Ang Tanging Ina Hits P73.7 M in 4 Days

The Star Cinema MMFF entry “Ang Tanging Ina N’yong Lahat” raked in P73.7 million in 4 days. It’s now one of the biggest movie of the year and on track to surpass it’s own record for the all-time top-grossing pinoy movie which is “Ang Tanging Ina.”

The Ai Ai delas Alas movie is now at no. 9 in the list of biggest pinoy movies for 2008. It is expected to surpass the P100 million mark on its first week of screening to be the no. 4 biggest movie of the year come Thursday.

2008 MMFF BOX OFFICE GROSS
(as of December 28, 2008)

1. Ang Tanging Ina N’yong Lahat - P73.7 M
2. Iskul Bukol… 20 Years After - P57.3 M
3. Shake Rattle and Roll X - P35.4 M
4. Desperadas 2 - P22 M
5. Baler - P18.9 M
6. One Night Only - P4.2 M
7. Dayo - P3.2 M
8. Magkaibigan - P1.4 M

TOP 20 PINOY FILMS FOR 2008

1. A VERY SPECIAL LOVE - P179.23 million
(Star Cinema/Viva Films)

2. CAREGIVER - P139.54 million
(Star Cinema)

3. FOR THE FIRST TIME - P134.7 million
(Star Cinema)

4. MY BESTFRIEND’S GIRLFRIEND - P101.24million
(GMA Films/Regal Films)

5. DOBOL TROBOL GET REDI 2 RAMBOL - P90.51 million
(Octoarts Films)

6. WHEN LOVE BEGINS - P89.38 million
(Star Cinema/Viva Films)

7. MY ONLY U - P79.18 million
(Star Cinema)

8. MAG-INGAT KA SA KULAM - P76.6 million
(Regal Films)

9. ANG TANGING INA N’YONG LAHAT - P73.7 million*
(Star Cinema)

10. MY BIG LOVE - P68 million
(Star Cinema)

11. SUPAHPAPALICIOUS - P66.98 million
(Star Cinema)

12. ONE TRUE LOVE - P62.47 million
(GMA Films/Regal Films)

13. ISKUL BUKOL…20 YEARS AFTER - P57.3 million *
(MZET/APT)

14. SHAKE, RATTLE AND ROLL X - P35.4 million *
(Regal Films)

15. MANAY PO 2: OVERLOAD - P30.4 million
(Regal Films)

16. MY MONSTER MOM - P 29.2 million
(Regal Films)

17. SCAREGIVERS - P 26.07 million
(APT Entertainment)

18. IKAW PA RIN, BONGGA KA BOY! - P 24.66 million
(Viva Films)

19. I.T.A.L.Y. (I Trust and Love You) - P 23.7 million
(GMA Films)

20. DESPERADAS 2 - P 22 million *
(Regal Films)

----------------------------------------

Leaving the Top 20 are:

URDUJA - P 11.51 million
(APT Entertainment)

PLONING - P 10.77 million
(Panoramanila)

LOVING YOU - P 5.55 M
(Regal Films)

TOROTOT - P 2.13 M
(Viva Films)

Source: http://www.starmometer.com/2008/12/30/ang-tanging-ina-hits-p737-m-in-4-days/

Love Me Again (formerly Land Down Under)

After the success of the suspense-drama show Lobo , the PioGel tandem is back this time on the big screen via the movie “Love Me Again” (formerly Land Down Under). The movie is produced by Star Cinema.

The movie was shot in Bukidnon and in Australia.

The movie had its launch in the United States and we found out that a lot of fans really loved Piolo Pascual and Angel Locsin’s acting.

Love Me Again will be shown this January. Worth the long wait!

Source: http://www.showbizgossips.com/love-me-again-starring-piolo-pascual-and-angel-locsin-full-trailer/

Richard Gutierrez and KC Concepcion to star in Valentine movie from GMA Films and Regal

Tuloy na tuloy na ang Valentine movie nina Richard Gutierrez at KC Concepcion next year from GMA Films and Regal Entertainment.

Gabi ng Miyerkules, May 21, isang biglaang invitation ang natanggap ng Philippine Entertainment Portal (PEP) mula sa Corporate Communications Department ng GMA-7 saying, "tuloy na ang contract signing tomorrow of Richard and KC and Direk Joey [Reyes] tomorrow 11 am at the 16th floor Board Room."

Kasunod nito ay nakatanggap kami agad ng tawag sa Project Development Manager and Head of Synergy ng GMA Films na si Noel Ferrer. Ang una naming tinanong sa kanya ay kung "naayos" na ang lahat for the contract signing to push through. Oo raw, so all is set for GMA Films to announce its separate project with Richard and KC.

IMPOSSIBLE DREAM. Mula pa sa simula, everyone wanted to see Richard and KC on screen but it seemed an impossible dream. Richard is an exclusive GMA Films artist at si KC, ipinahayag na noon na pipirma sa Star Cinema as an exclusive artist.

Making the Richard-KC team-up happen began in an early morning talk nina Noel Ferrer and Joey Abacan, VP for GMA Program Management. They wanted to suggest the idea to Star Cinema.

Sinundan ito ng public pronouncement ni GMA Films President Annette Gozon-Abrogar, when she said that GMA Films is open to the possibility of a co-production deal with Star Cinema. The next move was for GMA Films to pursue this co-production initiative along with KC's managers, Sandra Chavez and Shirley Kuan. And, in a way, tumulong na rin pareho sina Richard at KC sa pagiging vocal nila pareho na sana nga ay magkaroon ng isang pelikula na magkasama sila.

THE DEAL. A deal was set between GMA Films and Star Cinema. May sariling pelikula na gagawin ang film arm ng ABS-CBN starring Richard and KC at mauuna itong ipalalabas this August 2008. And then, ang GMA Films naman ang mag-a-announce ng kanilang separate movie, also starring the two stars na may Valentine 2009 release naman.

Nauna na nga ang dalawang big announcements ng Star Cinema. First ang pagpirma ni KC as an exclusive talent with a three-picture contract. Ikalawa, ang pagpirma ng one-picture deal ni Richard sa Star Cinema para maging kauna-unahang partner ni KC sa big screen.

It was also announced that the Star Cinema movie will be directed by Ms. Joyce Bernal and that some of the scenes will be done in Greece.

Naghintay muna ng dalawang linggo ang kampo ng GMA Films bago magbigay ng sariling announcement dahil nasa Europe pa si Annette, nasa Dubai si Richard for his new show, Codename: Asero, at busy naman si KC sa UN work niya sa Marawi.

Tuesday, May 20, of this week na-set ang announcement. But some technicalities surfaced na kailangang ayusin about the contract of KC sa Star Cinema kung kaya't na-postpone ito.

"WHEN I MET YOU." Wednesday, May 21, natuloy naman ang story conference and pictorial nina Richard at KC for their Star Cinema project. Meanwhile, the talks continued between GMA Films and Star Cinema para maayos ang ilang gusot and, presumably, all went well for GMA Films to do its own announcement Thursday morning, May 22.

Alas-onse pa lang ng umaga, kumpleto na ang triumvirate ng GMA Films na sina Ms. Annette Gozon-Abrogar, Joey Abacan, at Noel Ferrer. Ayos na rin ang boardroom ng 16th floor arranged by the Corporate Communication unit headed by Angel Javier. Maaga ring nagsidatingan ang GMA TV crew pati na rin sina Ricky Lo at Lhar Santiago, at sumunod na ang mga publicists ng GMA Films.

Sa background, pinapatugtog ang kantang "When I Met You." We later found out na ito pala ang magiging title ng pelikula na nina Richard at KC, na isinulat at ididirehe ni Direk Joey Reyes, na nasa grounds na rin at hinihintay ang pagdating nina Richard at KC.

According to Direk Joey, When I Met You is a "sweeping romance" about the joy of being young, alive, and in love. Basically, sabi niya, it is everything that's beautiful in the world.

PEP asked Noel and Direk Joey kung magkakaroon din ito ng out-of-the-country scenes. Ito raw ang isa sa mga pag-uusapan sa itaas. Malamang na magkaroon din daw, pero ayaw munang ipasabi kung anong bansa sila pupunta.

When I Met You is scheduled to open February 11, 2009. Like the first four Valentine movies of Richard—Let The Love Begin, I Will Always Love You, The Promise, and My Best Friend's Girlfriend—it will be co-produced by Regal Entertainment.

Source: http://www.igma.tv/story/4075/Richard-Gutierrez-and-KC-Concepcion-to-star-in-Valentine-movie-from-GMA-Films-and-Regal

Joel Lamangan is new director of Richard-KC movie under GMA Films

Pagkatapos ng story conference ng upcoming Sine Novela ng GMA 7 na Paano Ba Ang Mangarap? sa 10th floor HRD meeting room ng GMA Network noong December 15, bumaba ng tatlong floors si Direk Joel Lamangan, sa 7th floor office ng GMA Films. Ito ay para naman sa meeting niya sa producers ng second movie nina Richard Concepcion at KC Concepcion.

Nag-resign na nga si Direk Joey sa project "due to creative differences" at ang ipinalit sa kanya ay si Direk Joel.

Nasa nasabing meeting sina Lily Monteverde at ang anak nitong si Roselle Monteverde-Teo ng Regal Films, at sina Annette Gozon-Abrogar at Joey Abacan para sa GMA Films. Present din ang dalawang bida sa pelikula na sina Richard at KC. Kasama ni KC ang kanyang manager na si Shirley Kwan.

Napagkasunduan nang si Direk Joel ang magdidirek ng pangalawang pagsasama nina Richard at KC sa pelikula, at gagamitin din ang original script ni Aloy Adlawan. Aayusin na lang ang schedule ni Direk Joel dahil nakatakda siyang magsimula ng taping para sa Paano Ba Ang Mangarap?, na pagbibidahan nina Jennylyn Mercado at Mark Herras, sa December 19.

Naka-set naman na kunan ang ilang mga eksena ng pelikula mula December 18 hanggang 22, bago mag-resume ng shooting ng next year para umabot sa Valentine playdate nito next year.

Si Direk Joel ang direktor ng Deathrow, starring Eddie Garcia and Cogie Domingo, bago nag-revamp at nag-produce muli ang GMA Films sa pamamagitan ng unang Valentine movie ni Richard na Let The Love Begin, kasama si Angel Locsin.

Tinanong ng PEP (Philippine Entertainment Portal) si Roselle, na nakausap namin sa ground floor ng GMA 7, at pati na rin si Aloy, na kasama naman namin sa meeting ng Paano Ba Ang Mangarap?, kung ano na ang final title ng pelikula nina Richard at KC. Magkaiba pa rin ang sagot nila.

Ang alam ni Roselle, When I Met You (ito ang pinapatugtog na background music noong araw na pumirma si KC sa GMA Films). Si Aloy naman, ang alam niya pa lang ay ang working title ng kanyang original script, With A Smile, na dapat ay original theme song pala ng pelikula mula sa Eraserheads.

Source: http://www.gmanews.tv/story/139642/Joel-Lamangan-is-new-director-of-Richard-KC-movie-under-GMA-Films

2008 MMFF 2nd Day Box Office Gross

Here are the current rankings of the 8 MMFF movies at the box office according to the festival committee:

1. Ang Tanging Ina N’yong Lahat - 41 million pesos
2. Iskul Bukol… 20 Years After - 35.6 million pesos
3. Shake Rattle and Roll X - 22.9 million pesos
4. Baler - 15.2 million pesos
5. Desperadas 2 - 12.5 million pesos
6. One Night Only - 2.7 million pesos
7. Dayo - 2.2 million pesos
8. Magkaibigan - 1 million pesos

The total earnings of the festival for the first 2 days reached P133.7 million, 37% higher than last year.

Source: http://www.starmometer.com/2008/12/28/2008-mmff-2nd-day-box-office-gross/

"Baler" Dominates MMFF 2008 Awards Night

The historical film "Baler" is the big winner at the 34th Metro Manila Film Festival
(MMFF) awards night Saturday evening by taking home 10 trophies including Best Picture.

Baler also received the grade of “A” from the Cinema Evaluation Board and a commendation from the Department of Education.

The other MMFF entry that received an A grade from the CEB is Magkaibigan. But the Jinggoy Estrada starrer only managed to win 1 award courtesy of Christopher de Leon as Best Actor. Shake, Rattle and Roll X, Desperadas 2, Iskul Bukol 20 Years After and Tanging Ina N’yong Lahat each won 1 award, too.

Dayo, on the other hand, grabbed 4 trophies while One Night Only won 2 awards coutesy of Manilyn Reynes for Best Supporting Actress and Joey Reyes for Best Story.

For the first time in years, the Best Float was scrapped from the awards line-up.

Here is the complete list of winners:

34th MMFF Award Winners

Best Picture:
Baler

Best Director:
Mark Meily (Baler)

Best Actress:
Anne Curtis (Baler)

Best Actor:
Christopher De Leon (Magkaibigan)

Best Screenplay:
Baler

Gatpuno Antonio Villegas Cultural Award:
Baler

Best Supporting Actress:
Manilyn Reynes (One Night Only)

Best Supporting Actor:
Philip Salvador (Baler)

2nd Best Festival Picture:
Tanging Ina N'yong Lahat

3rd Best Festival Picture:
Iskul Bukol 20 Years After

Best Cinematography:
Lee Meily (Baler)

Best Production Design:
Aped Santos (Baler)

Best Editing:
Danny Anonuevo (Baler)

Best Visual Effects:
Robert Quilao (Dayo: Sa Mundo ng Elementalia)

Best Musical Score:
Jessie Lasaten (Dayo: Sa Mundo ng Elementalia)

Best Theme Song:
"Lipad" by Jessie Lasaten and Artemio Abad Jr.,
performed by Lea Salonga (Dayo: Sa Mundo ng Elementalia)

Best Sound:
Albert Idioma and Wally Dellosa (Dayo: Sa Mundo ng Elementalia)

Best Original Story:
Jose Javier Reyes (One Night Only)

Best Child Performer:
Robert Villar (Shake, Rattle, and Roll X)

Best Make-up:
Noli Villalobos (Desperadas 2)

Source: http://www.starmometer.com/2008/12/28/baler-dominates-mmff-2008-awards-night/

Star Cinema’s 2009 Line-Up

ABS-CBN’s film outfit, Star Cinema, has released their movie line-up for 2009.

Apparently, this line-up was shown during the premiere screening of Land Down Under in the US. Please take note that titles, cast and schedules are subject to change without prior notice.

JANUARY

Love Me Again (Love Down Under)
Starring Angel Locsin and Piolo Pascual

FEBRUARY

You Changed My Life
(A Very Special Love Part 2)
Starring John Lloyd Cruz and Sarah Geronimo

MARCH

Estrella
(teen horror movie)
Starring Shaina Magdayao, Maja Salvador, Jake Cuenca, Geoff Eigenmann

APRIL

And I Love You So
Starring Sam Milby, Bea Alonzo and Derek Ramsay

MAY

Amnesia
Starring Bong Revilla and Toni Gonzaga

JUNE

The Man I Loved
Starring KC Concepcion and Piolo Pascual

AUGUST

T2
Starring Maricel Soriano and Mika dela Cruz

SEPTEMBER

A Mother's Story
Starring Vilma Santos, Luis Manzano and John Lloyd Cruz

OCTOBER

Priest
Starring Angel Locsin and Aga Muhlach

NOVEMBER

A Love Affair
Kristine Hermosa, Jericho Rosales and Carmen Soo

The following projects have no tentative date and/or working title yet:

1. RPG - first 3-D animated movie
2. Claudine Barretto movie
3. Judy Ann Santos romantic drama movie
4. Angelica Panganiban/Gabby Concepcion movie

Source: http://www.starmometer.com/2008/12/27/star-cinemas-2009-line-up/

Tanging Ina, Iskul Bukol Top MMFF’s 1st Day Earnings

According to the box-office report from the festival insider, Star Cinema’s entry to this year’s MMFF - “Ang Tanging Ina N’yong Lahat” - leads 1st day earnings.

Ang Tanging Ina N’yong Lahat is the sequel to the no. 1 all-time box-office hit “Ang Tanging Ina” which was shown in 2003. The movie is topbilled by Ai Ai delas Alas and Eugene Domingo among others and directed by Wenn de Ramas for Star Cinema.

There are early predictions that the Ai Ai delas Alas-starrer will lead the box-office race and it looks like it’s heading to reality as tickets for the Star Cinema movie were sold out in some SM Cinemas. The said comedy film is rated G by the MTRCB for the whole family to enjoy.

Running in second place is Iskul Bukol: 20 Years After. Tito, Vic and Joey reprises their role in the film adaptation of their hit tv sitcom 20 years ago. Directed by Tony Reyes, expect to catch several stars making a cameo in the movie including Bong Revilla Jr., Manny Pacquiao and Sharon Cuneta.

In 3rd place is the 10th installment of the popular horror franchise Shake, Rattle and Roll. The Regal Films entry is topbilled by Gerald Anderson, Kim Chiu and Marian Rivera.

On the other hand, two entries received the highest grade of “A” for excellence in filmmaking from the Cinema Evaluation Board. The Viva Films entry “Baler” and the Jinggoy Estrada-Christopher de Leon starrer “Magkaibigan” will be exempted from paying amusement tax to the government for receiving the “A” grade. Apparently, “Baler” badly needed the tax exemption because according to reports, it is the highest-budgeted film among the 8 entries of the Metro Manila Film Festival this year.

The Awards Night is happening on December 27. Among the 8 entries, Magkaibigan and Baler are expected to haul trophies including Best Picture. Unless, another surprise is in store.

The Metro Manila Film Festival will run from December 25, 2008 to January 7, 2009 in theaters nationwide.

Source: http://www.starmometer.com/2008/12/26/tanging-ina-iskul-bukol-top-mmffs-1st-day-earnings/

'Ploning' director wins Asian Festival award

"Ploning", the independent movie starring Judy Ann Santos, continues to reap accolades after its director, Dante Nico Garcia, won an award in the annual Asian Festival of 1st Films Wednesday.

Garcia won the best director award in the annual film fest, which saw over 600 submissions from 26 countries.

"Firaaq," told through the eyes of ordinary people after deadly communal riots in India's Gujarat in 2002, won its director Nandita Das best film, best screenplay/script and the Foreign Correspondents Association award for best film.

Das, an actress known for her roles in bold, unconventional productions, said she took three years to write a script that was continually influenced by real life events, including bombings.

Various Indian and Pakistani films were nominated for awards at the festival, but other honors went to Bosco Francis (best male actor) for Singapore's "My Magic" and China's Jia Xuhua as best actress in "The Mountain and the Song."

Female leads were nominated for their portrayals of suffering Asian women, from transvestites in Iran's "Khastegi" (Sex My Life) to a sexual predator wearing painfully tight outfits in South Korea's "Miss Gold Digger."

Source: http://perfect10movies.blogspot.com/2008/12/ploning-director-wins-asian-festival.html

One Night Only Full Trailer

Shake Rattle & Roll X Full Trailer

BALER Full Trailer

Dayo Official Full Trailer

Desperadas 2 Full Trailer

They are back! The hip, fearless half-sisters of Regal Entertainment’s Desperadas reunite in the highly-anticipated and much awaited sequel – Desperadas 2 - bigger and funnier than what the movie audience fell in love with one year ago.

Ruffa Gutierrez, Rufa Mae Quinto, Iza Calzado, Marian Rivera along with their fifth long-lost sister, Ogie Alcasid bring another hilarious and bigger treat to everyone who has followed and still yet to find out the life story of the Desperadas sisters.

The new film catches up with the eventful lives of Ruffa (Isabella), Rufa Mae (Patricia), Iza (Stephanie), Marian (Courtney) and Ogie (Luga Luda) who share an unbreakable bond as half-sisters. The five are brought together by the love and affection they hold for each other.

Desperadas 2 is one of Regal Entertainment’s official entries to the Metro Manila Film Festival under the helm of award-winning director Joel Lamangan and penned by scriptwriter Roy Iglesias. The film brings a deeper and closer peek into the different issues and personal struggles of the five sisters as they cope with life’s endless ups and downs.

Ruffa Gutierrez gives life to Isabella, who, at present is a successful entrepreneur of beauty products. Despite her thriving business, Isabella gets entangled in a big scandal that will change her life instantly.

Rufa Mae Quinto is Patricia, an easy-going woman who has a politician-boyfriend played by the handsome actor, Christian Vasquez. Patricia feels she has no problems at all until a revelation of having a corrupt partner surprises her.

Iza Calzado portrays the role of Stephanie, who now has a kid and experiences post-partum blues. In the midst of her marital woes, Stephanie turns to her sisters and seeks their help and advice.

Marian Rivera is Courtney, an accomplished and chic fashion designer who is married to basketball star Patrick (Will Devaughn). Unknown to Courtney, she has a stalker played by Alex Castro.

Lastly, Ogie Alcasid plays the role of Luga Luda, the Kwelali Princess who happens to be the long-lost half-sister of the Isabella, Patricia, Stephanie and Courtney. Despite being physically-absent in the lives of her half-sisters, Luga Luda manages to develop a special bond and friendship with the four Desperadas.

Desperadas 2 brings together some of the country’s most talented and stylish showbiz personalities today with Ruffa Gutierrez, Rufa Mae Quinto, Iza Calzado, Marian Rivera and Ogie Alcasid – in exceptional roles that will definitely make the audience laugh, cry and get a huge dose of pure entertainment this holiday season.

A bigger, better and funnier Desperadas awaits everyone this December. Make way for the funkier ladies in Desperadas 2 and share in the belief that in this world, all we need is LOVE!

Desperadas 2 for the Metro Manila Film Festival 2008 awards. Desperadas 2 is actually a sequel to the first movie, Desperadas and stars the same set of character from Ruffa Mae Quinto, Ruffa Gutierrez, Marian Rivera and Iza Calzado. This is a Regal Entertainment feature and directed by the critically acclaimed Joel Lamangan.

Source: http://www.starmometer.com/2008/12/07/desperadas-2-full-trailer/

Iskul Bukol 20 Years After - Movie Preview

Iskul Bukol: 20 Years After is an entry to the 2008 Metro Manila Film Festival
based from the comedy series in the 80’s starring Tito, Vic and Joey.

Synopsis
Twenty years after, Vic Ungasis is now an excellent History professor at Wanbol University and has also successfully ventured in the field of archeology. Natagpuan niya ang Kali of Humabon na siyang nagbukas ng mystery, at hinahanap naman niya ang Kampilan ni Lapu-Lapu at gusto niyang mai-display na magkasama ang dalawang war relics. Ang Kampilan ay nasa pag-aari ni Shimata, a wealthy Japanese national whose main interest is the Peseta, na kasama ng Kampilan. Sinasabing ang Peseta ay isa na lamang sa natitirang 30 pieces of Judas’ silver which will give immortality sa sinumang makakakuha nito. Unfortunately, nawawala ang Peseta nang makuha ni Vic ang Kampilan sa kailaliman ng tubig.

May nakasulat sa Kampilan at sa Kali na nagtuturo kung saan matatagpuan ang Peseta. Ninakaw ni Shimata ang Kali, pero hindi naman niya maintindihan kung ano ang nakasulat sa Kali. Nagpunta si Vic for a speaking engagement in Cambodia, madi-discover niya ang sekreto na kakabit ng mystery, nang makilala niya ang uncle and nephew na sina Samnang at Woog na hina-hunting ng mga tauhan ni Shimata. May kinalaman kaya ang paghahanap sa kanila sa Alibata inscription na nasa puwit ni Woog na kapareho ng inscription sa ninakaw na Kali? At bakit nagtatago rin sina Tito at Joey kay Shimata? At paano mai-involved ang buong barkada sa exciting but dangerous search for the all-powerful Peseta?

The title has been changed to “Escalera and Ungasis: 20 Years After,” which will chronicle the events that transpired in the two decades since the TV series, when the Escalera brothers and Ungasis graduated from Wanbol University.

Mely Tagasa agreed to reprise her role as Miss Tapia and so did Anthony Roquel as Tonette Macho.

The role of Mang Temy however may be retired as a tribute to cast member Bing Angeles
who passed away in 2001.

The movie’s title was changed again to “Iskul Bukol: 20 Years After” in order to gain strong audience recall, owing its large fanbase of people who grew up in the ’70s and ’80s watching the TV show.

Main Characters:

Tito Escalera (Tito Sotto) - One half of the Escalera brothers, who plots harebrained schemes in every episode.

Joey Escalera (Joey De Leon) - The other Escalera sibling. Miss Tapia has a crush on him.

Vic Ungasis (Vic Sotto) - the good-looking and smart teacher’s pet with a chick-magnet personality. The Escaleras often pick on him during class.

Miss Tapia (Mely Tagasa) - Wanbol University’s resident professor who often gets on the Escalera brothers’ nerves.

Mang Temi (Bing Angeles) - the dark-complexioned operator of the university’s cafeteria. His name is a play on the Filipino word “itim” (black or dark), rearranged the 70’s Filipino way, “Tim-i” or “Tem-i,” in the same manner as words in the vernacular are rearranged. Example: bath = ligo = go-li.

Tonette Macho (Anthony Roquel) - the gay student who plays as bestfriend of the fairest girl in class. He is also the nemesis of the Escalera Brothers.

Inang (Dely Atay-Atayan) - Vic’s mother from the town of Tiaong, Quezon. Famous for her term of endearment “Bunsooyy!” whenever addressing Vic. The root word “bunso” is Tagalog for youngest child.

Joey Anson (Joey Albert) - a student whom Vic likes.

Redford White (Redford) - Mang Temi’s houseboy

With special guest appearances of Sharon Cuneta, Ryan Agoncillo, Robert Villar, Carlene Aguilar, Francine Prieto, Gian Sotto, Oyo Boy Sotto, Keempee de Leon, Ciara Sotto, EB Babes, Benjie Paras, Jose Manalo, and Jacky Woo.

Iskul Bukol: 20 Year After will hit theaters on December 25, 2008.

Source: http://www.starmometer.com/2008/12/14/iskul-bukol-20-years-after-movie-preview/

Marian Rivera and John Lloyd Cruz Together in a Movie?

After the possibility of pairing KC Concepcion and Richard Gutierrez in a movie was realized, Star Cinema is now contemplating of putting together GMA’s Marian Rivera and their very own John Lloyd Cruz together in a movie.

Marian Rivera is a movie contract star of Regal Films and Mother Lily is open to the idea of working with Star Cinema, ABS-CBN’s film company, for a joint project in the condition that they will also produce a movie with Angel Locsin.

Last year, the camp of Mother Lily threatened Star Cinema not to do a movie with Angel Locsin until she finishes her film assignments with Regal Films. This was rooted from Angel’s transfer to the kapamilya station last year and it was reported that she’s still under exclusive movie contract with Regal at that time.

Source: http://www.starmometer.com/2008/08/15/marian-rivera-and-john-lloyd-cruz-together-in-a-movie/

Piolo Pascual - Marian Rivera Movie in the Works?

The chemistry between ABS-CBN top actor Piolo Pascual and GMA’s top actress Marian Rivera could create fireworks if they ever team up on a movie.

In the press conference of a new spa where Piolo Pascual and Marian Rivera are the endorsers, their chemistry was put to test and somehow, it worked! As a matter of fact, Mother Lily Monterverde of Regal Films is now planning to make a movie for the two big stars from rival tv stations.


For the latest Philippine news stories and videos, visit GMANews.TV

Source: http://www.starmometer.com/2008/05/02/piolo-pascual-marian-rivera-movie-in-the-works/

Escaleras and Ungasis (20 years After)

Kung nalungkot ang regular viewers na walang Enteng Kabisote sa Metro Manila Film Festival this year, marami naman ang natuwa sa reunion nina Tito, Vic & Joey, dahil ang tatlo ang bida sa Escaleras and Ungasis (20 years After) ng OctoArts Films at M-Zet Productions.

Ngayon lang uli magsasama-sama sa pelikula ang tatlo at bubuhayin ang characters nila sa Iskul Bukol.

Written and directed by Tony Reyes ang pelikula na magpapakita ng bagong pakikipagsapalaran nina Tito at Joey Escalera at Vic Ungasis.

Gusto palang malaman ng mga nakabasa ng script kung sino ang gaganap sa role ni Sharon Ungasis? Maggi-guest kaya si Sharon Cuneta sa reunion movie ng tatlo?

Source: http://www.pinoyexchange.com/forums/showthread.php?t=351943

KC Concepcion looks forward to doing a movie with Piolo Pascual

Back in the country after attending two successful US premieres of her first film For the First Time, KC Concepcion is happy and looking forward to doing more projects soon.At the Sony Armed & Fabulous product launch held last Sept 19 at the Rockwell Tent, the Sony Cyber-shot spokes model shares that there are two things she is looking forward to the most right now: attending the European premiere of her film with Richard and hoping to share the big screen with heartthrob Piolo Pascual. “I just attended the For the First Time premiere in Los Angeles and San Francisco. It was a good turnout. I didn’t know that there’s so much support from Filipino fans there. It was both an exciting and fulfilling experience for me. I know they were really enjoyed the film. Of course it would’ve been nice if Richard was there too but he was also busy here. We’re going to Austria next week for our Vienna premiere. For the first time there’s a Vienna premiere for a Star Cinema movie so it’s something special,” she admits.

KC also admits that out of all the possible leading men out there, she hopes that she can one day do a project with Piolo. “I would like to be more active in my roles and I would like to work with Piolo Pascual. I know he’s a great actor and I know I’ll learn a lot from him. And he’s also a good friend so I know we’ll be comfortable with each other if we’ll be working together,” she shares. Slated to do a Valentine movie with Richard next year with GMA films, KC hopes her fans will be just as supportive as they were with For the First Time. “Sana kiligin ulit sila. It’s going to be with a different film company so it’s going to be something different. A different director and a different story. So sana yung mga nakakita at nagkagusto sa For the First Time, ay magustuhan ulit nila. Hopefully, ma-accept nila yung mga bagong darating,” she confides.

The talented young actress-product endorser is also proud to show off her movie to the kababayans in Vienna, Austria. “I know excited na rin yung mga kababayan natin doon. Natutuwa rin ako na ngayon napapadala natin yung ating mga pelikula sa ibang bansa. Excited na ako ipakita yung pelikula sa mga kababayan natin doon. Gusto ko rin makita kung paano sila mabuhay doon. At the same time, maipapakita rin namin yung itsura ng Santorini, Greece at para maipagmalaki sa kanila na meron tayong pelikulang ganito,” she excitedly shares. KC also shared that she learned a lot of lessons while doing the movie. “Of course in For the First Time was my first time, which is exactly why we named it that (laughs). My partnership with Richard was great. I learned from him professionally. He comes on time and he treats people well. He doesn’t complain. I also learned a lot from Tito Philip Salvador (who played her dad in the film). He always gave me advice about being patient with the craft. And of course kay Direk Joyce Bernal natutunan ko na magpakatotoo sa lahat ng ginagawa ko. Kung sino ka, yun ka eh kaya yun ang ipakita mo dahil yun dapat,” she concludes.

Source: http://www.pinoyexchange.com/forums/showthread.php?s=bcf84747fa72c7945aea7a3fde1a6aea&t=360082

ABS-CBN, suportado ang Ploning!

KA-CHAT namin kahapon sa YM (Yahoo! Messenger) si Direk Dante Nico Garcia (direktor ng Ploning) na kasaluluyang nasa Singapore para sa Asian Festival of First Films.

Kalahok ang Plo*ning sa nasabing filmfest at nominado itong Best Film, Best Director at Best Screenplay.

Hindi na makakadalo si Direk Ga (palayaw ni Direk Dante) sa awards night sa Singapore sa Dis*yembre 10 dahil after ng screening ng Ploning sa Disyembre 9 ay lilipad na siya pa-Los Angeles para sa gagawin nilang Oscar campaign sa Amerika.

Kinumusta namin kay Direk Ga ang katatapos na Plato Para Kay Ploning fundraiser na inorganisa nila ni Judy Ann Santos. Ayon kay Ga ay bongga ang turnout ng nasabing charity dinner.

Umaasa silang aabot sa P2M ang kikitain sa dinner plates at auction ng art pieces at mukhang nasa ganu’ng halaga ang kanilang malilikom.

Kinukwenta pa raw ito ngayon dahil ang ibang income ay manggagaling sa sales ng ABS-CBN, tapos ay may percentage din ang mga nag-donate na artist kaya wala pang final breakdown.

In fairness sa ABS-CBN, bukod sa binigay nitong libreng venue (Rockwell Tent), lahat ng kinita sa social ball ay diretso sa Ploning funds.

Kikita lang daw ang Dos sa sales ng commercial spots sa airing ng nasabing event (na wala pang final date kung kelan ipapa*labas).

Ang ganda rin daw ng show nu’ng gabing ‘yon, sabi ni Direk Ga. Kasama sa mga nag-perform sina Martin Nievera, Ogie Alcasid, Sa*rah Geronimo, Richard Poon, Aiza Seguerra, Nina, Sitti, PDA Season 2 Scholars at Arnel Pineda ng Journey.

Source: http://www.pinoyexchange.com/forums/showthread.php?s=bcf84747fa72c7945aea7a3fde1a6aea&t=374804

Star Cinema's "You Change My Life in a Moment" (AVSL Sequel)

Direk Cathy Garcia-Molina talks about A Very Special Love 2

John Lloyd Cruz and Sarah Geronimo will soon return to the big screen via the sequel to the very successful movie A Very Special Love (AVSL) under Star Cinema. Nagkaroon ng pagkakataon ang ABS-CBN.com na makausap ang director ng box-office hit na ito na si Cathy Garcia-Molina at binahagi niya sa amin ang ilan sa mga detalye at concept ng post-valentines movie offering ng Star Cinema.

"When we were thinking of the new concept, the mandate of management was to have a similar feel. Siyempre ang expectations mo, mapantayan or malampasan, laging ganoon e. E kung same feel, baka mahirapan kami. So I'd rather na dugtungan siya. Kami ni Tita Malou (Santos, Managing Director of Star Cinema), we were in one in thinking na ang daming possibilities kung sila na. I think its exciting to see kung paano maging mag-lovers itong sina Miggie and Lyda," paliwanag ni Direk Cathy.

Dagdag pa niya, "Practically, since it's a part two, it's a take-off nung mga characters nila noong una. So dito, they are in a relationship na already. They ended part one na naging sila, so we're opening the sequel na sila na."

Aminado si Direk Cathy na medyo kinakabahan na sila kung tatanggapin pa ba ng publiko ang tandem nila Lloydy at Sarah kung medyo matatagalan pa ang pagpapalabas ng kanilang sequel, at nasagot ang kanilang mga pagdududa nang makapanood si Direk Cathy ng concert ni Sarah Geronimo noong November 8.

"Nakakatuwa. Whatever doubts na meron kami, because some say na baka matagal bago sumunod kasi this will air last week of February, baka nakalimutan na yung AVSL Part 1. But with the concert (of Sarah last November 8 at the Araneta Coliseum where she and John Lloyd sang "A Very Special Love"), nabuhayan kami kasi hindi pa namamatay yung kanta sa audience," kuwento ng batikang direktor.

Expected na tatabo na naman sa takilya ang proyektong ito ni Direk Cathy na very humble naman sa pagtanggap sa titulong "box-office director" of her generation. "I don’t know how to react, of course ‘thank you.’ Para kasing ‘pag tinanggap mo nang buong-buo some would say… kasi I've been hearing things na malaki na raw ulo ko. I think inevitable naman na bansagan ako ng ganun. Ayaw ko sanang palakihin at I'd like to believe na hindi pa. ‘Pag hindi ko namang tinanggap it's like saying ‘no’ naman to a grace from God na I'm so blessed na all my films have been supported at tinangkilik ng mga manunuod. Ako all I do now, all I can promise is that in every film that I do, I try to give something new, I try to give my best, kasi yun lang naman ang kaya kong ibigay e, to entertain people," pagtatapos ni Direk.

Target ng Star Cinema na simulan ang shooting ng AVSL Part 2 sa November 27 or 29. Nabalitaan din namin na "You Changed My Life in a Moment" ang magiging theme song ng sequel na ito. Natuwa din kami nang ibalita sa amin ni Direk Cathy na hindi nila tatapatan ang valentine movie ni KC Concepcion bilang pag-rerespeto at pagmamahal ng Star Cinema sa anak ng megastar Sharon Cuneta.

MOVIE: "100" (Rated A by CEB)

I'm encouraging everyone to watch "100". It will open Dec. 3 (this week na!) in the following cinemas: GLORIETTA, ROBINSONS GALLERIA, ROBINSONS ERMITA, SM NORTH EDSA and SM MEGAMALL.

The film is Rated A by the Cinema Evaluation Board. Highly recommended ko rin 'to. You'll laugh. You'll cry. Basta, you'll enjoy the movie. Promise!

Please support Philippine Cinema and our Independent Filmmakers.

Starring: Mylene Dizon, Eugene Domingo, Tessie Tomas, TJ Trinidad, Ryan Eigenmann, Cecile Paz
Written and directed by: Chris Martinez
Produced by: Martinez Rivera Films in association with StraightShooters Media Inc.
Released by: Star Cinema
MTRCB Rating: R-13

"100" chronicles the last three months of a cancer stricken woman who has a list of things to do before she dies. Her list of tasks, mostly closures and practical undertakings, expands to the worldly and the spiritual as people close to her share her last days. The film examines the betrayal of the body, celebrates the senses and contemplates the end of life and how to live it.

A light-hearted, briskly paced, youthful take on a classic subject, 100 took home the most number of awards from 2008 Cinemalaya Independent Film Festival -- winning 5 major Balanghai Trophies: Best Director and Best Screenplay for Chris Martinez, Best Actress for Mylene Dizon, Best Supporting Actress for Eugene Domingo and the coveted Audience Choice Award. It also won the KNN Movie Award (Audience Choice) at the Pusan International Film Festival. 100 is also invited to compete in the Marrakesh International Film Festival.

"100" is Chris Martinez’ debut film.

Director's Profile: CHRIS MARTINEZ
Filmmaker. Screenwriter. Theater Director. Playwright. Commercial Director. Author.

Chris Martinez’s debut film “100” was the runaway winner at the 2008 Cinemalaya Independent Film Festival, winning 5 major Balanghai trophies: Best Director, Best Screenplay, Best Actress (Mylene Dizon), Best Supporting Actress (Eugene Domingo) and the coveted Audience Choice Award. 100 also won the KNN Movie Award at the Pusan International Film Festival.

Chris wrote the screenplays of Bridal Shower, Bikini Open ( both from Seiko Films, directed by Jeffrey Jeturian), Sukob and Caregiver ( both from Star Cinema, directed by Chito Roño) .

He has won a Gawad Tanglaw for Bikini Open, a Guillermo Mendoza Award for Sukob and an Urian nomination for Bridal Shower.

As playwright, he has won several Palanca Memorial Awards for Literature and the National Commission for Culture and the Arts Grand Prize for his plays in English and Filipino. As theater artist, he directed the stage adaptation of camp classic Temptation Island, the critically acclaimed call center monologue Welcome to IntelStar and adapted cult comic book Zsa Zsa Zaturnnah for the stage. His first short film, Bakas, won him a Cultural Center of the Philippines Award for Alternative Filmmaking. He is also the author of Laugh Trip and Last Order sa Penguin which earned a National Book Award nomination.

For a living, he directs TV commercials since 2004.

2008 Philippine Box-office Thread

Na-close ang 2008 philippine box office thread dahil sa awayang maricel at sharon. sana this time, wag na ma-close. wag na kasi OT. pag-usapan ang movies ng 2008, wag kung ano-anong bagay na hindi naman na relevant sa thread.

as of this moment, di pa rin nag-aa-update ang box office mojo kahit sa ibang countries so wala pa ang figures ng monster mom. eto pa lang.

Top Grossing Filipino Films for 2008
1. caregiver- 139,536,302
2. my bestfriend’s girlfriend- 101,257,479
3. when love begins- 88,896,280
4. my big love- 68,005,977
5. supahpapalicious- 66,988,528
6. manay po overload- 30,405,258
7. ikaw pa rin, bongga ka boy- 24,887,985
8. ploning- 12,126,481
9. urduja- 11,518,774 (gross for 3 weeks)
10. ate- 2,556,616

Source: http://www.pinoyexchange.com/forums/showthread.php?s=bcf84747fa72c7945aea7a3fde1a6aea&t=354853

"Magkaibigan" director dares viewers to watch his film without crying

Pagkatapos ng Katas ng Saudi na entry ng Maverick Films sa 2007 Metro Manila Film Festival, nakatanggap si Sen. Jinggoy Estrada ng three best actor awards, first sa Gabi ng Parangal ng Metro Manila Film Fest, second sa Golden Screen Awards ng Entertainment Press, Inc. at ang pinakahuli, sa FAMAS. Wala pala siyang balak noon na gumawa muli ng movie para sa 2008 MMFF dahil busy siya sa public service as one of the 24 Senators of the Philippine Senate.

Pero nang pumanaw ang best friend niyang si Rudy Fernandez, nakaisip siyang gumawa ng isang pelikula bilang tribute dito. Hindi ito true-to-life story ni Rudy, kundi ibi-based lamang sa buhay nito, pero ang bibigyang-halaga ay ang friendship na namagitan sa kanila simula pa noon hanggang sa pumanaw ito, na ang "true friendship is forever." Muli niyang kinausap si Direk Joey Reyes para siyang sumulat ng script at magdirek ng movie na ang title nga ay
Magkaibigan.

"Nagulat nga ako nang nagsu-shooting na kami na halos lahat ng dialogue sa story ay parang siyang tunay na mga usapang namagitan sa amin ni Rudy, hindi naman kami nag-usap ni direk Joey," medyo misty-eyed si Sen. Jinggoy nang makausap ng PEP (Philippine Entertainment Portal). "Kahit paano, hindi na ako kailangang mag-isip kung ano ang emotion na ipu-portray ko, kasi ganoon talaga ang nangyari. Mas nahihirapan ako kapag dumadalaw sa set si Lorna [Tolentino], dahil sariwa pa sa amin ang mga huling araw ni Daboy. Noong last shooting day nga namin na death scene ang kinunan, hindi iyon tinapos ni Lorna, masakit sa kanya, bumabalik ang alaala sa final hour ni Rudy."

Si Direk Joey naman ang kinausap ng PEP, sinabi namin sa kanya na nagulat si Sen. Jinggoy sa takbo ng story at sa mga dialogues na parang totoong-totoo.

"Ngayon ko lamang ito ikukuwento," sabi ni Direk Joey. "After kong gawin ang Katas ng Saudi last year, kinausap ako ni Rudy. Gusto pa raw niyang makagawa ng isang movie bago siya mawala. Tinanong ko siya kung ano ang story na gusto niyang isulat ko. Gusto raw niya story of a dying man. Umoo lamang ako sa kanya, pero hindi ko talaga nagawa ang script na iyon, hindi ko alam kung paano ko gagawin, hanggang sa naging serious na nga ang kalagayan niya.

"May friend akong doctor sa hospital kung saan siya naka-confine at bago lumabas sa hospital si Rudy, tinawagan ako ng doctor-friend ko at sinabi niyang kung gusto ko raw dalawin si Rudy dahil nag-decide na ang mga doctors niya at si Lorna na ilabas na ito at sa bahay na lamang nila pupunta ang doctors niya. That time, ginagawa ko na ang script ng Magkaibigan.

"Wala ako sa bedside niya nang pumanaw siya, hindi ko alam kung ano ang mga last words na sinabi ni Rudy, kung ano ang sinabi ng mga kaibigan niyang sina Sen. Jinggoy, Sen. Bong Revilla at Phillip Salvador, kaya hindi ko rin alam kung bakit iyon ang mga dialogues na sinulat ko na sinabi ni Christopher de Leon sa kanyang death scene, like iyong "hirap na hirap na ako, pagod na pagod na ako." Siguro, dahil may mga friends din akong nagkaroon ng Big C at ang huli ko ngang nadalaw din noon, si Direk Khryss Adalia. Nakita ko kung paano rin siya naghirap bago siya pumanaw."

Thankful si Direk Joey sa magandang cast ng movie, sina Boyet, Dawn Zulueta at Maricel Laxa na dati na rin niyang naidirek noon. Kumusta naman si Boyet sa role niya as Atoy?

"Tinanong nga niya ako kung ano raw ang acting na gusto kong gawin niya," kuwento pa ni Direk Joey. "Gusto ko na mag-underplay siya at iyon din ang sinabi ko kina Sen. Jinggoy, Dawn at Maricel, ayaw ko nang umaarte sila, na huwag nila akong bigyan ng TV soap opera. Si Sen. Jinggoy, sa death scene, sabi ko sa kanya, gusto ko tahimik lamang siya. Sinabi ko rin sa kanilang ayaw ko nang umiiyak sila sa eksena, let the moviegoers cry in their scenes. Mahirap, pero iyon lamang ang maganda sa mga real actors, nagagawa nila kung ano ang gusto ng director. Pero pagkatapos ng eksena, lahat umiiyak, kasama na rin ako.

"Kaya I dare the moviegoers to go out the theater without crying," dagdag pa ni Direk Joey.

SYNOPSIS
Since their childhood days, Atoy (Christopher de Leon) and Ruben (Sen. Jinggoy Estrada) were the closest of friends. It was not surprising that they remained the best of friends even decades later when Atoy and Ruben had their own families. Atoy became a successful businessman, married to the beautiful Tere (Dawn Zulueta) and with two children, Jonie (AJ Perez) and Katrina (Empress Shuck). Ruben, the more proud and headstrong of the two, found a wife in Eden (Maricel Laxa), with two sons Benjie (Ryan Julio) and Dodie (Justine Plummer).

The relationship between Atoy and Ruben remained the same through the years. Despite their closeness, Atoy was literally Ruben's kuya, going out of his way to take care of Ruben whenever he found himself in trouble or even giving him a sense of control. Even the wives and their children knew about this: the two families were so intertwined that they were closer than their real relatives.

But the true test of this friendship came when Atoy was suddenly diagnosed with pancreatic cancer.

Ruben summoned all their friends (Tirso Cruz III and Bobby Andrews), to rally behind Atoy in order to provide him with the strength to fight the deadly disease. Benjie witnessed his father in his most private moments, wrestling with the emotional struggles in order to remain strong for his bestfriend as well as assure Atoy's family that he will be there for them regardless of what happened.

As Atoy underwent treatment, he sometimes obtained false hopes that he will be well only to be further disappointed by his physical regression. Ruben became his caregiver and major moral support. Ruben went through his own personal hell as he felt so helpless watching his best friend slowly die. His wife, Eden, tried to understand this male bonding and the strength this provided both families.

The theme song of the movie is "Kaibigan" written by first Pinoy Dream Academy scholar Davey Langit with musical supervision by Monet Silvestre.

Source: http://www.pep.ph/guide/3039/Magkaibigan-director-dares-viewers-to-watch-his-film-without-crying

Cinemalaya 2009 semi-finalists announced

Eighteen semifinalists in the full-length feature category have been selected for the 2009 Cinemalaya Independent Film Festival and Competition slated on July 17-26, 2009 at the Cultural Center of the Philippines.

The semifinalists are:
24K by Ana Agabin; Ang Mga Pangarap ni Mary Jane by Jerome Chavez Pobocan; Ang Nerseri (The Nursery) by Vic Acedillo, Jr.; Ang Panggagahasa kay Virginia by Alvin B. Yapan; Astig (Mga Batang Kalye) by GB Sampedro; Babae ng Guho (Woman of the Ruins) by Sari Lluch Dalena; Becoming an Archer by Alfonso Torre III;
Child Warrior by Francis O. Villacorta; Colorum by Jon Steffan Ballesteros; Dinig Sana Kita by Mike E. Sandejas; El Ultimo de Las Luciernagas (The Last of the Fireflies) by Sheron Dayoc; Engkwentro by Pepe Diokno; In Nomine Matre (In the Name of the Mother) by Will Fredo and Jay Garcia; Kung Sino Man ang Makabasaby
by Audie Gonzales; Last Supper No. 3 by Veronica Velasco and Jinky Laurel;
Lobby by Mia Angeline Bacarro; Mangatyanan (The Blood Trail) by Jerrold Tarog; and Sanglaan by Milo Sogueco.

Ten finalists will be selected from this group of 18 semi-finalists and will be announced on
December 22, 2008. Who among them will be named as the Best Picture in the next edition of Cinemalaya? This year's Best Picture winner is the film Jay starring Baron Geisler and Coco Martin. Directed by Francis Xavier Pasion, Jay is about a TV show producer who makes a documentary about a slain teacher living a double life.

Now on its fifth year, the Cinemalaya Competition is a project of the Cinemalaya Foundation, CCP, Econolink Investments Inc. and Film Development Council of the Philippines. It aims to discover, encourage and honor the cinematic works of Filipino filmmakers that boldly articulate and freely interpret the Filipino experience with fresh insight and artistic integrity. For more information, call the CCP Media Arts Division at tel. no. 832-1125 local 1704/05 or visit
www.cinemalaya.org

Source: http://www.pep.ph/guide/3041/Cinemalaya-2009-semi-finalists-announced

2009 Cinemalaya Independent Film Festival and Competition

Entries to the full length feature film category of the 2009 Cinemalaya Independent Film Festival and Competition are now being accepted.

Only entries by Filipino filmmakers who have not yet directed more than three full-length commercial feature films will be accepted to the full-length category. Works already in production phase prior to December 15, 2008 are not qualified to join.

For the full-length feature film category, applicants must submit a duly completed application form, a one-page synopsis and a detailed sequence treatment (between 50-60 sequences), a brief resume with 2 x 2 photos, and samples of previous film and video work in DVD.

A committee will select 25 semi finalists for the full-length feature category by October 15, 2008. A final group of ten will be announced on December 22, 2008. These finalists will receive a seed production grant of P500,000 from Econolink Investments Inc (EII) Inc, as investment for the production.

For the short film feature category, the deadline for submission of entries will be February 13, 2009. Works already in the production phase prior to July 20, 2008 are not qualified to join. Interested applicants must submit the final work in DVD format, a duly accomplished application form, synopsis of the film and a brief resume with 2 x 2 photos. The ten best short films will be announced on May 8, 2009.

For both categories, all works must be narrative features in digital format. All films must be strictly independent work and not produced by commercial production companies.

All finalists in the full length feature and short feature categories will be screened during the 2009 Cinemalaya Independent Film Festival and Competition on July 17-26 at the Cultural Center of the Philippines and the following week at the UP Cine Adarna in UP Diliman. The winner of the Best Film in the fuil length category will receive an additional cash grant of P200,000 and the Cinemalaya Balanghai Trophy while the winner of the Best Film in the short feature category will receive P100,000 and the Balanghai Trophy. Awarding ceremonies will be held on July 26, 2009 at the CCP.

Now on its fifth year, Cinemalaya is presented by the Cinemalaya Foundation, Cultural Center of the Philippines, the Film Development Council of the Philippines and Econolink Investments Inc. Cinemalaya is an all-digital film competition aimed at discovering new Filipino filmmakers.

Source: http://www.clickthecity.com/event/detail.asp?evid=21057

One Night Only

One Night Only, a story that happened in one night about five different girl characters.

It is topbilled by Katrina Halili, Jennylyn Mercado, Diana Zubiri, Valerie Concepcion and Alessandra de Rossi. This sexy-comedy film’s cast includes Ricky Davao, Paolo Contis, Ogie Diaz, Jon Avila, Chokoleit, Joross Gamboa, Manilyn Reynes, Jason Gainza, Bentong, Empoy, and Tessie Villarama. It is directed by Jose Javier Reyes. Produced by OctoArts Films and is an official entry to the 34th Metro Manila Film Festival
(MMFF).

"Iskul Bukol" hits the big screen, Dec 25

Kinilalang isa sa most popular at trend-setting sitcom in the history of Philippine television ang Iskul Bukol from 1978 to 1987, sa Channel 13, na tampok sina Tito at Vic Sotto at si Joey de Leon. Whenever Iskul Bukol is mentioned, maiisip mo agad ang Wanbol University at ang mga sikat na characters sa university, there is Victor Ungasis, the good-looking, kind and brainy teacher's pet, Tito and Joey Escalera were the class bullies na laging inaasar sina Vic at si Miss Tapia [Mely Tagasa], the university's resident professor na may crush kay Joey. Nandoon din si Mang Temi, Tonette Macho, Richie d'Horsie, Bibeth Orteza at iba pang characters ng sitcom.

SYNOPSIS
Twenty years after, Vic Ungasis is now an excellent History professor at Wanbol University and has also successfully ventured in the field of archeology. Natagpuan niya ang Kali of Humabon na siyang nagbukas ng mystery, at hinahanap naman niya ang Kampilan ni Lapu-Lapu at gusto niyang mai-display na magkasama ang dalawang war relics. Ang Kampilan ay nasa pag-aari ni Shimata, a wealthy Japanese national whose main interest is the Peseta, na kasama ng Kampilan. Sinasabing ang Peseta ay isa na lamang sa natitirang 30 pieces of Judas' silver which will give immortality sa sinumang makakakuha nito. Unfortunately, nawawala ang Peseta nang makuha ni Vic ang Kampilan sa kailaliman ng tubig.

May nakasulat sa Kampilan at sa Kali na nagtuturo kung saan matatagpuan ang Peseta. Ninakaw ni Shimata ang Kali, pero hindi naman niya maintindihan kung ano ang nakasulat sa Kali. Nagpunta si Vic for a speaking engagement in Cambodia, madi-discover niya ang sekreto na kakabit ng mystery, nang makilala niya ang uncle and nephew na sina Samnang at Woog na hina-hunting ng mga tauhan ni Shimata. May kinalaman kaya ang paghahanap sa kanila sa Alibata inscription na nasa puwit ni Woog na kapareho ng inscription sa ninakaw na Kali? At bakit nagtatago rin sina Tito at Joey kay Shimata? At paano mai-involved ang buong barkada sa exciting but dangerous search for the all-powerful Peseta?

Ito ang synopsis ng Iskul Bukol: 20 Years After na first time na isasalin sa movie. Produced by OctoArts Films ni Orly Ilacad, M-Zet TV Productions ni Vic at APT Entertainment ni Tony Tuviera at official entry nila sa 2008 Metro Manila Film Festival starting December 25, sa direksyon ito ng box-office director na si Tony Y. Reyes. Nakausap ng PEP si Vic Sotto sa presscon nito sa Marina Grill & Restaurant along Timog Avenue. Na-maintain ba nila ang dating cast ng TV sitcom sa movie?

"Oh, yes," sagot ni Vic. "Mahal namin ang pelikulang ito at para maisama ulit namin ang dating cast, piniyansahan ko si Richie d'Horsie para makalabas ng kulungan at makapag-shooting. Apat na taon na siyang nakakulong at si Richie ang isa sa sikat na character noon kaya dapat naroon pa rin siya after 20 years.

"Pero siyempre, may mga bago kaming characters dito. Si Ryan [Agoncillo], matagal na niyang gustong makasama sa anumang pelikula ko, dapat doon pa sa Dobol Trobol pero hindi naman siya available noon, kaya dito ko siya isinama. Siya at ang batang si Robert Villar, iyong sidekick ni Marian Rivera sa Dyesebel, ang kasama kong nag-shooting sa Cambodia, si Ryan si Samnang at si Robert si Woog, para maging realistic ang lahat, dito rin namin ipinasok ang special effects na alam kong magugustuhan ng mga batang manonood. Natuwa nga ako na tamang-tamang kagagaling lamang ni Ryan sa Argentina, saka naman kami umalis for Cambodia at sumama pa sa amin si Judy Ann [Santos]. Kaya enjoy pa rin kami kahit pa mahirap din ang mga eksenang ginawa namin doon.

"Narito pa rin si Miss Tapia, si Jimmy Santos as Big J, Bibeth, si Anthony Roquel, a changed Tonette Macho, at mga bagong members ng cast sina Carlene Aguilar na introducing sa movie, Francine Prieto, with our sons, Gian, Oyo Boy Sotto and Keempee [de Leon], Ciara Sotoo, ang EB Babes, Benjie Paras, Jose Manalo at Hong Kong action star Jacky Woo, who plays Shimato.

"At maraming salamat kay Sharon Cuneta na pumayag mag-guest sa movie. Para kasi sa amin, hindi rin mabubuo ng movie kung wala siya dahil siya si Sharon Escalera, ang younger sister nina Tito at Joey Escalera."

For four years na sumali sa festival si Vic as Enteng Kabisote, bakit pinagpahinga niya ang character ni Enteng at sa halip, ang Iskul Bukol ang ginawa niya?

"Naisip din kasi namin na timely ang paggawa namin nito sa movie, dahil kahit madalas pa rin naming marinig kantahin ang theme song ng Iskul Bukol, hindi na rin ito kilala ng generation ngayon, kaya gusto naman naming patunayan na kahit sa now generation, tatanggapin pa rin nila ang Iskul Bukol. Kaya ngayon pa lamang, gusto na naming magpasalamat sa lahat ng mga manonood ng aming pelikula simula sa December 25."

Iskul Bukol:20 Years After Confirmed Casts
* Tito Sotto as Tito Escalera
* Vic Sotto as Vic Ungasis
* Joey de Leon as Joey Escalera
* Mely Tagasa as Miss Tapia
* Ryan Agoncillo as Cambodian Tour Guide
* Keempee de Leon as Joey Escalera's Son
* Pauleen Luna
* Mark Herras
* Dennis Trillo
* Gian Sotto as Tito Escalera's Son
* Oyo Sotto as Vic Ungasis' Son
* Jimmy Santos as Big J
* Jose Manalo
* Anthony Roquel as Tonette Macho
* Francine Prieto
* Gardo Versoza
* Bianca King
* Jong Hilario
* Krista Ranillo
* Benjie Paras
* Joko Diaz
* Nicole Uysusieng
* Mykah
* Val Sotto
* Richie D'Horsie as Richie
* Kaye Torres
* Robert Villar
* Redford White as Redford
* Bibeth Orteza as Bibeth
* Carlene Aguilar as Vic Ungasis's love interest
* Wally Bayola
* Joonee Gamboa
* Jackie Woo
* Derek Dee
* Leo Martinez
* Levi Ignacio
* Mary Massab
* EB Babes
* Ethel Booba
* Raphael Martinez
* Boy Roque
* JB Magsaysay
* Danny Labra

Special Participation in the Movie
* Sharon Cuneta as Sharon Escalera
* Sen. Bong Revilla
* Manny Pacquiao
* Lorna Tolentino
* Annabelle Rama
* Robin Padilla

Source: http://www.pinoyexchange.com/forums/showthread.php?t=351943&page=8

Eight films will compete in 2008 Metro Manila Film Festival

This year's Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) will be free-for-all with returning superstars, sequels and, yes, even an animation.

Walong pelikula lang ang maglalaban-laban this year sa MMFF, so malamang na wala na itong two-parts like the past years; most opening on December 25 and the rest on January 1

Walang Judy Ann Santos-Ryan Agoncillo movie this time, pero may ibang "Anne" ang lalaban. Magbabalik si Vic Sotto, not with his Enteng Kabisote retinues but with his old classmates in Iskul Bukol.

Last year's sleeper hit Desperadas will have a sequel and the longest-running horror franchise in the Philippine history of movies marks X. Isang senador lang ang lalaban this year and an animation will follow the footstep of Urduja. Lastly, Regal Entertainment and OctoArts have two movies each again.

Narito ang entries sa 2008 Metro Manila Film Festival:

Desperadas, Regal Entertainment; script by Roy Iglesias and direction by Joel Lamangan.

A continuation of the story of four women with the same mother of different fathers, the original stars are back-Ruffa Gutierrez, Rufa Mae Quinto, Iza Calzado, and Marian Rivera—with the addition of a fifth cast, si Eugene Domingo na magpapakilalang kapatid din daw nila.

This will be Ruffa's second movie for the year after My Monster Mom ng Regal and GMA Films; baka fourth ni Rufa Mae after Regal Films' Manay Po 2: Overload, the upcoming I.T.A.L.Y. from GMA Films which will open on August 5, at kung matatapos ang Viva Films movie na Civil Status: Single.

Second movie rin ito ni Iza kung maipalalabas ang Amnesia ng GMA Films at second movie rin ni Marian after last Valentine's hit from Regal and GMA Films na My Best Friend's Girlfriend.

Hindi namin alam kung makakailan ngayon si Eugene. But so far, she has Viva's Ikaw Pa Rin, Regal/GMA Films' My Monster Mom, and GMA Films' I.T.A.L.Y.

Shake, Rattle & Roll X, Regal Entertainment; script from Fairlane Raymundo and Cheryl Ann Narvasa and directors Topel Lee and Mike Tuviera.

Tenth installment na ito ng original festival horror trilogy na nagsimula noong 1984. Wala pang final cast, although nakakarinig na rin kami ng mga pangalan like that of Lovi Poe. This tenth of the series will also have a first; there will be a recurring theme of the No. 10 in the three stories like ten friends, tenth floor, and a third ten something.

Ang Tanging Ina Niyong Lahat, Star Cinema; script by Mel del Rosario and direction by Wenn Deramas.

Ai-Ai delas Alas and Star Cinema's biggest hit on record gets a sequel after five years. Now the president of the country, most of Ai-Ai's original children in the movie will return save for one or two, most notably Heart Evangelista dahil Kapuso star na raw kasi ang dalaga.

Ironically, the eldest sibling na si Marvin Agustin, who plays Uno, is also now an exclusive Kapuso star but will still be part of the cast. Another brother na si Carlo Aquino, who is already a Viva Artist Agency star, is mostly seen sa GMA7.

Pinalitan ni Paula Peralejo si Heart as Portia. Ito ang pagbabalik ni Paula sa pelikula, just like the now-retired Serena Dalrymple as Cate.

Mas malaki na rin ang participation ni Eugene Domingo as Rowena rito, giving the two-time Best Supporting Actress award-winner the privilege of being the only major star to be part of two festival movies.
Escalera Brothers, Octo-Arts/M-Zet Production; script by and direction by Tony Y. Reyes.

After four installments of the old TV series of Vic's Okay Ka Fairy Ko, magpapahinga na muna si Enteng Kabisote to give way to the Escalera and the Ungasis based on the sitcom that launched Tito, Vic &, Joey in 1977, ang Iskul Bukol. Tito, Vic, and Joey will reprise their original roles Tito Escalera, Vic Ungasis, and Joey Escalera, respectively.

Hindi pa raw nababasa ng supervising producer Ms. Malou Choa-Fagar ang final script, so hindi pa sigurado kung makakasama ang ilan sa original cast like Bibeth Orteza, Anthony "Tonette Macho" Roquel, and Mely Tagasa.

Baler, Viva Films; script of Roy Iglesias and direction by Mark Meily.

Submitted as The Siege of Baler, Anne Curtis gets her biggest break in the movies as she stars in a war-time love story based on the siege of Baler, Quezon noong Spanish era. Hinahanapan pa ng leading man si Anne for the movie.

According to producer Veronique del Rosario-Corpuz, tulad ng mga Hollywood movies na Titanic and Pearl Harbor, fiction ang love story but the backdrop of war will be based on historical facts.

The other three official entries with not so much information yet are One Night Only from Canary Films, Magkaibigan from Maverick Films, and Dapo from Cutting Edge.

Last year's Best Actor Jinggoy Estrada will produce and star in Magkaibigan. Dapo will have the distinction naman of being the first all-animation movie accepted for festival entry to be directed by Robert Quilao with Artemio Abad Jr. and Eric Cabahug.

Twelve entries were submitted for this year, so apat lang ang nalaglag: Canary Films' Inocencia, Octo-Arts' Here Comes The Bride, Focus Films' Maldita, and an untitled horror movie from Star Cinema.

Source: http://www.pinoyexchange.com/forums/showthread.php?t=347532

Ang Tanging Ina Ninyong Lahat

Ang Tanging Ina Ninyong Lahat is the sequel to the box-office hit “Ang Tanging Ina.” It is expected to be released in December 2008 under Star Cinema for the 2008 Metro Manila Film Festival.

It is the third of ‘Direk’ Wenn Deremas‘ “Ina” collection after “Ang Cute ng Ina Mo” with Anne Curtis and Luis Manzano. In 2003, Ang Tanging Ina was the highest grossing film in the country until Kris Aquino’s “Sukob” surpassed it in 2005. Ai-Ai de las Alas will play the lead role and lead a cast featuring most of the original actors reprising their roles.

The Cast of Ang Tanging Ina N’yong Lahat:

Ai-Ai de las Alas as Ina
Eugene Domingo as Rowena
Claudine Barretto as Tina
Marvin Agustin as Juan (not yet confirmed)
Nikki Valdez as Tudis
Carlo Aquino as Dimitri/Tri
Paula Peralejo as Portia/Por
Alwyn Uytingco as Tirso/Pip
Shaina Magdayao as Severina/Seven
Serena Dalrymple as Cate
Jiro Manio as Shammy
Yuki Kadooka as Ten-ten
Dennis Padilla as Eddie
Kaye Abad as Jenny
John Prats as Jeffrey
Pinky Amador as Gretchen’s Mom
Mandy Ochoa as Gretchen’s Dad
Angelica Panganiban as Gretchen
Ricci Chan

Source: http://www.starmometer.com/2008/11/29/ang-tanging-ina-nyong-lahat-teasers/

Jennylyn Mercado returns to the big screen via "One Night Only"

Maraming tagahanga ng young actress na si Jennylyn Mercado ang matutuwa sa balitang nakuha ng PEP (Philippine Entertainment Portal). Ayon sa mismong PR manager ng OctoArts Films na si Ms. Aster Amoyo ay kasama na si Jennylyn sa cast ng One Night Only. Ito ang magsisilbing comeback project ng kauna-unahang StarStruck Ultimate Female Survivor pagkatapos niyang isilang ang anak nila ng dati niyang boyfriend na si Patrick Garcia.

Ang One Night Only ay isa sa dalawang entries ng film company ni Boss Orly Ilacad sa 2008 Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF). Ang isa pa ay ang reunion movie nina Tito Sotto, Vic Sotto, at Joey de Leon na Iskbul Bukol 20 Years After (The Adventures of Victorio Ungasis and the Escalera Brothers).

Makakasama ni Jennylyn sa One Night Only sina Katrina Halili, Diana Zubiri, Paolo Contis, Alessandra de Rossi, Ricky Davao, Jon Avila, Candy Panglinan, Chokoleit, Jason Gainza, at ang mga kapatid ni Jennylyn sa management ni Becky Aguila na sina Valerie Concepcion at Joross Gamboa.

Matatandaang noong unang prinesenta ang One Night Only sa screening committee ng MMFF ay kasama sa cast ang ilan sa prime talents ng Star Magic, ang talent arm ng ABS-CBN. Pero napabalitang pinull out ang mga ito dahil ayaw raw ng Star Magic na magmukhang suporta ang mga alaga nila kay Katrina, na isang Kapuso star.

Ang bagay na ito ay hindi kinumpirma ng Star Magic at maging ng ilan sa mga artistang naunang naugnay sa pelikula. Pero sa presscon para kay Katrina noon kasabay ng pagpirma niya ng kontrata sa OctoArts Films, nabanggit ni Boss Orly ang mga pangalan nina Angelica Panganiban, Diether Ocampo, at Roxanne Guinoo na kasama rin sa pelikula na ididirek ni Joey Reyes.

Pinagtalunan kasi noon kung sino ang magiging bida sa One Night Only at kung sino ang mauuna sa billing kung natuloy nga si Katrina at ang ilang Star Magic talents. Pero nilinaw naman ni Direk Joey na ang istorya ng pelikulang siya rin ang sumulat ay iikot sa lahat ng characters sa isang motel sa loob lamang ng isang magdamag.

Huling napanood si Jennylyn sa pelikula sa pamamagitan ng Half Blood Samurai.

Source: http://www.pinoyexchange.com/forums/showthread.php?t=362585

Shake, Rattle & Roll X

Regal Entertainment’s “Shake, Rattle & Roll X” (10) is the tenth installment of the original festival horror trilogy that started in 1984.

The title of the three episodes are: “Nieves: The Encanto Slayer,” “Emergency,” and “Class Picture.”

Eugene Domingo topbills “Nieves: The Encanto Slayer.” It also stars James Blanco, Marco Alcaraz, and Jennica Garcia.

The episode “Emergency” features JC de Vera, Wendell Ramos, Roxanne Guinoo, and Mylene Dizon. This particular episode was shot in all the hospitals in Luzon.

“Class Picture” on the other hand, stars Kapamilya Kim Chiu and Gerald Anderson.

The movie reportedly will have a recurring theme of the number 10, such as ten friends, tenth floor, etc. It is directed by Mike Tuviera (”Nieves: The Encanto Slayer” and “Emergency”) and Topel Lee (Class Picture).

Source: http://www.mukamo.com/shake-rattle-and-roll-x-10-regal-entertainment/

Wenn Deramas: Busiest director in town

Mataas ang energy level ng direktor na si Wenn Deramas nang bisitahin siya ng PEP (Philippine Entertainment Portal) sa first shooting day ng bago niyang pelikula na Pasukob under OctoArts Films. This is the frist time na gumawa siya ng project sa produksiyon na pag-aari ni Orly Ilacad. Reunion movie rin ito nina Ai-Ai delas Alas at Rufa Mae Quinto pagkatapos ng Booba (2001).

"Okay na okay ang first shooting day namin. Magaan ang shooting namin at walang hassle. Higit sa lahat, all-out ang support ni Boss Orly sa project," masayang pahayag ni Direk Wenn.

Simula pa lang daw ito ng maraming pelikula na pagsasamahan nila sa OctoArts, ayon na rin kay Boss Orly. May playdate na ang Pasukob on November 28. Pagkatapos nito, may isa pang nakapila agad na project si Direk Wenn sa OctoArts Films.

"Eto ‘yung movie nina Juday [Judy Ann Santos] at Ryan [Agoncillo] na pang-filmfest sana ng Octo. Actually, na-approve ang script namin sa [MMFF] committee, kaya lang may ruling sila na isang movie lang dapat bawat bidang artista. E, may Sakal, Sakali, Saklolo na sila sa Star Cinema, so, ‘yung sa amin baka next year na," kuwento ni Direk Wenn, na ang tinutukoy ay ang project na Mister Housewife.

Tinatapos na rin ni Direk Wenn ang isa pa niyang pelikula under Viva Films, ang Four In One starring Rufa Mae, Pokwang, Candy Pangilinan, at Eugene Domingo. Natapos na niyang i-shoot ang mga eksena sa Hong Kong ng apat na artista niiya bilang mga domestic helpers.

After this movie, hinahanda na ni Direk Wenn ang launching movie ng "lucky charm" niya na si Eugene bilang matandang dalaga na may titulong Demetria.

By November, balik Star Cinema si Direk Wenn. Masaya niyang ibinalita na okay na ulit sila ng Star Cinema. Ipinatawag siya ng managing director ng film arm ng ABS-CBN na si Ms. Malou Santos. Hindi itinanggi ni Direk Wenn na nagtampo siya sa Star Cinema pagkatapos ng Ang Cute Ng Ina Mo.

"Nagtampo talaga ako noon," pag-amin niya. "Pero ngayon naayos na. Hindi man nadagdagan ‘yung bonus ko, idinagdag naman nila sa talent fee ko. Kung magkano ‘yung talent fee ko outside Star Cinema, ganun na rin ang rate ko sa kanila."

Gagawin na ni Direk Wenn ang long-overdue na sequel sa monster hit na Ang Tanging Ina nila ni Ai-Ai na pinamagatang Ang Tanging Ina Ninyong Lahat. Ayaw munang i-reveal ni Direk Wenn kung bakit ganito ang titulo ng sequel nila. Magsisimula raw sila ng shooting ni Ai-Ai sa Star Cinema right after ng Pasukob.

Mamayang gabi ay matatapos ang isa sa dalawang teleserye ni Direk Wenn sa ABS-CBN, ang Walang Kapalit nina Piolo Pascual at Claudine Barretto. Pero hindi pa man nagtatapos ang Walang Kapalit ay naplantsa na ang usapan sa panibagong programa na gagawin niya for ABS-CBN.

"It's another fantaserye at isang remake ulit. Mas bongga sa Kokey. Gagawin namin ni Ai-Ai ang Volta: The Series sa ABS-CBN," kuwento ni Direk Wenn.

On September 15 ay magse-celebrate ng kanyang birthday si Direk Wenn. Wish niya ay kumita ang lahat pelikula niya sa mga sinehan.

Source: http://www.pinoyexchange.com/forums/showthread.php?t=313959

Himala Won In Cnn!!!

ASIA PACIFIC SCREEN AWARDS WINNERS ANNOUNCED: HIMALA WON THE APSA AWARD

Winners in the Asia Pacific Screen Awards, the region's highest
accolade in film in 2008, were announced tonight at a special
ceremony on the Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia. More than 700 film
industry luminaries from the Asia-Pacific region, Europe and the
United States attended the ceremony.

Thirty two (32) films representing 17 countries were finalists in the
Awards, with winners coming from Kazakhstan, Israel, Republic of
Korea, Australia, Turkey, Islamic Republic of Iran, People's Republic
of China and India received Asia Pacific Screen Awards.

The Awards were determined by an International Jury headed by Academy
Award nominated Australian Director Bruce Beresford.

The Best Feature Film award was won by TULPAN (Kazakhstan/Russian
Federation/ Switzerland/Poland/Germany). The Award was accepted by
Producer, Karl Baumgartner. Karl Baumgartner shares the Award with
fellow Producers Valerie Fischer, Gulnara Sarsenova, Sergey Selyanov,
Henryk Romanowski, Sergey Melkumov, Bulat Galimgereyev, Elena
Yatsura, Thanassis Karathanos and Raimond Goebel.

Best Animated Feature Film was won by VALS IM BASHIR (WALTZ WITH
BASHIR, Israel/France/Germany). Producer Yael Nahlieliaccepted the
Award. Yael Nahlielishares the Award with fellowproducers Ari Folman,
Serge Lalou, Gerhard Meixner and Roman Paul.

Best Documentary Feature Film wasGGEUTNAJI ANHMEUN JEON JAENG (63
YEARS ON, Republic of Korea). The Award was accepted by
Producer/Director Kim Dong-won, who shares the Award with Producer
Lee SeungGu.

Best Children's Feature Film was THE BLACK BALLOON (Australia). The
Award was accepted by Producer Tristram Miall and Director/Writer/Co-
Producer Elissa Down. They share the Award with Co-Producers Sally
Ayre-Smith, Jimmy The Exploder and Mark Turnbull.

Achievement in Directing was awarded to Turkish director Nuri Bilge
Ceylan for UC MAYMUN (THREE MONKEYS, Turkey/France/Italy).

The Best Screenplay Award was presented to Suha Arraf for ETZ HALIMON
(LEMON TREE, Israel/France/Germany). She shares the Award with
Writer Eran Riklis, who also directed the film.

The Achievement in Cinematography was awarded to Korean Lee Mogae for
JOHEUNNOM NABBEUNNOM ISANGHANNOM (THE GOOD, THE BAD, THE WEIRD,
Republic of Korea).

Israeli actress Hiam Abbass received the Best Performance by an
Actress Award for her performance in ETZ HALIMON (LEMON TREE,
Israel/France/Germany).

Iranian actor Reza Naji was on the Gold Coast to accept his award for
Best Performance by an Actor for his performance in Majid Majidi's
AVAZE GONJESHK-HA (THE SONG OF SPARROWS, Islamic Republic of Iran).

Four additional major Awards were announced for outstanding
achievement.

Yash Chopra, founder of Yashraj Films and a legend of the Indian film
industry, has been awarded the FIAPF Award for outstanding
achievement in film in the Asia-Pacific region. The Award is
determined by FIAPF - International Federation of Film Producers
Associations, and was announced by Andrés Vincente Gomez, President
of FIAPF, who travelled from Madrid to be at the ceremony.

The UNESCO Award for outstanding contribution to the promotion and
preservation of cultural diversity through film was decided by the
International Jury and awarded to the Iranian documentary feature
film TINAR (Islamic Republic of Iran), produced and directed by Mahdi
Moniri. The Jury noted that the film was a rich evocation of rural
life in the mountainous regions of Iran.

The Jury Grand Prize is presented at the discretion of the Jury. In
2008, the International Jury has decided to present two Jury Grand
Prizes – to HONGSE KANGBAIYIN (THE RED AWN, People's Republic of
China); Directed by Cai Shangjun; and to THE PRISONER (India),
Produced and Directed by Pryas Gupta and starring Best Actor nominee
Rajat Kapoor.

Bruce Beresford, President of the 2008 APSA International Jury, said
that: "I was very impressed by the quality and originality of the
films – all of them – and I have thoroughly enjoyed the experience of
being around so many extraordinarily talented filmmakers."

Asia Pacific Screen Awards Chairman Des Power thanked Bruce Beresford
and his Jury colleagues, renowned Indian Director and Actress Aparna
Sen, US Producer Richard Luke Rothschild (whose production credits
include Tender Mercies and The Truman Show),Chinese Director and
Professor of the Beijing Film Academy Zheng Dongtian, and Hanna Lee,
Producer of the 2007 APSA Best Feature Film, the internationally-
acclaimed Miryang (Secret Sunshine), from the Republic of Korea.

Chairman of the Asia Pacific Screen Awards said: "The Asia-Pacific
region is the emerging giant of cinema. The quality and depth of
story-telling amazed not only our jury this year but is certain to
attract more audience at the global level. There is a growing
fascination and respect for films from this diverse region. It is a
tribute to the filmmakers that they now have a globally recognised
award and the broadcast reach of CNN International to promote their
work."

The CNN APSA Viewers Choice Award for Best Asia-Pacific Film of all
Time, voted for by thousands of film fans around the world, at
www.cnn.com/thescreeningroom, went to HIMALA, Ishmael Bernal's 1982
work from The Philippines.

This is another Glory for the one and only Superstar of the
Philippines Ms Nora Aunor. Congratulations to Ishmael Bernal and
Superstar Nora Aunor.

Bravo Noranian's...

Source: http://www.pinoyexchange.com/forums/showthread.php?t=371655

Luis Manzano finally gets to experience working with mom Vilma Santos in a movie

Sa past interviews kay Luis Manzano, naging vocal ang TV host-actor na hindi siya handa sa kissing scene kung saka-sakaling tanggapin niya ang pelikulang pagsasamahan nila ni John Lloyd Cruz at ng inang si Governor Vilma Santos. Pero tinanggap na nga ni Luis ang proyekto at magsisimula na silang mag-shooting.

Ang nababalitang kissing scene ba nila ni John Lloyd ang isa sa rason kung bakit natagalan siyang umoo para gawin ang proyketong ito?

"Yung intial confirmation kasi na ibinigay sa akin, puro word of mouth lang," sabi ni Luis sa PEP (Philippine Entertainment Portal). "Hindi sa wala akong tiwala, definitely hindi. Pero siyempre, bilang artist, iba yung may nababasa ka na, yung mas naiintindihan mo yung atake na gusto nila, yung nakikita at magagawa mo para sa role na yun.

"After nung ipakita na akin yung script, when we sat down, nung unang-unang talk namin, everything was luminaw sa akin. Kung sino at ano ang character ko, kung ano ang mga gusto nilang makita sa akin, mula kay Lloydie, sa Mommy ko... Dun ako napa-oo sa project na ito.

"Regarding that kissing scene," patuloy niya, "we're not getting any younger. Kung anuman ang kailangan namin para sa kung anuman ang karakter namin para mabuo yung istorya, yun ang gagawin namin. Matatalino naman ang mga Filipino, maiintindihan nila kung ano ang nangyayari sa isang istorya."

Luis also expressed his excitement dahil ito ang kauna-unahang pagkakataon na makakatrabaho niya sa isang proyekto ang ina.

"I'm very, very hapy dahil safe to say, ako yung naging final link para mabuo talaga yung project," sabi ni Luis. "Kumbaga, hinintay talaga ako ng Star Cinema to say yes. That's one factor na kailangan talaga naming ayusin ni Lloydie, yung sked and, of course, definitely we'll find our ways, Star Cinema will find the way.

"Ako, especially on my part, for 27 years, nakilala ko ang Vilma Santos bilang mommy ko. Nakikita ko siyang nagta-taebo sa sala, nagbibigay ng baon bago ako pumasok, pinapagalitan ako pag may ginawa akong kalokohan. And for the first time in my life, makikilala at makakasama ko siya bilang Vilma Santos na aktres."

Aminado rin si Luis na nandun ang pressure sa kanya dahil bukod sa kilalang mahusay na aktres ang ina, wala ring kuwestiyon sa kakayahan naman ni John Lloyd bilang aktor.

"I've mentioned in countless interviews, I've get to work with John Lloyd... Nakakasama ko siya sa ASAP, sa hosting, sa mga production numbers. Pero I still believe the Lloydie as an acting genius. Nandun yung pressure, but it's a pressure na wine-welcome ko sa buhay ko ‘cause I will grow as an artist. I'm very, very happy na tuloy na ito," pahayag ni Luis.

Just like John Loyd, isa sa preparation na gagawin ni Luis para magampanan ang sensitibong role bilang gay ay ang pag-aaral sa kilos at pananalita ng mga gays na nakakasalamuha niya.

"Well, being in the industry, all we have to is observe. That is the basic step na puwede kong gawin dahil sa industriyang ito, karamihan sa mga nakakasalamuha natin, yung mga nakapaikot sa atin, are homosexuals. Magkakaiba lang ng levels. ‘Ika nga, it's up to Direk Olive [Lamasan], to us, na hanapin yung tamang timpla, kung gaano kami ka-gay base sa characters namin," sabi ni Luis bilang pangwakas.

Source: http://www.pinoyexchange.com/forums/showthread.php?t=373349

John Lloyd Cruz finally fulfills his dream to star in a movie with Vilma Santos

Tuloy na tuloy na ang pagsasama sa pelikula ng Box-Office King na si John Lloyd Cruz at ng Star For All Seasons na si Vilma Santos sa isang pelikula. Ito ay sa pamamagitan ng A Mother's Story (working title) ng Star Cinema na ididirek ni Olivia Lamasan.

Inamin ni Vilma na ang schedule niya at posisyon bilang governor ng Batangas ang rason kung bakit hindi nasimulan agad ang pelikula nila ni John Lloyd. Sa parte naman ni John Lloyd, sinabi niyang willing siyang maghintay basta makasama niya lang sa isang proyekto ang Star For All Seasons.

Ano ang pakiramdam ni John Lloyd na matutuloy na ang pelikula nila ni Vilma?

"Gaya nga ng sinasabi ko for the past months, sked wise is very difficult. With the sked of Governor Vilma Santos, medy may gap in between. Pero okey na ngayon. Siyempre, nandun yung constant na kaba, nerbiyos, and of course, may halong excitement. Palapit na ng palapit sa actual na paggawa. Above all, I'm very hapy na kasama ako dito, na yung pangalan ko, na-associate sa project na ito.

"Pangarap ko na makatrabaho si Ate Vi. Hindi ko napanod lahat ng movies niya, pinaka-last na napanood kong buo ay yung Dekada '70. Wala, napanganga lang ako. I was really honored. To be sitting next to her is more than a dream come true, kasi ito na yun, totoo nang nangyayari. Napalitan na yung kaba ng ayokong magkamali at kung nagkamali man ako, sana maintindihan, sana yakapin ka pa rin at tulungan ka to become a better artist," saad ni John Lloyd sa PEP (Philippine Entertainment Portal).

Sa pelikulang ito ay gagampanan ni John Lloyd ang lover ni Luis Manzano, na anak ni Vilma sa pelikula at maging sa totoong buhay. Sa mga ganitong tema ng pelikula, marami ang nag-e-expect na magkakaroon ng intimate scenes between John Lloyd and Luis.

Hindi ba nagdalawang-isip si John Lloyd na tanggapin ang kanyang role, kung saan malaki ang posiblidad na may kissing scene nga sila ni Luis?

"Ako, I've been vocal about that, walang problema sa ganun," sabi ni John Lloyd. "Basta ang lagi ko lang sinasabi dati pa, kung magkakaroon man ako ng ganung eksena, yung kaeksena ko lang, he has to be a real man, and wala namang problemang ganun kay Luis.

"Saka pag artista ka... Yung orientation ko, pag artista ka at sumagot ka sa isang pelikula, aasahan mo na aalagaan ka. Pero kung halimbawa in the process mayroon kang kailangang gawin at napag-usapan ninyo yun, at wala namang problema sa iyo, kailangan mong gawin yun dahil trabaho mo yun bilang artista," paliwanag ng aktor.

Humingi ba ng permiso si John Lloyd sa girlfriend niyang si Liz Uy tungkol sa pelikulang gagawin niya?

"Ako, hindi," sagot ng aktor. "Trabaho ko ito at wala pa naman kami sa punto na dapat magpaalam at humingi ng permiso kung may tatanggapin akong work. Kung trabaho mo ‘yan, trabaho mo ‘yan. Kung trabaho ko ito, trabaho ko ito. Pero alam niya na gagawin ko ang movie na ito. Kung iko-consult ko siya, oo. Pero yung in a sense na kailangan kong hingin ang permiso niya, hindi."

Anu-ano naman ang preparations na ginagawa niya para sa kanyang role?

"I believe ito na yung pinaka-complex na character na na-encounter ko. Gaya nga ng tinatanong niya kung anong preparations ang ginagawa ko, sisimulan ko dun sa pag-aaral na yun. Napakaimportante nun sa pagbuo ng puso ng karakter, at pag nangyari yun, susunod na ang lahat. Yun ang pinaniniwalaan ko," pagtatapos ni John Lloyd.

Source: http://www.pinoyexchange.com/forums/showthread.php?t=373349

Star Cinema's A MOTHER'S STORY: Vilma Santos, John Lloyd Cruz & Luis Manzano

Vilma Santos doubly excited to start her comeback film because of son Luis

Natuloy na rin sa wakas ang story conference ng pinakaaabangang comeback film ni Governor Vilma Santos sa Star Cinema, ang A Mother's Story (working title). Ginanap ito noong November 18 sa opisina ng film arm ng ABS-CBN.

Makakasama ni Vilma sa A Mother's Story ang kanyang panganay na anak na si Luis Manzano at si John Lloyd Cruz. Ito ay ididirek ni Olivia Lamasan na matagal ding hindi gumawa ng pelikula; ang huli niya ay ang Milan noong 2004.

Pagkatapos ng story conference ay nagkaroon ng pagkakataon na makausap ng PEP (Philippine Entertainment Portal) si Vilma. Aminado ang actress-politician na ang schedule at posisyon niya bilang governor ng Batangas ang rason kung bakit hindi agad nasimulan ang comeback movie niyang ito sa Star Cinema. Ang huling pelikulang ginawa ni Vilma ang ay Mano Po 3 ng Regal Entertainment noong 2004.

"Yung pagpaplano ng pelikulang ito," umpisa ni Vilma, "si John Lloyd pa lang ang sure na makakasama ko. Dapat ito, the other year pa nasimulan na namin. But fortunately, I won as governor at that time. Humingi lang muna ako ng kaunting bakasyon kasi wala pa akong isang taon na gobernador. I guess, yun muna ang priority ko, at naintindihan naman ni John Lloyd yun.

"Sa ngayon, well implemented na yung mga proyketo ko sa Batangas at pinayagan na ako ng mga constituents ko. I'm so excited—very, very excited to do a movie, after almost I think magpa-five years na yata after akong makagawa ng pelikula. Buhay ko na ito, hinahanap ko pa rin ito. So you can't imagine yung excitement na gawin ko ito, plus the fact na yung anak ko pa ang gaganap na anak ko."

Aminado si Vilma na isa sa sobrang nagbigay ng excitement sa kanya ay puro first time niyang makakatrabaho ang mga taong makakasama niya sa nasabing pelikula—her son Luis, John Loyd, and Direk Olive.

"When I've learned na tatanggapin ni Lucky yung role, sabi ko sa sarili ko, ‘Ano pa ang hahanapin ko?' For a comeback movie after five years, I have a best actor and box-office king here. First time ko ring makakatrabaho si Direk Olive, then gagawin pa sa New York. I think we will give a very, very good movie by next year, so sana abangan nila."

Ang istorya ng A Mother's Story ay tungkol sa relasyon ng isang ina (Vilma) sa kanyang anak na lalake (Luis) at sa gay lover ng kanyang anak na gagampanan naman ni John Lloyd.

"This is something new!" excited na sabi ni Vilma. "And yung character na gagampanan ko, sa tinagal-tagal ko na sa showbiz, hindi ko pa nagawa itong character ko sa movie na ito. This is not purely drama, this is a comedy-drama. But yung pagiging comedy niya is ibang klase, hindi kami slapsticks dito. Saka ito yung pelikula na mayroon talagang puso."

Inaasahan na sa isang pelikula na may gay theme ay magkaroon ng love scene o kissing scene. Ano ang magiging reaksiyon ni Vilma pag nalaman niyang merong mga ganitong eksena ang kanyang anak na si Luis kay John Lloyd?

"As I've said, professional ang gagawin naming attack dito. With the team na ganito, everything will be done in good taste and in a professional way," sagot ng multi-awarded actress.

May tips or techniques ba siyang ituturo sa mga makakasama niya sa A Mother's Story?

"Magagaling ang mga artistang ito," sabi ni Vilma. "Bayaan mong ilabas nila ang kanilang style. It doesn't mean na porke't nanalo na ako ng awards, parang ganun na ako kagaling, it's a nonstop learning process.

"In any movie that I do, iba nang iba ang attack mo dun. Hindi ibig sabihin na magaling ka sa nakaraan mong proyekto ay magaling ka na dito. Each one of us may kanya-kanya atake ng role. Bayaan mong i-deliver nila yun. Now, pag humingi sila ng tulong, that's the time na puwede akong magsabi. Hindi ko puwedeng pakialamanan ang style ng iba."

Source: http://www.pinoyexchange.com/forums/showthread.php?t=373349