“Loving Vincent”
Topping our list of must-see productions this month is the first “painted” film, “Loving Vincent,” which dramatizes Vincent Van Gogh’s tumultuous life and times by making his iconic artworks “come alive” on the silver screen.
The enthrallingly enchanting film took many artists years to create, but it was worth the “endless” effort, because the finished production is an artistic achievement in its own right, which can be viewed again and again in years to come.
Similarly noteworthy is the release of rap artist Gloc-9’s latest album, “Rotonda.” We’ve been following his career for years and “digging” his caustic raps on current issues and foibles, which have been uncommonly insightful and feistily spot-on.
Many other rappers have more loudly and luridly made their presence felt, but Gloc-9 still “shines out,” due to his innate focus and pertinence. Long may he rap!
More: Kudos to Regine Velasquez for recently mounting a special anniversary concert celebrating her 30 eventful years in the performing biz.
When she started singing, Regine (then Chona) created a stir due to her unique combination of powerful voice and beauty, but she was awkward and guarded.
Regine Velasquez
It took a team of makeover stylists and mentors to bring out the musical gem in her. But, once they succeeded, Regine truly reigned, going from one success to another, affirming her exceptional worth.
Later, she ventured into movie and TV acting, and delighted viewers not just with her romantic scenes, but also with her emerging comedic verve.
Regine is still seen regularly on TV, but added poundage has put a (temporary) dampener on her career as a leading lady in films. We urge her to sweat it out and get back to shooting trim, because she’s far too young to be put on the movie shelf for keeps.
Finally, we sadly bid adieu to some luminaries who have recently left us, paced by filmmaker Emmanuel H. Borlaza and musical-theater star Chinggoy Alonzo.
Maning was instrumental in honing then teen talent Vilma Santos into the Star for All Seasons she became, among many other accomplishments.
The films he shot with Vilma as leading light include “Dama De Noche,” “Bakit Kailangan Kita?” and “Dyesebel.”
He also megged Sharon Cuneta hits like “Bituing Walang Ningning” and “Dapat Ka Bang Mahalin?”
Other notable Borlaza movies: “Blusang Itim” with Snooky Serna, and “Eva Fonda 16” with Alma Moreno.
For his part Chinggoy played lead roles in a number of stage musicals like “My Fair Lady,” “The Sound of Music” and “Man of La Mancha.”
He also appeared in movies like “Etiquette for Mistresses,” and “The Healing,” as well as in TV series, including the ongoing “Wildflower,” “Indio,” “Pangako Sa ’Yo” and “May Bukas Pa.”