This year, I couldn’t think of anything to write about love. Perhaps, my definition of love has gone to a different level, which most people may not understood. However, I don’t want to sound ‘jaded’, but as an individual–I still believe that there is such a thing as ‘happy ending’… just like in fairy tales.

Anyway, I stumbled on this video that features four handsome male singers singing ‘HARANA – Number One’. Watch the video here and feel in the air–the thing that is called ‘LOVE’.

Baldo of Team Sarah and Nino Alejandro of Team Lea were both chosen to leave the competition on Sunday, February 15. Images courtesy of The Voice of the Philippines website.

On Sunday evening, the two female coaches of ‘The Voice of the Philippines’ went through emotional stress in choosing for their two last-team members who would fight in the second to the last round of the said singing competition televised nationwide and can be viewed worldwide via IWantTV. Lea Salonga and Sarah Geronimo had a difficult time in choosing Leah Patricio and Monique Lualhati to join the other two artists—Timmy Pavino and Jason James Dy in their respective teams.

Letting go of Nino Alajandro and Kokoi Baldo drew mixed reactions from the live audiences, from the televiewers and even from the Netizens, but I share the same feeling for the two judges, which I also have questioned in their decisions in the past, but in my reflections—I also realized that being a ‘judge’, which I also underwent many times in the past—it is one act that is as tough as choosing to live or to die on this earth.

People should always remember that life is a series of battles and sometimes we all have the chance to win and at times we are pushed aside to fail, but what matters the most is accepting the fact that LIFE IS NEVER FAIR. The only thing that stays is the reality of how we all have to stand up, strive hard, to finish the race.

Two Coaches. Salonga, the Broadway Diva and Geromino, the Popstar Princess went through emotional distress during the latest elimination round of The Voice of the Philippines. Images courtesy of The Voice of the Philippines website.

If Geronimo chose Monique over Kokoi, it was clear that Lualhati really wanted to stay in the competition. Meanwhile, on Alejandro’s case—he may have joined the competition to stage a comeback, but personally, he doesn’t need any comeback at all; he is already made as opposed to his fellow team member—Patricio.

Like what I have written in the thread on Nino Alejandro’s post on facebook, “I love how Ms. Lea Salonga described the artists whom they had to let go. Leaving The Voice of the Philippines stage is not the end of the road, but rather an opportunity for them to collaborate with other artists outside of the competition. All coaches go through tough decisions. Other people may deem not understand the process of choosing the artist who should continue in their journey to become the next Philippine winner, still I respect their choices. Pursuing a dream and succeeding in it is not just limited to winning a particular competition, but it is about acquiring the right attitude and be an inspiration to many who continue to dream dreams, no matter how bumpy the road is. To Kokoi and to Nino Alejandro, they already have their rightful places in the music industry. It is just a matter of how they make a difference in the next challenges presented to them outside of the contest.”

The Hong Kong film director Daniel Lee painted a beautiful scenario of the historic Silk Road, named by Ferdinand von Richthofen, a well-known German geographer in 1877—via the latest and most expensive period movie titled ‘Dragon Blade’ with Jackie Chan, John Cusack, and Adrien Brody as the lead actors.

I grew up watching some of Chan’s films, but with this one, I would say this really deserves a standing ovation due to its production values, the performances of the actors, and how the characters hooked its audience with the story of friendship between Huo An (Chan), the Commander of the Silk Road Protection Squad and Lucius (Cusack), the Commander General of the Roman Empire.

Lee brilliantly made the Silk Road as its narrative arc in developing and presenting a story about unity, peace, and friendship between races. Since this trade route originated from Chang’an (now Xian) has been an ancient route that did not only circulate goods, but also exchanged the splendid cultures of China, India, Persia, Arabia, Greek and Rome—it is but fitting that this historical place was made as the film’s main backdrop.

‘Dragon Blade’ has three main reasons why moviegoers should not miss.

Chan’s character as Huo An, a Chinese peacekeeping force commander is seen in a duel against Cusack’s Lucius, a Roman general in the film ‘Dragon Blade’.

Its Message of Peace Transcends Time.

In these times of violence and war, that even our country is not excluded from facing—this film teaches mankind to respect his fellow human beings. Chan’s character as Huo An, who leads a peacekeeping force known to be the Protection Squad set during the Chinese Han Dynasty (206 BC–24 AD), met Lucius, a Roman general who escapes to China after rescuing the Prince Publius (Jozef Waite) from the evil Tiberius (Brody). Tiberius killed his father, the wealthiest man in Rome in order to secure the inheritance to himself.

The intense duel scene between Huo An and Lucius was one of the film’s highlights that moviegoers should look forward to, Chan, who described his character as a man who detests wars, but ironically he must win wars to achieve peace and Cusack, who assumed the role, which was rumored to be originally offered to Mel Gibson; allowed him to showcase his skills in kickboxing and sword-fighting.

Two warriors are both fighting for good and eventually end up as allies and form the kind of deep bond to protect humans from the horrors of wars and from the greed of one leader in penetrating and conquering the Silk Road.

Superb Display of Acting.

Chan is pitted with Hollywood actors in this film. Apart from Cusack, Hollywood actor—Adrien Brody (‘The Pianist’) made an impressive portrayal of Tiberius. He succeeded in channeling the sinister Roman ruler’s character onscreen, though brief but deserves an acting nomination. Being Tiberius, Brody effortlessly became the character that even in his fight scenes with Chan as well as Choi Si-Won, the Korean heartthrob and a member of a boy band Super Junior who portrayed Yin Po were truly breathless.

Waite as Publius also stole some scenes especially when he had his moment when he sang a Roman anthem. His voice gave some chills and moved not just every actor in the scene, but the audiences who watched at the celebrity premiere on Tuesday, February 18 at Cinema 3 of Glorietta 4. Other notable acting that needed necessary highlights are those of two female leads—Chinese actresses Lin Peng and Mika Wang as Cold Moon and Hou An’s wife, respectively. Both didn’t allow to be left behind in terms of assuming their roles. Lin Peng was eloquent in using two weapons—the whip and the bow. While Wang, though immaculately-looking, she was able to express her character’s deep emotions.

Another notable appearance in the film is of Korean-American pop star—Yoo Seung-jun as the Cold Moon’s warrior-brother. The Australian model-actress-dancer Sharni Vinson (Step Up 3D) had a cameo role as the Roman Queen. Even the Chopsticks Brothers Xiao Yang and Wang Taili had their moments, too, as they provided comic relief in the film.

Grand Depiction of Silk Road and the Roman Empire.

The legend of a Roman legion coming into China—into the trade route—the Silk Road was carefully staged and while watching the movie, one can feel that he or she is transported to that place and relive historic memories about what it was popularly known for. The Roman Empire on the other hand, was breathtaking in its depiction—its attention to detail made the said setting more believable unlike when Filipino period flicks are being done.

One cannot think of how challenging this film was done, which was mentioned as seven-year-in-the-making. With 700 crew members of different nationalities, speaking more than ten languages including Mandarin, Cantonese, English, Korean, French, German and Russian—proved that it is possible to make such epic film despite the many differences in the set as well as extreme weather conditions experienced by the cast and crew due to its film’s location—China’s western frontier. They had been exposed to continuous rain in Hengdian and the countless sandstorms in Aksai, but ‘Dragon Blade’ triumphed as it rendered grand depictions of ancient China and the Roman kingdom.

Dubbed as one of the most expensive films in history with an estimated US$65 Million budget; it utilized 100,000 film props, 60,000 of which were handcrafted. Due to the meticulous handling of the set and other necessary stuff that went with the filming of ‘Dragon Blade’—it has given justice to the historical scenes. Thus, watching it in 3D would definitely add a different dimension for the audience to experience.

Also in the film, is Taiwan’s ‘F4’ and ‘Meteor Garden’ phenomenon—Vaness Wu and Karena Lam were also part of the cast members. Both are archeologists in the present time who pave the way for the story on the ‘Two Empires: The Eagle and the Dragon’.

This Jackie Chan latest opus, which he also produced and choreographed its action scenes, is not something to miss. One must watch this on the silver screen or opt for a 3D-version so every the scene would create an effect that one is truly there and won’t just have a flat and bland experience especially during the battle of all tribes involved.

The epic film ‘Dragon Blade’, which re-imagined the legend of two commanders; opened yesterday in theaters nationwide to commemorate the first year of the Chinese New Year. Viva International Pictures and MVP Entertainment released the film here in the Philippines.

Kapuso actor Jake Vargas leads the cast of stars in a Neal Tan horror film titled ‘Bahay Ampunan’, opening on Wednesday, February 25 in selected theaters nationwide.

Vargas plays the role of Noel, a band member who got a break in working abroad along with his band members, but has the dilemma of leaving behind his adopted younger brother Eboy, who also became an orphan after their parents passed away from a vehicular accident. Leaving Eboy reminds Noel’s mother who left him in an orphanage and he doesn’t want to repeat that for the little boy.

According to Tan, the story he wrote is inspired from a Manila orphanage that was destroyed by fire years back.

In the story, Noel went back to the orphanage where he used to consider as his home and was considering of leaving Eboy to the take care of a nun and other loving and charitable workers, but only to find out that it was no longer a safe place to live in. Noel gets reunited with the people he used to live with including his childhood sweetheart named Diosa, but had to make a choice of pursuing the love he failed to nurture or run away the second time around.

‘Bahay Ampunan’ features Renz Michael, Martin Luigie Venegas, Elaver Pacatang, Maria Isabel Lopez, Aleck Bovick and many more.

On Sunday, February 22, the same day when one of the coaches celebrated her birthday—Lea Salonga—The Voice of the Philippines chose the Top Four artists that will battle against each other in the finale round slated next weekend. Alisah Bonaobra, Leah Patricio, Jason James Dy, and Rence Rapanot were all declared the top four artists representing the teams of Apl, Lea, Sarah, and Bamboo, respectively.

It’s Alisah versus Leah. Images courtesy of The Voice of the Philippines site.

This year, I predict that it will be a battle against two female big voices and the two males would just be third and fourth placers. Bonaobra of Coach Apl will be another a dramatic story while Patricio of Coach Salonga will stay true to what a real world-class talent is made of; as they both will clash with their respective voices.

MAKATI CITY, Philippines – Come Monday, March 2 at Glorietta Activity Center, Ulysses King, a Filipino fashion designer who specializes in Menswear, a Certified Public Accountant, a brand consultant and active member of Fashion Designers Association of the Philippines ( FDAP) will present his Dark Foliage spring-summer 2015 collection supported by Converse.

Converse is popularly known as sneakers. The footwear started on the court and got adopted on the streets. It all began as a rubber company that manufactures sneakers and boots, and then found basketball and reinvented the sport through their now worldwide popular brand. Its Converse Chuck Taylor All-Star sneaker became the court sneaker

King shares, “I was chosen by Converse as one of the 18 brand influencers from the fashion industry for their Converse Grand Campaign Launch. I will be presenting a four-piece all menswear collection.

“Also the launch of my spring summer collection for 2015 titled ‘Dark Foliage’ along with designers Melchor Guinto and Jeff Rogador. The street dapper theme of black, white and gray using Egyptian cotton as it mirrors the printed material with hand-painted graphics of dark foliage. The design collection will be blended with Converse Classic Mono low and high cut sneakers and other accessories.”

King as a designer admitted that he discovered his flair in designing clothes when he opened a shop at The Podium Mall in January 2008. He first joined Philippine Fashion Week via his collection titled ‘Swiss Guard of The Vatican City’ in May 2010 at MOA main atrium. Later, his fashion shop was named and recognized as ‘Vatican Fashion Museum’.

He earned his Certificate in Fashion Merchandising at University of the Arts in London College of Fashion with Master’s Degree in Business Administration from Ateneo Graduate School. He was also a former designer of SM Menswear under the label Bo’ Athletics and men’s leather bags for OUR TRIBE. His designs were donned by celebrities like Jake Cuenca, Sam Milby, Enrique Gil, Gerard Anderson, Marlon Stockinger, John Spainhour, JC De Vera, Coco Martin, Rachel Ann Go, Vina Morales, et al.

Two of hottest Korean actors—Lee Min-ho and Kim Rae-won play the lead roles of Kim Jong-dae and Baek Yong-ki, respectively in ‘Gangnam Blues’. Both are childhood friends who treated themselves as adopted brothers, and support themselves by picking up papers and empty bottles, but dreamt of having a more comfortable life someday.

Due to their dire need for cash, they got involved in the collusion and battles between political powers and criminal organizations during the real estate development of Seoul’s Gangnam District amid a socio-political turmoil in the 1970s.

A Tagalised Film.

Watching this in cinemas would probably confused moviegoers that they are watching Koreanovela either on GMA-7 Kapuso or ABS-CBN 2 Kapamilya channels. One would not see any sub-titles in English anymore, but SineAsia, a joint project of Viva Entertainment Incorporated and SM Lifestyle Entertainment Incorporated opted to run the film as a breakthrough in showing Asian flicks dubbed in Tagalog for Filipinos to have a unique and enjoyable viewing experience.

Personally, it is effective in choosing to present the film this way for Filipinos to appreciate fully the film’s message; though the theme song used—titled ‘Anak’ which was popularized by Filipino folk singer Freddie Aguilar was a bit disturbing for me. Maybe it’s just me.

However, in its entirety, the film is moving in many ways particularly in its dramatic scenes that showed Lee Min-ho.

Lee Min-ho shines through!

Though Lee Min-ho is being pitted against another actor Kim Rae-won of ‘Love Story in Harvard’ fame; still the former stood out especially in his moments.

Kim Rae-won as Baek Yong-ki reminds me of Mark Anthony Fernandez, the local actor we have and the son of the late Rudy Fernandez and the actress-turned politician—Alma Moreno.

As Kim Jong-dae, he managed to live a decent and honest life with a with former gang leader Kil-su as the adopted son and brother to the old man’s only daughter. Lee Min-ho displayed his dramatic prowess in scenes where he tried to console his sister Kang Seon-hye, a battered wife portrayed by Kim Seolhyun. The other scene was when he read a document revealing his legal adoption to the family he has learned to love and embrace as his own. And the last one was when he was crawling in pain beside the train railways; this was toward the conclusion of the movie.

Indeed, Lee Min-ho was successful enough in channeling a cool aura with deep emotional sense as a rising gangster. Meanwhile, Kim Rae-won‘s acting is his best performance after he portrayed a similar role as a gangster in 2006 film ‘Sunflower’.

A Film with So Much Promise.

Apart from the film’s commerciality due to casting both Lee Min-ho and Kim Rae-won; it offers a deeper sensibility on what family is all about.

Also, it tackled an evocative and immensely entertaining saga that pits a common tale of brotherhood and betrayal against a thrilling period setting mired in violence and corruption as described by modern Korean cinema’s Pierce Conran.

In terms of production, it has painted a realistic era of the 70s Korea and every fight scene were handled well to the extent that I need not watch the bloody and violent scenes. The director—Yoo Ha did a fine job in directing the film with a different title—Gangnam 1970  back in 2014, but ‘Gangnam Blues’ was retained as the international English title.

The film is something that Filipino fanatics of Korean actor-Lee Min-Ho would really go out and watch. It opened in theaters in Metro Manila, on Wednesday, March 4. However, after watching the red carpet premiere held at SM Megamall, Cinema 11—I found the film too violent; not suitable and recommendable for younger audiences below 18 years of age.

‘Gangnam Blues’ was released in 684 theaters in South Korea on January 21 this year and topped the box office on its opening day, with 152,500 tickets sold despite its ‘restricted’ rating. Catch it in all theaters today!

MANILA, Philippines – Productions56 managing director, an award-winning international and veteran film and television director—Maryo J. Delos Reyes and child talent—Miggs Cuaderno were both given awards at the recently concluded 31st Star Awards for Movie at the The Theater, Solaire Resort & Casino on Sunday, March 8.

Multi-awarded international filmmaker Delos Reyes posed with his protégé Cuaderno after they both received their respective awards at the recently concluded 31st Star Awards. Photograph courtesy of Direk Maryo J’s facebook account.

Delos Reyes was honored as Ulirang Alagad Ng Pelikula Sa Likod Ng Kamera Lifetime Achievement Award, while the Cuaderno, who starred in the independent film titled ‘Asintado’ was recognized as Best Child Performer of the Year, who tied-up with his look-alike child star and son of Kris Aquino—Bimby Yap.

On television, Direk Maryo J. is currently directing the recently premiered series titled ‘Pari Koy’ with Dingdong Dantes in the lead role, while Miggs is with another telenovela ‘Second Chances’.

Hosts for the said momentous awards night attended by celebrities and other personalities in the entertainment circuit were Kim Chui, Iza Calsado, Xian Lim and Pops Fernandez while ‘The Voice PH’ co-host Robi Domingo was the segment host.

The Philippine Movie Press Club (PMPC) with the leadership of Mr. Joe Barrameda, the current president and over-all chairman mounted the said awards, which honors the best Filipino movies of 2014 for the mainstream and indie film categories; and it is a block-time production of Airtime Marketing Incorporated, headed by producer Tess Celestino-Howard, in cooperation.

The awards night will be telecast on Sunday, March 22, on ABS-CBN’s Sunday’s Best.

For full list of winners, click here!

Four of the country’s best standup artists—Candy Pangilinan, Ate Gay, Gladys Guevarra, and Rufa Mae Quinto will be in a show tonight and tomorrow evening, Friday and Saturday, March 13 and 14, 8pm, Music Museum.

Andre de Real, the director guarantees this show to be riot in fun and entertainment as the four artists collide in their brand of antics. It’s going to be Bigger, Better, and Bolder at the same time.

Pangilinan, Ate Gay, Guevarra, and Quinto will be joined by Kim Idol, another equally funny comedian who had made a name for himself in making people laugh. Musical director is Soc Mina.

Tickets available at SM Tickets and TicketWorld.

The series ‘Two Wives’ that topbilled two of the country’s promising dramatic young actresses in their generation—Kaye Abad and Erich Gonzales as Yvonne Aguilluz-Guevarra and Janine Arguello-Guevarra, respectively—had its final episode yesterday, March 13.

From Left to Right: Erich Gonzales as Janine Arguello-Guevarra and Kaye Abad as Yvonne Aguilluz-Guevarra. Images courtesy of IWanTV.

It was a five-month, full of drama in the lives of the families related to the two wives.

Despite the struggles that Yvonne and Janine faced in the many episodes of the said series; where they battled over one husband—Jason Abalos as Victor Guevarra–in the conclusion, the two women found peace.

One reason that viewers should realize in this series is that love is not just merely a feeling, but it is a decision. Love is something that no one can comprehend no matter how one would try or attempt to define it. There is truth to the scriptural passage in 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 (with emphasis, added) that says: “Love is patient, love is kind. It is not jealous, [love] is not pompous, it is not inflated, it is not rude; it does not seek its own interests, it is not quick-tempered, it does not brood over injury, it does not rejoice over wrongdoing but rejoices with the truth. It bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, and endures all things.”

Yvonne and Janine became two widows when they both lost Victor and even came to the point of fighting over who should claim the dead body of their former husband. But because of love, everything changed. It allowed them to forgive and slowly move on as they eventually found new loves.

Another strong point that this series have emphasized is that—women are the strongest species because it can bear all the pains, the wounds, and everything that men could not. Thus, the conclusion was more meaningful because both women have finally accepted their strengths and weaknesses—coming from the space of love.

The family melodrama series was loosely based on the 2009 Korean drama of the same title, and was directed by FM Reyes. It was aired on ABS-CBN Channel 2 and on The Filipino Channel from October 13 last year. It also featured three equally stellar appearances of Dina Bonnevie, Tanya Gomez, and Isay Alvarez.

Many stories were told about the adventures of Cinderella, but with the latest offering from Walt Disney Pictures and produced by David Barron, Simon Kinberg and Allison Shearmur–it is one moving fairytale about the lead character named Ella or Cinderella portrayed by Lily James opposite Richard Madden as Prince ‘Kit’ Charming.

The teaser poster of Cinderella 2015 movie.

This 2015 American romantic fantasy film directed by Kenneth Branagh, from a screenplay written by Chris Weitz is reminiscent of the Disney’s 1950 animated musical film of the same name. It certainly borrowed elements from the mentioned film and is also inspired by the tale created by Charles Perrault with some references from the Brothers Grimm’s version.

In the film, after Ella was left orphaned and was under the cruel guardianship of her evil stepmother Lady Tremaine, which breathed into by Cate Blanchett. Ella had no choice but to also serve the two stepsisters—Drizella (Sophie McShera) and Anastasia (Holliday Grainger), respectively.

The former comfortable lifestyle of the lass has turned into a nightmare, but she still held on to her promise she made to her mom (Hayley Atwell) to ‘have courage and be kind’ and to her dad (Ben Chaplin) to stay in their ancestral home and take care of it.

The moral of the story is—the good will always triumph in the end. Perhaps, Blanchett’s interpretation of the role is quite refreshing as an evil stepmother and could rival Meryll Streep’s Witch in ‘Into the Woods’. However, the one thing that the Filipino moviegoers would love about this Cinderella re-telling is its element of being melodramatic in a good way.

Ella who suffered by the hands of Lady Tremaine displayed an admirable disposition until she met her fairy godmother played by Helena Bonham Carter (whom I would say I also adore here). She got rewarded after doing a good deed; she was able to attend to the Prince’s Ball and eventually met again with the man who captured her heart.

Seeing Lily James as Cinderella reminded me of two equally gorgeous and queenly bearing personalities—one is Megan Young the first Filipina to become the Miss World in 2013 and Julia Abueva who assumed the character in Resorts World Manila’s production of ‘Cinderella’ in 2013.

(L-R): Young was declared Miss World 2013 and Abueva alternated as Cinderella in Resorts World Manila’s production on ‘Cinderella’, also in the same year.

James was perfect and moved with such ease and regal as Kit’s apple of the eyes. Many highlights in the film include the transformation of the pumpkin into a glittery coach, the lizards, the goose, and the mice to be her companion in heading to the ball in the Prince’s castle.

The blue gown glimmered as well as the glass slippers that seems to create varied colors when Ella wore it. The choreography in the ball, particularly the dance of Cinderella and her Prince Charming was splendid and impeccable in its movement.

Everything in the film—its cinematography, the detailed costumes, and sets were simply a delight and feast to the eyes for the moviegoers. Though the story has been told and re-told, one can still enjoy what this film can offer.

‘Cinderella’ opened on Friday the 13th of this month and is now showing in theaters nationwide. To know more about the film, click here!

Catch it today!

After the success of ‘Two Wives’ comes another series titled ‘Bridges of Love’ that is dubbed as a soap that has a ‘story like no other’. When it premiered on Monday, March 16—it created a lot of buzz since it brings together three Gawad Urian awardees—Jericho Rosales, Maja Salvador, and Paulo Avelino, respectively.

Of the four previous episodes—none of which bored me. Rosales plays Gabriel ‘Gael’ Nakpil, a man who dreams and who is willing to do everything just to make his loved ones happy and is hoping to realize his father’s dream [of him] becoming an architect. Apart from that, there is one thing that is lacking in him—he still feels guilty of losing his brother—Manuel ‘JR’ Nakpil Jr., who eventually became Carlos Antonio and is portrayed by Avelino.

Its Conflicts make the Audience Want for More.

In ‘Bridges of Love’, the conflicts presented two traditional breakdowns such as: man versus man (external) and man versus self (which is internal). It cannot be denied that for a story to exist—or at least be worth following—it must contain conflict[s]. Putting together the three main characters—Gael, Carlos, and Mia—it provided the right flavor for its intended audience to savor every bit of the scenes and episodes on its weekday timeslot.

In the coming days—the intersecting lives of the separated brothers and the center of their attraction and affection—Mia Sandoval, Salvador’s character would definitely further the conflict between the two brothers. One can expect a roller-coaster ride between the three main leads. The writers in of the series have brilliantly created the characters to contribute in moving forward the story and it make the audience effectively identify and appreciate the struggles presented.

Two Irresistible Leading Men.

Another winning formula in this series is having two equally gorgeous and intense actors—Rosales and Avelino. Having them as the separated brothers and are reunited by one woman, which serves as the literal bridge between the two ensure another hit for the TV network.

Jericho has proven many times over how good he can be in assuming certain roles and is predicted to his best ever after his stint on a previous drama hit series–‘The Legal Wife’ (2014). He is able to tackle the emotions needed for the ‘charades’ in his character’s journey. As for Paulo, even if he plays a ‘bida-kontrabida’ role—he is like any third party in Koreanovelas—as someone who is hard to let go and set aside.

A Gathering of Fine Actors.

Apart from Rosales, Avelino and Salvador—the series also include both Antoinette Taus and Edu Manzano as returning Kapamilya stars. The two stars will definitely play key roles in the newly-aired drama.

Also, Carmina Villaroel as Alexa Meyers is part of the lead cast members. Other actors in the series are Lito Pimentel, Maureen Mauricio, Malou de Guzman, John Manalo, Joross Gamboa, Janus del Prado, Max Eigenmann, Nikka Valencia, Justin Cuyugan, Jopay Paguia, and Manuel Chua.

Rosales, Salvador, and Avelino are the three leads in ‘Bridges of Love’. Images courtesy of ABS-CBN as screen-captured via IWanTV.

‘Bridges of Love’ is one series that guarantees another quality entertainment from Star Creatives written by Benjamin Lingan, G3 San Diego, and Henry King Quitain. Dado Lumibao, Richard Somes, and Will Fredo are the directors.

The Kapamilya Network very well know how to capitalize on pain and suffering as well as characters caught up in conflicts. It has the right mix of everything, if I may say so. Their writers understand the role of conflicts in both building a plot as well as defining the characters in their soaps.

The following texts are lifted from an article written about Ashley Ortega and the suspected reasons why she was dropped out from her loveteam with Ruru Madrid.

Probable Reasons Why Ashley Ortega was Replaced by Gabbi Garcia as Ruru Madrid’s Partner?

Though Ashley Ortega may have some advantages as a commercial model, a former skater, and who entered showbiz at 13 years of age; to be paired to GMA-7 Kapuso’s ‘Protégé: The Battle for the Big Artista Break’ runner-up and now considered as the Network’s Teen Drama Prince—Ruru Madrid, still she was replaced by another female teen star and currently her co-star in a weekly comedy family-drama show titled ‘InstaDad’.

Here are some probable reasons why her tandem with Ruru Madrid didn’t pan out:

Her Features Didn’t Fit well with Ruru?

From a Chinese-Spanish-German-Filipino descent, her looks can be strikingly strong against the charming features of the young Madrid.

Back in the 80s, when Regal Films paired Snooky and Gabby Concepcion—it worked for a time, but it fizzled afterwards. Gabby was paired to a more Filipina-looking beauty named Lani Mercado, which has semblance on Gabbi Garcia.

Ashley’s Mayumi couldn’t beat Gabbi’s Marikit in ‘InstaDad’ since hers is the immature character as compared to the latter’s?

To read more, click here!

The following texts are lifted from the review I made on the once-a-week series produced by GMA-7 Kapuso Network.

If GMA-7 Kapuso has successfully mounted a game show that is hosted by Willie Revillame, who has stirred its rival channel’s (ABS-CBN 2 Kapamilya, in particular) programming because of its tested captive audience that surely made the said production a top-rater on a Sunday slot; then another show that follows after its timeslot is maybe a ‘real treat’ for the whole family—‘InstaDad’ as it tackles issues on siblings in rivalry.

Ortega, Garcia, and Ocampo play triplets in ‘InstaDad’. Photograph courtesy of GMA-7.

In today’s setting, it is quite obvious that there are issues and struggles that teenagers are facing today that have surfaced even before. The only difference now is that the teenagers are made to face their respective challenges in a more complicated setting. In the advent of social media—these teenagers aren’t sheltered from intrigues and all because any issue can be passed on instantly, via online. They are being ridiculed or being judged by not just their immediate environs, also the whole world.

The creators behind the show may have difficulties in putting together the three teen female discoveries since it was originally focused on one star that is Ashley Ortega. However, when GMA management opted to add two other stars—Gabbi Garcia and Jazz Ocampo into the plot—it became even more exciting to present a story about triplets having a dad; totally clueless in raising three growing-up daughters. Though it the idea is clearly interesting, frankly, the idea of putting together Ortega, Garcia, and Ocampo is no longer novel. Such concept has been done in 1996 series ‘Anna Karenina’ which had a remake in 2013.

To read full story, click here!

The genius of Carlo Vergara’s one-act play and graphic novel titled ‘Kung Paano Ako Naging Leading Lady’ comes to life in this musical extravaganza as mounted by Dalanghita Productions, Inc. In this full-length musical of the same title—the superpowers in theater, television and film industries like Vincent de Jesus and Chris Martinez as the musical director-composer and director, respectively.

Stroem as the superhero named ‘Leading Man’ kissing Escalante as Mely, the maid to the Fuerza Filipinas team. Photograph courtesy of Erickson Dela Cruz.

Having mentioned the three big names—I would strongly say—it is worth watching. It is a display of how talented and how creative Filipinos are especially in musical theater. It is clear that Vergara highlighted or focused on the two lead characters he probably have seen in many Filipinos, particularly the Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) whom for their love of their families—they would sacrifice everything just to provide better lives for their loved ones.

Two Leading Ladies Vie for Love and Acceptance.

Having Bituin Escalante assumed the role of Mely, who is in her mid-30s, a devoted daughter to her mom and a forgiving sister as well is one great choice. She effectively portrayed the role both in acting and singing parts. While Kim Molina is Viva, Mely’s sister who has this belief in life that her looks (which is her advantage over her elder sister) can go far—equally gave a powerful performance as she can be remembered in her previous role as Aileen in PETA’s ‘Rak of Aegis’.

Mely and Viva are two different women who represent the sad realities of life that are mimicked in Philippine telenovelas. Both are the leading ladies longing for love and acceptance in this cruel society of ours. Escalante and Molina are just the right stage actresses for the most coveted roles. In their confrontation scenes—they powerfully displayed such emotions that their audience would truly feel wherever they are seated. On their alternates—Frenchie Dy and Natasha Cabrera, though I haven’t seen them in this production yet, based on their previous stage gigs—I am sure they’re just as equally great.

It Features a Powerhouse Casting.

The Fuerza Filipinas is composed of Menchu Lauchengc0-Yulo as Madre de Dios (centermost), on her left is Caisa Borromeo as Windang Woman, Giannina Ocampo as Nena Babuska, and the male superheroes are (from MDD’s behind–L-R) Jeff Flores as Bazooka Man, Chesko Rodriguez as Popoy Pusakal, and Markki Stroem as Leading Man. Photograph courtesy of Eduard John Pulido.

One cannot afford to miss this show not just because of the geniuses behind it, but even with the other characters portrayed by Philippine theater big names headed by Menchu Lauchengco-Yulo as Madre de Dios, the leader of Fuwerza Filipinas and May Bayot-de Castro as the mother of Mely and Viva.

Playing other superheroes named Fuerza Filipinas are Giannina Ocampo as Nena Babuska, Caisa Borromeo as Windang Woman, Jeff Flores as Bazooka Man, Chesko Rodriguez as Popoy Pusakal, and Markki Stroem as the farm boy from the US who was bestowed with a powerful ring by an ET and later on named as the Leading Man.

The most popular superheroes aren’t just the gorgeous characters as imagined by Vergara, its creator and writer. Like Mely and Viva, they were picked and were really meant to portray the said roles.

Any story won’t be interesting without villains or the antagonists as assumed by ‘Kayumanggilas’. They are composed of Nar Cabico as Senyor Blangko, Vince Lim as Henyotic, JC Santos as Jeryc Sans Rival, Red Nuestro as Maracas Marko, and Red Concepcion as Itak-Atak.

Its Message Attempts to be Impactful.

The ordinary women like Mely and Viva who had the privileged of making a difference in this world as they were both given the chance to be the leading ladies, as female superheroes who were not really born with superpowers, but with big hearts enough to show how they are both capable of loving as the most powerful force of all. But on the other hand, what seemed disturbing to me is how Mely and Viva became the ‘Leading Ladies’.

Markki Stroem as the farm boy from the US who was bestowed with a powerful ring by an ET. Photograph courtesy of Eduard John Pulido.

Though in the end, Viva didn’t wear a costume, Mely who was chosen by Leading Man (Stroem) to take on the ring and be the Leading Lady wore quite a substandard costume as opposed to the Fuerza Filipinas team of superheroes.

What exactly is the message that Vergara is trying to convey here? I find it discriminatory. Even the way the villains, who are pure Filipinos were also portrayed ‘negatively’. If the objective of the stage presentation is to allow the audience to see themselves in the characters, perhaps I find it rather ‘unfair’ to have the villains end without any redeeming value for themselves.

Yes, there is a ‘superhero’ in each one of us, but I think in the conclusion of the show—the villains must undergo certain positive transformations.

‘Kung Paano Ako Naging Leading Lady’ is quite an ordeal as it is a three-hour long musical (at least the one when we first watched it during its Press Night). I just hope that the production has tweaked and tightened some scenes to avoid it a bit dragging in some parts.

De Jesus’s music is impeccable. It’s both singable and danceable especially the songs ‘We Have a Maid’ and ‘Tayo Dapat’. Audiences are expected to sing and dance along while the actors perform onstage. Rutaquio may have imagined a Kryptonite-like ambiance for its set design, and it was a novel attempt, but there were some scenes that did not work well especially with the doors when those were opened to individually introduce the Fuerza Filipinas team. Even the revolving part of the stage—it failed to provide the needed drama for some scenes. It’s not because it was manually-operated, but rather it made the characters standing on that revolving stage looking ‘conscious’ and ‘nervous’. Perhaps the only thing that made it work was when Madre de Dios disappeared in the middle of a battle scene.

I can list some disasters during the Press Night, but I choose not to enumerate anymore.

But this Vergara opus is still worth watching for. He was successful in stressing his trademark—a creator of characters that are reluctant when it comes to love. ‘Leading Lady’ is about forsaking love because of duty. It is another breakthrough after ‘Zsazsa Zaturnnah ze Muzical’.

It still runs on PETA Theater in New Manila, Quezon City until June 7. For tickets, contact +639985311389 or purchase online via TicketWorld.

Dubbed as ABS-CBN Channel 2’s first ‘teleserye’ that changed the viewing habits of Philippine televiewers—Olive M. Lamasan’s ‘Pangako Sa ‘Yo’ will return on air for a remake starting tonight, May 25, replacing the timeslot of ‘Forevermore’. The 2000-2002 series back then had Kristine Hermosa and Jericho Rosales in the lead roles.

Kathryn Bernardo and Daniel Padilla are Yna Macaspac and Angelo Buenavista. Photograph courtesy of ABS-CBN.

Its remake will feature the hottest teen tandem in both Philippine television and silver screen—Kathryn Bernardo and Daniel Padilla as Yna Macaspac and Angelo Buenavista, respectively. The two warring women which were popularized by Eula Valdez and Jean Garcia as Amor de Jesus-Powers and Madame Claudia Zalameda-Buenavista will be assumed by both Jodi Sta. Maria and Angelica Panganiban. Meanwhile, the former character of Tonton Gutierrez will be taken by Ian Veneracion as Gove. Eduardo Buenavista.

Though a Filipino type of soap opera, the Shakespearean plot of Romeo and Juliet love story holds dear and captures the hearts of the drama-driven televiewers. The series promises intense and heart-tugging scenes involving the characters.

‘Pangako sa ‘Yo’ is developed by Malou N. Santos, Des M. de Guzman, and Henry King Quitain; written by Generiza Reyes, Ceres Helga Barrios, and Adam Cornelius Asin. Olivia M. Lamasan, Rory B. Quintos, and Dado C. Lumibao will be alternating as directors.

Its first version gained high popularity in more than 20 countries, including China, Singapore, Thailand, and Malaysia. Cambodian Television Network (CTN) even bought its format from ABS-CBN in 2012 and created a localized version of the said series.

Watch the trailer here:

Kapamilya network’s top-rating series had its ending that made its avid viewers so as those who tried catching it online via #IWantTV glued to its final episode aired on Friday, May 22.

The nose-to-nose scene of Agnes and Xander. Image courtesy of #IWantTV.

Frankly, I was like others who hoped for a ‘happy ending’ which did happen. However, the beauty of the soap’s last few scenes is the journey of all the characters involved, primarily that of the two leads–#Xander and #Agnes. Unlike anyone else, I didn’t feel sad for #Jay and for #Alex.

Some points I didn’t like how the story was written [for its ending] are as follows:

• Xander finding Agnes in the forest was quite predictable.
• It was just too soon for the newly-established relationship of Xander and Alex to end just to accommodate the most-awaited ending—for Xander and to be reunited with Agnes.
• Agnes’s departure for Japan was too fast as well. I think preparing to study in abroad would take quite awhile to complete paperwork and other requirements.

Yes, the choices of words in the dialogues were well-thought of. Even the respective speeches of Agnes and Xander were both moving. And the two pledging their love for each other again and starting their #forever again; amid the pouring rain atop the mountains was lovely as its story closes.

There was a bit of confusion on the lines that Xander uttered before Agnes. He mentioned that he’s not not making any promise, but a vow. Can you please explain to me the difference between a ‘promise’ and a ‘vow’?

In the dictionary, promise is defined as word, pledge, a covenant, an agreement. And vow’s synonymous to a solemn promise, pledge, or personal commitment. Now, tell me which is ‘impactful’? Just my thoughts.

The last scene showed Xander and Agnes doing their nose-to-nose way of expressing their affection toward each other. Image courtesy of #IWantTV.

Despite that, the #AgnesXander loveteam still reigned.

From a riveting story and screenplay of Aloy Adlawan, the film titled ‘You’re Still the One’ is an attempt to present situations of ‘what ifs’ and unrequited love that involves between the Jojo and Ellise; both portrayed by Dennis Trillo and Maja Salvador.

The first tandem of Trillo and Salvador will definitely attest how both artists from rival networks (Kapuso and Kapamilya) have matured in tackling roles such as these.

According to Maja, in a bloggers’ conference, she described her character as someone who is focused and is willing to put off matters of the heart just to attain her goals and be an attorney one day. However, fate teased both Ellise and Jojo as their paths crossed, again. Complications even ensue as they find themselves caught up in a web of confusions on emotions and failed dreams.

Apart from the first tandem of Maja and Dennis onscreen, another first in the film is the inclusion of Richard Yap as Vincent. For Yap, his role is a far cry from his previous ones he has portrayed in the past and described Vincent as the man who is much willing to give his all to the one he loves and expects his love to be repaid by Ellise.

Also in the cast is Ellen Adarna sa Racquel. The film is graded B by MTRCB and is directed by Chris Martinez under Star Cinema and Regal Entertainment. It recently opened on Wednesday, May 27 in theaters nationwide. For more details, log on to this link.

Watch the trailer here.

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When I was asked to write about ‘Pangako Sa ‘Yo’, I didn’t have second thoughts. I took on the assignment.

Angelica Panganiban, Ian Veneracion, and Jodi Sta. Maria are today’s Claudia Zalameda-Buenavista, Eduardo Buenavista, and Amor de Jesus-Powers. Images courtesy of ABS-CBN’s StarCreatives.

The article is a simple observation. Even if I did love the original version, I would say, there are a lot of interesting things to look forward to in watching the remake.

Today’s hottest loveteam–Kathryn Bernardo and Daniel Padilla takes on the popular pain of Yna and Angelo in the remake of #PSY. Photograph courtesy of ABS-CBN’s StarCreatives.

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