33rd Year Anniversary of Pakawalan Mo Ako 2/2 (Videos)

Release Date: 29 May 1981 (Philippines)

Credits: Directed: Elwood Perez; Story: Pete Lacaba; Screenplay: Jose F. Lacaba, Iskho Lopez, Mauro Gia Samonte; Cast: Vilma Santos, Christopher De Leon, Anthony Castelo, Deborah Sun, Subas Herrero, Mila Ocampo, Ed Villapol; Executive producer: Marichu Maceda; Original Music: Lutgardo Labad; Cinematography: Johnny Araojo; Film Editing: Jose Tarnate; Production Design: Angel Tantoco; Sound: Gaudencio Barredo; Theme Songs: “Dati” performed by Anthony Castello; Production Co: MVP Pictures; Release Date: 29 May 1981 (Philippines) - IMDB

Plot Description: - - When Ana's (Vilma Santos) father died they experience hardship. She decided to stop her schooling and work (selling beauty soaps on the street). Despite being poor, she decided not to ask help from her rich boyfriend Freddie Villaseñor (Christopher DeLeon). When the hardship reached its peak, she decided to join her friend, Bernadette Santos (Deborah Sun) as escort girls. There she met Bernard, a son of a rich clan, who courted her when Anna's relationship with Freddy failed. As it turned out Anna was pregnant and despite the disapproval of Bernard's rich father (Subas Herrero), they continued their relationship. The continuing harassment of Bernard's father and his entourage resulted in Bernard being shot as one of the goons tried to rape Anna and was caught by Bernard. Anna was framed and Bernard rich father hired Freddy to prosecute Anna. The film climax with the prosecutor Freddy discovered the bullet that killed Bernard. This was when he decided to visit Ana's family and met her son. The film ends with Ana being acquitted and Freddy discovered that Ana's son was his son. – RV

Related Reading:

• Filmography: Pakawalan Mo Ako (1981)
• The 30th FAMAS Award Winners
• Sigaw Ng Babaeng Nasaktan...Pakawalan Mo Ako

33rd Year Anniversary of Pakawalan Mo Ako 1/2

Release Date: 29 May 1981 (Philippines)

Credits: Directed: Elwood Perez; Story: Pete Lacaba; Screenplay: Jose F. Lacaba, Iskho Lopez, Mauro Gia Samonte; Cast: Vilma Santos, Christopher De Leon, Anthony Castelo, Deborah Sun, Subas Herrero, Mila Ocampo, Ed Villapol; Executive producer: Marichu Maceda; Original Music: Lutgardo Labad; Cinematography: Johnny Araojo; Film Editing: Jose Tarnate; Production Design: Angel Tantoco; Sound: Gaudencio Barredo; Theme Songs: “Dati” performed by Anthony Castello; Production Co: MVP Pictures; Release Date: 29 May 1981 (Philippines) - IMDB

Plot Description: - When Ana's (Vilma Santos) father died they experience hardship. She decided to stop her schooling and work (selling beauty soaps on the street). Despite being poor, she decided not to ask help from her rich boyfriend Freddie Villaseñor (Christopher DeLeon). When the hardship reached its peak, she decided to join her friend, Bernadette Santos (Deborah Sun) as escort girls. There she met Bernard, a son of a rich clan, who courted her when Anna's relationship with Freddy failed. As it turned out Anna was pregnant and despite the disapproval of Bernard's rich father (Subas Herrero), they continued their relationship. The continuing harassment of Bernard's father and his entourage resulted in Bernard being shot as one of the goons tried to rape Anna and was caught by Bernard. Anna was framed and Bernard rich father hired Freddy to prosecute Anna. The film climax with the prosecutor Freddy discovered the bullet that killed Bernard. This was when he decided to visit Ana's family and met her son. The film ends with Ana being acquitted and Freddy discovered that Ana's son was his son. – RV

Review - "...The second memorable film experience for me was during early 80s where I saw the free sneak preview of "Pakawalan Mo Ako" at Gotesco Theatre near University of the East. I was one of the lucky ones who managed to get in. My college mates weren’t. They got stocked in the pandemonium outside. I was worried sick as I took the long escalator and saw them being crashed by the crowd. The security guards have to closed the gate of the lobby. Fans became so restless and broke the glass windows (where they displayed posters and still photos) . Inside, It was crowded, hot and wild. We were seeing a more mature Vilma Santos. The moviegoers reacts to every scenes from the very beginning up to the very end (the courtroom scene where Vilma cried and swear, "Liars! Liars! You're all Lying!")… ” - RV (READ MORE REVIEWS)

Film Achievement:

FAMAS Awards
• Best Picture Nomination
• Best Actress – Vilma Santos
• Best Musical Score – Lutgardo Labad
• Best Theme Song – Louie Ocampo
• Best Actor Nomination – Christopher De Leon
• Best Director Nomination – Elwood Perez
• Best Supporting Actor Nomination – Anthony Castelo
• Best Supporting Actress Nomination – Deborah Sun
Source: Who's Dated Who

Related Reading:

• Filmography: Pakawalan Mo Ako (1981)
• The 30th FAMAS Award Winners
• Sigaw Ng Babaeng Nasaktan...Pakawalan Mo Ako

Special Film: Inspiration (1972)

"...In a musical era of 1970s, “Inspiration” was quite an experimental film, with no musical numbers, better screenplay, well-written characters. Nestor and Bernal works well in establishing the character of Jay and Vilma. Their dialouges are not “corny” and very realistic. There is no over the top dramatic scenes inserted between musical numbers here. The parent played wonderfully by Merle Tuazon and Carlos Salazar were convincing. Although both Vilma and Jay played their roles effectively, Lilian Laing steals the film as Lola Jane. She was bubly and funny, a sex-starved, karate black belter, polo game afficianado, who loves life and considering she playing the old grandma who is also the solution to all the complication in life. Bernal was on his element here, a good story teller, pre-”Dalawang Pugad Isang Ibon, Pahiram Ng Isang Umaga and Relasyon.” Although he is directing a light comedy, written by Nestor Torre Jr., he managed to established all the characters without relying on corny dialouges common in this era..." - RV (READ MORE)

Ishmael Bernal (1938–1996) (30 September 1938 – 2 June 1996) was an acclaimed Filipino film, stage and television director. He was also an actor and screenwriter. Noted for his melodramas particularly with feminist and moral issues, his 1982 film Himala (Miracle) is often cited as one of the greatest Filipino films of all time. He is a National Artist of the Philippines. - Wikipedia (READ MORE)

Source: gobitz69

FAIR USE NOTICE (NOT FOR COMMERCIAL USE): This site contains copyrighted materials the use of which has not always been specifically authorized by the copyright owner. We are making such material available in our efforts to preserve the film legacies of actress, Vilma Santos, and to make her career information available to future generations. We believe this is NOT an infringement of any such copyrighted materials as in accordance to the the fair dealing clauses of both the Canadian and U.S. Copyright legislation, both of which allows users to engage in certain activities relating to research, private study, criticism, review, or news reporting. We are making an exerted effort to mention the source of the material, along with the name of the author, performer, maker, or broadcaster for the dealing to be fair, again in accordance with the allowable clauses. - Wikipedia (READ MORE)

The bags of Loida and Mabuti...

Seeing the film poster of both Nora and Vilma's indie films, we can't ignore the noticeable similarites. Both seem to be - on the "move," walking and in deep thoughts. And both were holding a "Bag." Upon further research, Nora's bag contained money that she didn't own. And this is one of the main focus of the film. Will Mabuti, Nora's character, return the money to the real owner or keep it for herself? Meanwhile, Vilma's bag contained clothes. Clothes that she uses to several impromptu auditions. Will Loida, Vilma's character, land that big break she's been praying all her life, and eventually earn more money for herself and her daughter?

Nora's Bag - "...Initial reviews of Mabuti were positive. Nora was praised for her quiet and effective performance. She was praised for bringing something new to her long filmography, like her willingness to learn the Ilocano dialect. Her director even admitted wasn't required when she initially accepted the project. It seems like she was willing to bring something new that even the well-praised Thy Womb didn't bring out. That "something new," that we haven't seen before. Originally written for man, Nora's character Mabuti, according to writer, Katrina Stuart Santiago, "...this film had technical problems, and I wish it took more care in rendering time and space as important aspects of storytelling. But most this film stands regardless, and that might be because of Aunor. Without her, it's entirely possible that “Ang Kwento ni Mabuti” wouldn't survive its own simplicity. Because not much happens in this story, but Aunor takes Mabuti's character and makes everything happen for her." The high expectation of "Mabuti" seem to be attributed to the critical success of "Thy Womb." The later earned Nora several international trophies but the fact is, it failed commercially. Early projections seems to favor Mabuti commercially. The Noranians seems to be in high spirit as they attend the gala premiere of Mabuti and was blessed with the extension of the film's screening for another week after its first week as part of the CineFilipino Film Festival. The pay out was that Mabuti failed to win Nora the festival's most expected best actress award. The award went to a new comer, a child protege, named Teri Malvar. Initial prediction from a veteran columnist predicts a tight race for next year acting derby with both Vi and Guy fighting for the trophies with Lorna Tolentino for Burgos and Cherrie Gil for Sonata, all for their performances in indie films.

Ang Kuwento ni Mabuti - "...Mabuti is not a simpleton, but in her world, where words are barely spoken, it is easy to just be. There is want and need, but there is only so much one can do. She is not one to bargain for better, as she is one to try and fix things as much as her abilities allow. She wants to bring the money to the barangay captain, but takes the strange weather as a sign that she shouldn't; she goes to the military camp to talk to the captain about the money, but the camp is deserted. Mabuti waits for nothing and no one. She seems to always purposefully wait. As she does heartily laugh, in that quiet way that we know the voiceless must. She speaks but doesn't talk or banter. She is nervous and sad, she is lost and confused, she is happy. And we only know this of Mabuti because she's got eyes that can pierce through your soul. Which is to say that this is about Aunor, which almost goes without saying, and yet there is something here that she wasn't able to do in last year's “Thy Womb.” That is, she learned the language that everybody else in the film was speaking. In this sense Mabuti was more complete as a character than Shaleha; Mabuti was more real. Aunor as such isn't rendered quiet by the inability to speak in the same way, and Mabuti is allowed to actually be borne of the context that we see is hers in the film. She makes that universe work, and unravel, no matter that it is the tiniest, most removed, universe that many of us cannot fathom. It is a universe of signs. And when Mabuti navigates and negotiates with those signs given her fears and joys, we are allowed to imagine life to be as simple, moral compass and all. Yes, this film had technical problems, and I wish it took more care in rendering time and space as important aspects of storytelling. But most this film stands regardless, and that might be because of Aunor. Without her, it's entirely possible that “Ang Kwento ni Mabuti” wouldn't survive its own simplicity. Because not much happens in this story, but Aunor takes Mabuti's character and makes everything happen for her..." - Katrina Stuart Santiago, GMA News, 23 September 2013 (READ MORE)

Vilma's Bag - "...Like Nora's Mabuti, Ektra's initial reviews were positive. Vilma was praised for her willingness to get demoglarized and her effective take as the an underdog role normally identified with Nora. The initial positive buzz of the film were ignored by Vi's detractors and even with an unfinished film, early unfavorable articles were published highlighted with the news the films were rejected by the Cannes screening committee. Despite this setback, the film had its gala premiere on July 28 at the CCP, fans and supporters filled the bigger CCP venue. Ekstra went it momentous peak as Cinemalaya top grosser film and after a few weeks went on its commercial screening sponsored by Star Cinema. The film had its successful first week but the film did not sustain its strenght as typhoon hit Metro Manila. It seems like the rain will never stop, the whole country were flooded, and Ekstra despite rumored of being pulled out remained its local exhibition. Ekstra had its world premiere on September 8th at the Toronto International Film Festival. The almost midnight screening were sold out as well as the consecutive screenings. The film were well received and had its limited screenings in North America the following weeks. Ekstra was her follow-up to her commercially successful The Healing. It was clear that Vilma wanted to maintained her bankability but wanted to mix it with the integrity of the indie genre. And Ekstra provided the mixture of both medium, hence the word "maindie" arrived. Ekstra gave Vi her first indie best actress trohphy (Cinemalaya). Like Nora, she is positioned to give anyone a stiff conpetition to next year acting contest.

Ekstra The Bit Player - "...The unshakable optimism of a middle-aged extra is the warm heart driving “The Bit Player,” an appealing dramedy that pokes plenty of good-natured fun at TV soap operas. Anchored by a glowing central performance by Filipino screen queen Vilma Santos as the single mother who smiles her way through work-related indignities in order to pay for her daughter’s education, the pic reps a fine feather in the cap of veteran helmer Jeffrey Jeturian. Winner of the audience award for best film in its category at Cinemalaya and a hit in domestic release in August, this crowdpleaser launches on limited North American screens on Sept. 13...The wise and witty screenplay by Jeturian, Zigcarlo Dulay and Antoinette Jadaone hits the right mix of humor and compassion from the outset. In a funny pre-credits sequence showing an exasperated production crew hiring and firing a succession of extras for the tiny speaking role of a housemaid, eager-to-please hopeful Loida Malabanan (Santos) is pipped for the job at the last moment. Very much a modern incarnation of heroines from classic Hollywood melodramas of the 1950s, Loida only strengthens her resolve in the face of such setbacks. Fiercely determined to not ask her (unseen) ex-husband for financial assistance, Loida is driven to survive and succeed because of her adult daughter, Joyce (Ronaline Enriquez), also a divorcee and a college student whose tuition fees are due. Unhurried opening segments paint a lovely picture of a selfless mother undaunted by being lumped into the category of “nameless wannabees” by fast-talking casting director Josie (Ruby Ruiz, terrific). Loida’s belief that it’s never too late to become a star is one of many character traits that will have audiences rooting for her all the way. With this critical factor firmly in place and Santos in supreme form, Jeturian steers a more overtly comedic path once Loida and her spunky best pal, Venus (Tart Carlos), find work on the set of a soap opera regaling with the title of “You Were Mine First..." - Richard Kuipers, Variety, 11 September 2013 (READ MORE)

2014 Award Prediction and Outcome

• Luna Awards - Vilma Santos, FAP voting members went for Nora's Thy Womb the previous year, although they have given Nora their awards three years consecutively, Noranians have enraged some FAP members by complaining too much about Thy Womb not getting the country's representative to OSCAR, but just based on Vilma's performance and FAP's choices in the past, I believe it will be Vilma next year.  Despite some critics indicating some disappointments on how her film, Burgos ends -like a "TV drama," Lorna Tolentino's performance, was the film's redeeming value, hence she can be the spoiler between Vi and Guy (As of Oct, FAP has announced their reviewers' list of possible nominees.  No press release yet about their official set of nominees but the group cited Vilma for best actress and no mention of Nora. - RV).
• Gawad Urian - Tie: Nora Aunor and Vilma Santos. The Filipino critics are undoubtedly the most credible award giving bodies and they all love indie films. With both Nora and Vilma's films they would have a hard time deciding which to give their trophies. There is a sure chance that they will just give the honor to both actresses but since Nora received her seventh Urian last year, it would be fair to give it to Vi this year. But a spoiler alert comes to mind, They also love Irma Adlawan for Transit  (As of Oct, Vi and Guy lost the Gawad Urian Best Actress to the surprising winner, Angeli Bayani for Oscar bound, “Norte.”  There are some back luck for Nora, she lost the National Artist title and her movie “Whistleblower” was not selected to compete for this year’s Metro Manila Film Festival.  On positive side, Nora won the best actress at the Cinemalaya for "Justice" locally titled "Hustisya" and she also received Gawad Plaridel award, following the footstep of her rival, Vilma who received both recognition few years earlier.  Nora's follow-up indie film after Hustisya was the indie/horror, Dementia who got a commercial release but according to some press release got a lukewarm reception. - RV).
• PMPC Star Awards - Vilma Santos. The PMPC has some questionable winners in the last few years and in recent years they became more clearer that they are more likely to vote for Vi (KC Concepcion upset both Nora and Vilma, she won for her performance in "Boy Golden" - RV).
• Golden Screen Awards - The Golden Screen members are trying to imitate the early years of Star Awards and with a new format of dividing their categories into drama and comedy, there is big chance that both Nora and Vilma will end up winning. Ofcourse Vi can be nominated into both categories but it will not be practical if they will not use the opportunity to give Nora and Vilma trophies at the same time. Both of their fans would be happy with Aunor getting the trophy for Drama and Vilma for Comedy (As of Oct, Vilma received a nomination from EnPress' Golden Screen for best performance in dramatic role while Nora missed the cut - RV).
• CMMA Awards - Nora Aunor's film has CMMA written all over it. It is hands down Nora. But Lorna Tolentino's Burgos, all for its activism that many church followers loves, may give her a stiff fight. Also, Irma's role in Transit with its Israel as its back drop will also play the role of predicting who will CMMA proclaim their best (As of Oct, no official statement has been release but the official ceremony is scheduled on Oct 29th. - RV).
• Gawad Tanglaw and Gawad Pasado - These academics turned film critics honored Nora the previous year for Thy Womb. Tanglaw like Vilma more and Pasado according to most fans favored Nora. Vi will win Tanlaw and Nora Pasado (Correct predictions! - RV).
• FAMAS Awards - Both Vi and Guy are no longer eligible due to their Hall of Famer status. Lorna Tolentino, Cherie Gil and Irma Adlawan will fight for it's honor with Lorna on top and Cherie as spoiler (KC Concepcion won the best actress, Irma Adlawan was ignored by the oldest group of award entrepreneurs! - RV).

Related Reading:

• Strong contenders
• Newcomer beats Nora Aunor as Best Actress in CineFilipino
• Cinemalaya 2013: Many films called, few chosen…
• Gala Screenings of Nora Aunor's "Ang Kwento ni Mabuti" (Video)
• Gov. Vilma Santos-Recto, dumalo sa gala night ng indie film niya sa Cinemalaya (Video)

Remembering Bella Flores

Hatred (poot) and Jealousy (inggit) - "...In the Joey Reyes short film, Bella gave her audience an idea of how she became a most hated screen villain. On the whole, the film was a funny but down-to-earth crash course on how to achieve immortality as a screen villain. The fool-proof ingredient, according to Bella, was to invest and perfect that art of hatred (poot) and jealousy (inggit) and make use of them to the hilt. Then she added another lesson on the fine art of slapping and hair-pulling and how to produce an equally important wicked laughter as she saw the object of her hatred expire from her equally malevolent stare. Declared Bella in her last film (Kontrabida 101) after dousing wine on the face of the poor waiter: “Bidas (heroines) they come and go. Pero kaming mga kontrabida, we never fade away.” There is a ring of truth in Reyes’s declaration: “There is one and only Bella Flores. She is indeed one of a kind.” Stage director Anton Juan can only agree: “Bella Flores, how many who tried to imitate your art in front of their own mirrors could approximate your wicked eyebrows, flaring nostrils, the sharp-lined lips that formed the word at the edge of gritting teeth, a voice that rasped deep through the breath of smoke. You created the Filipino archetype of the ‘kontrabida’ till your name itself was synonymous with villainy. Rest in peace, Ms. Bella Flores and flowers for you..." - Pablo A. Tariman, The Philippine Star, 20 May 2013 (READ MORE)

Roberta and Trudis - “…Contravida Queen Bella Flores was featured in “Showbiz Central’s” Most Influential segment as she plays a big part in GMA Films’ new movie with Rhian Ramos and Aljur Abrenica, “My Kontrabida Girl.” It’s also a tribute to Bella as she’s celebrating her 60th anniversary in showbiz. The screen name Bella Flores was given to her by the late Sampaguita Pictures’ boss Dr. Jose Perez. “I was so glad when I was told it means beautiful flowers,” she said. Her real name is Remedios Dancel and she was born on Feb. 27, 1936, which means she turned 76 yesterday, Monday (Feb 27/2012). She was only 15 when she did her first villain role maltreating child star Tessie Agana in the blockbuster “Roberta.” She recounted that Vilma Santos auditioned with her for her first movie, “Trudis Liit,” in 1963. “Natakot siya at tumakbo dahil nakita niyang pinahirapan ko ‘yung ibang batang nag-audition,” she said. “Ngayon, governor na siya. Sina Roderick Paulate at Gina Alajar, sa’kin din nagsimula as child stars sa ‘Kaibigan Kong Sto. Nino’…” - Mario Bautista, Malaya (READ MORE)

Female Eddie Garcia - "...There is nothing that I can ask for more," sambit ni Bella. "I've played all kinds of roles. I played the madre roles. Meron akong mga action pictures...plus mga drama. "Even on television, all of my TV shows got the highest ratings. Honest to God! Katulad ngayon, itong Trudis Liit, nakadagdag na naman ako. Nakasama ako sa magandang ratings ng show. "I'm so proud and I'm so happy and so contented that after all those five decades, you know what I mean, I'm still standing up, not sitting down." Marami nga ang naghahalintulad kay Bella bilang female counterpart ni Eddie Garcia sa patagalan sa showbiz industry. "They compare me always to Eddie Garcia when they interview me. It's true that we have the most respected names in the world of showbiz. "Kapag sinabi mong Eddie Garcia, sold na lahat. Yari na ang lahat. Wala nang puwedeng ipalit. Ganoon din ang sinasabi nila sa akin," aniya. Aminado naman si Bella na may mga pagkakataon din na hindi dumarating ang projects sa kanya...." - Paul Mata, PEP, 20 October 2010 (READ MORE)

Miss Bulaklak - "...Acting didn't run in Bella's family of eight brothers and seven sisters. Remedios Limson in real life (a mixture of Chinese, Spanish, and German bloods), Bella was a rice vendor on Blumentritt and Antipolo streets in Sta Cruz and eventually became "Miss Bulaklak of 1949" before she invaded the movies. She had her first taste of movies without the knowledge of her parents. "It was only when I arrived home with five stiches on the head I sustained from a freak accident during a shooting that they learned about it. My producer, the late Mommy Dolores H. Vera, took me home. So my parents couldn't back out anymore!" Bella Flores started out in films as an extra in Ang Lumang Bahay Sa Gulod which was Premiere Productions' first picture in color and starred Rogelio de la Rosa and Leila Morena. She transferred to Sampaguita Pictures where the late Dr. Jose R. Perez screen named her Bella Flores, which means "magandang bulaklak" in Pilipino. She was to be an extra again in Kilabot Sa Makiling but a sudden twist of fate landed her a longer role as the "other woman." Bella's biggest break came when she portrayed the stern and mean aunt to then child stars Tessie Agana and Boy Alano in Roberta, a tearjerker. The sob movie was a smash hit and literally revived Sampaguita Pictures, which was razed by fire in 1951. Bella was then signed up for 13 years and got P500 per picture with a P50 weekly allowance. On top of that, for every picture she made there after, she would be paid P3,000. "During those time, you could already buy a house and lot for only P10,000. Regular taxi fare was P10 and you could go back and forth to studio and home...Age is a state of mind. If you say you're old, then you'll look old. Me? I don't believe I'm old because I always feel young!..." - Manny B. Fernandez, People Magazine, 05 February 1982 (READ MORE)

Bella Flores and Vilma Santos' Films

• Ikaw Ang Mahal Ko (1996) - ”…In 1996 Vilma Santos did “Ikaw Ang Mahal Ko” with the late FPJ. The film did not do well, both critically and commercially. This year also was a bad year for the local entertainment industry as Ishmael Bernal died on June 2nd. It was reported that he was scheduled to direct a film about the life story of Lola Rosa Henson, the comfort woman during the Japanese invasion of the Philippines. The project was also reportedly offered to Vilma Santos. From 1997 to 2009, Vilma Santos completed 6 full featured films, two were considered record breaking films and almost all gave her acting recognitions including two international best actress recognitions…” (READ MORE)
• Pinay, American Style (1979) - "...The film was so forgettable that the critics didn’t even bother to write any reviews. The lack of enthusiasm on the part of the critics was compensated with the box office success of the film. Vilma fits the role as the illegal alien, PX. Her attempt to speak fluent English and pretend that she’s rich when she met the boyish looking Christopher was funny and poignant. She was given enough scenes to shine. One was when she was harassed by her landlady, she promised her the rent money the next day and when she’s gone, she opened her refrigerator and found a staled piece of bread. She took bottled water and ate the staled bread, went to the bedroom and found her mom’s letter. Lying down in bed, she started to break down. A quiet scene without dialogue. A contrast from the earlier scenes where she was talkative as she tried to impress Christopher and telling him she’s rich and from a well-known family. It was obvious in 1979, Elwood Perez wasn’t the kind of director you will expect to produce a serious output. He wasn’t a Bernal or Brocka. He’s a commercial director. It was a better effort though, compared to a much more convoluted Magkaribal or their past successful projects like Nakawin natin ang bawat sandali and masakit masarap ang umibig. In Pinay, Toto Belano’s script wasn’t efficient in ironing out the “love quadrangle” plot twists and establishing the characters of four actors. So the blame can’t be put to solely to Perez’ shoulder. There was a scene were Vilma Santos and Christopher were watching a concert which was obviously not part of the script..." (READ MORE)
• Huwag hamakin! Hostess (1978) - “…Do you always succeed in packaging a movie? “Often, yes, But, alas, I have failures too.” For instance? “Well, some reasons for failure are due to wrong chemistry of the cast, to the vehicle (story) and/or unsuitability of both elements. Let’s take the movie, Huwag Hamakin: Hostess, which with solid actresses, a move that proved to be contrary to the image of La Aunor. It would have been all right, if Alma Moreno, Nora’s co-star, was paired with another bold actress. But that, we learned only later and too late! I was aware of Guy’s image. But I wasn’t aware that her image wouldn’t go well with the combination. Not even the controversy of including Vilma Santos in the cast helped. It only antagonized both camps of Nora-Vilma fans…” (READ MORE)
• Big Ike's Happening (1976) - "...Enrique “Big Ike” Lozada (August 13, 1940-March 8, 1995) was a Filipino comedian, actor and TV host. He was born on August 13, 1940 in Iloilo City. He started acting at the age of 11 on the movie Mga Bituin ng Kinabukasan with the younger Susan Roces. He died on March 10, 1995 in Manila, of heart attack. He was 54. His had lain at Manila Memorial Park in Parañaque City..." (READ MORE)
• Ding Dong (1970) - "...Ding Dong, adapted into movie from comics written by Pablo S. Gomez; Illustrated by Alfredo P. Alcala for United Komiks, 1970..." (READ MORE)
• Young Love (1970) - “…The loveteam of Edgar Mortiz and Vilma Santos endured a stiff competition from teeny bopper love team of Nora Aunor and Tirso Cruz III and came up with equal success with string of hit films during the musical era of the 70s. Together they did forgettable but commercial hits and also some hints of the years to come to Vilma Santos’ long career. The most notable one: Dama De Noche. Total Number of films with Vilma Santos – 25 (Young Love, Teenage Jamboree, Songs and Lovers, Renee Rose, My Pledge of Love, Mga Batang Bangketa, Love Is for the Two of Us, I Love You Honey, From the Bottom of My Heart, Baby Vi, Love Letters, The Wonderful World of Music, The Sensations, The Young Idols, Sweethearts, Sixteen, Leron-Leron Sinta, Edgar Love Vilma, Don’t Ever Say Goodbye, Dama de Noche, Anak ng Aswang, Because You Are Mine, Kampanerang Kuba, Kasalanan Kaya, Karugtong ang Kahapon…” (READ MORE)
• Trudis liit (1963) - “Ang pelikula ni Ate Vi na Trudis Liit ay tandang tanda ng maraming Vilmanians. Nagdulot ito ng unang karangalan para kay Ate Vi at sa murang edad ng siyam. Sa mga Vilmanians ang maraming madramang eksena ni Vilma rito’y natanim sa ating alaala. Ang sabi nga ng isa sa ating Vilmanian na si Henry Llaneza, “the first movie I’ve seen in Black & White TV mula sa bintana ng kapitbahay ay ang “Trudis Liit” na napaiyak ang lahat ng nanonood dito nagsimula ang lahat…” ng kanyang pagiging isang Vilmanian. Katulad ni Henry, dito rin nagsimula ang aking paghanga sa star for all season. Galit na galit ako nuon kay Bella Flores dahil sa pang-aaping ginawa niya kay Trudis. Sa pagkapanalo ni Ate Vi ng FAMAS Best Child Actress sa pelikulang ito, sinundan pa ng Sampaguita Pictures ang tagumpay nito sa pamamagitan ng pelikulang Ging. Dito makikita ang malinaw na talento ni Ate Vi. Hindi lamang sa kanyang hindi pilit na pag-iyak kundi sa pagkanta rin. Dito rin sa pelikulang ito’y nakipagsabayan siya sa pagganap ni Olivia Cenizal at sa pang-aapi ni Carol Varga. Ang dekada ng sisenta ay patuloy na nagbigay ng maraming pelikula kay Ate Vi magmula sa pagiging isang batang artista hanggang sa isang teenager. Umabot ito sa unang karangalan niya bilang isang hindi na batang artista sa pamamagitan ng pagkanominado niya sa Best Supporting Actress muli sa FAMAS at ang kanyang pagkapanalo ng parehong titulo mula naman sa San Beda College…” (READ MORE)

Bella Flores (February 27, 1929 - May 19, 2013), was a FAMAS award-winning Filipino film actress. She was best known for her "iconic" portrayals of film villains. Flores was born in Manila. She was a college sophomore at the Far Eastern University when she appeared in her first film, Tatlong Balaraw (1950), at age 14. Flores was signed by Sampaguita Pictures. She was cast in Roberta as the cruel stepmother of Tessie Agana's titular character, despite being 15 years old. The film was a box-office success, credited with saving Sampaguita Pictures from bankruptcy after a fire had destroyed its studio. The film's success also elevated Flores into the upper tier of stars, and typecast her in villainous roles. The film critic Nestor Torre remarked that Flores had "been making life miserable for many generations of hapless stars—all the way back to little Tessie Agana and Boy Alano in 'Roberta' in the early 1950s, to her fresh batch of victims in the New Millennium... doing it without skipping a beat—and without aging (much) to boot." She received the 1967 FAMAS Best Supporting Actress award for her role in Ang Kaibigan Kong Santo Niño. Flores died on May 19, 2013, in Quezon City General Hospital. Her death was a result due to complications from a recent hip surgery. - Wikipedia (READ MORE)

Related Reading:

• "Prima Contravida" Bella Flores dies at 84
• Legendary actress Bella Flores passes away at 84
• Reyna sa Dalawang Trono
• Bella Flores Foundation planned
• Bella Flores kauna-unahang inilibing sa Hardin ng mga Bituin
• Bella Flores laid to rest in Bulacan
• So good at playing really bad people
• BT: Burol ni Bella Flores sa QC, bukas sa publiko (Video)
• Ilusyon (Illusion) - Trailer (Video)

Special Film: Mahinhin vs. mahinhin (1981)

Mahinhin vs. mahinhin (1981) is a movie directed by Danny L. Zialcita. It was a continuation of the film Si Maganda at Si Mahinhin which was produced in 1980. Produced by Sine Silangan Productions in 1981, the movie featured the late Dindo Fernando, Ronaldo Valdez, Adul de Leon, and Elizabeth Oropesa. The young Carmi Martin and Edu Manzano were also part of the movie. The story revolved around the life of Billy de Gracia (Dindo Fernando), a homosexual who tried to live as a man by marrying Juana (Elizabeth Oropesa). Billy's life turned upside down as he met Archie (Edu Manzano), boyfriend of Peter Frias (Ronaldo Valdez). Peter, unlike Billy, was a multi-millionaire homosexual. Billy pretended to be woman when he tried to offer Archie some money. When Peter learned about that, he and Billy agreed to share Archie with each other. The following scenes showed how Peter and Billy rivaled for Archie's attention. - Wikipilipinas (READ MORE)

Danny Zialcita is a fun-loving gifted and colorful filmmaker who left his mark as one of the best in the stimulating era of the ’60s and ’70s. Then without any warning he left the industry. Stories of drug addiction, withdrawal from the world, and worse, loss of sanity dogged his absence until even his colleagues lost touch with him and didn’t know what to believe. Zialcita is a master of improvisation on the set, he also had the knack for casting the right actors, choosing the right material, and pleasing his producers. One of his favorite actors was Dindo Fernando whom he termed “the complete actor” and cast him in such movies as Langis at Tubig, Karma, Gaano Kadalas Ang Minsan, Mahinhin at Mahinhin, its sequel Malakas, si Maganda at si Mahinhin and Ikaw at ang Gabi which gave Dindo his first Urian Best Actor trophy. Other favorites were Vilma Santos cast in Karma, T-Bird at Ako, Langis at Tubig; Pinky de Leon; Laurice Guillen; Ronaldo Valdes; and Beth Bautista who won Best Actress award in Hindi sa Iyo ang Mundo Baby Porcuna. - Bibsy M. Carballo (READ MORE)

Source: Pinoybwuahaha69

FAIR USE NOTICE (NOT FOR COMMERCIAL USE): This site contains copyrighted materials the use of which has not always been specifically authorized by the copyright owner. We are making such material available in our efforts to preserve the film legacies of actress, Vilma Santos, and to make her career information available to future generations. We believe this is NOT an infringement of any such copyrighted materials as in accordance to the the fair dealing clauses of both the Canadian and U.S. Copyright legislation, both of which allows users to engage in certain activities relating to research, private study, criticism, review, or news reporting. We are making an exerted effort to mention the source of the material, along with the name of the author, performer, maker, or broadcaster for the dealing to be fair, again in accordance with the allowable clauses. - Wikipedia (READ MORE)

Vilma: A Woman For All Seasons (2009)

Basic Information: Cast: Vilma Santos, Kim Chiu, Megan Young, Claudine Barretto (host), Laurice Guillen (host), Nikki Gil, Coco Martin, Vhong Navarro (host), Shaina Magdayao, Angelica Panganiban, Iya Villania, Empress Shuck, Nina Dolino, Princess Ryan, Dianne Medina, Sen. Ralph Recto, Ryan Christian Recto, Angel Locsin (host), Luis Manzano, John Lloyd Cruz, Maribeth Bichara; Running Time: 30 minutes; Premiered: August 01, 2009 - Date Ended: August 29, 2009; Number of Episodes: 5; Language: Tagalog; TV Station: ABS-CBN; Country: Philippines

Plot Description: The Kapamilya Network proudly presents the much awaited five-part TV special for the one and only Star For All Seasons aptly entitled 'Vilma: A Woman for all Seasons' airing on all Saturdays of August. Presented in a documentary-magazine and reality TV format, fans and viewers alike will be in for a real treat as the respected and veteran actress tells all in this once in a lifetime event. This five weekend special will tackle everything on the esteemed actress-turned-Governor - from the start of her career, to her term as a public servant as well as sneak peeks into her highly awaited and much talked about movie 'In My Life' with son Luis Manzano and blockbuster film actor John Lloyd Cruz. - Telebisyon.net (READ MORE)

Acomplishment: No Available Data

Reviews - The Kapamilya Network proudly presents the much awaited five-part TV special for the one and only Star For All Seasons aptly entitled ‘Vilma: A Woman for all Seasons’ available on TFCnow’s Premium Edition, starting the first Saturday of August. Presented in a documentary-magazine and reality TV format, fans and viewers alike will be in for a real treat as the respected and veteran actress tells all in this once in a lifetime event. This five episode special will tackle everything on the esteemed actress-turned-Governor – from the start of her career, to her term as a public servant as well as sneak peeks into her highly awaited and much talked about movie ‘In My Life’ with son Luis Manzano and blockbuster film actor John Lloyd Cruz. The first episode (available starting August 1), hosted by Claudine Barretto who has worked with Vilma in the drama film ‘Anak,’ showcases Vilma as an actress/ artist, being the four-time grand slam Best Actress in various award-giving bodies as well as receiving Lifetime Achievement Awards from Cinemanila and FAP among others. This also highlights a special acting workshop by Vilma herself in collaboration with respected director Laurice Guillen for hand-picked Star Magic talents who will imitate scenes from her unforgettable movies.

This exclusive workshop is undeniably a must-see and is participated by the likes of Primetime Princess Kim Chiu (who acted out the scene in the film “Dolzura Cortez” where PDA scholar Bugoy bravely faced Kim’s slapping hand), indie King turned mainstream actor Coco Martin, host and singer Nikki Gil, breakthrough kontravida beauty Megan Young, some of the favorite PDA and Pinoy Fear Factor stars as well as the rest of the Star Magic family. On the following week (available starting August 8), viewers will see Vilma as a TV host, dancer and performer. With funny man Vhong Navarro adding laughter with his comical antics and wacky remarks as the host, the Star for all Seasons shares some of her insights and experiences during tapings and shootings – from unavoidable health concerns and even to romantic problems with her good-looking leading men. We will relive the days of “VIP” show where she used to do her special numbers in her most colorful costume and danced the most complicated dance routines by no less than Maribeth Bichara. Joining the prized actress in the dance workshop are young stars Shaina Magdayao, Angelica Panganiban, Iya Villania, Empress Shuck, Nina Dolino, Princess Ryan and Dianne Medina. Definitely something to look forward to is the much-awaited dance number of Vilma with the said stars!

Next episode (available starting August 15), fans and supporters will have an exclusive preview of Vilma’s private world as one of the young actresses closest to her heart, teleserye Princess Angel Locsin hosts this very personal chapter. Vilma welcomes viewers into her home in Alabang which is the very first time her private quarters will be shown on Philippine television. Featuring the prized actress as a wife, mother, sister and friend, we will see how she spends her free time at home and what a ‘normal’ family day is in the life of Governor Vi. On the fourth installment (available starting August 22), Vilma is shown as an empowered Filipina leader being the hands-on and the first woman Governor of Batangas and a UP Gawad Plaridel Awardee for her achievements as an actress and a public servant. Capping off this five-episode special (available starting August 29) is your very own VIP pass into the making of Vilma’s movie, ‘In My Life’ with eldest son Luis and John Lloyd who will also serve as the hosts. Be the first to peer into some of the movie scenes and events shot at the colorful city of New York, listen in on some selected interviews with the cast and crew as well as trivia on the much-anticipated film and get an exclusive sneak peek into the never before seen behind-the-scenes shots. - TFC Now (READ MORE)

As a wife and mother - The Aug. 15 episode has the answer: For the first time, the actress allows a TV crew to shoot inside her new house in Alabang. The episode will also display the musical talents of hubby Ralph Recto and second son, Ryan Christian. The fourth episode focuses on Vilma as a public servant. And, for the final episode, she will be seen during the shooting of her forthcoming movie with her son, Luis, and John Lloyd Cruz. Parenthetically, she told us that she doesn’t aspire for the country’s vice presidency because all her plans are exclusively for Batangas. - Remy M. Umerez, Philippine Daily Inquirer, 07 Aug 2009 (READ MORE)

Vilma 's Achievements - Before moviegoers get to see Vilma Santos on the big screen this September, Vilmanians will have the chance to see her on ABS-CBN's five-week special dedicated to the Star for All Seasons. Dubbed Vilma: A Woman for All Seasons, this is a separate TV show that will air right after Maalaala Mo Kaya every Saturday night. According to a source from ABS-CBN, this TV show highlights Vilma 's achievements as an actress, a mother, and as a public servant. It will also feature behind-the-scene videos of Vilma being directed by Olivia Lamasan in the upcoming Star Cinema movie In My Life. This movie, shot partly in New York, marks Vilma's return to the big screen after starring in Mano Po 3: My Love (2004). In My Life also stars Vilma's son, Luis Manzano, and John Lloyd Cruz. The highly anticipated movie includes intimate scenes of Luis and John Lloyd who play gay lovers. Catch Vilma: A Woman For All Seasons on all Saturdays of August, airing right after Maalaala Mo Kaya on ABS-CBN. - Jocelyn Dimaculangan, PEP, 20 July 2009 (READ MORE)

Megan's Dilemma - Megan Young’s biggest break in showbiz to date was her role as Marcella on I Love Betty La Fea. She was so good at it that many viewers started to notice her as one of the most promising actresses today. This is the very reason why she was also hand-picked to attend the special acting workshop led by Vilma Santos for her TV special A Woman For All Seasons on ABS-CBN. But as seen last Saturday, August 1, Megan wasn’t able to slap Vilma during their on-the-spot acting showdown. It elicited various reactions amongst the audience and fortunately, ABS-CBN.com caught up with the young star to ask her what really happened back then. Apparently, she was too mesmerized with Vilma’s powerful presence that she could hardly think of the right things to say and, much more the momentum to deliver that slap. “I was gonna, I really was...kasi naghahanap ako ng tyempo nung una and then I couldn’t find one. When she was talking to me (in a gentle manner), ‘Anak sampalin mo ako ha…’ I was looking into her eyes, she’s just... I got so star struck. I was thinking how am I going to slap her. Am I supposed to do it hard? With me thinking of so many things, hindi ko na siya nasampal,” she vividly recalled.

A friend of hers who was able to watch the show later told Megan that she was actually good in the sense that she was able to shed tears right there and then. Only to realize that she was genuinely crying because of the difficult situation she was in. “In the middle of it, I was so embarrassed kasi I was saying a lot of stuff that really embarrassed me. Everybody was laughing. Actually they said na it became a comedy skit. I tried to absorb it (the insults that Vilma was hurling at her as part of the acting session) but I wasn’t that focused. At that time I just forgot all the stuff that I learned from my workshops because I was just so intimidated by her.” When Megan got invited to the said event, she had no idea that it’s actually an acting workshop-slash-open forum that would be shown on TV. “They only told me that day so hindi ako emotionally prepared. The reason why I cried talaga is I was scared out of my mind that I won’t be able to slap her, and I didn’t. Actually lahat kami akala namin manonood kami ng movie ni Vilma. Yun nga, I didn’t know na ipapalabas siya sa TV. So after the workshop sabi ko pa okay I’ll just work on it next time,” she added. Nevertheless, Megan stressed that she really learned from the whole experience, and hopefully, she would get the chance to redeem herself in another acting stint with Vilma. “In the end, I learned from it and she was really nice about it pa. All I can say is that you learn from your mistakes. How can you grow as a person if you don’t make this kind of mistake? I am not saying that go ahead make mistakes, you can learn from them. But you just have to get over it na rin. Do what’s right next time,” she wisely stated. - ABS-CBN Corporate Communications, Puah, 8/05/2009 (READ MORE)

A Special Show - ABS-CBN wants a TV special for Gov. Vilma Santos in connection with her new movie, "In My Life." "I told them ayoko ng usual tribute," she says. "I just want it to be a sharing na lang of my experiences in acting with their new stars, not because I’m good at it but because of the wealth of experiences I gained sa tagal ko sa showbiz. Biro nyo, 38 na ko ngayon, next year 37 na ko," she laughs. The five-part special, "A Woman for All Seasons," will be shown on all Saturdays of August, after "Maalaala Mo Kaya." The first special on August 1 will focus on acting, done workshop-style with Claudine Barretto as host and director Laurice Guillen as facilitator. New stars of ABS-CBN attended it and gained first-hand information from Gov. Vi about her craft as an actress. Kim Chiu acted out scenes from her "Dolzura Cortez Story" while Nikki Gil and Coco Martin acted out her scenes with Christopher de Leon in "Broken Marriage," both award-winning films. "I’m excited as this is the first time this is done on TV. I just noticed, intimidated sila sa’kin. I did a scene with Megan Young na she’s supposed to slap me, pero hindi niya ako masampal. Naranasan ko rin yan noon when I did ‘Modelong Tanso’ with Charito Solis."

The second special on August 8 is hosted by Vhong Navarro and centers on her experiences as a TV star, especially her dancing. She gets to dance again, like she used to in the fabulous opening numbers of her "Vilma" show. "I love dancing at na-miss ko talaga. Pero siempre, wala na nung liftings kundi simpler moves, pinaubaya ko na yun sa mga bagets na kasayaw ko like Angelica Panganiban, Shaina Magdayao, Iya Villania, Empress Shuck and others. But later, nag-hiphop din ako." The episode on August 15 will show Ate Vi as a wife and mom. "For the first time, I allowed a TV crew to show our new home in Alabang. They will join us on a Sunday, which is family day for me, and they’ll see the musical side of Ralph and Ryan Christian who’ll do a musical number na parang rock band. This will be hosted by Angel Locsin." The fourth episode on August 22 will show her as a public servant. The TV crew will shoot her as she goes to the Batangas capitol to join the flag ceremony and show what a typical day for her is as its first lady governor and a truly empowered Filipina. The fifth and final episode will show the making of "In My Life" on location in New York with son Luis Manzano and John Lloyd Cruz. This is a Ate Vi's grand comeback from the movie scene and it already created a big, loud buzz. The movie has a September 16 showing and will have its premiere on September 15 in Manila, Batangas, and in the USA. - Mario Bautista, posted at Pinoy Exchange Forum

Revered Multi-faceted Woman - ABS-CBN proudly presents a grand five-part television special featuring Batangas Gov. Vilma Santos. The TV special, dubbed “Vilma: A Woman for all Seasons,” will air on all Saturdays of August. Presented in a documentary-magazine and reality TV format, fans and viewers will be in for a real treat as the revered multi-faceted woman bares her life. She will also tackle her highly awaited movie, “In My Life,” with son Luis Manzano and blockbuster film actor John Lloyd Cruz. Known as the “Star for All Seasons,” Santos is considered a veteran in the entertainment industry. She started her career in show business when she was only 9 years old. Santos won her very first acting trophy as FAMAS best child performer for the film Trudis Liit (Little Trudis). Since then, the respected actress appeared in more than 200 films and various TV programs over the years. She also won the respect of the most prestigious award-giving bodies for movies and television such as FAMAS, Gawad Urian, PMPC and Catholic Mass Media awards. Aside from bringing entertainment to Filipinos, Santos also has a heart for public service. She is currently in politics as the first woman governor of Batangas. She was also the first woman mayor of Lipa City. She is a doting mother to two wonderful sons and a loving wife to fellow public servant Ralph Recto. - ABS-CBN News (READ MORE)

The Seasons - "The camp of Gov. Vilma Santos credits movie journalist JC Nigado for giving the actress-turned-politician the tag Star for All Seasons. For the longest time — since the early ’70s, rival Nora Aunor was called Superstar. In 1986, Sharon Cuneta was built up as the Megastar and yet Vilma remained untitled. In 1988, when Vilma marked her 25th year in show business in a PICC extravaganza put up by GMA 7 with the help of Chit Guerrero for her weekly variety show, Vilma!, Nigado wrote a series of articles where he called her Star for All Seasons. Other titles were coined for other stars after that, but only a few managed to maintain those titles and Vilma is undeniably one of them. Tonight, after Charo Santos’ Maalaala Mo Kaya, ABS-CBN will start airing a five-part special called Vilma: A Woman for All Seasons, which will trace the various facets of her life and career as an actress (the only one with four grand-slam wins), as a TV host and dancer (her Vilma! show on GMA 7 that ran for nine years was the best-produced — without question), as a wife and mother (the first time she is showing her new home in Alabang — a must-see on Aug. 15) and as a public servant (her image as Lipa mayor first and now Batangas governor is untainted). For the final episode on Aug. 29, son Luis Manzano will show viewers some of the behind-the-scenes in the making of their movie All My Life, which will be shown by Star Cinema in September. I had a reunion with Vilma recently and we both agreed that the title Woman/Star for All Seasons is so apt for her because she had been through all the seasons of life round and round. Together, we sat down to trace the various seasons of her life..." - Butch Francisco, Philippine Star, 01 August 2009 (READ MORE)

BUHAY ARTISTA

Post-War - "...Ayon kay Mona Lisa, kasama siya sa tropa nina Fernando Poe, na siyang pangunahing aktor at direktor sa panahon ng giyera. Kasama nila sina Willie Chavez, Jaime dela Rosa at iba pa, nagpalipat-lipat sila sa Lyric, Capitol at Avenue Theaters. Ang artistang nakilala sa mga pelikulang, Ang Pagbabalik, Kolehiyala, Dilim at Liwanag, Bago Lumubog Ang Araw, Bahay Kubo at Magmamani ay napilitang kumanta, sumayaw at sumali sa mga iskit sa tanghalan. Bago pa lamang nagdadalaga si Virginia Montes sa gulang na katorse nang una niyang subukan ang stage shows sa mga huling taon ng WWII. Namatay sa giyera ang kaniyang ama at siya ang inaasahang tumulong sa kaniyang ina para sa buhayin silang magkakapatid. Kasama naman siya sa tropa ng mga nagsisipagtanghal sa Orient Theatre sa pamamahala ni Papang Salvador (Lou Salvador, Sr.) at ng kabiyak nitong si Aling Cora (ina nina Mina Aragon, Philip at Ramon Salvador). Sumasayaw sa stage si Virgie. Naalaala pa niya nang bago siya lumalabas ay naiiyak siya tuwing magsusuot siya ng maigsi. Pero wala naman siyang magawa, kasi iyon ang costume nila. Ang kanilang choreographer ay si Chuchi, sa supervision ni Don Jose Zarah na pagkatapos naman ng digmaan ay siyang namahala sa Clover Theatre. Kabilang sa mga artistang lumalabas sa mga stage shows noon sina Teroy de Guzman, Golay (kilala ngayon bilang Dolphy), Panchito Alba, Etang Discher, Rene Pangan, Chiquito, Balot, Metring David, Gregorio Ticman, Patsy, Lopito, Bayani Casimiro, Nieves at Ester Chavez..." - Irene Diaz-Castillo, Charlie V. Lozo and Liza Endaya, Ang Showbiz Ngayon, September 11, 1989 (READ MORE)

Television Show - "...The legendary comic duo of Dolphy and Panchito headlined Buhay Artista, one the top-rating TV shows in the 60s. A Sunday evening treat for the whole family telecast over Channel 3, from 7:30 t0 8:30 p.m...." - Simon Santos (READ MORE)

"...He is best remembered for the long-running TV show “Buhay Artista” (with Panchito) and “John en Marsha” with Nida Blanca as his with in an inspiring story about a poor yet happy family. The TV show was made into movies, just like “Home Along da Riles,” the show that followed it..." - Ricky Lo, The Philippine Star, July 11, 2012 (READ MORE)

Susan and Dolphy in Buhay Artista (1967) - Susan played a movie fan who became a movie star, opposite Dolphy. The have done several films prior to Buhay Artista, some are: Lab na Lab Kita (1962); Pepe En Pilar (1966); Susanang Daldal (1962) and Sa Lingo ang Bola (1961).

"...Malaki ang agwat ng edad namin ni Dolphy. Ang kabarkada ko talaga [noon], yung kapatid niya, si Georgie [Quizon]," banggit din ni Susan sa younger brother ni Dolphy na namatay sa isang aksidente [hit-and-run], ilang taon na ang nakakaraan. "Pero very supportive si Dolphy sa amin ni Georgie. "Pagka merong extra'ng trabaho, binibigyan niya kami, sa mga radio shows niya. Du'n naman ako na-train sa voice acting. "Marami din kaming pinagsamahan na radio programs, nung panahon na 'yon, sa dzRH," wika rin ni Susan na naging tampok sa Mga Reyna ng Vicks (1958), pelikulang base sa radio program na ang sponsor ay Vicks Vaporub. Ito rin ang pinagbasehan ng kuwento ng Sapagka't Kami'y Mga Misis Lamang [1977], tampok pa rin si Susan, Nora Aunor, Celia Rodriguez at Chichay. "Nu'ng nag-produce na siya [Dolphy], pagkatapos ng kontrata niya sa Sampaguita Pictures, at nung ako naman ay freelancer na rin, muli kaming nagkasama sa marami ring proyekto ng RVQ Productions. "Kaming Mga Taga-Ilog [1968], Pepe En Pilar [1966]... hindi ko na halos mabilang," ang sabi ni Susan..."Mabait si Dolphy. Although malayo ang agwat namin sa edad, hindi namin siya tinatawag na 'Kuya' o 'Tito,' dahil alam namin na hindi siya magiging masaya na tawagin namin siya nang gano'n. "Pero alam niya na iginagalang namin siya. Kagalang-galang na, katulad nga ng maraming sinabi, yung mga na-interview, sabi nila, 'Pag nakikita mo si Dolphy, kakaiba siya. "Iilan lang sa mga public personalities natin na pagpasok nila [sa isang pagtitipon] parang mapapatigil ka sa kanya, [dahil sa] respeto. "Sa personal, hindi naman siya pala-kuwento. Ah, mas madalas tahimik siya at nakikinig siya sa mga kuwento. "Gusto niya, meron siyang nakaka-kuwentuhan, pero i-e-encourage ka niyang ikaw ang magkuwento. "Ang bonding moments namin [noon], siyempre... pagkain!" nangiti si Susan pagkabanggit nito. Then, she recalled, "Paborito niya yung huling pinaluto ko para sa kanya. "That was a few months ago, na nasa bahay lang siya at ang sabi ng doktor, kailangan kumain siya nang kumain... kare-kare, adobo. Yun ang mga gusto niya..." - William R. Reyes (READ MORE)

Vilma and Dolphy in Buhay Artista (1979) - Dolphy and Vilma Santos did four films together. The first one was in her first year in show biz and in a Dolphy-Chichay film. After six years, the two reunited in one of early films of Nida Blanca and Dolphy. The film was sort of about family planning and birth control. Vi was in minor role and one of the child actors featured in the film. They followed this up with minor roles in the Cirio Santiago’s all-star-cast film. By later part of 1970s, both Dolphy and Vilma became a regular staples in award shows receiving several trophies as box office king and queen. Finally, after almost a decade from their last outings and no longer his film daughter, Dolphy and Vilma did their last film (to this day), this time, Vilma played the leading lady, in a film, ironically, about show business. Also, that year, Doply became the only male actor who portrayed Darna, the female comic-super-heroine in Darna Kuno. Not to be undone, Vilma will reprise the role the following year in her fourth and final film as Darna in Darna at Ding. At present time, both superstars made headlines as contenders for Philippines’ National Artists honors. Vilma respectfully and publicly asked for Dolphy to confer the title ahead of her.

"...Nakapanayam ng PEP.ph (Philippine Entertainment Portal) at ilang entertainment press sina Vilma at Lani, at kanilang ikinuwento sa amin ang mga hindi nila malilimutang sandali kasama ang Comedy King. Malungkot si Star for All Seasons Vilma Santos-Recto sa pagpanaw ni Dolphy, at sa opinyon niya’y “napilay” ang industriya ng pelikula at telebisyon sa ating bansa. Gayunman, hindi niya kailanman malilimutan ang Hari ng Komedya dahil “legacy na siya ng movie industry." Dagdag pa niya, “So, katawan lang ‘yan, pero ‘yong legacy na iniwan ni Tito Dolphs would, ah, will definitely stay in the movie industry. “Hindi mabubuo ang movie industry kung wala si Dolphy.” Nagkasama sina Vilma at Dolphy sa pelikulang Buhay Artista Ngayon (1979), at nang mapanood niya raw ulit ito’y naalala niya ang tawanan nila sa set noong ginagawa ang pelikula. Kuwento niya, “Grabe, na-miss ko si Tito Dolphy. Ang galing namin sumayaw! “‘Yong dance sequence namin nakaka-miss talaga. “Pero wala, kanya-kanyang kontribusyon ‘yon, and at the end of the day, what’s important is the legacy na iiwan mo sa mga taong nagmahal sa ’yo. “For sixty years nagsilbi si Tito Dolphs, so talagang he's one of the pillars ng pelikulang Pilipino.” At kung ang National Artist Award naman ang pag-uusapan, ito lamang ang opinyon ni Ate Vi: “Deserving si Tito Dolphy. “Deserving sa contribution, sa ginawa niya, lahat, lahat ng ginagawa niya noon—deserving si Tito Dolphs..." - Joyce Jimenez (READ MORE)

BIG IKE'S HAPPENING (1976)

Basic Information: Directed: Pablo Santiago and Bobby Santiago; Writing Credits: Tommy C. David, Pablo Santiago and Ike Lozada; Cast: Tirso Cruz III, Walter Navarro, Ike Lozada, Aurora Salve, Gina Alajar, Jojit Paredes, Dondon Nakar, Arnold Gamboa, Maribel Aunor, Winnie Santos, German Moreno, Allan Valenzuala, Inday Badiday, Doyet Ilagan, Ben David, Edward Campos, Lilian Laing, Aruray; Special Guest Stars: Vilma Santos, Nora Aunor, Perla Bautista, Charlie Davao, Esperanza Fabon, Bella Flores, Lito Legaspi, Christopher De Leon, Van De Leon, Pinky Montilla, Alma Moreno, Dencio Padilla, Eddie Perigrina, Andy Poe, jerry Pons, Ric Rodrigo, Gloria Romero, Daria Ramirez, Darius Razon, Marianne Dela Riva, Eddie San Jose, Ricky Santiago, Lorna Tolentino, Eddie Villamayor, and Vic Vargas; Executive Producer: Larry Santiago; Original Music: D’Amarillo; Cinematography: Joe Batac Jr.

Plot Description: No Available Data

Film Achievement: Ranked 32nd on Top-US-Grossing Tagalog-Language Feature Films Released In 1976

Film Reviews: Enrique "Big Ike" Lozada (August 13, 1940-March 8, 1995) was a Filipino comedian, actor and TV host. He was born on August 13, 1940 in Iloilo City. He started acting at the age of 11 on the movie Mga Bituin ng Kinabukasan with the younger Susan Roces. He died on March 10, 1995 in Manila, of heart attack. He was 54. His had lain at Manila Memorial Park in Parañaque City. - Wikipedia (READ MORE)

Related Reading:

• Ike Lozada From Wikipedia
• IMDB: Big Ike's Happening (1976)
• IMDB: Tirso Cruz III
• IMDB: Walter Navarro
• IMDB: Ike Lozada
• IMDB: Jojit Paredes
• IMDB: Gina Alajar
• Ike Lozada - There's Always Me (Video)