From Nuffnang

Monday, February 3, 2025

Movies That Mark 30th Year in February 2025

At least 11 Filipino movies were released in theaters in February 1995. At present, some of these movies can be viewed on YouTube, while others are occasionally aired on free television.

Basta't Kasama Kita
Escobar: Walang Sasantuhin
Kapwa Kumakasa
Kahit Harangan ng Bala
The Lilian Velez Story: "Till Death Do Us Part"
Junior Police: Crimebusters
Deadly Brothers
Araw-Araw, Gabi-Gabi
Batangueño Kabitenyo: 'Gusto Kong Bumaet Pero Di Ko Magawa!'
Bocaue Pagoda Tragedy
Iligpit si Bobby Ortega! Markang Bungo 2

Details of each mentioned title follow.



Basta't Kasama Kita (Tagalog: As Long as We Are Together)

Original Release Date: February 01, 1995
Production Company: Star Cinema Productions


MAIN CAST

Aga Muhlach ... Alex
Dayanara Torres ... Princess Marinella of Bavaria / Ella
Paolo Contis ... Paolo
Smokey Manaloto ... Brix
Ruby Rodriguez ... Sara
Heather Rasch ... Ms. Thompson


SELECTED CREW

Direction  ... Rory B. Quintos
Screenplay ...    Jerry Lopez Sineneng, Mel Mendoza-Del Rosario, Don Cuaresma, and Olivia M. Lamasan
Cinematography ... Joe Batac Jr.
Production Design ... Nuel Naval
Editing ... Jess Navarro
Musical Direction ... Nonong Buencamino
Executive Producers ... Lily Y. Monteverde and Charo Santos-Concio


NOTES:

*** Aside from being the first Filipino movie starring Miss Universe 1993 Dayanara Torres, Basta't Kasama Kita is the directorial debut of Rory B. Quintos.

*** The plot is similar to that of the 1953 film Roman Holiday, starring Audrey Hepburn and Gregory Peck.

*** Cathy Garcia-Sampana worked as an assistant director for this movie. She also plays the role of a chambermaid in the hotel where Princess Marinella checked in.



Escobar: Walang Sasantuhin (Tagalog: Escobar: No One Will Be Spared)

Original Release Date: February 01, 1995
Production Company: Regal Films


MAIN CAST

Lito Lapid ... Capt. Salvador Escobar
Chin Chin Gutierrez ... Capt. Norma Lopez
Monsour Del Rosario ... Lt. Escudero
Bernard Bonnin ... Col. Vizconde
Andy Poe ... Governor Sebastian
Jess Lapid Jr. ... Sgt. Lakay
Al Tantay ... Sgt. Advincula


SELECTED CREW

Direction ... Efren C. Piñon
Story and Screenplay ... Tony Tacorda
Cinematography ... Romulo Araojo, Rey De Leon, and Rey Lapid
Production Design ... Jon Portugal, Nesty Ramirez, & Sonny Valencia
Editing ... Rogelio Salvador
Musical Direction ... Nonong Buencamino
Executive Producer ... Lily Y. Monteverde


NOTE:

*** As of February 2025, the only movie collaboration between Lito Lapid and Chin Chin Gutierrez.



Kapwa Kumakasa (Tagalog: Both Fighting)

Original Release Date: February 01, 1995
Production Companies: Movie Master International Films and Harvest Films International


MAIN CAST

Michael Ryan ... Chiang Ho-Wah
Roy Cheung ... Dick
Edu Manzano ... Edu
Lily Lee ... Jenny
Joel Torre ... Billy
Gabriel Romulo ... Dick's Thug 'Panther'
Subas Herrero ... Mr. Cardoza


SELECTED CREW

Direction  ... Andrew Kam and Johnny Wood
Screenplay ... Fung Chow
Cinematography ... Pak Hung Chim and Roger Estrada
Production Design ... Kwok-Leung Lee and Max Paglinawan
Editing ... Kan-Sing Chan
Musical Direction ... Hoi-Kam Lee and Marco Wan
Executive Producer ... Luis Sy and Aaron Ngo


NOTES:

*** According to Kung Fu Fandom, there is dispute whether the movie is a Hong Kong production, a Filipino production or a co-production.

*** Released in Hong Kong the previous year as Asian Cop: High Voltage. Lead star Donnie Yen was eventually credited as Michael Ryan in the Philippine release.





Kahit Harangan ng Bala (Tagalog: Even If Hindered by Bullets)

Original Release Date: February 08, 1995
Production Company: Regal Films


MAIN CAST

Romnick Sarmenta ... Bobbit Zaragosa
Sunshine Cruz ... Jojo
Tirso Cruz III ... Amador Almonte
George Estregan Jr. ... Jigo Almonte
Dan Alvaro ... Ramon Zaragosa
Boots Anson-Roa ... Aling Cedes
Paquito Diaz ... Major Quintos


SELECTED CREW

Direction ... Joey Del Rosario
Story and Screenplay ... Jojo M. Lapus
Cinematography ... Edmund Cupcupin and Isagani Sioson
Production Design ... Monching Escobar
Editing ... Joe Solo
Musical Direction ... Nonong Buencamino
Executive Producer ... Lily Y. Monteverde


NOTE:

*** The first movie collaboration between Romnick Sarmenta and Sunshine Cruz. In 2023, they were cast in the television series Unbreak My Heart.





The Lilian Velez Story: "Till Death Do Us Part"

Original Release Date: February 08, 1995
Production Companies: Viva Films and Golden Lions Films Productions Inc.


MAIN CAST

Sharon Cuneta ... Lilian Velez
Cesar Montano ... Narding Anzures
Joel Torre ... Joe Climaco
Shannen Torres ... Narding's Girlfriend
Gina Alajar ... Yaya Nene
Donita Rose ... Pacita
Boots Anson Roa    ...    Rosa Aguirre
Robert Arevalo    ...    Miguel Anzures
Charina Scott ... Vivian Velez
Tony Carreon    ...    Manuel P. Velez
Perla Bautista    ...    Concepcion Cananea
Flora Gasser    ...    Narcisa de Leon
Philip Gamboa    ...    Richard Abelardo


SELECTED CREW

Direction, Story, and Screenplay ... Carlo J. Caparas
Story and Screenplay ... Tony Calvento
Cinematography ... Ernesto 'Boy' Dominguez
Production Design ... Melchor Defensor
Editing ... Abelardo 'Dho' Hulleza
Musical Direction ... Demet Velasquez
Executive Producer ... Vic Del Rosario, Carlo J. Caparas, and Donna Villa


NOTES:

*** About a decade before this movie was released, Sharon Cuneta and Joel Torre worked together in the film Bituing Walang Ningning (Tagalog: A Star Without Shine).  In the said 1985 film, Sharon Cuneta plays the role of singer Dorina Pineda. Joel Torre plays the role of composer Garry Diaz.

In The Lilian Velez Story, Sharon Cuneta plays the role of the eponymous singer-actress. Joel Torre portrays Joe Climaco, the composer husband of Lilian Velez.

*** TAGLINE: Caught in the deatly web of THE ETERNAL TRIANGLE that devoured everything including themselves!





Junior Police: Crimebusters

Original Release Date: February 08, 1995
Production Company: Golden Harvest Unlimited


MAIN CAST

Sunshine Cruz ... Imelda
Dan Alvaro ... Lt. Enrile
Larry Silva ... Pipoy
IC Mendoza ... Bitoy
Lady Lee    ...    Melody
Flora Gasser ... Lola Inday
Ramon Christopher ... Brando
Jeffrey Santos ... Pat. Ronaldo


SELECTED CREW

Direction    ... Artemio Marquez
Story and Screenplay ... Artemio Marquez, Antonio Fajardo, and Deo Derecto
Cinematography ... Gener Buenaseda
Production Design ... Cesar Jose
Editing ... Rene Tala
Musical Direction ... Ringgo Marquez
Executive Producer ... Richard Goldwyn Monteverde and Ronald Stephen Monteverde





Deadly Brothers

Original Release Date: February 08, 1995
Production Company: Pacific Films


MAIN CAST

John Regala ... Badong
Raul Zaragosa ... Nilo
Tony Ferrer ... Ka Anton
Nida Blanca ... Brgy. Chairwoman
Jean Garcia ... Cel
Rina Reyes ... Rina
Miguel Rodriguez ... Zaldong Porma
Jess Lapid Jr. ... Kardo


SELECTED CREW

Direction ... Leonardo L. Garcia
Story and Screenplay ... Jojo Lapuz
Cinematography ... Jun Dalawis
Production Design ... Boyet Cocjin
Editing ... Rene Tala
Musical Direction ... Nonong Buencamino
Executive Producer ...    [information to be provided upon availability]





Araw-araw, Gabi-gabi (Tagalog: Every Day, Every Night)

Original Release Date: February 14, 1995
Production Company: MAQ Productions


MAIN CAST

Aiko Melendez ... Teresa
Janice De Belen ... Alma
John Estrada ... Teddy
Gloria Romero ... Josefa
Cherry Pie Picache ... Doreen
Mark Anthony Fernandez ... Raffy
Jomari Yllana ... Lawrence
Jimi Melendez ... Basilio
Patrick Garcia ... Jun-Jun
CJ Ramos ... Abet


SELECTED CREW

Direction, Story, and Screenplay ... Jose Javier Reyes
Cinematography ... Marissa Floirendo
Production Design ... Edel Templonuevo
Editing ... George Jarlego
Musical Direction ... Nonong Buencamino
Executive Producers...    Marie Sherida Monteverde and Douglas Quijano





Batangueño Kabitenyo: 'Gusto Kong Bumaet Pero Di Ko Magawa!' (Tagalog: Batangueño Kabitenyo: 'I Want to Become Nice, but I Cannot!')

Original Release Date: February 14, 1995
Production Company: Viva Films


MAIN CAST

Leo Martinez ... Magno
Anjanette Abayari ... Ester
Dindi Gallardo ... Yvonne
Ramon Christopher ... Albert
Raffy Rodriguez ... Peter
Ana Matti ... Carol
Glydel Mercado ... Gunding
Marianne Artadi ... Amazon
Jessica Rodriguez ... Amazon Leader
Michelle Parton ... Joy


SELECTED CREW

Direction ... Felix Dalay
Story and Screenplay ...    Felix Dalay and Ely Matawaran
Cinematography ...    Ramon Marcelino
Musical Direction ... Ricky Del Rosario
Executive Producer ... Vic Del Rosario Jr.


NOTE:

*** Lead actor Leo Martinez is a native of the province of Batangas.

*** Several months later, Ana Matti was reintroduced as Amanda Page in the film Gayuma (Tagalog: Love Potion).





Bocaue Pagoda Tragedy

Original Release Date: February 14, 1995
Production Company: Seiko Films


MAIN CAST

Charito Solis ... Melba
Robert Arevalo ... Fr. Martinez
Chanda Romero ... Belen
Joel Torre ... Fr. Joe
Maricel Laxa ... Laura
Gardo Versoza ... Gaudi
Romnick Sarmenta ... Berting
Isko Moreno ... Jun Jun


SELECTED CREW

Direction ... Maria Saret
Screenplay ... Amado Lacuesta Jr. and Salvador Royales
Cinematography ... Sergio Lobo
Production Design ... Rei Nicolas
Editing ... Ferren Salumbides
Musical Direction ... Rey Magtoto
Executive Producer ... Robbie Tan

NOTES:

*** The fatal accident occurred on July 2, 1993, during an annual festival held in the Bocaue, a town in the province of Bulacan. The festival involves a decorated pagoda on top of a barge surrounded by small boats accompanying it. A replica of the Holy Cross of Wawa is placed atop the pagoda.

According to numerous witnesses, a flying skyrocket toward the pagoda forced the devout passengers to move to one side of the barge. The barge was tilted by the concentrated weight of the passengers. As they heard the noise of crackling timber, the passengers panicked. The structural collapse of the pagoda collapsed and gradually sank to the bed of the Bocaue River.

In the movie, a heated argument escalated between a devotee and a festival organizer. In the ensuing fistfight, an oil lamp was shoved and set the floor ablaze. The flames caused the passengers to panic.





Iligpit si Bobby Ortega! Markang Bungo 2 (Tagalog: Kill Bobby Ortega! Mark of Skull 2)

Original Release Date: February 22, 1995
Production Company: Viva Films


MAIN CAST

Rudy Fernandez ... Bobby Ortega
Charlene Gonzales ... Karla
Anthony Alonzo ... Lando
Bing Loyzaga ... Marissa
Bembol Roco ... Martin Pineda
Lito Legaspi ... Col. Ordoñez
Lito Garcia ... Col. Miranda


SELECTED CREW

Direction ... Eddie Rodriguez
Story and Screenplay ... Humilde 'Meek' Roxas, Roger Fuentebella, and Eddie Rodriguez
Cinematography ... Ricardo Herrera
Production Design ... Melchor Defensor
Editing ... Renato De Leon
Musical Direction ... Nonong Buencamino
Executive Producer ... Vic Del Rosario Jr.


NOTE:

*** A sequel to the 1991 biopic Markang Bungo: The Bobby Ortega Story. The titular military officer led an anti-crime unit having an insignia that depicts a bungo (Tagalog: skull).

Friday, January 24, 2025

Movies That Mark 30th Year in January 2025

At least nine Filipino movies were released in theaters in January 1995. At present, some of these movies can be viewed on YouTube, while others are occasionally aired on free television.


Pustahan Tayo, Mahal Mo Ako
The Annabelle Huggins Story-Ruben Ablaza Tragedy: "Mea Culpa"
Pare Ko
Demolisyon: Dayuhan Sa Sariling Bayan
Alfredo Lim: Batas ng Maynila
Pempe ni Sara at Pen
ProBoys
Eskapo: The Sergio Osmeña-Geny Lopez Story
Campus Girls


Details of each mentioned title follow.




Pustahan Tayo, Mahal Mo Ako (Tagalog: I Bet, You Love Me)

Original Release Date: January 04, 1995
Production Company: Regal Films, RRJ Films


MAIN CAST

Ramon 'Bong' Revilla Jr. ... Dante Aguilar
Maricel Soriano ... Cristy Mondragon
Miguel Rodriguez    ...    Atty. Raymond Sanchez
Niño Muhlach ... Juanito
Ruby Rodriguez ... Pinky
Jennifer Mendoza ... Susan


SELECTED CREW

Direction ... Danilo P. Cabreira
Screenplay ... Jojo Lapus
Cinematography ... Danny Bustos
Production Design ... Arthur Santamaria
Editing ... Pepe Marcos
Musical Direction ... Mitch Morala
Executive Producer ... Lily Monteverde and Jose Mari M. Bautista


NOTE:

*** The movie's theme song is titled Sumpa Ko, a cover of  All-4-One's "I Swear." Quamo, the performers, have a special participation in this movie.





The Annabelle Huggins Story-Ruben Ablaza Tragedy: "Mea Culpa"

Original Release Date: January 04, 1995
Production Companies: Viva Films and Golden Lion Films


MAIN CAST

Dawn Zulueta    ...    Anabelle Huggins
Cesar Montano ... Ruben Ablaza
Maggie de la Riva ... Anabelle's Mother
Robert Arevalo ... Atty. Valiente
Mat Ranillo III ... Rannie
Evangeline Pascual ... Merly
Rico J. Puno ... Ikong
Malu Barry ... Malu
Estrella Kuenzler ... Mrs. Ablaza
Augusto Victa ... Mr. Ablaza
Romeo Peña ... Major


SELECTED CREW

Direction ... Carlo J. Caparas
Story and Screenplay ... Carlo J. Caparas and Tony Calvento
Cinematography ... Ernesto 'Boy' Dominguez
Production Design ... Gabby Francisco
Editing ... Abelardo 'Dho' Hulleza
Musical Direction ... Demet Velasquez
Executive Producer ... Vic Del Rosario Jr., Carlo J. Caparas, and Donna Villa


NOTE:

*** Based on a highly publicized court case in which Ruben Ablaza and two others were found guilty for kidnapping and rape. They were sentenced to death, but Ablaza's sentence was cancelled and subsequently reduced to life imprisonment.

*** Tagline: "Oh, Love omnipotent with might! You sway even the realm of son and sin ... the heart you tempt with your delight would shun his all to tend your fire!"




Pare Ko (Tagalog: My Buddy)

Original Release Date: January 11, 1995
Production Company: Star Cinema


MAIN CAST

Mark Anthony Fernandez ... Francis
Jomari Yllana ... Mackie
Claudine Barretto ... Nadine
Jao Mapa ... Chipper
Gio Alvarez ... Abe
Nikka Valencia ... Carol
Victor Neri ... Lester


SELECTED CREW

Direction, Story and Screenplay ... Jose Javier Reyes
Cinematography ... Ely Cruz
Production Design ... Edel Templonuevo
Editing ... George Jarlego
Musical Direction ... Eric Antonio and Carlo Bulaan
Executive Producer ... Lily Monteverde and Charo Santos-Concio


NOTE:

*** The movie's title is derived and inspired by a 1993 song of the same name by the alt-rock group Eraserheads.




Demolisyon: Dayuhan sa Sariling Bayan (Tagalog: Demolition: Alien in Own Country)

Original Release Date: January 11, 1995
Production Company: Sunlight Films


MAIN CAST

Anthony Alonzo ... Ramon
Ronald Gan Ledesma ... Dindo
Jaclyn Jose ... Naty
Michael De Mesa ... Chester Tuazon
Glenda Garcia ... Belen
Gina Alajar ... Atty. Wilma Valle
Subas Herrero ... Asuelio Tuazon
Rhey Roldan ... Ka Delio


SELECTED CREW

Direction        ...    Roland S. Ledesma
Screenplay ...    Eddie Joson
Cinematography ...    Rudy Quijano
Production Design        ... Mamerto Valerio
Editing ... Ruben Pantua
Musical Direction ... Marita Manuel
Executive Producer    ... Estela Olay Ledesma


NOTE:

*** Lead actor Anthony Alonzo (credited as Antonio Hernandez) performed the movie's theme song.





Alfredo Lim: Batas ng Maynila (Tagalog: Alfredo Lim: Law of Manila)

Original Release Date: January 18, 1995
Production Companies: Golden Kay International Films and Harvest International Films


MAIN CAST

Eddie Garcia ... Alfredo Lim
Dang Cecilio ... Amelia Santos
Timmy Cruz ... Racquel
Rod Navarro ... Corrupt General
Dick Israel ... Nicolas
Gabriel Romulo ...    Lim's Aide


SELECTED CREW

Direction ... Ramje
Screenplay ... Ramon Jesus Capinpin, Bomboy Cruz, Erwin Llanado and Johnny Wood
Cinematography ... Johnny Araojo
Production Design ... Gerry De Leon
Editing ... Jess Navarro
Musical Direction ... Marita Manuel
Executive Producer ...    J.Y. Ang and Jayme Ang


NOTES:

*** Alfredo Lim: Batas ng Maynila is the third biographical movie based on the life of the eponymous law enforcer turned politician. The previous two were  Alfredo Lim: Manila Police (1977) starring Rudy Fernandez and Target ... Police General (1989) starring Ramon Revilla Sr.

A fourth one, Alfredo S. Lim: The Untold Story, was released in 2013. It features Cesar Montano in the title role.


*** In a scene, Mayor Alfredo Lim met with a pair of film producers. Lim was seeking their assistance in staging the upcoming Manila Film Festival. One of the producers was Atty. Laxa (portrayed by Ray Ventura). 

Lim remarked that Laxa produced Sabotage, the top-grossing film in the festival's inaugural edition way back in 1966. Sabotage features Tony Ferrer, Laxa's brother. It was directed by Eddie Garcia.


*** The 1994 Manila Film Festival scandal was recent in relation to the movie's release. Legal issues  might have compelled the producers to use fictitious names to portray the people involved in the said scandal.

Greta Barredo (portrayed by Glenda Garcia), Nenette Mendez (portrayed by Rachelle Lobangco)  and Lilet Sales (portrayed by Joy Viado) are presumably based on Gretchen Barretto, Nanette Medved, and Lolit Solis. 

The names Rosa Gavierres, Gary Consolacion and Eddie Magsino were apparently inspired by Ruffa Gutierrez, Gabby Concepcion and Edu Manzano.

However, the names of Aiko Melendez and Viveka Babajee were not changed.


*** TAGLINE: "The untold story of Manila's legendary crimebuster. To this man whose life has been devoted to the cause of instant justice, what is Right is Right and what is Wrong is Wrong."






Pempe ni Sara at Pen (Tagalog: Pempe of Sara and Pen)

Original Release Date: January 18, 1995
Production Company: Regal Films


MAIN CAST

Anjo Yllana ... Pempe
Kris Aquino ... Sara
Vandolph ... Pen
Tessie Tomas ... Mrs. Grace
Larry Silva ... Popoy
Don Pepot ... Tiyo Adonis
Cita Astals ... Señora Leilani
Edgar Mortiz ... Digo


SELECTED CREW

Direction ... Tony S. Cruz
Story and Screenplay ... Manny Buising
Cinematography ... Ricardo Jacinto
Production Design ... Randy Gamier
Editing ... Edmund 'Bot' Jarlego
Musical Direction ... Mon Del Rosario
Executive Producer ... Lily Monteverde


NOTES:

*** The movie's title is a play on "Pen Pen de Sarapen," a Tagalog children's song.

*** As of January 2025, this is the only movie collaboration between Kris Aquino and Vandolph.




ProBoys

Original Release Date: January 18, 1995
Production Company: Mahogany Pictures


MAIN CAST

Ruby Rodriguez ... Louie
Beth Tamayo ... Mylene
Giselle Sanchez ... Cherry Pie
Joanne Pascual ... Twinkle
Sharmaine Suarez ... Zena
Niño Muhlach ... Dennis
Brando Legaspi ... Gardo
Jojo Abellana ... Jolo
Emilio Garcia ... Mando
Paco Arespacochaga ... Mike


SELECTED CREW

Direction ... Ike Jarlego Jr.
Story ...    Jake Tordesillas, Bernardo Bernardo, Owen Bobadilla, Ony Carcamo, and Chris Martinez
Screenplay ... Jake Tordesillas, Romer Gonzales, Owen Bobadilla, Ony Carcamo, and Chris Martinez
Cinematography ... Clodualdo 'Ding' Austria
Production Design ... Alex Ochoa
Editing ... Marya Ignacio
Musical Direction    ... Jimmy Antiporda
Executive Producer    ... Victor Villegas


NOTES:

*** Paco Arespacochaga of the pop-rock group Introvoys is billed as 'Introducing' in this movie. He is part of the supporting cast of Pare Ko, which was released two weeks prior.

*** Ramon 'Bong' Revilla Jr. makes a cameo role in the end as Louie's boyfriend. He and Ruby Rodriguez are in the main cast of Pustahan Tayo, Mahal Mo Ako. The said movie was released three weeks prior.





Eskapo: The Sergio Osmeña-Geny Lopez Story (Tagalog: Escape)

Original Release Date: January 25, 1995
Production Company: Star Cinema


MAIN CAST

Christopher De Leon ... Geny Lopez Jr.
Richard Gomez ... Serge Osmeña III
Dina Bonnevie ... Chita Lopez
Ricky Davao ... Atty. Jake Almeda-Lopez
Armando Goyena ... Don Eugenio Lopez
Mark Anthony Fernandez ... Gabby Lopez
Eric Fructuoso ... Raffy Lopez
Farrah Florer ... Marissa Lopez
Paula Peralejo ... Gina Lopez
T.J. Cruz ... Ernie Lopez


SELECTED CREW

Direction  ... Chito S. Roño
Screenplay ... Jose F. Lacaba and Roy Iglesias
Cinematography ... Ely R. Cruz
Production Design ... Jeffrey Jeturian
Editing ... Jess Navarro
Musical Direction    ... Jaime Fabregas
Executive Producer    ...    Lily Y. Monteverde and Charo Santos-Concio


NOTES:

*** At the time of the movie's release, Eugenio 'Geny' Lopez Jr. is the chairman of ABS-CBN Corporation, the parent company of producer Star Cinema. 

*** Sergio 'Serge' Osmeña III was elected senator in May 1995, a few months after the movie's release. He was re-elected in 2001 and 2010.

*** Dina Bonnevie's second husband, the late Deogracias Victor Savellano, was one of the congressional representatives who voted in 2020 to deny ABS-CBN a new legislative franchise.




Campus Girls

Original Release Date: January 25, 1995
Production Company: Viva Films


MAIN CAST

Vina Morales ... Vangie
Donna Cruz ... Georgie
Donita Rose ... Samantha
Geneva Cruz ... Diane
Gary Estrada ... Bogs
Lander Vera-Perez ... Mike
Ian De Leon ... Louie
Marjorie Barretto ... Margie
Elizabeth Oropesa ... Becky
Gina Alajar ... Mrs. Rosales
Dante Rivero ... Andy
Ronaldo Valdez ... Ramon
Amy Austria ... Criselda


SELECTED CREW

Direction    ... Mac C. Alejandre
Story and Screenplay ... Mel Mendoza-Del Rosario and Shaira Mella Salvador
Cinematography ... Eduardo 'Totoy' Jacinto
Production Design ... Ron Heri Tan
Editing ... Ike Jarlego Jr.
Musical Direction    ... Ricky Del Rosario
Executive Producer    ... Vic Del Rosario Jr.


NOTES:

*** Between three to five minutes into the movie, audiences can view scenes that were shot at the University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB) in Laguna province.

*** The theme song, "Agos ng Buhay" (Tagalog: Flow of Life), is composed by Jimmy Antiporda. It is performed by Donna Cruz, Donita Rose, Geneva Cruz, and Vina Morales.

Friday, December 13, 2024

Thirtieth Anniversary of the 20th Metro Manila Film Festival: A Throwback

The 20th Metro Manila Film Festival was held from December 25, 1994, to January 3, 1995. 

The event was particularly controversial because no film won the award for Best Picture, the Gatpuno Antonio J. Villegas Cultural Awards, Best Director, and Best Screenplay.

According to Board of Jurors chairman Alejandro Roces, none of the following entries during that edition of the MMFF were deserving of the said awards.

Ang Pagbabalik ni Pedro Penduko
Kanto Boy 2: Anak ni Totoy Guwapo
Lucas Abelardo
Mama's Boys 2: Let's Go Na!
Shake, Rattle & Roll V
Wanted: Perfect Father

As we recall the thirtieth edition of this event, let us revisit the details of the six entries:
 


Ang Pagbabalik ni Pedro Penduko (Tagalog: The Return of Pedro Penduko)

Production Company: Viva Films

MAIN CAST

Janno Gibbs ... Pedro Penduko
Chiquito ... Abraham
Leo Martinez ... Lucifero
Jun Aristorenas ... Kidlat
Arnel Ignacio ... Ricky
Malou De Guzman ... Rosario
Vina Morales ... Anna
Donita Rose ... Bambi


SELECTED CREW

Direction ... J. Erastheo Navoa
Story ... Francisco V. Coching
Screenplay ... J. Erastheo Navoa and Ely Matawaran
Cinematography ... Ben Lobo
Production Design ... Ben Payumo
Editing Edgardo 'Totoy' Jarlego
Musical Direction    ... Ricky Del Rosario
Executive Producer ... Vic Del Rosario Jr.


NOTES

*** Winner of five major MMFF Awards: Best Cinematography, Best Production Design, Best Visual/Special Effects, Best Make-Up and Best Float.

*** Pedro Penduko is a fictional comic book character created by Francisco V. Coching, a National Artist for Literature. 

*** Janno Gibbs is the third actor to portray the folk hero in film. Efren Reyes Sr. and Ramon Zamora were the first two actors to play the said role. 

*** The poster mentions the appearance of a 'special guest star.' This celebrity was none other than Fernando Poe Jr., who was supported by Janno Gibbs in the 1990 film Hindi Ka Na Sisikatan ng Araw: Kapag Puno Na ang Salop, Part III.






Kanto Boy 2: Anak ni Totoy Guwapo (Tagalog: Corner Boy 2: Son of Handsome Totoy)

Production Company: Moviestars Productions


MAIN CAST

Ian Veneracion ... Guiller
Kimberly Diaz ... Michelle
Ramon Christopher ... Albert
Dick Israel ... Benjie
Bunny Paras ... Bernadette
Bob Soler ... Totoy Guwapo
Max Laurel ... Igay
Dencio Padilla ... Maning
Jimmy Fabregas ... Don Anselmo
Dindo Arroyo ... Albert's Aide
Debraliz ... Marvi
Eric Francisco ... Arman
Mike Magat ... Albert's Aide
Devin Villarama ... Albert's Aide


SELECTED CREW

Direction ... Augusto Salvador
Story and Screenplay Humilde 'Meek' Roxas
Cinematography ... Rey Lapid
Production Design ... Rolly Bernardo
Editing Joyce Bernal and Danny Gloria
Musical Direction ... Jimmy Fabregas
Executive Producer ... Victor Villegas


NOTE

*** Winner of three major MMFF Awards: Best Actress (Kimberly Diaz), Best Supporting Actor (Dick Israel) and Best Musical Scoring (Jimmy Fabregas).  

*** This is the sequel to the Totoy Guwapo: Alyas Kanto Boy, a 1992 film directed by Toto Natividad and starring Ace Vergel in the title role.

*** Bembol Roco starred in Kanto Boy and Totoy Guwapo: Police Informer in 1980 and 1981, respectively.





Lucas Abelardo

Production Company: Levin Films


MAIN CAST

Roi Vinzon ... Lucas Abelardo
Karen Timbol ... Cenda
Bembol Roco ... Chief
Dante Rivero ... Mayor
Bob Soler ... Governor
Teresa Loyzaga ... Lucas's Wife


SELECTED CREW

Direction, Story, and Screenplay ... Jose 'Kaka' Balagtas
Cinematography ... Ver Dauz
Production Design ... Sonny Valencia
Editing Renato De Leon
Musical Direction ... Rey Magtoto
Executive Producer ... Jose D. Ignacio


NOTES

*** Winner of five major MMFF Awards: Best Actor (Roi Vinzon), Best Supporting Actress (Karen Timbol), Best Story (Jose 'Kaka' Balagtas), Best Sound Recording and Best Original Music.

*** Second movie collaboration between actor Roi Vinzon and director Jose 'Kaka' Balagtas after Baby Paterno: Dugong Pulis, which was also released in 1994.





Mama's Boys 2: Let's Go Na!

Production Companies: OctoArts Films

 
MAIN CAST

Anjo Yllana ... John
Patrick Guzman ... George
Michael V. ... Ringo
Ogie Alcasid ... Paul
Sunshine Cruz ... Mia
Lailani Navarro ... Lani
Aileen Angeles ... Dulce
Jennifer Mendoza ... Maria


SELECTED CREW

Direction, Story and Screenplay ... Tony Y. Reyes
Cinematography ... Rey De Leon
Production Design ... Buboy Tan
Editing Eduardo Jarlego
Musical Direction ... Jessie Lasaten
Executive Producer ... Orly R. Ilacad


NOTES

*** The second movie featuring Anjo Yllana, Michael V., Lailani Navarro and Aileen Angeles released in a month.

*** Patrick Guzman replaces Francis Magalona in this sequel to 1993's Mama's Boys: Mga Praning-Ning.





Shake, Rattle & Roll V

Production Company: Regal Films


MAIN CAST

Ruffa Gutierrez ... Laurie (segment Episode I: Maligno)
Sheryl Cruz ... Gina (segment Episode II: Anino)
Manilyn Reynes ... Lizbeth (segment Episode III: Impakto)
Monsour Del Rosario ... Victor (segment Episode I: Maligno)
Jaclyn Jose ... Mowie (segment Episode II: Anino)
Chuck Perez ... Andres (segment Episode III: Impakto)
Tom Taus Jr. ... Charlie (segment Episode III: Impakto)


SELECTED CREW

Direction ... Don Escudero (segment Episode I: Maligno), Jose Javier Reyes (segment Episode II: Anino) and Manny Castañeda (segment Episode III: Impakto)
Story and Screenplay ... Jose Javier Reyes
Cinematography ... Jun Pereira
Production Design ... Sammy Aranzamendez, Benjie De Guzman, and Edel Templonuevo
Editing Danny Gloria
Musical Direction ... Nonong Buencamino
Executive Producer ... Lily Y. Monteverde


NOTES

*** Winner of one major MMFF Awards: Best Child Performer (Tom Taus Jr.).

*** Maligno and impakto are Tagalog words generally used to refer to evil spirits and creatures. Anino means shadow.





Wanted: Perfect Father 

Production Company: Star Cinema


MAIN CAST

Dolphy ... Roy
Edu Manzano ... Eddie Ma. Niyak
Babalu ... Bobby
Dawn Zulueta ... Lily
Jeffrey Quizon ... Jeffrey
Rochelle Barrameda ... Lynn
Sarah Jane Abad ... Mica
Tom Taus Jr. ... Timmy


SELECTED CREW

Direction ... Efren 'Loging' Jarlego
Screenplay ... Loida Viriña
Cinematography ... Oscar Quirejero
Production Design ... Randy Gamier
Editing Edgardo 'Boy' Jarlego
Musical Direction ... Mon Del Rosario
Executive Producers ... Charo Santos-Concio


NOTES

*** This movie marks Dolphy's second MMFF entry in the 1990s. The other entries are Espadang Patpat (Tagalog: Stick Sword) in 1990, Father and Son in 1995 and Aringkingking in 1996.

*** Sarah Jane Abad won the Best Child Performer award in the previous year's MMFF.

*** Only known movie collaboration between Dolphy and Edu Manzano.