Angel Aquino stays simple in a glitzy world

ANGEL Aquino

Angel Aquino is a child-woman who has managed to remain simple in the glitzy world she moves in. As a friend, she always finds ways to make her presence felt when you least expect it. The model-turned-actress has proven that she’s more than just a pretty face. Angel’s latest film is a dramatic thriller, “Biktima,” directed by very promising young director RD Alba and opening in theaters on Wednesday.

Shot entirely in Bohol, the film zeroes in on the travails of a female TV reporter who sets off on a dangerous trek to the island of Kamandao in spite of her husband’s warning. Also in the cast are Cesar Montano, Mercedes Cabral, Sunshine Cruz, Ricky Davao and British-born actor Paul Smith.

What kind of Angel will we see in “Biktima”?

A very distraught and disturbed Angel because of what happens to my character. She finds herself doing things that harm people who have hurt her.

What made you do the movie?

The mention of Mercedes Cabral doing it made the project very interesting, but Cesar Montano’s name sealed the deal.

What’s your advice to “victims” of any kind?

We all become victims every now and then, but it’s how we reverse the situation that defines us.

Did you ever feel like a victim?

A victim because of my own doing… but I learned never to blame anyone, so that it gives me power over the situation.

What don’t people know about Angel Aquino?

That I’m goofy and that I’m a klutz!

In what state is your heart right now?

It’s complicated! Seriously, it’s beating steadily and peacefully, and smiling every now and then.

What was the hardest part about shifting to acting from modeling?

Acting brings out real emotions, even those which you never knew you had. Suddenly I was no longer just smiling or feeling happy or pensive. Everything had become more intense and challenging … I was tapping into memories and feelings, some of which I had stowed away in the deepest recesses of my consciousness.

How do you manage to stay so simple?

My family keeps me grounded and my mother reminds me to keep everything simple, live within my means and not let the perks and glamour of this business get to my head.

What’s on your bucket list?

More travels for my kids, my mother, and, if I can afford it, my whole family; learn another language; and learn to dance with a partner.

Where do you see yourself 10 years from now?

Living in Europe, riding a bike, drinking wine, hosting dinners, buying fresh flowers, doing the grocery, writing letters and poetry!

What’s your beauty regimen?

Always: Keep my face clean, moisturize, drink lots of water, get lots of fiber and enough sleep. As often as possible: Get a massage, a good laugh and conversations with friends, out-of-town trips.

What’s a fashion no-no for you?

Skirt over pants!

What makes someone sexy?

Intelligence, humor, confidence, success… in that order.

What was a life-changing experience you’ve had?

Learning that I was pregnant with my eldest… I realized that I was personally, directly, fully responsible for another human being’s life.