) and/or unsuitability of both elements. Let’s take the movie, Huwag Hamakin: Hostess, which with solid actresses, a move that proved to be contrary to the image of La Aunor. It would have been all right, if Alma Moreno, Nora’s co-star, was paired with another bold actress. But that, we learned only later and too late! I was aware of Guy’s image. But I wasn’t aware that her image wouldn’t go well with the combination. Not even the controversy of including Vilma Santos in the cast helped. It only antagonized both camps of Nora-Vilma fans…” – Manny B. Fernandez, Expressweek, March 1, 1979 (READ MORE)

“…In the 15 movies he had appeared in since 1972, Orestes feels that he has not done roles that would demand from him the maturity of outlook as an actor…”I like to be known as an actor and not just a bold star. But cinema is a tremendous image-making machine. I realize that I cannot totally turn my back on my bold image,” Orestes lamented…he is back again in his bold role in “Huwag Hamakin: Hostess.” But Orestes is happy about this role. He is paired with Nora Aunor and Alma Moreno. The picture is a tragic-comedy. “I play a bastard-gigolo who lives off two women portrayed by Nora and Vilma. The role offers me romantic and comedy situations. It also calls for some understanding of a misdirected and amoral character and I certainly find it a challenge,” stresses Orestes when we talked in a downtown hotel which was the setting of one of his love trysts with co-star Alma. ” I am centainly very lucky to have Joey Gosiengfial as a director. He has guided me in my interpretation of my roles. And of course, it’s a rare opportunity to be pitted against two real actresses like Nora and Alma and a veteran performer like Bella Flores (who plays Orestes’ sugar mommy in the flick)”, he adds…Observers in the local movie world believe that Orestes can be a good actor. The guy has looks and intelligence…” – Beth U. Castillo, Expressweek Magazine, 29 June 1978 (READ MORE)

Candy (1980)

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Basic Info: Direction: Joey Gosiengfiao ; Story: Ely de Guzman; Cast: Sheryl Cruz, Ricky Belmonte, Rosemarie Sonora, Ronaldo Valdez, Chichay, Nora Aunor, Vilma Santos, Aruray; Release Date: 11 April 1980; Production Co: Silver Screen Productions – IMDB (READ MORE)

Plot Description: No Available Data

Film Achievement: 1981 FAMAS Best Child Actress Nomination – Sheryl Cruz; Sheryl Cruz has appeared with Vilma before in Candy (Vilma in a cameo role) and Good Morning Sunshine (1980) directed by Ishmael Bernal and Mano Po 3: My Love (2004) is their third film together.

Film Review: “…Ate Vi made around 198 films from 1963 to 2002. This includes cameo appearances in Dugo at Pagibig sa Kapirasong Lupa, Mga Mata ni Angelita, Huwag Hamakin Hostess (with Nora Aunor and Alma Moreno with Vilma getting Orestes Ojeda in the end), Candy, No Other Love, Charot, Rizal Alih, Engkanto, and ‘Bukas Sisikat Din Ang Araw’, a Gabby-Snooky starrer, produced by friend Gabby Concepcion…Sheryl Cruz has appeared with Vilma before in Candy (Vilma in a cameo role) and Good Morning Sunshine (1980) directed by Ishmael Bernal. Mano Po 3 is their third film together…” – The 28th (READ MORE)

Sheryl Rose Anna Marie Sonora Cruz (born April 5, 1974 in Makati City, Philippines), better known simply as Sheryl Cruz, is a Filipina actress and singer. She is known for her role as Divina Ferrer on 2007’s television drama series Sinasamba Kita and as Valeria on Bakekang and Rosalinda. Cruz started her career at a very young age. She won the FAMAS Best Child Actress award for her portrayal in the movie “Mga Basang Sisiw” opposite Janice de Belen, Che Che and the late Julie Vega. She also won best child actress for the movie “Roman Rapido” opposite her late uncle the King of Filipino Movies, Fernando Poe Jr. She was later contracted by Regal Films along with Kristina Paner and Manilyn Reynes to form the sensational group “TRIPLETS”. Among the three, Manilyn Reynes became the Star of the New Decade and Sheryl Cruz became the Princess of Philippine Cinema. At that time, GMA Network established the youth oriented TV show “That’s Entertainment” hosted by German Moreno, where she became part of the Wednesday group. – Wikipedia (READ MORE)

Aruray was a famous Filipina comedian of the Philippines. She made many movies produced by her home studio Sampaguita Pictures. Born in 1920, she is one of the most successful comedians of the 1950s and 1960s. She was once nominated as Best Supporting Actress in the movie Torkwata. – Wikipilipinas (READ MORE)

Darna and the Giants (VIDEOS)

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Plot Description: The second film after the massive success of Lipad Darna Lipa (Fly Darna Fly), Vilma Santos returned as Darna/Narda in Darna and the Giants. Directed by Emmanuel H. Borlaza, Giants was about X3X (Helen Gamboa) who infected ordinary people with serum that made them giants. The giants played havoc to the city and thank goodness Darna eliminated them before demonic X3X conquered the whole world. Now paired with Don Don Nakar as Ding, Vilma radiated the screen for the second time. Kudos to the tricky special effects that made the giants realistic. Ike Lozada stole the film though. His scenes were the funniest in years. Darna used a huge church bell to defeat him. It was unclear why the fat giant, Ike, were allergic to the sound of the church bell. Darna rung the bell to great effects, making the giant Ike felt excruciating pain in his ears. Darna then threw the bell on Ike’s head suffocating him to his immediate death. That alone made everyone’s theatre tickets worth every penny! And lots of pennies as the film became the top grosser of the 1974 Christmas festival. – RV

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Filmography: Takot ako, eh! (1987)

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Basic Information: Director: Mario O’Hara; Writing credits: Mario O’Hara, Tito Rey; Cast: Ian De Leon, Lotlot De Leon, Matet De Leon, Caridad Sanchez, Jaime Fabregas, Richard Merck, Ronel Victor, Marilyn Villamayor, Kiko De Leon, Vida Verde, Irma Alegre, Vilma Santos, German Moreno, Romnick Sarmenta, Zorayda Sanchez, Dan Alvaro, Mario Escudero, Tony Angeles, Nora Aunor, Nanette Inventor, Maritess Ardieta, Arthur Cassanova, Lady Guy, Lucy Quinto, Josie Galvez, The Ramon Obusan Dancers, Remy Tabones; Producer: Nora C. Villamayor; Original Music: Demet Velasquez; Cinematography: Johnny Araojo; Art Direction: Julius Dubal; Sound: Antonio Acurin

Plot Description: No Available Data

Film Accomplishments: 1988 FAMAS Best Child Actor Nomination – Ian De Leon

Film Reviews: “…The only evidence that Takot Ako, Eh! could not have been made by just anyone with the right money and resources lies in one extremely exclusive instance. This would take a whole lot of paring down and possibly a radical revision of the exposition, but if our point of reference is Halimaw, then you’d now have the best installment available for that omnibus product. I’m referring to the subplot involving Caridad Sanchez as a way-out househelp, not quite in her right mind yet not quite obtrusive enough to arouse anyone’s suspicions. Before the time machine brings back the Nora Aunor character it first spews out Dracula (a wonderfully with-it Richard Merck), who like all the previous males on the scene doesn’t really fall for the maid’s advances, but, unlike the rest, doesn’t have the advantage of remaining intact during daytime and going without blood. When Sanchez starts turning on the charm for her captive lover, all hell, for him at least, breaks loose, and one wishes for the most part that the final Countdown hadn’t been sooner. And to return to where we started: wasn’t this the kind of role – the maid, I mean in particular – that Nora Aunor became famous for? A character performer like Caridad Sanchez can think of nothing about shifting from serious to comic interpretations within more or less similar characterizations (check out two temporally disparate Lino Brocka films, Santiago and Ano ang Kulay ng Mukha ng Diyos?, plus her critically underrated salvo in Marilou Diaz-Abaya’s Alyas Baby Tsina, for a sober accounting of the lady’s prowess); on the other hand, a Nora Aunor can only work on a highly involved plane of acting, in fact as in film. Forced to a distance (considering her bygone stature as the superstar of Cebuano cinema), Sanchez takes full advantage by playing to the hilt, damn the consequences, and involves everyone else in her having fun even at her own expense; Nora Aunor offers a weak substitute of herself, four of them in fact, and politely takes her place in the background. Somewhere there’s a metaphor for the human capacity for excessive celebrity, and the sadness of losing a precious sort of genius when the condition begins to take its toll…” – Joel David, National Midweek, 25 November 1987 (READ MORE)


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Vilma Santos Seven Golden Years 1977 – 1984

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From 1977 to 1984, Vilma Santos made 55 films, a very productive seven years full of commercial success and several critical accolades.

13 Acting trophies– 11 Best Actress, 2 Best Picture (Film Producer)

11 Acting Nominations

1977– six films, highlights: Burlesk Queen and Dalawang Pugad, Isang Ibon signalled her image transformation.

  • 1977 Burlesk Queen – “…an official Entry to the 1978 Festival del film Locarno (Switzerland) …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…” (READ MORE)
  • 1977 Dalawang Pugad, Isang Ibon – “…Bernal recieved his first Gawad Urian best director award…Anita Linda and Mary Walter played mother and grandmother to Vilma…” (READ MORE)
  • 1977 Masarap, Masakit ang Umibig – “…an entry to the 1981 ASEAN Film Festival in Sydney Austarlia and Asia-Pacific Film Festival in Taipei Taiwan…the film earned Mat Ranillo III the 1978 FAMAS best supporting actor award…” (READ MORE)
  • 1977 Pulot-gata, Pwede Kaya? – “…Directed by and casted Vi with Romeo Vasquez, Suzanne Gonzalez, Rodolfo Boy Garcia, Tange, Ruel Vernal, Tita De Villa, Paraluman…” (READ MORE)
  • 1977 Susan Kelly, Edad 20 – “…Directed by Maria Saret and casted Vi with Dante Rivero and Anthony Alonzo…” (READ MORE)
  • 1977 Apoy sa Ibabaw Apoy sa Ilalim (cameo role) – “…Produced by VS Films, no information available except that the Vilma Santos’ birthday celebration was added as bonus feature of the film….” (READ MORE)

1978– fourteen films, highlights: Lino Brocka’s Rubia Servios and Celso castedillo’s Pagputi ng Uwak, Pag-itim ng Tagak; atleast one film per month; films with Nora Aunor, Ikaw ay Akin, Pinagbuklod ng Pag-ibig and Huwag Hamakin Hostess (Vi in came role).

  • 1978 Huwag Hamakin Hostess (cameo role)
  • 1978 Mga mata ni Angelita (came role) – “…Julie Vega was only 10 years old when she was launched to full stardom in the 1978 movie, “Mga mata ni Angelita.” …She appeared in previous movie outings as Darling Postigo. The young Vega was ably supported by an all super star casted headed by the King of Philippine Movies, Fernando Poe, Jr. (in the role of Conrado, the ex-convict) and Comedy King Dolphy (as Tacio, the taho vendor). Also appearing in cameo roles…Vilma Santos ( as a worried wife)…” (READ MORE)
  • 1978 Amorseko: Kumakabit, Kumakapit – “…Directed by Maria Saret and casted Vi with George Estregan, Ernie Garcia, Rez Cortez, and Beth Bautista…” (READ MORE)
  • 1978 Bakit Kailangan Kita? – “…Directed by Emmanuel H. Borlaza and casted Vi with Romeo Vasquez, Vilma Santos, Maan Hontiveros, Laurice Guillen, Romeo Enriquiz, Mary Walter…Leah Navarro’s “Kailangan Kita” was used as the film’s theme song ..” (READ MORE)
  • 1978 Kampus – “…Directed by Emmanuel H. Borlaza and casted Vi with Bembol Roco, Mat Ranillo III, Allan Valenzuela, Liza Lorena, Anita Linda, Lito Lapid…” (READ MORE)
  • 1978 Disco Fever – “…Directed by Al Quinn and casted Vi with Christopher De Leon, Victor Laurel, Rio Locsin…” (READ MORE)
  • 1978 Ikaw ay Akin – “…Nora and Vilma were nominated for their roles in the 1978 Gawad Urian but lost, their leading man Christopher de Leon won the best actor…” (READ MORE)
  • 1978 Nakawin Natin ang Bawat Sandali – “…Directed by Elwood Perez and casted Vi with Christopher De Leon, Baby Delgado, Roel Vergel de Dios…” (READ MORE)
  • 1978 Pag-ibig ko sa iyo lang Ibibigay – “…Directed by Nilo Saez and casted Vi with Romeo Vasquez, Perla Bautista, Romy Diaz…Flippers’ “Pag-ibig ko sayo ko lang ibibigay” was used as the film’s theme song…” (READ MORE)
  • 1978 Pagputi ng Uwak, Pag-itim ng Tagak – “…Vilma’s own VS films won both the 1978 FAMAS and Gawad Urian best picture awards…” (READ MORE)
  • 1978 Pinagbuklod ng Pag-ibig – “…Directed by Leonardo L Garcia and casted Vi with Romeo Vasquez, Nora Aunor, Tirso Cruz III, Romnick Sarmenta…” (READ MORE)
  • 1978 Promo Girl – “…Directed by Joey Gosiengfiao and casted Vi with Ricky Belmonte, Roel Vergel de Dios, Bembol Rocco, Eddie Gutierrez…” (READ MORE)
  • 1978 Rubia Servios – “…it may not win her the 1978 Metro Manila Film Festival: Best Performer award but Rubia Servios end up as a record breaking earner of the festival…” (READ MORE)
  • 1978 Simula ng Walang Katapusan – “…Directed by Luis Enriquez and casted Vi with Eddie Rodriguez, Carmen Soriano, Lito Anzures, Rio Locsin, Ruben Rustria…” (READ MORE)

1979– eight films, highlights: movies with fim giants: Dolphy in Buhay Artista, Ngayon; Charito Solis in Modelong Tanso.

  • 1979 Buhay Artista, Ngayon – “…Directed by Frank Gray Jr. and casted Vi with Dolphy, Panchito, Babalu, Cachupoy, Bayani Casimiro, Georgie Quizon, Ellen Esguerra, Moody Diaz, Odette Khan, German Moreno, Ike Lozada, Florante, Joe Quirino…” (READ MORE)
  • 1979 Coed – “…Directed by Emmanuel H. Borlaza and casted Vi with Jay Ilagan, Celia Rodriguez, Allan Valenzuela, Jun Soler, Angge…” (READ MORE)
  • 1979 Halik sa Kamay, Halik sa Paa – “…Directed by Luis Enriquez and casted Vi with Ronald Corveau, Eddie Rodriguez, Rosemarie Gil, Roderick Paulate, Angie Ferro, Aurora Salve…produced by Vilma Santos’ VS Films…” (READ MORE)
  • 1979 Magkaribal – “…Directed by Elwood Perez and casted Vi with Christopher De Leon, Alma Moreno …” (READ MORE)
  • 1979 Modelong Tanso – “…Directed by Cirio H. Santiago and casted Vi with Charito Solis, Winnie Santos…” (READ MORE)
  • 1979 Pinay, American Style – “…Directed by Elwood Perez and casted Vi with Christopher De Leon, Bembol Roco, Cocoy Laurel, Rosa Mia…Theme Song, “Pinay” performed by Florante…” (READ MORE)
  • 1979 Rock, Baby, Rock – “…Directed by Oscar Miranda and casted Vi with Junior, Rolly Quizon, Leah Navarro, Tito Sotto, Vic Sotto, Joey de Leon…” (READ MORE)
  • 1979 Swing it, Baby – “…Directed by Al Quinn and casted Vi with Romeo Vasquez, Tito Sotto, Vic Sotto, Joey de Leon, Amy Austria, V.S.T. & Company, Mike Monserrat, Walter Navarro…Theme Songs, “I-swing mo ako” performed by Sharon Cuneta…” (READ MORE)

1980– nine films, highlights: ressurected her Darna role for the last time; bolder stripper roles in Mrs Jones and Miss X.

  • 1980 Ang Galing-galing Mo, Mrs. Jones – “…Directed by Cirio H. Santiago and casted Vi with Al Tantay, Mark Gil, Vic Salayan, Anita Linda ..” (READ MORE)
  • 1980 Darna at Ding – “…Directed by J. Erastheo Navoa and Cloyd Robinson and casted Vi with Niño Muhlach, Celia Rodriguez, Marissa Delgado, Veronica Jones, Rez Cortez, Ike Lozada, German Moreno, Al Tantay, Donna Villa…” (READ MORE)
  • 1980 Good Morning, Sunshine – “…Directed by Ishmael Bernal and casted Vi with Junior, Lloyd Samartino, Sheryl Cruz, Debraliz, Anita Linda, Liza Lorena…” (READ MORE)
  • 1980 Gusto Ko Siya, Mahal Kita – “…Directed by Emmanuel H. Borlaza and casted Vi with Romeo Vasquez, Christopher De Leon, Maila Gumila…” (READ MORE)
  • 1980 Langis at Tubig – “…Directed by Danny Zialcita and casted Vi with Dindo Fernando, Ronaldo Valdez, Amy Austria, Vic Silayan…theme song, “Langis At Tubig” performed by Sharon Cuneta…” (READ MORE)
  • 1980 Miss X – “…Directed by Gil Portes and casted Vi with Mark Gil…theme song, “Dito Ba?” performed by Kuh Ledesma…film shot in the red district of Amsterdam…” (READ MORE)
  • 1980 Romansa – “…Romansa (1980) was the first film of two tha Edu Manzano and Vilma Santos films did together (the other one was Palimos ng Pag-ibig (1986)…” (READ MORE)
  • 1980 Yakapin Mo Ako, Lalaking Matapang – “…Directed by Emmanuel H. Borlaza and casted Vi with Lito Lapid, Chichay, Angie Ferro, Lucita Soriano, Rez Cortez, German Moreno…theme song performed by Lirio Vital…” (READ MORE)
  • 1980 Candy Vilma Santos in a cameo role.

1981– four films, highlights: box office hits – Karma and Pakawalan Mo Ako; Karma, an entry to the 1981 Metro Manila Film Festival earned Vilma the festival’s best actress award.

  • 1981 Pakawalan Mo Ako – “…Vilma Santos won the 1981 FAMAS Best Actress…” (READ MORE)
  • 1981 Hiwalay – “…Directed by Romy Suzara and casted Vi with Dindo Fernando, Eddie Rodriguez, Celia Rodriguez, Anita Linda …” (READ MORE)
  • 1981 Karma – “…Vilma Santos won the 1981 Metro Manila Film Festival Best Actress…” (READ MORE)
  • 1981 Ex-Wife – “…Directed by Eddie Rodriguez and casted Vi with Beth Bautista, Raul Aragon, Michael de Mesa, Eddie Garcia, Liz Alindogan, Wendy villarica, Rosemarie Gil…” (READ MORE)

1982– six films, highlights: Record-breaking hits: Gaano Kadalas ang Minsan? and Sinasamba Kita. Earned rave reviews for her performance in Relasyon; last year’s Pakawalan Mo Ako earned Vilma her second FAMAS best actress (after Dama De Noche in 1972).

  • 1982 Gaano Kadalas ang Minsan? – “…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 that’s 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…” (READ MORE)
  • 1982 Haplos – “…Directed by Antonio Jose Perez and casted Vi with Christopher De Leon, Rio Locsin, Delia Razon, Eddie Infante…theme song, “Haplos” performed by Eva Eugenio…” (READ MORE)
  • 1982 Never Ever Say Goodbye – “…Directed by Gil M. Portes and casted Vi with Nonoy Zuniga, Ian Veneracion…theme song, “Never Ever Say Goodbye” performed by Nonoy Zuniga…” (READ MORE)
  • 1982 Relasyon – “…The very first “Grand Slam” for Best Actress in Philippine Entertainment history…” (READ MORE)
  • 1982 Sinasamba Kita – “…They started with 38 theatres, by the weekend (they added more) and became 41 theatres…After 6 days, the film earned P5,207,416.00. After a week’s time, almost P6 million…” (READ MORE)
  • 1982 T-Bird at Ako – “…Directed by Danny Zialcita and casted Vi with Nora Aunor, Dindo Fernando, Tommy Abuel, Anita Linda, Liza Lorena, Rustica Carpio…theme song, “Hiwaga ng Pag-ibig” performed by Nora Aunor…” (READ MORE)

1983 – four films, highlights: box office hits – Minsan Pa Nating Hagkan Ang Nakaraan and Paano Ba Ang Mangarap; received grandslam best actress from previous year’s Relasyon (Winning four best actress from FAMAS, Gawad Urian, CMMA and FAP).

  • 1983 Ayaw Kong Maging Kerida – “…Directed by Leonardo L. Garcia and casted Vi with Romeo Vasquez, Carmi Martin, Norma Blancaflor…” (READ MORE)
  • 1983 Broken Marriage – “…Vilma Santos won the 1983 Gawad Urian best actress, her second consecutive awards from the local critics…” (READ MORE)
  • 1983 Minsan pa Natin Hagkan Ang Nakaraan – “…Directed by Marilou Diaz Abaya and casted Vi with Christopher De Leon, Eddie Garcia…theme song, “Minsan Pa Nating Hagkan Ang Nakaraan” performed by Basil Valdez…” (READ MORE)
  • 1983 Paano Ba ang Mangarap? – “…Directed by Eddie Garcia and casted Vi with Christopher Deleon, Amy Austria, Jay Ilagan, Peral Bautista, Armida Siguion Reyna, Vic Silayan…theme song, “Paano Ba Ang Mangarap?” performed by Basil Valdez…” (READ MORE)

1984– four films, highlights: films with Brocka, Diaz-Abaya, de Leon in one year; received second consecutive Gawad Urian for last year’s Broken Marriage.

  • 1984 Adultery – “…Directed by Lino Brocka and casted Vi with Phillip Salvador, Tita De Villa, Alvin Enriquez, Anita Linda, Mario Montenegro, Deborah Sun…” (READ MORE)
  • 1984 Alyas Baby Tsina – “…Directed by Marilou Diaz-Abaya and casted Vi with Phillip Salvador, Dindo Fernando, Cecille Castillo, Chanda Romero, Johnny Delgado, Caridad Sanchez, Maria Isabel Lopez, Dexter Doria, Mary Walter, Vangie Labalan, Harlene Bautista…” (READ MORE)
  • 1984 Sister Stella L. – “…Vilma Santos won the 1984 Gawad Urian:best actress…the Philippines’ entry to 1985 Venice International Film Festival…Sister Stella L. was one of 25 Filipino films shown in New York from July 31 to August 1999, organized by the Film Society of Lincoln Center…” (READ MORE)
  • 1984 Charot – “…Vilma Santos in cameo role…” (READ MORE)