Confessions of an action man

Cesar Montano is out to lure back the audience to action films via “Hitman.” Written, directed and top-billed by Buboy himself, the fast-paced film is about an assassin out to avenge the death of his family from his own handlers.

Moviegoers won’t feel shortchanged because Buboy did not scrimp on his movie’s production value. You can say that it’s his obra maestra, crafted with his blood, sweat and tears. The heat is on in “Hitman”!

Let my one-on-one with Buboy say the rest:

What makes “Hitman” different from all the action movies you’ve made?

“Hitman” is the first full-length action movie that Phillip Salvador and I made together. It’s my first time to be teamed up with Sam Pinto. It’s also the first movie that casts me with my son Diego. The film depicts what happens in two days, with outstanding performances from Ricky Davao, Mark Herras, Joko Diaz and Rommel Montano.

What was it like working with Ipe?

Kuya Ipe was kind enough to give an on-the-spot acting workshop to all his coactors. He and Ricky Davao were always teasing each other. Ipe wanted to call Ricky kuya, being his older brother in the movie. Ricky objected, saying he looks a lot younger. Ipe disagreed.

Didn’t Shine get jealous of Sam?

Shine didn’t get jealous. Over the years she has grown like I never expected [she would].

What advice did you give Diego about show biz and girls?

I told Diego that if he really wants to make acting his profession, he’d better join stage plays, read more books about acting and watch good movies. I gave him a to-do list. As for girls, sarili na niyang diskarte ’yon.

What is your biggest achievement?

My children. Without them, my achievements would mean nothing because I have nobody to share them with.

What’s the most memorable trip you’ve had with your family?

Our trip to the United States last Christmas. We didn’t bring a single yaya because I believe we needed to bond once in a while—just us. After that trip, we became closer and happier as family.

What legacy would you like to leave behind?

I think I have to let my kids decide. Honestly, when it comes to my profession as an actor-filmmaker, I have a lot of growing up to do. There is so much that I still want to accomplish.

What’s the best part about being Cesar Montano?

I enjoy doing the things that I do—writing scripts, composing songs, painting, running and working out, being a father—with passion. I thank God for the wisdom.

What’s the toughest part about being Cesar Montano?

The toughest part is, I have to do all these things every day.

What is the secret to your sex appeal?

I think it’s my wife. Because every time I ask her, “Do I look sexy?” she would answer, “Oozing with sex appeal, baby.” I’ve realized she’s taking me for a ride so she can go on a shopping spree.

What’s the most important lesson you’ve learned as a husband and father?

Being a father is a very tough task but when your kids hug and kiss you, all the stress and exhaustion vanish. Being a husband is a difficult task, too, but when your wife hugs and kisses you, you feel recharged. But always check if your wallet is still there. Joke lang po.

Would you say you have already mellowed?

I should say so. But that doesn’t mean I don’t know how to have fun anymore.

E-mail [email protected].