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Saturday, March 31, 2012

EAGLE COMMANDOS (1968)


Basic Information: Direction, Story, and Screenplay: Jose Miranda Cruz; Cast: Zaldy Zshornack, Max Alvarado, Mel Francisco and Bernard Belleza, Sofia Moran, Rocco Montalban, Nort Nepomuceno, Bino Garcia/ with Vilma Santos, Vera Vargas, Belen Velasco, Bruno Punzalan, Ruben Ramos, Danny Cruz, Marietta Moreto, The SOS Daredevils/ Featuring Alicja Basili; Music: Demetrio Velasquez; Production Company: Aladdin Productions; Release Date: November 4, 1968 at Dalisay Theatre

Plot Description: Apat na malalaking bituin ang itinatampok sa isa pang pelikulang aksiyon ng Aladdin Productions. Sila'y sina Zaldy Zshornack, Max Alvarado, Bernard Belleza, at Mel Francisco sa panooring "Eagle Commandos." Ito'y kasaysayan ng apat na magiting na lalaki na buong tapang na nakipaghamok sa vietcong alang-alang sa kalayaan ng daigdig at ng demokrasya. Tampok na mga bituing babae sina Sofia Moran at Vera Vargas. Gumaganap din sina Bino Garcia, Nort Nepomuceno, Vilma Santos, Rocco Montalban at marami pang iba. Isang mahalagang papel naman ang bibigyang buhay ni Alicia Basilli. Ang "Eagle Commandos" ay sinulat at pinamahalaan ni Jose Miranda Cruz. - Video48, October 2015 (READ MORE)

Film Achievement: No Available Data

Film Reviews: No Available Data

José Rizaldy Zshornack (30 December 1937, Manila–18 November 2002, Muntinlupa) was a Filipino actor of Polish descent. Zshornack had a long career in Philippine movies spanning from the 1950s to the 1990s. His movies were mostly in the action-adventure genre. He is perhaps best known for his role in Black Mama, White Mama, a 1973 film. Zshornack died in 2002. He was married to former Filipino-American beauty queen Shirley Gorospe and together they had two children: Garizaldy and Geno. - Wikipedia (READ MORE)

Thursday, March 29, 2012

LONGEST HUNDRED MILES (1967)


Basic Information: Directed: Don Weis; Story: Hennie Leon; Screenplay: Paul Mason, Winston Miller; Cast: Doug McClure, Katharine Ross, Ricardo Montalban, Ronald Remy, Helen Thompson, Berting Labra, Loaki Bay, Vilma Santos, Danilo Jurado, Debra Gaza, Juan Marcelo, Danny Tariuam, Tom Bismark, Victor Vematsu, Bill Dunbar; Original Music: Franz Waxman; Cinematography: Ray Flin; Film Editing: Richard G. Wray; Art Design: Russ Lacap; Sound: Joseph Keener; Executive producer: Jack Leewood

Plot Description: During the Japanese invasion of the Philippines, an assorted group of refugees, including an American soldier, an Army nurse, a priest and a group of local children, try to make their getaway aboard a rattletrap, creaky bus. - The Internet Movie Database

Film Achievement: Vilma Santos’ first film for international release.

Film Reviews: The Longest Hundred Miles was among the first feature films produced specifically for television. Doug McClure stars as an American GI, stationed in the Philippines during World War II. Reluctantly, McClure is persuaded by army nurse Katharine Ross and local priest Ricardo Montalban to transport a bus load of native children across enemy lines. Filmed inexpensively on the Universal back lot, the film is distinguished by the musical score of Oscar-winning composer Franz Waxman. The Longest Hundred Miles debuted January 21, 1967. - Hal Erickson, All Movie Guide

This 1966 film was shot in the Bicol region and starred Doug McClure, Katherine Ross and Ricardo Montalban who portrayed an army corporal, a lady lieutenant and a padre respectively. Included in the cast was the young Vilma Santos. - Tante de Ramos (READ MORE)

 

Tuesday, March 27, 2012

ITO ANG PILIPINO (1966)


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

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

Film Achievement: 15th FAMAS AWARDS (1966): Best Actor – Joseph Estrada, Best Cinematography – Felipe Sacdalan, Best Picture – Joseph Estrada, Best Supporting Actor – Eddie Garcia, Best Actress Nomination – Barbara Perez, Best Director Nomination – Cesar Gallardo, Best Supporting Actress Nomination – Gloria Sevilla, Best Story – Augusto Buenaventura; Manila Film Festival: Best Dramatic Film

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

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

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



Sunday, March 25, 2012

ITO ANG DAHILAN (1966)


Basic Information Direction: Lauro Pacheco; Cast: Mario Montenegro, Lolita Rodriguez, Jose Mari, Liberty Ilagan, Jean Lopez, Tito Galla, Juancho Gutierrez, Gina Alonzo, Anita Linda, Rodolfo Cristobal, Jerry Pons, Jimmy Morato, Vilma Santos, Aruray; A DZXL Radio Serial; Screenplay: Jose Flores Sibal; Music: Restie Umali; Larry Santiago Productions; Release Date August 1-8, 1966 at Globe Theatre; Film poster: Video48

Plot Description: Four Stories: 1. "Pagsubok"; 2. "Wakas ng Simula" 3. "Isang Boteng Tsampan; 4. "May Karapatan Mabuhay. Ito Ang Dahilan (This is the Reason) was produced by Larry Santiago and directed by Lauro Pacheco. The film was adapted by Jose Flores Sibal from a DZXL radio-drama series sponsored by Liberty Condensed Milk. The four episodes comprises of "Pagsubok (Trials)" starring Jose Mari and Liberty Ilagan; "Wakas ng Simula (The End of the Beginning)" starring Juancho Gutierrez; "Isang Boteng Champan (One Bottle of Champagne)" starring Jun Aristorenas, Divina Valencia and Anita Linda; and "May Karapatang Mabuhay (You Have The Right to Live)" starring Lolita Rodriguez, Eddie Rodriguez, and Vilma Santos.
Film Achievement: First Vilma Santos film with an All Star Cast

Film Reviews: "...Ipinanganak nga marahil si Ma. Rosa Vilma Tuazon Santos sa show business dahil sa pagitan ng taping ng “Larawan..” ay nagkasunod-sunod na ang kanyang mga pelikula...“Ito Ang Dahilan” ng LSP (Agosto 1 – 8, 1966)...hanggang “Young Love” ng VP Enero 1 – 21, 1970) ng lumikha ng rekord sa takilya....Makalipas ang mga tatlong buwan, nakatanggap ng maikling sulat si Mama Santos muka lay G. Agra. Naghahanap ang Sampaguita Picutures ng batang babae na gaganap ng mahalagang papel sa “Anak, Ang Iyong Ina!” at isinali ng amain ang pangalan ni Vi. Hindi puwedeng lumiban si Papa Santos sa pinpasukang government office, at ayaw naman nilang mapahiya ang kamag-anak, kaya napilitan si Mama Santos na humingi ng day=off sa opisina (Aguinaldo’s). Pagdating sa studio, wala si G. Agra at nasa location shooting, ngunit totoong naroroon ang pangalan ni Vi, kaya’t pinapasok sila sa tanggapan. Napadaan sa harapan ni Mama Santos si Bella Flores na dala ang script ng “Trudis Liit.” Nagulumihanan si Mama Santos. Binasa niyang muli ang liham ni G. Agra. Mali yata ang napuntahan nila! Akma niyang tatawagin si Vi na noon ay nkikipaglaro sa iba pang mga bata upang yayain na itong umuwi, nang pumasok sina Mommy Vera, Dr. at Mrs. Perez, at Eddie Garcia. At doon nagsimula ang movie career ni Vi na magpahanggang ngayon ay batbat pa rin ng iba’t ibang panunuri, opinyon at konklusiyon..." - Ched P. Gonzales (READ MORE)

"...All star cast in four true to life story ang Ito Ang Dahilan (August 1, 1966), a DZXL Liberty Condensada series na handog ng Larry Santiago Productions sa direksiyon ni Lauro Pacheco. Ang iskrip ay ginawa ni Jose Flores Sibal..." - Alfonso Valencia (READ MORE)

Friday, March 23, 2012

HINDI NAHAHATI ANG LANGIT (1966)


Basic Information: Direction Lauro Pacheco; Cast: Lolita Rodriguez, Marlene Dauden and Eddie Rodriguez/ Also Starring Sammy Barretto, Carina Mujer, Mary Walter, Dely Villanueva, Jose villafranca and Lito garcia/ Featuring Ben Perez, Aruray and Vilma Santos; Screenplay Jose F. Sibal; Music Levi Celerio; Larry Santiago Productions; Release Date January 9, 1966 at Center Theatre; Film poster: Video48

Plot Description: No Available Data

Film Achievement: No Available Data

Film Reviews: "...Ipinanganak nga marahil si Ma. Rosa Vilma Tuazon Santos sa show business dahil sa pagitan ng taping ng “Larawan..” ay nagkasunod-sunod na ang kanyang mga pelikula...“Ito Ang Dahilan” ng LSP (Agosto 1 – 8, 1966)...hanggang “Young Love” ng VP Enero 1 – 21, 1970) ng lumikha ng rekord sa takilya....Makalipas ang mga tatlong buwan, nakatanggap ng maikling sulat si Mama Santos muka lay G. Agra. Naghahanap ang Sampaguita Picutures ng batang babae na gaganap ng mahalagang papel sa “Anak, Ang Iyong Ina!” at isinali ng amain ang pangalan ni Vi. Hindi puwedeng lumiban si Papa Santos sa pinpasukang government office, at ayaw naman nilang mapahiya ang kamag-anak, kaya napilitan si Mama Santos na humingi ng day=off sa opisina (Aguinaldo’s). Pagdating sa studio, wala si G. Agra at nasa location shooting, ngunit totoong naroroon ang pangalan ni Vi, kaya’t pinapasok sila sa tanggapan. Napadaan sa harapan ni Mama Santos si Bella Flores na dala ang script ng “Trudis Liit.” Nagulumihanan si Mama Santos. Binasa niyang muli ang liham ni G. Agra. Mali yata ang napuntahan nila! Akma niyang tatawagin si Vi na noon ay nkikipaglaro sa iba pang mga bata upang yayain na itong umuwi, nang pumasok sina Mommy Vera, Dr. at Mrs. Perez, at Eddie Garcia. At doon nagsimula ang movie career ni Vi na magpahanggang ngayon ay batbat pa rin ng iba’t ibang panunuri, opinyon at konklusiyon..." - Ched P. Gonzales (READ MORE)

"...In 1963, two great Sampaguita talents, Lolita Rodriguez and Marlene Dauden and drama king Eddie Rodriguez starred in Sapagka’t Kami’y Tao Lamang, the movie that turned out to be a sensational and phenomenal hit. The movie garnered the year’s top FAMAS awards--- Best Actor for Eddie Rodriguez; Best Supporting Actress for Marlene Dauden; Best Director for Armando De Guzman. It started the series of the so-called love triangle movies featuring the three dramatic icons in Philippine movies. Ms. Dauden was memorable in such dramas as Anino ni Bathala (1958) and Kamandag (1959). In both films, Marlene won the FAMAS best supporting actress trophies. She was also awarded the FAMAS Best Actress awards twice: Sa Bawa’t Pintig ng Puso (1964) and Kapag Puso’y Sinugatan (1967)..." - Simon Santos (READ MORE)

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Wednesday, March 21, 2012

HAMPASLUPANG MATON (1966)


Basic Information Story and Direction: Artemio Marquez; Music: Odellot; Cast: Jun Aristorenas, Maggie dela Riva, Zeny Zabala, Vilma Santos and Boy Chico/ Featuring Silvio Ramiro, Miguel Lopez, Tony Villar/ Guest star- Rodolfo 'Boy' Garcia; Production Company: JBC Productions; Release Date: May 5, 1966/ Main; Film Poster Archived: Video48

Plot Description: No Available Data

Film Achievement: No Available Data

Film Reviews: "...Ipinanganak nga marahil si Ma. Rosa Vilma Tuazon Santos sa show business dahil sa pagitan ng taping ng “Larawan..” ay nagkasunod-sunod na ang kanyang mga pelikula...“Hampaslupang Maton” ng JBC (Mayo 5 – 12, 1966)...hanggang “Young Love” ng VP Enero 1 – 21, 1970) ng lumikha ng rekord sa takilya....Makalipas ang mga tatlong buwan, nakatanggap ng maikling sulat si Mama Santos muka lay G. Agra. Naghahanap ang Sampaguita Picutures ng batang babae na gaganap ng mahalagang papel sa “Anak, Ang Iyong Ina!” at isinali ng amain ang pangalan ni Vi. Hindi puwedeng lumiban si Papa Santos sa pinpasukang government office, at ayaw naman nilang mapahiya ang kamag-anak, kaya napilitan si Mama Santos na humingi ng day=off sa opisina (Aguinaldo’s). Pagdating sa studio, wala si G. Agra at nasa location shooting, ngunit totoong naroroon ang pangalan ni Vi, kaya’t pinapasok sila sa tanggapan. Napadaan sa harapan ni Mama Santos si Bella Flores na dala ang script ng “Trudis Liit.” Nagulumihanan si Mama Santos. Binasa niyang muli ang liham ni G. Agra. Mali yata ang napuntahan nila! Akma niyang tatawagin si Vi na noon ay nkikipaglaro sa iba pang mga bata upang yayain na itong umuwi, nang pumasok sina Mommy Vera, Dr. at Mrs. Perez, at Eddie Garcia. At doon nagsimula ang movie career ni Vi na magpahanggang ngayon ay batbat pa rin ng iba’t ibang panunuri, opinyon at konklusiyon..." - Ched P. Gonzales (READ MORE)

"...Ang pelikula ng JBC Productions na istorya at idinerek ni Artemio Marquez at pinangunahan nina Vi, Jun Aristorenas, Maggie de la Riva at Zeny Zabala ay may pamagat na Hampaslupang Maton (May 5, 1966)....."a great action-drama never before seen in the local screen..." - Alfonso Valencia (READ MORE)

Monday, March 19, 2012

BATANG IWAHIG (1966)


Basic Information: Directed: Pablo Santiago; Screenplay: Ding M. De Jesus; Cast: Joseph Estrada, Paquito Diaz, Diana Dean, Bessie Barredo, Boy Francisco, Jose Vergara, Vilma Santos, Miguel Lopez, Avel Morado, Joaquin Fajardo, Manding Riño, Ponching Tambol, Leo Buenafe, Robert Rivera, Fil Lizarondo, Mike Francisco; Film poster: Video48

Plot Description: Iwahig Penal Colony is already a good haven for prisoners. Edgardo Alvarez (Joseph Estrada) was transferred to this place prior to his release. A hundred thousand pesos was the reason why he was detained. He, together w/ the group of Brando (Paquito Diaz) robbed the said amount and Edgar kept the same amount by burying it in a certain place before he was arrested by the police. Brando tortured him and his family even while he's in prison because of the said money only to find out that they just fought for nothing. - Kabayan Central (READ MORE)

Film Achievement: No Available Data

Film Reviews: "...Joseph Estrada was at his best appearing in ‘tough guy’ roles after striking it big as “Asiong Salonga” in 1961. He was rough and mean in movies like North Harbor (1961), Pulong Diablo (1963), Basagulero (1963); Geron Busabos: Ang Batang Quiapo (1964); Batang Angustia (1965); Batang Iwahig (1966) and many more where he essayed the role of a ‘kanto boy.’ However in the 70s and 80s, Estrada chose to do light-comedy films (remember the Tatay na si Erap series, Erap is my Guy, Mamang Sorbetero, among others) and more of a Dirty Harry type of movies, where he portrayed a determined and dedicated law enforcer. He did quite a number of these movies starting with Kill the Pushers in 1972 and so on with Panic (1973), Ranson (1974), among others..." - Simon Santos (READ MORE)

"...Ipinanganak nga marahil si Ma. Rosa Vilma Tuazon Santos sa show business dahil sa pagitan ng taping ng “Larawan..” ay nagkasunod-sunod na ang kanyang mga pelikula...“Ito Ang Dahilan” ng LSP (Agosto 1 – 8, 1966)...hanggang “Young Love” ng VP Enero 1 – 21, 1970) ng lumikha ng rekord sa takilya....Makalipas ang mga tatlong buwan, nakatanggap ng maikling sulat si Mama Santos muka lay G. Agra. Naghahanap ang Sampaguita Picutures ng batang babae na gaganap ng mahalagang papel sa “Anak, Ang Iyong Ina!” at isinali ng amain ang pangalan ni Vi. Hindi puwedeng lumiban si Papa Santos sa pinpasukang government office, at ayaw naman nilang mapahiya ang kamag-anak, kaya napilitan si Mama Santos na humingi ng day=off sa opisina (Aguinaldo’s). Pagdating sa studio, wala si G. Agra at nasa location shooting, ngunit totoong naroroon ang pangalan ni Vi, kaya’t pinapasok sila sa tanggapan. Napadaan sa harapan ni Mama Santos si Bella Flores na dala ang script ng “Trudis Liit.” Nagulumihanan si Mama Santos. Binasa niyang muli ang liham ni G. Agra. Mali yata ang napuntahan nila! Akma niyang tatawagin si Vi na noon ay nkikipaglaro sa iba pang mga bata upang yayain na itong umuwi, nang pumasok sina Mommy Vera, Dr. at Mrs. Perez, at Eddie Garcia. At doon nagsimula ang movie career ni Vi na magpahanggang ngayon ay batbat pa rin ng iba’t ibang panunuri, opinyon at konklusiyon..." - Ched P. Gonzales (READ MORE)

"...Edgardo (Joseph Estrada) is a safecracker. To help care of his blind sister Vina (Vilma Santos), he takes care a life of crime. Edgardo hooks up with Brando (Paquito Diaz) to steal a hundred thousand pesos from Don Joaquin. But the robbery goes wrong and Edgardo ends up in jail. But not before burying the money in a safe place. Several years later, Edgardo is pardoned and he swears to remain on the straight and narrow. But Brando and his cohorts would not let him. They have waited all these years for their share of the loot and they are not about to just let Edgardo go. What if Brando uses Vina to ensure Edgardo's cooperation? Can Edgardo afford to risk his sister's life?..." - Mav Shack (READ MORE)

 

Saturday, March 17, 2012

SA BARIL MAGTUTUOS (1965)


Basic Information Producer and Director: Ronald Remy; Cast: Bob Soler, Carlos Padilla, Jr., Carlos Salazar, Henry Duval, Jerry Pons, Bert Olivar, Manolo Robles, Luis Florentino, Gabriel Paile and Boy Alvarez/ with Diane Balen, Norma Ledesma, Tres Rosas and Vilma Santos; Story: Lulu de la Cruz; Screenplay: Rolf Bayer; Music: Levi Celerio; Production Company: Medallion Films, Incorporated; Released thru Medallion Films Exchange; Release Date: April 12, 1965/ Maine; Film Poster: Video48

Plot Description: No Available Data

Film Achievement: No Available Data

Film Reviews: "He is Russian mestizo (Ronald Kookooritchin). She is American mestiza (Dinah Jean Rogers). The showbiz couple is more popularly known as Ronald Remy and Lily Marquez, active in movies and TV in the late ’50s, ’60s and early ’70s. Ronald and Lily are also the early leaders of the born-again movement, to which some of the country’s top entertainment figures now belong. They have a daughter, billed Jackie Koo, who briefly joined showbiz. While Lily concentrated on acting, Ronald also turned to producing and directing films, including two joint ventures with Universal Pictures, The Longest Hundred Miles and Escape to Mindanao. Although not fluent in Pilipino, Ronald merited Best Supporting Actor nominations from the FAMAS. He was introduced in 1969 in Aawitan Kita, directed by Gerry de Leon and produced by Premiere Productions." - RKC (READ MORE)

"...Ipinanganak nga marahil si Ma. Rosa Vilma Tuazon Santos sa show business dahil sa pagitan ng taping ng “Larawan..” ay nagkasunod-sunod na ang kanyang mga pelikula...“Sa Baril Magtuos” ng Medallion Films (Abril 12 – 20, 1965)...ng lumikha ng rekord sa takilya...Makalipas ang mga tatlong buwan, nakatanggap ng maikling sulat si Mama Santos muka lay G. Agra. Naghahanap ang Sampaguita Picutures ng batang babae na gaganap ng mahalagang papel sa “Anak, Ang Iyong Ina!” at isinali ng amain ang pangalan ni Vi. Hindi puwedeng lumiban si Papa Santos sa pinpasukang government office, at ayaw naman nilang mapahiya ang kamag-anak, kaya napilitan si Mama Santos na humingi ng day=off sa opisina (Aguinaldo’s). Pagdating sa studio, wala si G. Agra at nasa location shooting, ngunit totoong naroroon ang pangalan ni Vi, kaya’t pinapasok sila sa tanggapan. Napadaan sa harapan ni Mama Santos si Bella Flores na dala ang script ng “Trudis Liit.” Nagulumihanan si Mama Santos. Binasa niyang muli ang liham ni G. Agra. Mali yata ang napuntahan nila! Akma niyang tatawagin si Vi na noon ay nkikipaglaro sa iba pang mga bata upang yayain na itong umuwi, nang pumasok sina Mommy Vera, Dr. at Mrs. Perez, at Eddie Garcia. At doon nagsimula ang movie career ni Vi na magpahanggang ngayon ay batbat pa rin ng iba’t ibang panunuri, opinyon at konklusiyon..." - Ched P. Gonzales (READ MORE)

Thursday, March 15, 2012

MORENA MARTIR (1965)


Basic Information: Directed: Jose De Villa; Story: Manuel Songco; Screenplay: Chito B. Tapawan; Cast: Luis Gonzales, Edgar Salcedo, Rosa Mia, Zeny Zabala, Vilma Santos, Elizabeth Bankhead, Loretta Marquez, Venchito Galvez, Jose Villafranca, Renato Del Prado, Nenita Navarro; Music: Restie Umali; Production Company: VP Pictures; Film poster: Video48

Plot Description: No Available Data

Film Achievement: Loretta Marquez was given top billing in the 1965 movie, “Morena Martir,” adapted from the popular DZRH radio serial.

Film Reviews: "...Ipinanganak nga marahil si Ma. Rosa Vilma Tuazon Santos sa show business dahil sa pagitan ng taping ng “Larawan..” ay nagkasunod-sunod na ang kanyang mga pelikula...“Sa Bawa’t Pintig Ng Puso” ng LSP (Nobyemre 16 – 25, 1964)...ng lumikha ng rekord sa takilya...Makalipas ang mga tatlong buwan, nakatanggap ng maikling sulat si Mama Santos muka lay G. Agra. Naghahanap ang Sampaguita Picutures ng batang babae na gaganap ng mahalagang papel sa “Anak, Ang Iyong Ina!” at isinali ng amain ang pangalan ni Vi. Hindi puwedeng lumiban si Papa Santos sa pinpasukang government office, at ayaw naman nilang mapahiya ang kamag-anak, kaya napilitan si Mama Santos na humingi ng day=off sa opisina (Aguinaldo’s). Pagdating sa studio, wala si G. Agra at nasa location shooting, ngunit totoong naroroon ang pangalan ni Vi, kaya’t pinapasok sila sa tanggapan. Napadaan sa harapan ni Mama Santos si Bella Flores na dala ang script ng “Trudis Liit.” Nagulumihanan si Mama Santos. Binasa niyang muli ang liham ni G. Agra. Mali yata ang napuntahan nila! Akma niyang tatawagin si Vi na noon ay nkikipaglaro sa iba pang mga bata upang yayain na itong umuwi, nang pumasok sina Mommy Vera, Dr. at Mrs. Perez, at Eddie Garcia. At doon nagsimula ang movie career ni Vi na magpahanggang ngayon ay batbat pa rin ng iba’t ibang panunuri, opinyon at konklusiyon..." - Ched P. Gonzales (READ MORE)

"...Loretta Marquez was given top billing in the 1965 movie, "Morena Martir," adapted from the popular DZRH radio serial..." - Simon Santos (READ MORE)

Tuesday, March 13, 2012

MARIA CECILIA (1965)


Basic Information: Direction: Ding M. De Jesus; Screenplay: Ding M. De Jesus; Story: Susana C. de Guzman; Cast: Marlene Dauden (Maria Cecilia), Van De Leon, Alona Alegre, Tony Cruz Jr., Vilma Santos, Jose Mari, Dr. Nanding Andres; Music: Tito Arevalo; Production Company: Larry Santiago Productions; Release Date: 14 May 1965 (Philippines)

Plot Description: A DZXL Radio and Tagumpay Magazine Serial.

Film Achievement: 1965 FAMAS Nomination Best Actor – Van De Leon; 1965 FAMAS Nomination Best Supporting Actress – Vilma Santos

Film Reviews: "Young and cute Vilma Santos is one of the few child stars who have hit the screen with continued success. Although not as well-publicized as the adult stars, she is gaining popularity with lot of fans who recognize her warm personality and talent. Her successful debut in Sampaguita Pictures' Trusdis Liit gave her more movie offers. Vilma, who just turned 13 last Nov. 3, has been in the movies for three years and already has 16 pictures to her credit. A talented youngster, she often steals the spotlight from her senior colleagues. In Ging, Naligaw Na Anghel, Anak Ang Iyong Ina, and many other films, she was a standout in tear-jearking scenes. As a result, she is always in demand for such roles. Despite her success, Vilma remains unaffected as a child. At the St. mary's Academy where she is a six-grader, she has more than her share of friends not because she is a celebrity but because of her natural chumminess. In fact, she is so fond of her friends that their house on Lunas St in La Loma, Quezon City is often filled with them. Her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Amado Santos, do not discourage her gregariousness and instead look upon it as part of her developing personality.

Bright Future - One of Vilma's ambitions is to take up fine arts - that is, if the movies wouldn't completely claim her in the future. Dr. Jose R. Perez has made a tempting offer to sign her to a contract with Sampaguita and VP Pictures when she reaches the age of 14, that is, one year from now. Vilma's movie commitments don't prevent her from being a good student. She could have been easily way above average if only her shooting schedules sometimes do not prevent her from attending her classes. "Doing two tasksat the same time gave me a hard time at the beginning but I've adjusted to it now," said this youngster who still goes for lollipops, ice cream, toys, and play. Vilma, who spends her leisure hours listening to radio dramas, dancing and playing with her three other sisters, will be seen in her coming films, Sigaw Ng Batingaw of Argo Productions. - Julio F. Silverio, The Weekly Nation, 31 December 1965, reposted at Pelikula Atbp blog (READ MORE)

Sunday, March 11, 2012

IGINUHIT NG TADHANA (1965)

Basic Information: Directed: Mar S. Torres, Jose De Villa, Conrado Conde; Story:Luciano B. Carlos, Emmanuel Borlaza, Chito B. Tapawan; Screenplay: Luciano B. Carlos, Emmanuel Borlaza; Cast: Luis Gonzales, Rosa Mia, Gloria Romero, Vilma Santos, Ferdinand Marcos Jr., Chona, Tony Cayado, Ven Medina, Venchito Galvez, Jose Morelos, Marcela Garcia, Lourdes Yumul, Matimtiman Cruz; Original Music: Restie Umali; Cinematography: Amaury Agra, Higino J. Fallorina, Steve Perez; Executive producer: Alejandro B. Galang, Mrs. Jose O. Vera

Plot Description: Iginuhit ng Tadhana is a movie based on the life of Ferdinand Marcos prior to his ascendancy as President of the Philippines. The movie was chronological in setting, featuring Marcos as a young boy in his hometown, as a brilliant student, and up to the time that he was unjustly imprisoned as a suspect in the murder of the political rival of his father. The movie then moves up to his acquittal, his career as a young congressman and senator, and up to the time that he married Imelda Marcos. The movie was shown in Manila as additional campaign material for Marcos’ candidacy for the Presidential race, which he eventually won. The movie portrayed Marcos as a person who is more than just a politician. – Wikipilipinas

Iginuhit Ng Tadhana chronicles the rise of one of the most powerful and controversial leaders the Philippines has ever had- Ferdinand E. Marcos. The movie shows details of his life from the time he was born to his days as a youth in his hometown, growing up in a political family, to his incarceration for allegations of murdering his father's political rival, up to his eventual acquittal. The movie then continues to show Marcos in the prime of his political career, winning seats in Congress and the Senate, up to his highly-publicized whirlwind marriage to Imelda Marcos. Originally shown and produced during the run-up to the political elections where Marcos won the Philippine presidency for the first time. Iginuhit ng Tadhana paints this erstwhile leader as more than a political personality. - Kabayan Central (READ MORE)

Film Achievement: Entry to the 1966 1st Manila Film Festival; 1965 FAMAS Nomination Best Picture – 777 Films; 1965 FAMAS Nomination Best Actor – Luis Gonzales; 1965 FAMAS Nomination Best Actress – Gloria Romero

One of Vilma Santos and Gloria Romero 13 films - (Anak ang Iyong Ina, Iginuhit ng Tadhana, De Colores, Pinagbuklod ng Langit, Anak ng Aswang, Lipad Darna Lipad, Happy Days are Here Again, Karugtong ang Kahapon, Nakakahiya?, Hindi Nakakahiya, Makahiya at Talahib, Saan Nagtatago Ang Pag-ibig?, Kapag Langit Ang Humatol) - RV (READ MORE)

"...The First Manila Film Festival was held for the first time in 1966. Reserved solely for Hollywood and foreign movies, first-run downtown theaters like Ideal, Odeon, State, Ever, Galaxy, Capitol, Lyric, among others were opened for exhibition to locally-produced or Tagalog movies. The filmfest was the brainchild of then Manila Mayor Antonio Villegas. The 10-day festival which coincided on the city's foundation day (June 24) was a huge success participated in by big names in the industry...A total of 18 movies (14 new, 4 reissues) were exhibited during the 10-day festival. Iginuhit ng Tadhana, Portrait of the Artist as Filipino and Daigdig ng mga Api, all released in 1965, and Zamboanga, shown a month earlier, were allowed to participate..." - VIdeo48 (READ MORE)

Film Review: "...As a piece of hagiography, you can’t get more melodramatic or shameless than 1965’s Iginuhit ng Tadhana (Drawn by Fate). In this biopic covering the life of kleptocrat and Martial Law architect Ferdinand Marcos (Luis Gonzalez) from his childhood to his ascent to the Philippine presidency, there is crying beside windows (courtesy of the martyr mother to end all martyr mothers, Rosa Mia), nervous wiping of brows on witness stands (because apparently, trial judges are blind to obvious body language), and kilometric monologues—including interior ones spoken in voice-over! How these characters don’t bore themselves to death is beyond me...Iginuhit ng Tadhana wastes no time getting down to its primary objective: settling scores. Conceived as propaganda for Ferdinand’s debut presidential campaign, the first 45 minutes of Iginuhit’s 136-minute running time busies itself scrubbing the Marcos name off the first of its multitude of sins: the death by sniper of Ferdinand’s political rival in Ilocos Norte, Julio Nalundasan. On the night of the murder, the film insists, our hero was busy reviewing for a law exam. He couldn’t possibly have stolen a rifle from his ROTC bunker and shot the congressman while he was brushing his teeth! And still, despite his nerd cred (and the aforementioned nervous mopping of brows by the star witness), the court had the gall to convict him! Hopefully, having gone through his own travesty of justice, our hero will have the empathy and drive to strengthen the rule of law in his own presidency, right? Right? Anyway, having demonstrated Ferdinand’s brilliance as he mounts his own defense in front of the Supreme Court, the film gets down to its next order of business: the meet-cute between our hero and his wife-to-be, Imelda Romualdez (Gloria Romero). Imelda is a far cry from his own mother, who visits her son in jail wearing a baro’t saya—no, when Ferdinand meets Imelda in the congressional cafeteria, she is wearing a man’s shirt, pants…and mismatched shoes! I can imagine the young Imelda watching this sequence and thinking, That will never happen again. After that, Iginuhit ticks off all the obligatory boxes: portraying Marcos as a family man, conscientious lawmaker, and devoted mama’s boy. (If I were Imelda and I were watching my husband call his mother “honey,” as this film says he does, I would have ran screaming from his latent Oedipus complex.) Oh, and watch out for a young Vilma Santos playing the eldest child, Imee. The role doesn’t give her much to do, but I foresee great things from this young performer…maybe even a run in politics..." - Andrew Paredes, ANC, 21 September 2018 (READ MORE)

"...Sinabi ni Ernesto Maceda, abugado ng 777 Productions, na ang pagpigil sa "Press Preview" o hayagang pagtatanghal ng "Iginuhit ng Tadhana" ay ilegal at labag sa saligang batas. Ayon kay Maceda, ang pelikula sinuri na ng BCMP, at dahil doon ay itinatanghal na iyon sa walong lalawigan...Sa isang dako, sinabi ni Gng. Olympia Lozano, kalihim-tagapagpaganap ng BCMP na pinigil ang pagtatanghal ng "Iginuhit ng Tadhana" dahil sa pagtanggi ng 777 Productions na iharap sa lupon ang pelikula upang suriin...Nagharap kagabi ng pagbibitiw sa Pangulong Macapagal si Jose L. Guevara bilang tagapangulo ng Board of Censors for Moving Pictures. Ginawa ni Guevara ang ganitong aksiyon kasunod ng pagpigil ng pelikulang "Iginuhit ng Tadhana" na naglalarawan sa buhay ni Sen. Ferdinand Marcos, kandidato sa pagka-pangulo ng NP. Ipinaliwanag ni Maceda na marami nang nakapanood ng "Iginuhit ng Tadhana"at nagkakaisa ng palagay ang lahat na walang batayan upang pigilin ang pagtatanghal nito. Upang masubhan kahit kaunti ang pagkayamot ng mga inayayahan sa "gala premiere" kagabi sa Rizal Theatre, ipinasiya ang pagtatanghal ng pelikulang Ingles, ang "The Thin Red Line..." - Leonardo P. Reyes, Taliba, 3 & 16 September 1965 (READ MORE)

"...Malamang makarating ngayon sa Korte Suprema ang hidwaan ng prodyuser ng Iginuhit ng Tadhana at ng lupon ng sensor na pumigil sa pagtatanghal sa publiko ng nasabing pelikula. Nakatakdang dumulog ngayon sa mataas ns hukuman ang mga abugado ng prodyuser ng pelikula matapos na pigilin ng hukuman sa paghahabol kahapon ang pagpapatupad sa utos ng mababang hukuman na nagpapahintulot sa pagtatanghal ng pelikula...Sa naunang hatol ni Hukom Edilberto Soriano ng hukumang unang dulugan ng Maynila ay ipinahintulot niya ang pagtatanghal sa masuliraning pelikula bagay na salungat sa pasiya ng lupon ng sensor na pumipigil sa nasabing pagtatanghal. Ang hatol ni Soriano ay idinulog ng mga abugado ng pamahalaan sa hukumang sa paghahabol sa kanilang matwid na walang huridiksiyon sa usapin ang mababang hukuman...Sinabi ni Abugado Claudio Teehankee, isa sa mga abugado ng prodyuser ng pelikula sa buhay ng Pangulong Ferdinand E. Marcos ng Senado na idudulog nila sa Korte Suprema ang desisyon inilagda kahapon ng Hukuman sa Paghahabol. Ipinaliwanag niyang ang dalawang sumusunod na matwid ang knailang ihaharap sa mataas na hukuman sa paghahabol: 2 Katwiran na Inilahad - 1. Na walang bisa ang kontrata na maaaring bawiin ang permiso sa isang pelikula upang maitanghal anumang oras. 2. Na hindi nagmalabis si Hukom Soriano sa pagpapasiya sa usapin..." - C. de Guzman, Taliba, 3 & 16 September 1965 (READ MORE)

“In 1965, the Board of Censors suspended the movie exhibition of Iginuhit ng Tadhana (a movie biography of Presidential candidate Ferdinand Marcos). Many believed and suspected that Malacanang had a hand in the board’s decision and such action was a wrong political maneuver and ploy that proved disastrous to the reelection bid of incumbent President Diosadado Macapagal. It practically ensured the Presidential electoral victory of Marcos.” - Video 48, (READ MORE)

“Marcos knew the power of the medium of film. Earlier on, Marcos produced a film biography using the most popular stars for his first presidential campaign. He ran against Macapagal who also came up with a film biography to boost his reelection bid. Marcos would also use another film Iginuhit ng Tadhana (Written by Destiny, 1965) to campaign for a second term. The two Marcos film bios would be the only successful political films—commercial and election wise—as other film biographies in the post-Marcos period by senatorial and presidential aspirants would prove dismal, unhelpful for election bids. The post-Marcos period liberalized the political and economic scene. It conventionalized and intensified the election of movie and sports stars, and even television news hosts to national politics. Television stations were sequestered by the government, the largest of which, however, was returned to its pre-martial law owners. ABS-CBN would become the leading television station until after 2000, allowing two of its news anchors to become senators…” – Rolando Tino (READ MORE)

The suspension of the showing of a movie on the life of Senate President Ferdinand E. Marcos stirred yesterday a political storm and precipitated the resignation of the chairman of the Board of Censors for Motion Pictures. Officials of the board said that the board voted to suspend the exhibition of the movie, “Iginuhit ng Tadhana” (Destined by Fate) because its producer failed to submit it for preview by the board en banc or by the entire board. The film had been approved for showing by a subcommittee of four headed by Mrs. Rosalina I. Castro last August 24. The board said it interpreted the refusal of the movie company, the 777 Film Productions, to comply with its order as defiance of the Board. The order of the board also suspends the showing of the movie in eight provinces and cities--- Camarines Norte, Batangas, Marawi City, Pampanga, Cotabato, Aklan, Masbate, and Sulu. The film has been showing in theaters in these places since Aug. 24, the date of the approval of the picture by the subcommittee of four. – Isagani Yambot, "Movie on Marcos Suspended" (READ MORE)

"...Isa sa paborito ko ay ang Iginuhit ng Tadhana,” ayon pa kay Conrado, “because that film helped President Marcos win the elections in 1965. If you remember, that film was banned by the Macapagal administration and the people naturally became curious. The movie was a big hit.” Iginuhit ng Tadhana was divided into three parts: Marcos as student, Marcos after school and Marcos in his early years in politics. Conrado directed the portion with the President as a young man, during the Nalundasan case, a crucial part in the President’s life. Before he began shooting, according to Conrado, he made his own research and first visited Batac where they shot an important scene..." - Conrado CondeJingle Extra Hot Movie Entertainment Magazine, April 27 1981 (READ MORE)

"This rarely seen, authorized biography of former President Ferdinand Marcos stars Luis Gonzalez, Gloria Romero, Vilma Santos, and Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. as himself. (The film starts with a flash of lighting as he is born on 9/11 in 1917.) " - Vincent Nebrida (READ MORE)

"...Pero higit na tumatak si Luis nang gampanan niya ng dalawang beses si Pangulong Ferdinand Marcos. Ito’y sa kontrobersyal na pelikulang “Iginuhit ng Tadhana” bago tumakbo si Marcos bilang presidente noong 1965. Sinundan ito ng “Pinagbuklod ng Langit” noong 1969. Si Imee Marcos, na ginampanan noon ni Vilma Santos, naalala ang galing ni Luis na mahirap na daw tapatan ngayon. “His acting was understated. A great actor and a good friend. He played a big role in our lives. Halos naniniwala na ako na tatay ko siya dahil sa boses. Mahal na mahal namin si Luis Gonzales,” sabi ni Imee. Ayon sa kanyang kabiyak, huling hiling ni Luis na ipa-cremate ang kanyang labi..." - Mario Dumaual (READ MORE)

"...Vilma was talking about Trudis Liit, the ’60s Sampaguita tearjerker in which she played the title role, with Luis playing her father, now US-based Lolita Rodriguez her mother and Bella Flores as the kontrabida. Luis, whose real surname is Mercado, died of complications of pneumonia at 11:30 Thursday night, March 15, at the Makati Medical Center where he was confined for the last time (he had been in and out of the hospital). As in the case of movie greats, Luis’ age is confidential and maybe not even his wife Vina Concepcion, who belongs to the clan that owns Concepcion Industries, and their three children can be forced to reveal it. After Trudis Liit, Vilma would star with Luis years later when she was already a teenager, in Iginuhit ng Tadhana and in Pinagbuklod ng Langit, produced by Sampaguita Pictures, believed to have helped Ferdinand Marcos win when he ran for President and then for reelection. In both movies, Luis plays Marcos, with Gloria Romero as First Lady Imelda Marcos and Vilma as Imee Marcos (now Ilocos Norte Governor). In the second, Gina Alajar plays as Irene Marcos (Mrs. Greggy Araneta), Now-Sen. Bongbong Marcos plays himself in the first movie (it was Jonjie Aranda, ex-husband of Sen. Loren Legarda, who plays Bongbong in the second). “I shot Palimos ng Pagibig (a Viva drama, with Edu Manzano and Dina Bonnevie) at Luis’ house,” added Vilma. “I remember him as sobrang kalog, palabiro. Ang tawag namin kay Tito Luis palengke kasi nga Mercado ang real surname niya. I was nine years old then and he always reminded me to just enjoy everything. We were always shooting dramatic scenes at parati akong iyak nang iyak, but after every take, tawa na kami nang tawa because Tito Luis would start cracking jokes..." - RicoJr (READ MORE)

"...Ipinanganak nga marahil si Ma. Rosa Vilma Tuazon Santos sa show business dahil sa pagitan ng taping ng “Larawan..” ay nagkasunod-sunod na ang kanyang mga pelikula...“Iginuhit Ng Tadhana” ng 777 Films (Setyembre 7 – 15, 1965)...hanggang “Young Love” ng VP Enero 1 – 21, 1970) ng lumikha ng rekord sa takilya....Makalipas ang mga tatlong buwan, nakatanggap ng maikling sulat si Mama Santos muka lay G. Agra. Naghahanap ang Sampaguita Picutures ng batang babae na gaganap ng mahalagang papel sa “Anak, Ang Iyong Ina!” at isinali ng amain ang pangalan ni Vi. Hindi puwedeng lumiban si Papa Santos sa pinpasukang government office, at ayaw naman nilang mapahiya ang kamag-anak, kaya napilitan si Mama Santos na humingi ng day=off sa opisina (Aguinaldo’s). Pagdating sa studio, wala si G. Agra at nasa location shooting, ngunit totoong naroroon ang pangalan ni Vi, kaya’t pinapasok sila sa tanggapan. Napadaan sa harapan ni Mama Santos si Bella Flores na dala ang script ng “Trudis Liit.” Nagulumihanan si Mama Santos. Binasa niyang muli ang liham ni G. Agra. Mali yata ang napuntahan nila! Akma niyang tatawagin si Vi na noon ay nkikipaglaro sa iba pang mga bata upang yayain na itong umuwi, nang pumasok sina Mommy Vera, Dr. at Mrs. Perez, at Eddie Garcia. At doon nagsimula ang movie career ni Vi na magpahanggang ngayon ay batbat pa rin ng iba’t ibang panunuri, opinyon at konklusiyon..." - Ched P. Gonzales (READ MORE)

"...And what many people probably didn’t know is that Bongbong played himself in Iginuhit ng Tadhana, produced by Sampaguita Pictures as a campaign pitch for Ferdinand when he first run for president in 1965, with Gloria Romero as Imelda, Luis Gonzales as Ferdinand, (now reelectionist Batangas Gov.) Vilma Santos as Imee and Gina Alajar as Irene (now Mrs. Greggy Araneta). A few years later, a sequel, titled Pinagbuklod ng Langit, was produced also by Sampaguita, directed by Eddie Garcia, with Gloria, Luis, Vilma and Gina reprising their roles and Jose “Jonjie” Aranda (first husband of Bongbong’s fellow Nacionalista, reelectionist Sen. Loren Legarda; their marriage was annulled in 1986) playing Bongbong...." - Ricardo F. Lo (READ MORE)

"...In hid book, Don Jose & The Early Philippine Cinema, Joe Quirino credits jose Nepomuceno pioneer in producing movies that not only entertained but also informed. Wrote Quirino: "His screen adaptation of Noli Me Tangere, Jose Rizal's novel exposing the social cancer that festered during the Spanish occupation of the Philippines, captured the sardonic and satirical contents of the imflammatory noel." Satire was a popular device through which producer aired their views on social issues. In 1929, a satirical movie called Patria Amore caught the ire of the local Spanish community who went to court to stop its exhibition. A counterpart incident took place in 1965 when the Liberal Party tried to stop the showing of Iginuhit ng Tadhana, the propagandistic movie of the life of Ferdinand Marcos. The same motion picture propelled Marcos to the presidency. Movies of social significance often face this dillemma on their way to the big screen. Because of their strong public statement, they invite uproar from concerned sectors, an experience that became almost a daily ordeal for the late director, Lino Brocka. In recent years and until his death in 1991, Brocka had been the prime mover of Tagalog movies of social significance. Some of his works that easily fall under this category are, in no particular orderL Orapronobis (about vigilantes and rebels in the countryside), Bayan Ko (on labor unrest), Gumapang Ka sa Lusak and Hahamakin Lahat (on political corruption), Maynila: Sa Mga Kuko ng Liwanag (on moral degradation and exploitation)..." - Nestor Cuartero, Panorama, dated June 13, 1993 (READ MORE)

"...A number of films suffered a similar fate at the hands of the censors, including so-called political films, no matter how mature or serious the treatment was. One such example is Gerardo de Leon's Daigdig ng Mga Api (1965), a dramatization of the problem of tenancy in our country. Another one is Maliwalu Massacre, whose exhibition was stopped by influential groups with access to the censors. Political factions likewise used film to advance the cause of their party and enhance the image of their candidates in the elections. Even Ferdinand Marcos biography on film, Iginuhit ng Tadhana, was recalled during the incumbency of newspaperman Jose Guevarra but was nevertheless shown prior to the 1965 elections..." - Justino Dormiendo, Parade Magazine, September 25, 1983 (READ MORE)





Friday, March 9, 2012

KAYTAGAL NG UMAGA (1965)


Basic Information: Directed: Lauro Pacheco; Story: Aning Bagabaldo; Screenplay: Jose Flores Sibal; Cast: Lolita Rodriguez, Marlene Dauden, Eddie Rodriguez, Vilma Valera, Vilma Santos; Original Music: Tony Maiquez; Executive producer: Larry Santiago; Film poster: Video48

Plot Description: No Available Data

Film Achievement: Film adaptation of Aning Bagabaldo’s radio drama broadcasted on DZRH; 1964 FAMAS: Best Actress – Marlene Dauden; Best Musical Score – Restie Umali; Best Picture Nomination

Film Reviews: "...Ipinanganak nga marahil si Ma. Rosa Vilma Tuazon Santos sa show business dahil sa pagitan ng taping ng “Larawan..” ay nagkasunod-sunod na ang kanyang mga pelikula...“Sa Bawa’t Pintig Ng Puso” ng LSP (Nobyemre 16 – 25, 1964)...ng lumikha ng rekord sa takilya...Makalipas ang mga tatlong buwan, nakatanggap ng maikling sulat si Mama Santos muka lay G. Agra. Naghahanap ang Sampaguita Picutures ng batang babae na gaganap ng mahalagang papel sa “Anak, Ang Iyong Ina!” at isinali ng amain ang pangalan ni Vi. Hindi puwedeng lumiban si Papa Santos sa pinpasukang government office, at ayaw naman nilang mapahiya ang kamag-anak, kaya napilitan si Mama Santos na humingi ng day=off sa opisina (Aguinaldo’s). Pagdating sa studio, wala si G. Agra at nasa location shooting, ngunit totoong naroroon ang pangalan ni Vi, kaya’t pinapasok sila sa tanggapan. Napadaan sa harapan ni Mama Santos si Bella Flores na dala ang script ng “Trudis Liit.” Nagulumihanan si Mama Santos. Binasa niyang muli ang liham ni G. Agra. Mali yata ang napuntahan nila! Akma niyang tatawagin si Vi na noon ay nkikipaglaro sa iba pang mga bata upang yayain na itong umuwi, nang pumasok sina Mommy Vera, Dr. at Mrs. Perez, at Eddie Garcia. At doon nagsimula ang movie career ni Vi na magpahanggang ngayon ay batbat pa rin ng iba’t ibang panunuri, opinyon at konklusiyon..." - Ched P. Gonzales (READ MORE)

"...In 1963, two great Sampaguita talents, Lolita Rodriguez and Marlene Dauden and drama king Eddie Rodriguez starred in Sapagka’t Kami’y Tao Lamang, the movie that turned out to be a sensational and phenomenal hit. The movie garnered the year’s top FAMAS awards--- Best Actor for Eddie Rodriguez; Best Supporting Actress for Marlene Dauden; Best Director for Armando De Guzman. It started the series of the so-called love triangle movies featuring the three dramatic icons in Philippine movies. Ms. Dauden was memorable in such dramas as Anino ni Bathala (1958) and Kamandag (1959). In both films, Marlene won the FAMAS best supporting actress trophies. She was also awarded the FAMAS Best Actress awards twice: Sa Bawa’t Pintig ng Puso (1964) and Kapag Puso’y Sinugatan (1967)..." - Simon Santos (READ MORE)

"...According to Celso de Guzman Caparas, Funfare’s “other beauty expert cum showbiz chronicler,” Eddie then directed two love-triangle movies, Kasalanan Kaya? and Ikaw!, using his real name, Luis Enriquez, which both gave him a Best Director trophy at the now-defunct Manila Film Festival (forerunner of the Metro Manila Film Festival). His wife-actress Liza Moreno (a.k.a. Louise de Mesa, also deceased) wrote the stories of Kapag Puso’y Sinugatan and Kasalanan Kaya?, winners of Best Story in both MFF and the FAMAS. The couple’s film outfit, Virgo Productions, produced four of the movies: Kapag Puso’y Sinugatan, Sino Ang May Karapatan? and Kasalanan Kaya? and Ikaw! Here’s the triumvirate’s hit starrers with interesting information and their vintage ads, prepared by Celso:...Kay Tagal ng Umaga, shown on Aug. 23, 1965. It was a DZRH radio serial sponsored by Darigold. Then child actress Vilma Santos co-starred in this movie, her first among the four films she appeared with the troika...Kasalanan Kaya?, shown on June 16, 1968. An official entry to the 3rd Manila Film Festival, it won eight awards: Best Dramatic Picture, Best Actor (Eddie Rodriguez), Best Actress (Lolita Rodriguez), Best Director (Luis Enriquez), Best Child Actor (Roderick Paulate), Best Story (Louise de Mesa), Best Music (Tony Maiquez) and Best Sound (Flaviano Villareal). It also won three FAMAS awards out of eight nominations: Best Cinematography (black and white, Ricardo Remias), Best Story (Louise de Mesa) and Best Musical Score (Tony Maiquez). Other nominations: Best Picture, Best Director (Luis Enriquez), Best Actor (Eddie Rodriguez), Best Actress (Lolita Rodriguez) and Best Supporting Actress (Vilma Santos). Vilma won Best Supporting Actress at the San Beda College Awards..." - Ricky Lo, The Philippine Star, Feb 06 2013 (READ MORE)

Wednesday, March 7, 2012

SA BAWAT PINTIG NG PUSO (1964)

"A Bitter - Sweet Love Story That Is Not Just That Easy to Forget!"


Basic Information: Direction: Armando de Guzman (1963 Famas Best Director); Story and Screenplay: Jose Flores Sibal; Cast: Zaldy Zshornack, Marlene Dauden, Alona Alegre, Sammy Barretto/ Also Starring Jose Garcia, Ely Roque, Totoy Rivera, Rene Roque/ with Lillian Leonardo and Vilma Santos (in a special roles); Music: Restie Umali; Production Company: Larry Santiago Productions, Inc.; Release Date November 16-25, 1964; Exhibited at Globe Theatre, Manila Philippines; Orinally published as a comic serial from Bulaklak Magazine

Plot Description: Serialized in Bulaklak comics and made into a motion picture in 1964, Sa Bawat Pintig Ng Puso (With Every Beat of Your Heart) is a story of child, Annabelle played by a young, Vilma Santos and action star, Fernan (Zaldy Zhornack, who occassionally star in drama films). Fernan though that Anabelle was the child of his father (Jose Garcia) to Ludina (Marlene Dauden), Anabelle turned out to be his own child).

"May Katarungan Sa Paghihiganti - Ang "Sa Bawa't Pintig Ng Puso" ng Larry Santiago Productions ay isang natatanging pelikulang makaantig ng damdamin at punung-puno ng mga tagpong naiiba sa karaniwang takbo ng buhay. Pinangungunahan nina Zaldy Zshornack at Marlene Dauden sa kauna-unahang pagtatambal bilang magkasintahan sa puting tabing at sa pamamahala ni direktor Armando de Guzman, pinakamahusay na direktor ng taon, 1963. Kabituin sina Alona Alegre, Sammy Barretto, Jose Garcia at iba pa. Kasaysayan: Jose F. Sibal."

Film Achievement: 1964 FAMAS: Best Actress – Marlene Dauden; Best Musical Score – Restie Umali; Best Actor Nomination – Zaldy Zshornack; Best Director Nomination – Armando De Guzman; Best Picture Nomination; Best Supporting Actress Nomination – Alona Alegre

Film Reviews: "...Ipinanganak nga marahil si Ma. Rosa Vilma Tuazon Santos sa show business dahil sa pagitan ng taping ng “Larawan..” ay nagkasunod-sunod na ang kanyang mga pelikula...“Sa Bawa’t Pintig Ng Puso” ng LSP (Nobyemre 16 – 25, 1964)...ng lumikha ng rekord sa takilya...Makalipas ang mga tatlong buwan, nakatanggap ng maikling sulat si Mama Santos muka lay G. Agra. Naghahanap ang Sampaguita Picutures ng batang babae na gaganap ng mahalagang papel sa “Anak, Ang Iyong Ina!” at isinali ng amain ang pangalan ni Vi. Hindi puwedeng lumiban si Papa Santos sa pinpasukang government office, at ayaw naman nilang mapahiya ang kamag-anak, kaya napilitan si Mama Santos na humingi ng day=off sa opisina (Aguinaldo’s). Pagdating sa studio, wala si G. Agra at nasa location shooting, ngunit totoong naroroon ang pangalan ni Vi, kaya’t pinapasok sila sa tanggapan. Napadaan sa harapan ni Mama Santos si Bella Flores na dala ang script ng “Trudis Liit.” Nagulumihanan si Mama Santos. Binasa niyang muli ang liham ni G. Agra. Mali yata ang napuntahan nila! Akma niyang tatawagin si Vi na noon ay nkikipaglaro sa iba pang mga bata upang yayain na itong umuwi, nang pumasok sina Mommy Vera, Dr. at Mrs. Perez, at Eddie Garcia. At doon nagsimula ang movie career ni Vi na magpahanggang ngayon ay batbat pa rin ng iba’t ibang panunuri, opinyon at konklusiyon..." - Ched P. Gonzales (READ MORE)

"...She also won two Best Actress awards for the films Sa Bawat Pintig ng Puso and Kapag Puso'y Sinugatan. She was also nominated by the FAMAS for an additional times: Best Actress for Mila Rosa, where she won. She was nominated for Best Actress Alipin ng Busabos, and Babae, Ikaw ang Dahilan, where she won again..." - Wikepedia (READ MORE)

"...Sa Bawa't Pintig ng Puso, 1964 - Vilma, the junior actress, no longer a child, not yet a woman, found her niche in the adult drama troika of Marlene Dauden, Lolita Rodriguez, and Eddie Rodriguez as the proverbial daughter caught in the menage a trois. Good company of dramatic greats. Boring and unchallenging role of a good daughter in forgettable tearjerkers followed: Iginuhit ng Tadhana, De Colores, Kasalanan Kaya? and Sino Ang May Karapatan? (1968)..." - Anonymous (READ MORE)

"...In the ’50s and early ’60s, it would have been difficult, if not impossible, to team up Zaldy Zshornack and Marlene Dauden in a movie. They then belonged to different studies, Zaldy with Premiere and Larry Santiago and Marlene with Sampaguita. Sa Bawat Pintig ng Puso became a reality when the two stars turned freelancers. Marlene was identified with dramatic roles, while Zaldy excelled in action-dramas. Sharing stellar billing with them were Alone Alegre and Sammy Barretto. In ‘very special roles’ were veteran actress Lillian Leonardo and teenage star Vilma Santos..." – RKC, The Philippine Star, 25 January 2015 (READ MORE)

"...Ang 'Sa Bawa't Pintig Ng Puso"ng Larry Santiago Productions ay isang natatanging pelikulang makaantig ng damdamin at punong-puno ng mga tagpong naiiba sa karaniwang takbo ng buhay. Pinangungunahan nina Zaldy Zshornack at Marlene Dauden sa kauna-unahang pagtatambal bilang magkasintahan sa puting tabing at sa pamamahala ni direktor Armando de Guzman, pinakamahusay na direktor ng taon, 1963. Kabituin sina Alona Alegre, Sammy Barreto, Jose Garcia at iba pa. Kasaysayan: Jose F. Sibal..." - Video 48 10 January 2015 (READ MORE)

Monday, March 5, 2012

NALIGAW NA ANGHEL (1964)



Basic Information: Direction: Armando de Guzman; Cast: Willie Sotelo, Maggie de la Riva, Vilma Valera, Vilma Santos, Van de Leon, Anita Linda, Carol Varga, Jose Villafranca, Romeo San Jose, Rey Santiago, Toto; Production: Larry Santiago Productions, Inc.; Release Date: 8-17 August 1964; Film poster Archived by Video48

Plot Description: No Available Data

Film Achievement: No Available Data

Film Reviews: "...Ipinanganak nga marahil si Ma. Rosa Vilma Tuazon Santos sa show business dahil sa pagitan ng taping ng “Larawan..” ay nagkasunod-sunod na ang kanyang mga pelikula...“Naligaw Na Anghel” ng LSP (Agosto 8 – 17, 1964)...ng lumikha ng rekord sa takilya...Makalipas ang mga tatlong buwan, nakatanggap ng maikling sulat si Mama Santos muka lay G. Agra. Naghahanap ang Sampaguita Picutures ng batang babae na gaganap ng mahalagang papel sa “Anak, Ang Iyong Ina!” at isinali ng amain ang pangalan ni Vi. Hindi puwedeng lumiban si Papa Santos sa pinpasukang government office, at ayaw naman nilang mapahiya ang kamag-anak, kaya napilitan si Mama Santos na humingi ng day=off sa opisina (Aguinaldo’s). Pagdating sa studio, wala si G. Agra at nasa location shooting, ngunit totoong naroroon ang pangalan ni Vi, kaya’t pinapasok sila sa tanggapan. Napadaan sa harapan ni Mama Santos si Bella Flores na dala ang script ng “Trudis Liit.” Nagulumihanan si Mama Santos. Binasa niyang muli ang liham ni G. Agra. Mali yata ang napuntahan nila! Akma niyang tatawagin si Vi na noon ay nkikipaglaro sa iba pang mga bata upang yayain na itong umuwi, nang pumasok sina Mommy Vera, Dr. at Mrs. Perez, at Eddie Garcia. At doon nagsimula ang movie career ni Vi na magpahanggang ngayon ay batbat pa rin ng iba’t ibang panunuri, opinyon at konklusiyon..." - Ched P. Gonzales (READ MORE)

"...Ang kaunaunahang Teleserye o Telenobela sa Television ng ABS CBN Channel 3 ay pinagbidahan ni Vilma, ito ay ang Larawan ng Pagibig. Dinirek ni Jose Miranda Cruz at mga artista din dito sina Eva Darren, Willie Sotelo, at Rosita Noble. Si Vilma ay 11 years old pa lang dito. Pagkatapos ng taping ng Larawan ng Pagibig, lagare naman si Vi sa kanyang Radio Drama program sa DZRH ang Naligaw na Anghel, kasama nya sina Maggie de la Riva at si Anita Linda na gumanap na ina ni Vilma. Ang T.V. show at Radio drama program ni Vi ay tumagal sa ere ng 3 years..." - Jojo V. Lim (READ MORE)

"...Young and cute Vilma Santos is one of the few child stars who have hit the screen with continued success. Although not as well-publicized as the adult stars, she is gaining popularity with lot of fans who recognize her warm personality and talent. Her successful debut in Sampaguita Pictures' Trusdis Liit gave her more movie offers. Vilma, who just turned 13 last Nov. 3, has been in the movies for three years and already has 16 pictures to her credit. A talented youngster, she often steals the spotlight from her senior colleagues. In Ging, Naligaw Na Anghel, Anak Ang Iyong Ina, and many other films, she was a standout in tear-jearking scenes. As a result, she is always in demand for such roles. Despite her success, Vilma remains unaffected as a child. At the St. mary's Academy where she is a six-grader, she has more than her share of friends not because she is a celebrity but because of her natural chumminess. In fact, she is so fond of her friends that their house on Lunas St in La Loma, Quezon City is often filled with them. Her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Amado Santos, do not discourage her gregariousness and instead look upon it as part of her developing personality...Vilma's movie commitments don't prevent her from being a good student. She could have been easily way above average if only her shooting schedules sometimes do not prevent her from attending her classes. "Doing two tasks at the same time gave me a hard time at the beginning but I've adjusted to it now," said this youngster who still goes for lollipops, ice cream, toys, and play. Vilma, who spends her leisure hours listening to radio dramas, dancing and playing with her three other sisters, will be seen in her coming films, Sigaw Ng Batingaw of Argo Productions..." - Julio F. Silverio, The Weekly Nation, 31 December 1965, reposted at Pelikula Atbp blog (READ MORE)

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Saturday, March 3, 2012

LARAWAN NG PAGIBIG (1964)


Basic Information: Directed: Jose Miranda Cruz; Story: Jose Miranda Cruz; Screenplay: Jose Miranda Cruz; Cast: Willie Sotelo, Rosita Noble, Eva Darren, Vilma Santos, Lolita Lopez, Ben David, Teddy Santos, Carol Varga, Martin Marfil, Tessie Tecson, Nello Nayo, Johnny De Leon, Rolando Liwanag, Roger Nite, Dalton De Castro, Cleng-Cleng Diaz; Original Music: Pablo Vergara; Production Design: Vicente Nayve; Executive producer: Vicente De Leon

Plot Description: No Available Data

Film Achievement: No Available Data

Film Reviews: "...Ipinanganak nga marahil si Ma. Rosa Vilma Tuazon Santos sa show business dahil sa pagitan ng taping ng “Larawan..” ay nagkasunod-sunod na ang kanyang mga pelikula...“Larawan Ng Pag-ibig” ng Vitri (base sa TV series, Pebrero 19 – 28, 1964)...ng lumikha ng rekord sa takilya...Makalipas ang mga tatlong buwan, nakatanggap ng maikling sulat si Mama Santos muka lay G. Agra. Naghahanap ang Sampaguita Picutures ng batang babae na gaganap ng mahalagang papel sa “Anak, Ang Iyong Ina!” at isinali ng amain ang pangalan ni Vi. Hindi puwedeng lumiban si Papa Santos sa pinpasukang government office, at ayaw naman nilang mapahiya ang kamag-anak, kaya napilitan si Mama Santos na humingi ng day=off sa opisina (Aguinaldo’s). Pagdating sa studio, wala si G. Agra at nasa location shooting, ngunit totoong naroroon ang pangalan ni Vi, kaya’t pinapasok sila sa tanggapan. Napadaan sa harapan ni Mama Santos si Bella Flores na dala ang script ng “Trudis Liit.” Nagulumihanan si Mama Santos. Binasa niyang muli ang liham ni G. Agra. Mali yata ang napuntahan nila! Akma niyang tatawagin si Vi na noon ay nkikipaglaro sa iba pang mga bata upang yayain na itong umuwi, nang pumasok sina Mommy Vera, Dr. at Mrs. Perez, at Eddie Garcia. At doon nagsimula ang movie career ni Vi na magpahanggang ngayon ay batbat pa rin ng iba’t ibang panunuri, opinyon at konklusiyon..." - Ched P. Gonzales (READ MORE)

"...Ang kaunaunahang Teleserye o Telenobela sa Television ng ABS CBN Channel 3 ay pinagbidahan ni Vilma, ito ay ang Larawan ng Pagibig. Dinirek ni Jose Miranda Cruz at mga artista din dito sina Eva Darren, Willie Sotelo, at Rosita Noble. Si Vilma ay 11 years old pa lang dito. Pagkatapos ng taping ng Larawan ng Pagibig, lagare naman si Vi sa kanyang Radio Drama program sa DZRH ang Naligaw na Anghel, kasama nya sina Maggie de la Riva at si Anita Linda na gumanap na ina ni Vilma. Ang T.V. show at Radio drama program ni Vi ay tumagal sa ere ng 3 years..." - Jojo V. Lim (READ MORE)

"...Larawan ng Pag-ibig, teleserye, 1963 - on ABS-CBN. She's the original TV drama princess. Buckets of tears, the familiar high-strung acting, but forgiveable, she's just a kid, please. Were there TV household ratings in 1963? The show was a hit, Larawan the movie had to be done. The little brown girl from Iriga, Nora Villamayor, was a big Vilma fan..." - anonymous (READ MORE)

"...Ang teleseryeng Larawan Ng Pag-ibig (July 19, 1964) ay prinodyus ng Vitri Films at pinangunahan nina Vi, Willie Sotelo, Eva Darren, Ben David at Rosita Noble. Si Jose Miranda Cruz ang sumulat, gumawa ng iskrip at nagdirek ng pelikulang ito na nasubaybayan sa Channel 3..." - Alfonso Valencia (READ MORE)