Peta play jumps to the screen

Sandino Martin—PHOTO BY ROMY HOMILLADA

Actor Sandino Martin, the star of director Dan Villegas’ film adaptation of the stage play “Changing Partners,” revealed that its producers had tried to change the casting during its initial story-pitching session.

“Prior to this, we were feeling apprehensive because we were sure that the producers would try to remove some artists in the lineup. So, we made a pact that if one of us got replaced, we’d all back out of the project,” Sandino explained. “It was good that the decision of the director and writer (Vincent de Jesus) prevailed.”

The film, which also stars Agot Isidro, is among the seven finalists of this year’s Cinema One Originals film festival slated in November.

“It’s a movie with music. It’s Direk Dan’s interpretation of the play produced by Peta last year. The fact that he is known for his screen rom-coms makes this project more interesting. It’s experimental,” Sandino said during a recent visit to the Inquirer office in Makati City.

The 25-year-old actor was among the celebrity storytellers of this year’s edition of the Inquirer Read-Along Festival.

“Direk Dan is a gentle giant. He’s very manly, but when a scene makes him emotional, he cries and he isn’t afraid to show it. He told me that when he saw the play, he was able to relate to it,” Sandino added.

“I hope people will watch it. It’s everybody’s story—about a man, a woman, a gay guy and a lesbian. We feel love, and we face problems because of it,” Sandino declared.