I was deeply moved by the endearing film, “Ari: My Life with a King,” which we graded A at the Cinema Evaluation Board. It is included in the Metro Manila Film Festival’s New Wave category.
The Kapampangan indie film is produced by Holy Angels University as part of its advocacy to preserve and promote local cultures and regional languages. The movie celebrates the beauty of the spoken word and embraces the tragedy of the dying art of poetry.
The lead star, Ronwaldo “Ron” Martin has a certain kind of charm and mystique. He has come into his own in the movie. Ron has stepped out of the shadow of his brother, Coco Martin. He has earned a best actor nomination for “Ari” from the International Filmmaker Festival of World Cinema in London.
“Ari” won best world film award at the Harlem International Film Festival in New York. In Kochi, filmmaker Carlo Enciso Catu won best debut director at the first All Lights India International Film Festival.
Ron is swamped with projects, which includes a movie with Nora Aunor, “Kabisera.” Take a bow, Ron, for finally being recognized on your own merits. Hail to the new “Indie Prince!”
RONWALDO Martin in “Ari: My Life With a King”
Here’s my one-on-one with Ron:
What advice did Coco give you about show biz?
To strive to have my own identity so I will be known as me and not just as his brother.
What’s the advantage and disadvantage of being the brother of Coco?
Being Coco’s brother made it easier for me to be known. But I’m thankful that people I’ve worked with have accepted me as I am and it looks like they like my acting because I have many projects lined up. It’s quite tough being compared to my brother but I take it as a challenge.
In what ways are you and Coco alike and in what ways are you different?
We are both quiet and loving to our family. I’m happy that what Coco went through when he was starting in the biz is also happening to me now. We are different in our looks But I leave it to the public to decide who looks cuter (laughs).
What did you learn from “Ari?”
It made me appreciate Kapampangan poets more. We shot in Porac and I saw the effects of Mount Pinatubo’s eruption. It also taught me how to speak Kapampangan. And since it’s my first lead role, I learned how to get along well with my costars and crew.
Who’s your show biz crush?
Anne Curtis!
What turns you on and turns you off in a girl?
I like kind and sweet girls. I don’t go for girls who are mean and not malambing (loving).
What do you remember most about your struggling days with Coco?
It was tough. We had many doubts and fears.
If you would do a movie with Coco, what kind of film would you want it to be?
Probably our life story and humble beginnings. I would not mind just being in the background as long as I will be working with my kuya.
Christmas offering
I had a blast at the launch of my fave haven in the metropolis, Discovery Suite’s (Ortigas) Cirque du Noel. The Christmas Tree lighting and the transformation of the hotel into a fab Yuletide circus delighted the kids and the young-at-heart. Spread the joy of the season with goodies from different booths in the lobby until Jan. 6, 2016.
For those who want to celebrate Christmas Eve in the hotel, 22 Prime offers a carving of prime rib-eye and holiday turkey, with pastries for dessert. Special room packages are also available until Jan. 31.
Everything is merry in Discovery!