Julia Barretto (left) and Carlo Aquino during the press conference of the MMFF 2024 entry “Hold Me Close.” Image: Instagram/@viva_films
The acting prowess of Julia Barretto in the Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) 2024 entry “Hold Me Close” earned praise from her leading man Carlo Aquino, with the latter saying she’s a strong contender for best actress category.
While the official nominees for the MMFF’s Gabi ng Parangal have yet to be announced, Barretto will be up against industry heavyweights such as Vilma Santos (“Uninvited”) and Judy Ann Santos (“Espantaho”) for the award.
During the film’s press conference in Quezon City, the actress was asked if she believes that she has what it takes to go up against Vilma and Judy Ann for the award.
Aquino then took charge of answering the question for Barretto, as he praised his leading lady for doing well throughout filming.
“Of course! Juju is such a great actress here. That’s just me but, right Direk?” he said, referring to the actress using her nickname. “Hold Me Close” director Jason Paul Laxamana nodded in agreement.
Despite the praise, Barretto pointed out that the film being considered an entry for the film festival’s 50th-anniversary edition is an honor in itself.
“I’m not sure how to answer this question. I consider Vilma and Judy Ann as my idols. Even to be mentioned next to their names, makes me shy,” she said.
“But I think this film, making it and being included in the MMFF on their 50th year and being included, is such a great honor. I’m grateful with this alone,” she continued.
“Hold Me Close” marks Barretto and Aquino’s reunion two years after “Expensive Candy,” which, too, was directed by Laxamana. The film was released in September 2022 in theaters.
The MMFF entry revolves around a wanderer named Woody (Aquino) who encounters the mysterious Lynlyn (Barretto) in Japan. While much of Lynlyn’s story remains unknown, Woody is perplexed after discovering that she can sense if a person can bring happiness or harm through touch.