JC’s biggest regret

JC Santos

February 14 is Hearts’ Day for some, yet it is also “Hurts’ Day” for others. So those who have to settle for bottles of Red Horse, instead of a bouquet of red roses on Valentine’s Day will be able to relate to Viva Films’ “On Vodka, Beers and Regrets” (opens Feb. 5).

It is the third on screen pairing of Bela Padilla and JC Santos. Even if they aren’t a couple, their team-up works. Nothing schmaltzy, just reality.

The movie follows the story of Jane (Bela), an actress whose career hits rock bottom. She drowns her sorrows in alcohol. Then, one drunken night, she meets Francis (JC), a band vocalist. Suddenly, things change for Jane. She now finds comfort in his company. For his part, Francis, who’s with Jane whether she’s drunk or sober, is more than willing to love her.

For those who have had enough of Cupid’s tricks, may JC and Bela’s movie show you that love is more intoxicating than alcohol. Your “tipsy-ever-after” can turn into “happy-ever-after.” Cheers to no more tears.

Here’s my chat with JC:

What do you love about working with Bela, and what challenges you about working with her?She makes me look good, physically and acting-wise. I am able to bring out my best when she’s the one I’m with in a scene. It’s no challenge because it’s always a breeze working with Bela.

Did it ever cross your mind to court Bela?Nope, because I love our tandem as friends. I don’t want to lose our good chemistry. Romance can sometimes mess things up when you work together. What’s your fave line in the movie?“Alam mo kung anong OK sa ‘yo? Hindi mo na alam na OK ka, na OK na OK ka.”What’s your biggest regret? Didn’t spend so much time with my family.

What’s the craziest thing you did when you were drunk?

I’m a happy drunk. I just keep singing, like I have a miniconcert. Blame it on the booze.

If you could only choose one, which would you pick, doing plays or movies? I can’t make up my mind. I love my theater plays more because of the process and the discipline, but I love doing movies because it’s fun to work with the camera … and the pay’s better. What’s your advice to theater actors who want to cross over to TV/movies like you did?Stick to your discipline. Don’t ever lose it. Keep the fire of passion burning.

What excites and scares you about fatherhood? It scares me because I don’t know what to expect. Everything is happening for the first time. No amount of parenting tips can prepare you for the actual thing.

I’m excited because I have always loved babies—and now, I am going to have my own!

How has marriage changed you?It has changed me a lot. Marriage will not work if you only think about yourself. So now, everything is based on partnership. Not just “me,” but “we.”

Now that you’re married, how will you stay away from temptation in show biz?My daughter will serve as my antidote to temptation. I only have eyes for her and my wife. INQ