All hail Jaclyn

JACLYN Jose (right) shares victory with daughter Andi Eigenmann. Ruby Ruiz’s Facebook

HER CANNES triumph was made sweeter, Jaclyn Jose said, because she got to share the experience with her daughter Andi Eigenmann.

Jaclyn likewise dedicated the best actress award for her “mesmerizing” performance in Brillante Ma. Mendoza’s “Ma’ Rosa” to her fellow Filipinos.

Colleagues from the local entertainment industry were quick to hail Jaclyn’s victory as a “milestone” as well.

Nora Aunor, who costarred with Jaclyn in Joel Lamangan’s “The Flor Contemplacion Story,” told the Inquirer: “She has always been a good artist. All we need to get noticed abroad is the right project.”

Vilma Santos, another award-winning actress, said: “It’s inspiring. Indie films are in. I really hope people will support indie films.”

Filmmaker Joel Lamangan said: “It is clear proof that Filipinos are great actors who can be compared, and even surpass, international stars.”

Commitment

FROM left: Andi Eigenmann, juror Katayoon Shahabi, Jaclyn Jose, Brillante Ma. Mendoza and juror Mads Mikkelsen

Lav Diaz, another internationally acclaimed director, said of Jaclyn’s victory: “Winning is always good for Philippine cinema. Although we don’t make films to win awards, Jaclyn’s award affirms our commitment to excellence.”

Actor John Arcilla pointed out: “When Lea Salonga won a Tony for ‘Miss Saigon,’ it opened doors for Filipino theater actors. Now, Jaclyn has proven that Filipino movie actors are world-class, too.”

Filmmaker Jose Javier Reyes said: “Despite all the problems faced by the country, artists continue to emerge as a ray of hope, affirmation, and joy—bringing us a sense of pride as Filipinos.”

Scriptwriter-director Jun Robles Lana agreed: “It’s historic. Hopefully it will encourage local producers to make more globally competitive films.”

Director Mel Chionglo said: “It’s about time for a Filipino actress to win… This is her crowning glory after years of serious, hard work.”

Director Jade Castro pointed out: “She has always been one of my favorites. Her independent spirit is infectious. To be the first Filipino actor to win in Cannes is oddly right.”

Filmmaker Carlitos Siguion-Reyna said: “This is great news, an indication of clear progress and advancement for Philippine cinema.”

Actress Iza Calzado said: “Her win is an inspiration to women because it shows us that there is no age limit for greatness and brilliance. If you are passionate about work, like Miss Jaclyn, you will always shine.”

Collaboration

Scriptwriter-producer Moira Lang: “I’ve been her fan since her 1986 film ‘Private Show’ and became an even bigger fan of her acting and work ethic when I got to collaborate with her. We should set a Jaclyn Jose retrospective soon.”

“Ma’ Rosa” costar Maria Isabel Lopez related: “While having dinner in Cannes, I told her she could score a grand slam with this film. She just smiled and said this was all for Andi. As mothers, we are more ecstatic about our children’s triumphs.”