Marian Rivera in a scene and during the premiere night of “Balota.” Images: Instagram/@marianrivera
Marian Rivera defended the decision of the producers of her film “Balota” to give discounted ticket prices to teachers and students who will watch its screening, saying their aim was to help build a better society.
On her Instagram page on Sunday, October 21, Rivera clarified that the discounted prices were announced even before the beginning of its nationwide screening, to help convey its message to the public. In the political action-drama, Rivera plays a public school teacher who was forced to defend the ballot box shackled on her wrist containing the last set of election returns which nefarious figures wanted to obtain in order to change the results of that election.
“Balota” first premiered at the Cinemalaya 2024 film festival last August, and is now on its nationwide screening since Wednesday, October 16. Students and teachers are entitled to special ticket prices in select cinemas, as long as their school IDs are presented.
“First of all, what is the reason why we decided to do this? Not all films have the same purpose. There are films made to earn millions. There are personal films. There are experimental films. There are films meant to inform the public,” she said.
The actress reiterated that “Balota” was meant to help the public, saying that teachers and students play a crucial role in conveying the message behind the film.
“’Balota’ was made to help the public. We, and the film itself, believe in the ability of teachers and students to play a big role in shaping the Philippines’ future. The film is an important part of our culture and arts. Let’s widen our perspectives, especially to those who want to appreciate the film,” she said.
“Balota” was written and directed by Kip Oebanda, who’s known for his work in the films “Liway” and “Bar Boys.” It tells the story of Teacher Emmy (Rivera) who was assigned to guard the ballot box of her town’s precinct, as a former sexy star and a land-grabbing tycoon are in a tight race for mayor.
The film also stars Will Ashley, Royce Cabrera, Sassa Gurl, Esnyr Ranollo, Donna Cariaga, Joel Saracho, and Gardo Versoza.
The political drama earned Rivera her first Best Actress win at the Cinemalaya film festival.