Signs of resurgence for action dramas

Don’t look now, but the long-“dead” Filipino action TV-film fad could be staging a much-delayed comeback and “resurrection” this year.

It’s been more than a decade since our big action stars have gone to seed and pasture, but some signs have been seen by show biz observers that point to a possible, if not probable, resurgence.

Ever since the Filipino action film format fell into disfavor with local fans (“imports” are still big), we’ve opined that its comeback could only be successfully achieved if the local TV-film industry developed new and young action stars, because our age-old faves have become really old—and lazy—and plump—so, a comeback for any of them isn’t likely!

Trouble is, our young male stars may be buff and toned, but most of them aren’t “action-ready,” not agile or tough enough to pull off action scenes believably and excitingly.

Like, there was an attempt a couple of years ago to field Daniel Padilla in an action production involving the rest of the Padilla tough-guy clan. That was a “logical” move, since uncle Robin is or used to be an action star—but, the project didn’t exactly set the silver screen on fire, so it didn’t make the big point and trigger the resurgence it was intended to effect.

Tougher, older

An action-drama for Daniel is still a distinct possibility, especially now that he’s moved from teen to tougher and older young-adult status.

But, it is by no means the only action prospect being talked about this season. Coco Martin’s TV action-drama series, “Ang Probinsyano,” is having a good run and could be extended, and Richard Gutierrez is starring in a new “Ang Panday” series on TV5.

To be sure, Richard’s past action-dramas have generally been less than exciting due to his excessively laid-back temperament, or lack of it. But, the hope is that, now that he’s older, he’s become less blandly boy-next-door in projection and essence, and can summon up the dramatic and physical toughness required.

More indications: “Heneral Luna” was a big “sleeper”  hit last year, paving the way for more war or action films this season—like, Paulo Avelino is getting ready to star in “Heneral (Gregorio) del Pilar.”

The follow-up film to “Heneral Luna” could do as well or even better, because Del Pilar was  only in his 20s, so his big onscreen film could appeal to the bigger youth film market.

Plus: Erik Matti’s “On the Job” also clicked with viewers not that long ago, as did “Honor Thy Father” last December at the MMFF.

More: Matteo Guidicelli is making his big bid as a young action-drama star by way of Rod Santiago’s “Tupang Ligaw.” And, JM de Guzman and Nico Antonio costarred in “Tandem” by King Palisoc.

Do all of these  indications add up to a new trend and resurgence? If a number of these productions really click with viewers, yes.

So, fans of Filipino action-dramas can do their bit to actualize their hopes, by going out of their way to support and view them!