Cristine Reyes and Baron Geisler mull over ‘package deal’ concept in blended families

Cristine Reyes (left) and Baron Geisler —VIVA FILMS

One of my fave relationship quotes goes: If you have emotional baggage, find someone who’s willing to help you unpack. That holds true for couples in a blended family setup.

Viva Films’ latest offering, “Dearly Beloved”—showing in cinemas on March 30—tackles such a situation. Megged by Marla Ancheta, it is headlined by Cristine Reyes and Baron Geisler. Let Shel (Cristine) and Deo’s (Baron) story show you what a package deal kind of love is all about.

Here are quotes from Cristine (C), Baron (B) and Marla (M):

C: In a blended family situation, it’s the couple who has to adjust and not the kids. It won’t work out if the adults think like kids and expect their children to mature faster. The priority should be the kids’ well-being.

B: I am in a blended family, so my role is right up my alley. While I was courting my wife Jamie, I also wooed her two sons. It’s not easy to get the right mix. But when you and your partner are emotionally attuned to each other, it will all fall into place.

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M: Our film is a modern-day version of Ate Vi & Boyet’s classic film, “Relasyon.” “Dearly Beloved” is a term used by priests during weddings. We used it as our title to emphasize the irony that even if Shel and Deo are so in love, they can’t get married due to legalities.

C: My answer to our film’s tagline—do second chances deserve a happy ever after?—is yes. I have given second chances to people who deserve it. I have also been given a second chance not just in love, but also in my career, and I made sure not to mess it up.

B: While I was in rehab as a recovering alcoholic, I watched Cristine’s films and I became a fan of hers instantly. At the time, I thought I won’t be able to do movies again. I was ready to just become a fisherman. By God’s grace, I’m back and in better shape.

M: After directing Baron in “Dollhouse,” I must say that he’s improved a lot because he’s no longer in a lost place. Before, I had to motivate him in each scene. This time around, he made my work easier. No matter how long his lines were, he took the words to heart and delivered them.

Janet Jackson —JANET JACKSON/ INSTAGRAM

What moved Janet Jackson in Big Dome concert

As a Michael Jackson diehard, the next best thing to watching MJ perform live was being at the concert of his favorite sister, Janet, at the Big Dome mounted by Live Nation. Super thanks to Nixon Sy and Ciso Chan for making it possible for me to be there. “Together Again” was a celebration of Janet’s 50 glorious years in the biz. Even at 57, she still has the moves. Unlike Madonna, Janet didn’t have fancy wardrobe changes. There were no elaborate props nor superb effects. Her soulful voice and sensuous dancing were more than enough to keep the audience mesmerized.

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The pop superstar did not disappoint her fans. She sang all her hits from the ’80s till now. Janet teared up when the coliseum turned into a karaoke bar as we all sang “Again” along with her. My favorite part was her homage to MJ when she did their hit duet, “Scream.” There were many moments in the concert where she grooved a la MJ. It felt like the King of Pop was onstage with her. To paraphrase one of her hits, “love for music will never do without Janet and MJ.” INQ