FPJ classics still a treat

FUENTES. Legacy of beautiful Visayan tunes

Elena Barrera, housewife: “Each time I watch a Fernando Poe Jr. film on television, it transports me back to the times when actions films lorded it over other genres in local cinema. During FPJ’s prime, the annual film fests were never complete without an entry from ‘Da King.’

“I love his old movies because of his penchant for casting children in significant roles. He also made it a point to feature talented comedians like Chichay and guitar player cum ‘carabao’ English ‘expert’ Pablo Virtuoso. They may no longer be around, but their films continue to lighten and brighten my day!”

Other notes:

Agnes Shari Aliman, televiewer:  “I enjoyed the ending of ‘Juan de la Cruz.’ The good-versus-evil theme reminded me a lot of the ‘Lord of the Rings’ trilogy, and the acting was uniformly good.”

UYTINGCO. Deserves better roles.

Character

Hosmer Ledda, office employee: “The scriptwriter of ‘Bukas Na Lang Kita Mamahalin’ probably thinks that viewers are simpletons. How can Gerald Anderson’s on-the-run character get in and out of buildings and remain unrecognized?”

Julie Dagdagan, businesswoman: “Today’s generation of music lovers may not know who Susan Fuentes is, but the songstress’ legacy of beautiful Visayan tunes such as ‘Usahay,’ as well as the classic Christmas carol, ‘Miss Kita Kung Christmas,’ will be remembered forever.

“Her voice reminded me of another Filipina singer, Sylvia La Torre, who can shift from ballads to novelty songs with ease—and it remained soothing to the ears even if she was hitting her highest notes!

“Unfortunately, her life story, as dramatized on television, was a sad one, and her singing career was cut short when she opted to prioritize matters of the heart. Her recent passing underscores the need for celebrities to save and invest their earnings wisely while they’re still on top, so they won’t end up penniless when their popularity fades.”

Ting Mapili, student: “Alwyn Uytingco was effective as Nora Aunor’s wayward son on ‘Sa Ngalan ng Ina,’ and as a musician in Quark Henares’ ‘Rakenrol’—but, it’s been a while since I last saw him in substantial roles. Talented actors like him shouldn’t be wasted in silly gag shows!”

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