RODY VERA
WE SAT down recently with director Adolfo Alix Jr. (who helms his 27th film) and screenwriter Rodolfo “Rody” Vera to shed light on their new political thriller, “Whistleblower.”
How did the project flourish? Alix states: “I wanted to make a film about truth. We wanted Nora Aunor to play the whistleblower. Her character is gray—she is neither good or bad, but we have to understand her personal journey.”
Why make a film about whistleblowers? Vera answers: “We do not know what happens in an anomaly and how it affects us as tax-paying citizens.
That’s why whistleblowers are important, because they help reveal the truth.”
In the film, Zeny (Aunor) is an accountant who helps powerful Lorna (Cherry Pie Picache) and is investigated by reporter Teresa (Angelica Panganiban), who aims to expose the controversial pork barrel scam.
ADOLF ALIX JR.
Ensemble cast
Alix has high regard for his ensemble cast. He shares, “We made use of the strength of Ate Guy as an actress—she essays a quiet role, but you can feel her emotions in every scene. We are happy that we got the actors we wanted, because chemistry is important.”
Why should viewers watch this film? Vera replies: “The story is familiar to all of us. It affects us. We want to know how our leaders use or misuse our taxes.”
“Whistleblower” also stars Laurice Guillen, Ricky Davao, Carlo Aquino, Ina Feleo, Ben Alves, Anita Linda, Leo Rialp and Lloyd Samartino.