Elmo grows up, makes daring indie film

ELMO Magalona admits that his “Villa Quintana” partner is his inspiration.

He used to get tongue-tied when asked about his love life. Now, GMA 7 actor Elmo Magalona has become more forthright.

It could be because of his “Villa Quintana” partner, Janine Gutierrez who, he admits, gives him true happiness.

He struggles to put a label on their relationship, saying they are currently “getting to know each other.”

“We are simply enjoying each other’s company. We’re exclusively seeing each other,” he says.

He describes Gutierrez as a “breath of fresh air.”

“She’s easygoing, but also a strong woman who knows what she wants in life,” he says.

On Magalona’s 20th birthday on April 27, Gutierrez gave him a pair of Nike Roshe red-and-black running shoes.

Magalona met her parents, Lotlot de Leon and Monching Gutierrez, when they visited the “Villa Quintana” set on separate occasions.

Monching and Magalona’s late dad, Francis, were launched at the same time, in the 1984 youth flick “Bagets 2.” “They also starred in ‘Ninja Kids’ in 1986. What a small world,” Magalona says.

If the actor can have his way, he wants to be in a movie like “Bagets” for the millennials or Generation Y.

Iconic film

“‘Bagets’ was an iconic movie for my dad’s [generation]. I want to make a landmark film for my own generation,” he says.

He is crossing his fingers that “#Y,” his first indie film and Gino M. Santos’ entry in this year’s Cinemalaya, will be the breakthrough he is waiting for.

It is a daring move, he admits.

“I’m ready for the love scenes,” he says. “I don’t want to lose that role. I am studying the character thoroughly.”

Magalona got a DVD of Santos’ previous Cinemalaya film, “The Animals,” to familiarize himself with the young director’s work.

Before the cameras start grinding, he plans to hit the gym and sculpt his body to prepare for his scorching scenes in “#Y.”

“It was my mom (and manager Pia) who told me about the movie,” he says. “When I read the script, I thought it would be a huge challenge. I really want to immerse myself in it and feel the character.”

He acknowledges that working with acclaimed actress-turned-director Gina Alajar on “Villa Quintana” (which ends on June 6) primed him for future projects.

“Janine and I had a workshop under Direk Gina before we started taping ‘Villa Quintana.’ Direk Gina taught us to be comfortable in front of the camera. That we should always feel relaxed and act naturally,” he says.

He is also thankful to costars Raymart Santiago, Paolo Contis, Sunshine Dizon and the late Roy Alvarez for inspiring him to hone his craft. “They are all good actors and they push me to give my best every time.”

Magalona was saddened by the sudden passing of his Tito Roy in February.

“On the set, he was always prepared. Even after a long taping day, he remained energetic and enthusiastic. I saw in Tito Roy the traits of a dedicated actor,” he says.

True calling

Now, Magalona is certain acting is his calling.

“Music will always be there. But I really want to excel as an actor. Before, I couldn’t concentrate…I got bad reviews. I gave myself a deadline: I should shape up…especially since I was working with seasoned actors. But now, acting makes me feel fulfilled and happy. I love my job!”

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