Angel Aquino: Tony Labrusca was my human blanket in ‘Glorious’

Angel Aquino (left) and Tony Labrusca have several love scenes in the controversial movie.

He didn’t disappoint,” declared actress Angel Aquino when the Inquirer asked what it was like working with actor Tony Labrusca, with whom she had several steamy love scenes for the controversial movie, “Glorious.”

“He exceeded my expectations. I didn’t think he’d be that game. Of course, he had qualms, but he was very professional. He trusted me and our director,” Angel said on Wednesday night at the special screening of the movie directed by Connie Macatuno.

In the film, their characters, Glory and Niko, navigate the complexities of a May-December romance. It is one of six original films that will be screened exclusively on iWant, ABS-CBN’s new streaming service, starting last Saturday.

“When I saw him in the series ‘La Luna Sangre,’ I got curious. When I was given the chance to be a part of this project, I suggested that they (producers) ask if he would like to do it,” Angel recalled.

Tony eventually agreed. “I told him this is going to place him where he should be. I’m glad he took advantage of the opportunity.”

Angel, 45, said she was surprised at how easy it was to build rapport with Tony, who is 22 years her junior. “His character works at a hardware store. After we did our scene there, everything just flowed quite smoothly between us. Maybe because we knew that we’d be there to protect each other,” she said.

“A lot of people wanted to be in my shoes while I was filming the movie. Tony was my human blanket,” she quipped, adding that it was really cold where they shot the film—in Baguio City and Sagada.

Angel, 45, said she was surprised at how easy it was to build rapport with Tony, who is 22 years her junior.

The film’s trailer got 17.5 million views since it was posted online on Nov. 3.

“To say that it’s very empowering is an understatement,” she said as a reaction to the positive comments that the project has been getting. “I try not to let it get to my head. I’m overwhelmed by the response of people. I’m in a very good place right now.”

She then recalled her experience watching John Wells’ “August: Osage County,” which starred Meryl Streep. “She said, ‘Women age, and when they do, they get ugly.’ I tried to brush that aside. I love Meryl! She portrayed the role so well, but I don’t want women to believe in that theory. It’s really up to you how you handle aging,” she stressed.

The 47-year-old actress then gave these pointers: “Make sure to touch base with people who love you. You will get a lot of reassurance from that.

“Also, continue to take care of yourself. You have to work out—it gives you power and strength. I don’t recommend dieting. I advice people to eat sensibly and in proper proportions.”