Da King and I

Hello again! After a month full of work.. All work and no play.. only plates, I have finally rested in my chair and got back the momentum i've been trying to hold on to since last summer. Today, I will be posting an overdue painting that I did a month ago, right after I sketched Da King.

Da King and I

Medium: Acrylic on 18x24 in. canvas

We were given an open theme composition so i've thought off my biggest influence on Cinema. I was supposed to paint my grandpa but to make it more meaningful, I painted none other than the King of Philippine Cinema himself, FPJ. 

Let me share a little trivia:

I remembered the first movie I watched was with my Grandpa and it was this movie of FPJ with leading lady, Anjanette Abayari. As soon as I finished this painting and had it checked, I went home and switched the channel to PBO (Pinoy Blockbuster Office) wherein to my surprise was none other than the movie itself. What a coincidence! :) 

Anyway, I tried a different style on Da King. Instead of painting realistic, for the first time I ventured into the world of POP art. To be honest, I think i'll be sticking to this style for a while. Its so much fun! :) 

And since this is getting a bit embarassing.. i'll be ending this entry. I just wanted to share this tiny info to everyone who reads my movie blog. :) Hope you enjoyed that.. (hehe)

Til my next! :)

P.S. I would like to acknowledge Sir Simon of Video 48 for sending me this rare photo of FPJ. Thank you so much sir! Your photo was the exact image I had in mind. :) 

Sketching Da King

First semester is at its peak and right now we're starting to propose ideas for our creatives. And with more demands from other subjects, I could say our plate is pretty full.

Amidst this busy month, I saw a picture of FPJ (Fernando Poe Jr.) in a rare postcard posted on flickr.com, posing for his famous 'holding the gun' gesture in his movie 'Aguila'. Instead of sleeping, I got my sketchpad, a pencil and myself doodling his face to see if I could still draw. :p


I know it's not that good, I didn't have the time to refine this. As soon as I sketched da King, I immediately fell asleep.. along with my sketchpad and pencil. hehe

Wait till you see my next attempt. :) Til next! :D

A Day with Mr. Shooli

At long last! After weeks of school work, I was able to finish transcribing the recorded video of our interview with Mr. Jun Urbano. I won't be posting the video for copyright purposes but will paste our conversation below. Sorry for the overdue entry. 

This interview was held last August 18, 2008 at Starbucks Matalino St.. 

Have fun reading.. :p

"Ikaw Manong Wag Ka Kotong" :p

JG (Justine Galvez): How would you gauge the success of the recent tribute to your father, Mr. Manuel Conde in terms of attendees?

JU (Jun Urbano): Well, puno yung theatre. Actually, it was a group of people. Some of them were writers, movie critics, etc. headed by a professor from U.P., Nick Tiongson. He teaches masscomm and some other independent filmmakers, writers and producers who pushed for writing a book about my dad because they say my dad should have been made a National artist long before. The unfortunate thing is that there were no films in existence in spite of the fact that he did about 40 or more films, only one or two were preserved… and one of them were Genghis Khan. Tapos the movie was shown in 1950s and it was acclaimed in Cannes festival in Italy. That was the first time a Filipino movie was honored in a venue like that. So sabi nila dapat mga movie na ginagawa ng tatay ko, all showed Filipino culture, Philippine tradition, etc, very nationalistic si daddy. Like when he did ‘Ikaw kasi’, I think it was about the mining industry and he did ‘Bahala Na’. It was the wood-carving people in Paete. And then he did ‘Molave’ which was about the denudation of our forests. So ganun siya.

So back to the honors, kami na lang ang nagcecelebrate niyan kasi my dad never knew he was a great director e. He was just doing film in fact, he was not even a businessman. Pag sinabing showbiz, it’s show and then it’s business. Ang tatay ko halimbawa, artista ka, bibigyan ka niya ng favor, susuklian ka niya, tataasan pa niya talent fee mo. That’s how he is, he works with his heart. Basta gumawa lang siya ng pelikula, happy siya enjoy siya. And he was one of the first independent yung indie ngayon. By indie means it doesn’t go with the usual… yung business because there are big motion picture producers.. the mainstream. Siya yung lumabas doon. On his own he made his own movie.

JG: What is the most memorable part of the tribute to your father?

JU: Maganda lahat eh. Well it’s the.. hindi naman nakakaiyak. Ang nakakaiyak doon ay naiyak yung mga tao nung nagsalita ako. Kasi hindi nila inaasahan na magsasalita ako. I had to come out as Mr. Shooli kasi they featured ‘Genghis Khan’, the movie of my dad, kaya sabi nila, “Come out as Mr. Shooli.” Nandun si Eddie Garcia, Perla Bautista, Delia Razon, mga contemporaries.

JG: Do you think it was successful on the basis of educating the youth about your father’s works?

JU: Well, they wrote a book. I don’t think it’s educating the youth. That was not the intention. The intention was to recognize Manuel Conde as the one of the pillars that time of the movie industry. Educating the youth, I doubt, maybe to know something about him, maybe they can be inspired by what he went through, through the book. He is actually bringing to the attention, the persona of Manuel Conde. He is a director, an actor, producer, maybe they can pick something from that.

JG: Who among the new breed of directors would you say could be a modern-day Manuel Conde and why?

JU: Magagaling sila naman eh. Each director has its own mark. Each director has its own way of doing things. So it is difficult for anybody to compare. Kanya kanya yan e. So hindi pwedeng i-compare.

JG: How about artists today that can serve as inspiration for the quality of movies in Philippine Cinema?

JU: Magagaling naman silang lahat. You know, everybody can act. All of us are actors and actresses. Actually, sa totoo lang, hindi ako nanunuod ng t.v. sa Tagalog channels. Ang pinapanuod ko, Discovery, National Geographic, educating channels because I learn. Kapag nanuod ka kay ‘Wowowee’ or sa ‘Eat Bulaga’, ano matutunan mo? Ang natututunan ko sa mga programang iyon, mga contest-contest nila, eh.. napakatanga ng Pilipino. Nalulungkot ako.. hindi ko pinagtatawanan. Pero Makita mo dun mga masa karamihan. They ask simple questions in the process of elimination, eventually the winner will have a chance to win the jackpot. Pero yung mga simple questions hindi masagot. Kaya sabi ko “Ganito na 

ba kababaw mga Pilipino?” na simple things, no brainer talaga, hindi nila alam. Kaya nung minsan nakausap ko kaibigan ko, may-ari ng istasyon at sabi ko “Alam mo, hindi ako nanunuod ng local program kasi lalo ako nabobobo. Bakit ganoon ang mga programa natin?” Sabi niya, “Tito Jun, wala ako magawa negosyo yan e.” So yun, hindi ako nanunuod ng local programs kasi sayang (para sa akin).. sayang ang panahon.

JG: There is an attempt to create awareness and appreciation of Filipino Classic movies like the 2007 Kool Pinoy Klassiks by Cinema One, Juan Tamad goes Indie and a Tribute to Dolphy held last July. Do you think that a tribute to the Golden Age of Philippine Cinema would be patronized particularly the youth? What do you think could be a communications strategy for such event?

JU: Alam mo, by the youth in general, hindi. By some youth who wanted to know how movies were before, maybe. Pero, as a popular medium, hindi kasi ako rin e h

indi ko rin naeenjoy e. I’ve been directing commercials for almost 40 years and I’ve done about 2000+ commercials in my career. And if I look at the very first few commercials I did when I was starting, comparing them to the commercials I did now, technically... ang layo. The way I make movies before… ang layo. Kaya sabi ko, maybe I can go back and say “Ganoon pala noon.” But I will not be able to learn. Kasi ang proseso nandiyan naman na. Computer-Generated Images na nung araw di namen makuha yan. Curiosity is the word.

JG: What do you think should be the motif of the said event? Classic and Elegant or Young and Vibrant?

JU: How was it then, how was it now. Ico-compare mo e.It will be interesting if you show what it used to be without comparing to what is now. You have to compare para may interest. Kung ipapakita mo lang yung noong araw ang dating niyan ay.. “Oh, ano yan?”

JG: What decade do you consider the Golden Age of Philippine Cinema and why? What are your favorite movies from this era?

JU: Nung mga 50’s. Magagaling ang mga director nun. At tsaka ang mga tema nila noon about the Philippines. Kasi alam mo tayo, gaya-gaya tayo eh. If I do mga movies na maraming effects, etc., hindi ko tatalunin Hollywood diyan., paramihan ng extra… libu-libo ang extra. May pera sila e at ang market nila worldwide so they can afford to spend so much because they can get them back. Pero marami ring nalulugi dyan. Ngayon, kung kakayanin ko iyon, unang-una, copycat na ko, hindi pa maganda pagkakagaya ko. We don’t have the vans, the machine to do these things kaya siguro maappreciate nila l

alo if I did something really Filipino that they have nothing to compare it with. Yun ang mga movies ng 50’s. Mga ‘Badjao, ‘Anak Dalita’… pinoy na pinoy talaga. Eh ngayon sa tuwing may festival, ano bang mga nakikita mo ngayon? Mga gaya-gaya.

JG: How do you think the stars from the Golden Era would feel about such event? Would you think they would give their support by being present at the said event?

JU: Oo, they will be present. Because they associate with that and they will relate to what you will be doing. 
Actually, yung mga movies naman natin ngayon magaganda naman eh. Gaya nung kay Aga, setting niya sa Bicol. Maganda ang pagkakagawa.

JG: In your opinion, what could such tribute contribute to the betterment of the Filipino film industry?

JU: Tingin ko wala. Kasi wala nang industriya ngayon eh. Per se, as an industry. The movie industry is now confined to the two television stations. They are the ones who have the stars and they are the ones who have the means to advertise. Kasi kapag gumawa ka ng commercial ngayon whether it’s a movie or what, ang charge nila mga 250,000 per 30

 seconds. Ganoon kamahal. Eh para naman kumita ang pelikula mo dapat may advertising ka. Kapag sila naman ang gumagawa, hindi naman nila sinisingil sarili nila. I-wwrite off nila yun to something else. So nakakapag-advertise na nga sila, kumikita pa sila. Eh kung outsider, where will you get that money to advertise my film?

JG: How about if ABS-CBN or a giant network would back up the event?

JU: Hmm.. Maybe. Yung kay Dolphy kasi, artista nila si Dolphy eh kumbaga self-serving ginawa nila. Yung kay Rudy Fernandez, sila kumikita noon, binayaran nila iyon eh. Negosyo lahat iyan.

Signing his father's book for us. :)

Thank you sir Jun, your words are truly inspiring. This would be of great help for my thesis. :)

Sneak Peek in Mongolian Barbeque Land

Another month has passed and I haven't been updating my blog. Unfortunately, Reyna Rosal: Tribute to Ms. Rosa Rosal was replaced by an independent movie in Robinsons Galleria on the said date. But, I do have some fresh news..

I was able to interview Manuel Conde's son, Jun Urbano. Here is a glimpse of our thesis class with the one and only Mr. Shooli.

(L-R: Joy, Jesy, Elain, Mr. Jun Urbano, Juz, Ains, Ging, Jamie)
Click to enlarge image

I will be posting our interview as soon as I transcribe his words from the video. Or probably upload the video myself on my next entry.

Oh by the way, thank you so much thesismates for the support. :)

Keep you posted! :)

Enjoying the Past: Tribute to Manuel Conde

Sorry for the late post. It has been a week or more since my last entry. Today, I won't be posting trivias. Instead, i'll be sharing this fun experience I had for the past few days.

As you all know, the recent Cinemalaya had just ended. Along with the films produced by some of the industry's young & fine moviemakers, a tribute event was also made for the person who introduced Independent cinema. He is none other than:

Manuel Urbano a.k.a. Manuel Conde

He is well-known for portraying the satirical comedy "Juan Tamad" series as it targets the social and political issues of our country. Other than that, he is the first Filipino whose 1950 film 'Genghis Khan' was screened in international film festivals. He directed movies in LVN, Lebran and his very own MC productions until his retirement in the early 80s. Some of the movies he directed are:

LVN:

Sawing Gantimpala (1940)

Maginoong Takas (1940)

Hiyas ng Dagat (1941)

Binatillo (1941)

Villa Hermosa (1941)

Ararong Ginto (1941)

Ibong Adarna (1941)

Caviteno (1942)

Prinsipe Tenoso (1942)

Orasang Ginto (1946)

Ala-ala Kita (1946)

Principeng Hindi Tumatawa (1946)

Apat na Alas (1950)

Senorito (1953)

Ang Ibong Adarna (1955)

Pilipino Kostum - No Touch (1955)

Ikaw Kasi! (1955)

Handang Matodas (1956)

Krus Na Kawayan (1956)

Bahala Na (1956)

El Robo (1957)

Basta Ikaw (1957)

Tingnan Natin (1957)

Casa Grande (1958)

Venganza (1958)

Bayanihan (1959)

Juan Tamad Goes to Society (1960)

MC (Manuel Conde) Productions:

Doon Po sa Amin (1946)

Nabasag ang Banga (1947)

Si Juan Tamad (1947)

Si Juan Daldal (Anak ni Juan Tamad) (1948)

Vende Cristo (1948)

Prinsipe Paris (1949)

Siete Infantes De Lara (1950)

Genghis Khan (1950)

Juan Tamad Goes to Congress (1959)

Molave (1961)

Lebran Productions:

Sigfredo (1951)

Zultana International:

Si Juan Tamad at si Juan Masipag sa Pulitikang Walang Hanggan (1963)

I didn't post his other works though he was fond of creating documentaries. Special thanks to my mom and grandpa for buying me this:

My source on everything that is posted in this entry

I really felt bad for missing the opening night of Conde's film festival. Big stars were there.. Imagine, if typhoon Helen did not come, I could have shaken hands with Ms. Delia Razon, Mr. Eddie Garcia, Well-known director Mike De Leon, Director Joel Lamangan and many more. Oh well, there is always a next time. I hope..

Anyway, I was checking out some articles on the family's newspaper Star, and found out that there will be another film showing in tribute to one of the stars from the Golden era. She is none other than Ms. Rosa Rosal. I checked out the details on the net but there was still no announcement. But whatever happens, rest assured, I will be there. :)

Oh by the way, here are the photos my fellow v.angel and friend Jesy took after watching the movie:

  

With my buddy Manuel

Posing with his works

The manuscripts and his family photos

Taking a photo of the movie we watched

Title of the movie is Krus na Kawayan under LVN Pictures, directed by Mr. Conde himself. :) Special thanks to Ms. Jesy Lourish Javier for coming with me all the way from UST to CCP. :)

To be honest, despite of the crude lights and sounds quality of the film, I really appreciated the story and how good the actors and actresses were. I even saved the ticket and stored in my everyday planner :)

I only spent 50 pesos for a timeless classic. Not bad right? :)

Even if I wasn't able to attend the main event, I am still happy to see and experience the product itself. I am happy to know that the industry is aware and still appreciates Filipino Classic movies. Through these events, I am once again inspired, fueled and reminded to make the best out of what I can for this project.

Oil price increase? Heck. I am driven to go miles for this. Til next! :)

Who am I? Trivia#3

I'm back! and we're up for another game of 'Who am I?'. Last time, Sir Simon of Video48 got the correct answer for two straight entries. :) Answer to last entry is Gines Soriano also known as Nestor de Villa. Anyway, for the next trivia, here goes:

I was finding a job and been hired as a receptionist in the office of a movie magazine. One day, I was asked to go to LVN to get publicity stills for the latest film of Nida Blanca. The Old Lady saw me and referred as Ilocana Mestiza. She told me I can join showbiz only if I can brush my Tagalog. From then on, I was given a contract and later became a full-fledged star.

I am known as Miss Alembong. It was my first role in the movie 'Alembong' in 1958 which everyone considers a box-office hit. I also appeared in the show 'Tayo’y Magsaya' with Nida Blanca, Pancho Magalona, Guy Donato and Bentot under the direction of Felicing Constantino.

My other movies are Ganyan Ka Pala and Medalyong Perlas (with Nida Blanca, Nestor de Villa and Willie Sotedo) and Teenage Crush (with Tessie Quintana Eddie Rodriguez, Manding Claro and Luz Valdez, directed by Tony Santos).

My time came last January 10, 2002, in the beautiful Huntington Beach, California, USA.

FYI: I am the aunt of today's actress Chin-Chin Gutierrez. Who am I?

(Photo and Content Source: Dona Sisang and Filipino Movies (1977), http://movie-industry.blogspot.com/ and the Wikipedia)

Answer to be posted on my next entry. Til next! :)

Who am I? Trivia#2

We're back for another game of 'Who Am I?'. The answer to my last entry is Jose Revilla also known as "Armando Goyena". For trivia #2, here goes.. :)

I am the son of a hacendero from Gapan, Nueva Ecija and practicing pre-med. One day, I decided to watch the shooting of a friend's film right in my home. From then on, I was discovered by Director Susana C. De Guzman and Nemesio B. Caravana as they encouraged me to join showbiz.

My first movie was Amor-Mio or My Love under LVN. Later on, I was paired with Nida Blanca in "Bahala Na". When LVN discontinued making films, I transferred to Sampaguita pictures where I made my debut with Ms. Gloria Romero in "Tugtuging Bukid".

In the 1980's I made a comeback with my good old friend Nida Blanca as we played for two movies with Ms. Sharon Cuneta's Forgive and Forget, and Ms. Maricel Soriano's Saan Darating ang umaga.

I remained active in films then until my time came in 2004, wherein I was diagnosed with prostate cancer.

FYI: I was also known as the "Fred Astaire of the Philippines". Who Am I? :)

(Photo and Content Source: Dona Sisang and Filipino Movies, 1977 and the Wikipedia)

Answer will be posted on my next entry. Til next! :)

Who am I? Trivia#1

Let's play a game.. I have five names who changed their names when they started showbiz. On my next post, his/her screen name will be displayed. Anyway, here is trivia #1:

Among the several sons of well-to-do families, I was one of those who were drawn to the movies after World War II. I was persuaded by a friend named Wilfredo Ma. Guerrero to play the male lead in Wanted: A Chaperone. After that, I was convinced by my friend to audition in LVN pictures and start a career in showbiz. At first Dona Narcisa De leon a.k.a. Dona Sisang wasn't interested in me because I did not have that what we call, 'X-factor'. But later on, I got the call and did supporting roles until I became a full-fledged actor.

I have done roles such as Kapitan Kidlat (1953), Tiya Loleng (1953) with Ms. Tessie Quintana and other movies under LVN. I was married to the first Camay soap model Francisca Roces with whom I had seven daughters and a son and 28 grandchildren. Two of these are my grandsons, Bernard Palanca and Miko Palanca and one of my granddaughters, Bianca Araneta.

I have also appeared later on in movies such as Eskapo (1995) as Eugenio Lopez Sr. and Yamashita: The Tiger's Treasure (2001). Now, I am 82 years old, fit and active as I go to the gym twice a week.

Who am I?

(Photo and Content Source: Dona Sisang and Filipino Movies, 1977 and http://movie-industry.blogspot.com)

Answer will be posted on my next entry. Til next! :)

Weighed But Found Wanting

It's fun watching films especially when you learn a lot about the moral lesson of the story. From judging your neighbor (Tinimbang Ka Ngunit Kulang) to believing in miracles (Himala), these two classics that i've seen have taught me in a way I can apply to little but important things in life. Let me tell you what I think on Tinimbang Ka Ngunit Kulang.

"Maraming klaseng tao ang pinagtatawanan
ang kanyang kapwa dahil may diperensya.
Dahil sa mayroong hindi tama sa itsura.
At karamihan sa mga tumatawag iyon
ang hindi marunong tumingin sa loob, sa puso.
Ang puso'y hindi nakikita ng mata para makita mo ito,
Gamitin mo ang iyong puso."

-- Mario O' Hara as Berto in Tinimbang Ka Ngunit Kulang

Judging others from the way they look is what i've noticed and that has become a trend. We often make fun of others because they are different from us or simply because they lack the superficial. In this movie, a village idiot, leper, a womanizer, apostolic hypocrites and a man entwined between goodness and peer pressure will show the audience a reflection of the nation's ugliness.

This movie truly stands out because of its story that will remain in the minds and hearts of the audience. Not to mention its achievement for winning 6 Famas awards including Best Picture. I, myself have been swept away and realized that even up to now, we are to blame for the world's injustice. Okay that might sound too big but as an example, instead of just blaming others with the crisis around us and give in to filthy pride, maybe we should do something instead to help out.

I am guilty for judging others and mind on what should be 'their business'. For instance, a helpless child asks for money. Instead of lecturing why they beg for money, maybe I should shed out a few of what I have. I always think that giving will just help the poor become more lazy. But what if they really can't get a job? Yep, i've realized its time to change.

It may still occur to me as if they're fooling me.. but I got to try right? We as a community should try.

Tinimbang Ka Ngunit Kulang is a must-see for everyone. A star-stellar performance by Ms. Lolita Rodriguez (Best Actress), A first time Christopher De Leon (Best Actor) and a drama (Best Picture) that involves serious social issues made by the Lino Brocka (Best Director) for the society.

That's all.. Til Next! :)

A Closer Look on: Lamberto Avellana

Did you know that the only Filipino with the most number of wins locally and internationally is also the same person who destroyed the "bakya" crowd? (These were described as "unperceptive" and "socially unaware") He is none other than:

Lamberto Avellana
(B: February 12, 1915 – D: April 25, 1991)

As I flip through the pages of this book, I got so interested that I decided to post everything it said:

Lamberto V. Avellana is a pillar of Philippine Cinema. One of the few living witness to the growth and development of Filipino movies, Avellana began auspiciously as a stage director at the Ateneo de Manila, from where he graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in 1938. With his wife, the former Daisy Hontiveros, he founded in 1939 the Barangay Theater Guild, which pioneered in the presentation of legitimate plays.

Avellana movied into film at a time when the studio systems was just emerging. His first film, Sakay (1939) , was a landmark in Filipino filmmaking, because it marked in the words of a film critic T.D. Agcaoili, "The introduction of a truly creative Philippine cnema, employing organically in film some of the elements of modern stagecraft and dramaturgy that had been lacking in Philippine movies".

Avellana's direct contribution to Philippine cinema, however, is his use of cinematic techniques, in particular, of the mise-en-scene, which at the time was unheard of among directors who merely used their cameras to tell a story. In short, it was Avellana who first "discovered, exploited and enriched" the idiom of film in the country.

Aside from this, it was Avellana who first rebelled against the prevailing popularity of saccharine romances and superficial melodramas. Through his treatment of stories with serious themes and three-dimensional characters, he successfully mixed the significant issues of his time with the conventions of Filipino movie-making.

To name Avellana's best films that proved Filipinos can win Internationally, are:

1. Anak Dalita (1956)- "dealt with the cave-dwellers" of war-ravaged Intramuros, who, dispossessed of practically eveything, managed to survive and hold on to their dignity. This film was screened in the Asian Film Festival

2. Badjao (1957) - Painted an idyllic picture of the day-to-day existence of the sea-faring people in Mindanao. This film was also screened at the Asian Film Festival.

3. Kundiman ng Lahi (1959) - dramatized a woman's difficulties in love and life. This gave Charito Solis' breakthrough as an Actress for she bagged the 'Best Actress' Award in the 1959 FAMAS awards.

4. Portrait of the Artist as Filipino (1966) - translated into film Nick Joaquin's dramatic elegy on the death of Intramuros and of pure ideals in life and art.

5. La Campana de Baler (1961) and El Legado (1959) - won him International Prestige Awards.

The Highest point of his forty-year career as drama and film director is the National Artist Award, conferred on him in 1976, in recognition of his rare excellence and significant contribution to the growth of Filipino drama and film.

(Source: The Urian Anthology 1980-1989, Edited and Introduced by: Nicanor G. Tiongson)

So can we, the youth and the future of this country, be as great as Lamberto Avellana? Maybe not exactly like his greatness but why not? Dreaming to make a difference can bring us good.. no great results! :)

Til Next!

A Closer Look on: The Queen

In every kingdom, there is a Queen who, at a glance, mesmerizes everyone.. including the King. She dazzles with royalty and elegance and everywhere she goes, the people bow down to her with the same way people look up to her.

Ms. Susan Roces - Poe : The First Lady of Philippine Cinema

She has the name that surpassed time. Shining with glamour, she is one of the highly respected actresses in Philippine History.

Ms. Gloria Romero says: "She is loved by everybody around her" and Sharon Cuneta adds: "she must be emulated by everyone, very gracious, she's way up there, a class all by herself". Ricky Lo states that she has retained "The Face That Refreshes", all sweetness and light, the paradigm of things bright and beautiful.

(Source: http://movies.groups.yahoo.com/group/Susan_Roces/)

Born in July 28, 1941, Jesusa Porifcacion Sonora also known as 'Ms. Susan Roces' started her career just by admiring her favorite actress, Ms. Gloria Romero. One day, her uncle told her to come to Sampaguita Pictures and see her idol in person. Through her amusement in finally meeting her idol, she re-enacted a scene in which a man in mustache approached and was amazed of her talent. He said to send in her audition tape. This man is none other than Dr. Perez, owner of Sampaguita Pictures.

Her very first movie is 'Mga Bituin ng Kinabukasan' by Nepomuceno Films. From then on she partnered with Luiz Gonzales in their first tandem movie, Boksingera. Followed by other loveteams with famous names such as Romeo Vasquez, Jose Mari Gonzales and the very handsome Eddie Gutierrez. But it was a man of action who had the tall, dark and handsome features that bagged the heart of Susan Roces, the King of Philippine Movies, Fernando Poe Jr. (+). Emerging herself in unforgettable movies such as to Susan with Love, Mga Ligaw na Bulaklak and Maruja, she earned the title as the Queen of Philippine Movies.

Today, she still continues to dazzle everyone. She is still supported by her loyal 'Susanians' and is a highly respected figure in the industry.

Her legacy is continued by ABS-CBN's Susan Roces Cinema Collection where they have showcased two of her best horror films of all time. (Patayin sa Sindak si Barbara & Maligno). Along with her friends, Amalia Fuentes, Delia Razon, Lilia Dizon, Gloria Romero and many more, she remains to be the "Face that Refreshes" that no one can equale or replace.

Mr. Bing C. Manalo shares his moments with the Queen and her friends

Sir Bing with the Queen

Ms. Delia Razon, Sir Bing, Ms. Lila Dizon and Mr. Eddie Garcia



Sir Bing with Ms. Barbara Perez

And Sir Bing's short advice for my thesis:

Just keep a positive outlook, you will reach your dream. I fulfilled one of my dreams, Susan Roces considers me her friend now, may bonus pa, her family is also very very nice to me. Sharing w/ you some memorable moments I had w/ the Queen of All Movie Queens

-- Bing C. Manalo, GMA Program Analysis - Office of the President

I wish I could also meet them.. I can feel that my destiny is getting crystal clear. I might after all belong to this industry. But that's too soon to tell.. Hope I could probably say it 5 years from now. :p

Hope you enjoyed this mini-tribute to the Queen.. Wait until you see her in my event! oops! I mean.. Theoretical event.. :D

Til next! :)

I am not the only one

I was looking for respondents for the 100-person survey so I posted my questionnaire in Philippinecinemavault. Just when I thought all hope is lost, these kind-hearted people volunteered to answer my survey.

It was my first time to post a topic and it wasn't about movie posters or any trivial facts about Philippine Cinema. Just when I thought I won't be able to find avid moviegoers of the Golden Era, these people gave their time just to answer my survey. One of them is Mr. Jimi De la Rosa who recommended his good friend Mr. Bing Manalo, GMA network's program analyst. It really went well to think they haven't met me. Afterwards, Sir Bing told me great stories of his experiences with the stars. He also designed the collated poster project from the Paradise of the Stars:

Seeing Da King and Queen of Philippine Cinema this young showers me with amusement. They look so.. Elegant. Handsome and Beautiful.. no wonder they have been like the best loveteam of all time. Next in line is Carmen Rosales & Rogelio De la Rosa, Vilma Santos & Edgar Mortiz, Sharon Cuneta & Gabby Concepcion and of course, Ate Guy & Pip.

Anyway, to all those who answered my survey.. thank you!!

And for those who would like to be part of my thesis on Filipino Classic Films, email me at juzgalvez@yahoo.com and i'll send you the file. :)

On my next entry, i'll be dedicating it to the one and only Queen of Philippine Cinema, Ms. Susan Roces.

Til next.. Signing out! :D

Daboy dies at 56

Recently, I was just talking to his director Edgardo 'Boy' Vinarao about Rudy Fernandez, how he works professionally as an actor  and how he is as a person. How fast time flies. Sad to say, another one of the good guys in Philippine history has already left us and the movie industry.

Rudy Fernandez also known as 'Daboy' has been fighting for two years and finally succumbed to his periampullary cancer in his dear home at White Plains, Quezon City at 6:15am, Saturday. 

The star of Director Edgardo 'Boy' Vinarao's Birador and Jun Gallardo's Baby Ama has been confined for one-month in Cardinal Santos Medical Center in San Juan City. Five days after being brought home (Wednesday), he had a seizure in which he refused to be taken back. He was still able to celebrate his 25th and last anniversary with wife, Lorna Tolentino. Shortly after his death, his close friends, Senators Bong Revilla and Jinggoy Estrada broke the news to the media. 

He was buried at the Heritage Park in Taguig City in which his interment will take 

place this Thursday. Everyone is invited to see the actor's remains for the last time. 

Condolence to the Family of Mr. Rudy Fernandez. You will forever be remembered in the hearts of the Filipinos.

My two favorite movies of Daboy:

Kung Kailangan Mo Ako 

with Ms. Sharon Cuneta

Directed by: Eddie Rodriguez

1993

 

Lagalag

            (The Eddie Fernandez Story)

with Ms. Dawn Zulueta

      1994

Source: video48.blogspot.com

My Trip to MOWELFUND

In the middle of research and mourning over David Cook's defeat over Archuleta in the finale performance on American Idol, I found pictures during my visit to Mowelfund. Sounds familiar? Let me take you inside the Movie Welfare Workers Foundation a.k.a. MOWELFUND :)

Mowelfund is the leading film and resource center manned by competent, creative and compassionate staff, workers and officers working under a visionary and value-based leadershipthat ontributes to the overall improvement of the Philippine Film Industry and the Empowerment of the communities it serves.

The foundation aims to develop and uplift the state of Philippine culture through educational and developmental initiatives, responsive welfare programs, local and international linkages and partnerships, and resource generation.

(Source: Mowelfund Vision-Mission)

As I enter beyond the gates, I saw this lovely wall of stars in a film strip indicating the famous stars in the industry through the years.

That's not all... The main reason why I came here is to interview one of my resource persons that has to be involved in foundations for the movie industry. 

Meet.. Mr. Emilio Dollete, Assistant to the Executive Director (Boots Anson Roa) of MOWELFUND :)

Sorry for the poor resolution. 

Anyway this is the transcript of our interview: (I'll only be including the important questions so as not to bore you :p)

JG (Justine Galvez): It was in the early years of the 50's , 60's and 70's when Filipino movies were much at its peak. There were a lot of cinematic breakthroughs and much talent were being honed. What do you think hindered the growth of the Philippine movie industry after those decades?

ED (Emilio Dollete): Politics, Inordinate Taxation, Greed, Commercialism, Culture and Tradition, Religion, Perception of Film as a form of amusement, Film Piracy or Violation of Intellectual Property.

JG: Can you say that veteran actors and actresses do not get the same treatment as they should in other countries? If you agree, how come?

ED: In other countries, veteran actors and actresses are treated with utmost respect as an accomplished artist and not as an actor/actress. This is because of our country's orientation and the way filmmaking industry is perceived. Filipinos are geared towards financial security and not financial freedom. We want to work in high-paying jobs to be able to do what we want. However, we fail to realize that this high-paying job is like a chain that links to us to our material needs.

In filmmaking, you are free and if you do an excellent job, you earn a lot too.

JG: Movie preservation is a serious concern in the industry. What specific movies do you think should both government and private sector undertake to increase movie preservation and restoration? And how will this contribute to the movie industry as a whole?

ED: The government should increase its budget for education and the promotion of culture and the arts. A law must be passed to include in the General Appropriations Act allocation for the preservation and restoration of our old films. Just like what Thailand is doing.

JG: Piracy is another serious concern. Is the government doing enough against piracy? What other efforts do you think should be done?

ED: It is difficult to answer the question of Piracy because there are those who allow these things to happen for profit. They say when money talks everybody listens. Also in my opinion there are already too many government agencies tasked to handle piracy. They should maintain only one and provide full support to that agency.

JG: What do you think of film festivals? What is the coverage of a classic film festival?

ED: Film festivals are fantastic because it is thematic in nature. You get to watch films hving a common theme expressed differently. Classic films can be based on the genre or the films of a specific actor/ actress up to a certain period.

JG: What other events does Mowelfund sponsor? What do you think of Mowelfund sponsoring a classic film festival?

ED: Mowelfund has two advocacies: Welfare and Education. In the welfare aspect, Mowelfund provides the medical, surgical, hospitalization and funeral assistance which the state cannot give to the workers in the movie industry because of the contractual nature of their work. Also, we provide alternative livelihood for them in the light of the current slump in the film industry. The Foundation also came up with a housing project in cooperation with LGU's and NGO's. 

Mowelfund has been doing film festivals for 15 years in cooperation with NCCA and private corporations.

JG: How do you feel about the current state of our movie industry?

ED: There is hope. If the members of the industry are united, they can reclaim lost glory. The Foundation has again taken the initiative to revive the industry by inviting mainstream and independent practitioners to teach during its ongoing intensive filmmaking workshop.

And that's about it.. to end this entry, i'll be showing more pictures inside their wonderful museum. :)

When we were influenced by the Spaniards we used these terms for the movies

The first release of camera meant for only one person

The Mother Lily of the Golden Age Dona Sisang and her LVN productions

The earliest film productions to close shortly after the war

The Golden Age - My inspiration for my event

Manuel Conde as Genghis Khan - Did you know that this movie was the basis for America's own version of not exactly Genghis Khan but something like it. See? We, Filipinos have the potential for major growth.

Last but not the least:

Me portraying Anita Linda

Hope you enjoyed that mini trip. Sorry I can't upload everything. :o

Til next time,

Justine :)

Going Back

Hello again! This is your time traveler Justine and i'm back to dive into the depths of Philippine Cinema. I mean, of all the topics to discuss about movies.. Why Philippine Cinema? and what is Cinema in the first place? Let me remind you with a twist of Philippine History. :)

"No medium has had more impact on the 20th century culture

than the motion picture. The meanings and

 themes of films are endlessly analyzed and debated, styles and 

techniques of filmmakers are earnestly dissected and studied,

and the actors and actresses who star in movies live their

public lives in fishbowls."

-- Barbara and David P. Mikkelson, 

Urban Legends References, 2005

Motion picture as an art and as an enterprise has been permanently established in the Philippines. The Philippines was one of the countries in Asia who ventured in moviemaking. The industry was the offshoot of the Zarzuela, the vaudeville and the stage shows. In 1919, Jose Nepomuceno, a wealthy businessman, ventured into the film industry and directed the first Filipino film entitled "Dalagang Bukid". (Source: Motion Pictures in the Philippines, Vicente Salumbides, 1952) This was when Philippine Cinema began. 

Our movies say a lot about 

what we are as a people. The characters we see on the silver screen often serves as our role models and our inspiration. Thus, it is sad to think that our industry is alrea

dy in a declining stage. Before the Second World War, theatre sprouted out and most of these were American theatres (State, Lyric, Galaxy, etc.) But only two theatres catered to the Philippine movies. Dalisay and Life. Unfortunately, film producers cannot make more films because they cannot be accomodated by two theatres. That is why the Philippine movie industry did not grow as fast as the modern films and at the same time, foreign technology were growing at a turtleneck pace. Foreign Film Technology is growing by leaps and bounce while we are still in the infancy stage. (Source: Dona Sisang and Filipino Movies, Monina A. Mercado, 1977; Picture taken from: http://senorenrique.blogspot.com)

Although the Big 4 productions namely: the Vera-Perez' Sampaguita, Dona Sisang's LVN, Lebran Studios and the Santiago's Premiere Production tried their best to cope up, still cannot compete with foreign films abroad but also technicians and consultants. That is why our films are more costly than foreign films. (Source: Motion Pictures in the Philippines, Vicente Salumbides, 1952)

In spite of all the problems, we have produced good movies that even won in film festivals. According to Carmelita Masigan, "In the constantly changing world of the Filipino film industry, film festivals have become windows through which the Philippines lets the world see its screen images". There has been a number of locally produced films that have received international recognition. 

Beginning from the Golden Age were the famous:

Anak Dalita (1956) and Badjao (1957) was LVN's pride because they were the first Filipino films that were screened at the Asian Film Festival.

(Source: http://video48.blogspot.com and 100 Acclaimed Tagalog Movies by Mel Tobias, 1998)

Factors why the world saw the country's potential growth for films was that actors and actresses were disciplined and practiced professionalism. This also improved employment by creating more jobs for Filipinos. But most of all, it gave the Filipinos identity, nationalism and lesson to improve life.

Today, in spite of all this, producers have shied away from producing good-quality movies due to these factors:

1. Escalating costs of film production

2. Exorbitant taxes

3. Falling box-office receipts/domestic films to bigger budgeted films

4. FILM PIRACY (Please.. we have got to stop doing this to our movies)

5. Film censorship

6. Star syndrome

7. Cable television

(Source: http://www.pia.gov.ph/)

Therefore almost everybody resorted into sex, crime and violence, which was the trend in moneymaking films.

You know, we could produce good movies that can compete in the world market. Just like the Golden days, we have good actors, actresses, directors, cinematograhers and scriptwriters. 

"What could help solve the ills of the industry is for

Filipino producers to branch out into the world market"

-- Kane Lynn, Can Filipino Films Sell Abroad, Mirror Magazine, 1965)

This was said 43 years ago. If only there will be mre government support incentives, produce classic film festivals in comparison to the annual MMFF to acknowledge and give recognition to the film industry that once brought prestige to our country, this in return can promote Filipino movies and once again become one of our highly income export that will help us rise from this economic crisis.

So i'm going to stop here because I don't want to post everything in one entry. :) 

Til next time,

Justine