Star in Aunor, Mendoza shines anew

Brillante Ma. Mendoza PHOTO BY ARNOLD ALMACEN

Director nonpareil Brillante Ma. Mendoza makes waves again in his latest obra maestra, “Thy Womb,” which we, at the Cinema Evaluation Board, graded “A.”

Direk Brillante weaves the story so well to make us look beyond the political/social unrest in Tawi-Tawi and focus instead on the enchanting beauty of the province and the pure love of a childless couple excellently portrayed by Nora Aunor and Bembol Roco. It also gives an intimate peek at the laidback lifestyle of the people of Tawi-Tawi, who have such a generous spirit. It reminds us that simple joys are the purest ones.

In “Thy Womb,” the star in Brillante and Ate Guy is born anew!

Here’s my tete-a-tete with Direk Brillante, who’s fresh from Paris (for his Master Class and retrospective at Forum des Images) and Morocco (for the Gala Premiere of “Thy Womb.”)

What did you discover about La Aunor while shooting the film?

That Nora is an ultimate actress and a real artist. She personifies whatever character is given to her.

What was the most challenging part in the making of the movie?

Showing the tortoise laying eggs, and the birthing. We waited very patiently. We became part of nature unfolding its beauty and mystery.

What message do you want to impart via your latest work?

That the ultimate expression of love is selflessness.

Guy talk

I also got to chat with Ate Guy, who’s elated that she has two entries in the Metro Manila Film Festival—“Thy Womb,” and “El Presidente.”

Asked about her dream role, she said in jest: “Bold! But remember I was one of the first who went daring in ‘Banawe.’”

The Superstar is equally excited about her new teleserye on TV 5, “Never Say Goodbye,” where she portrays a devoted wife to Cesar Montano’s character.

They have started taping in Benguet. She’s also raring to do a birthday concert next year. “I miss singing,” she sighed. “I hope my doctor will have fixed my throat problem in May. I hope to record a new album. I want my fans to hear an original song I made while I was in the United States, ‘Habang Panahon.’”

Bravo, Ate Guy! Your charisma is truly pang habang panahon (forever). Noramania lives on!

Mom Gloria

Gloria Diaz has no qualms about playing the mother of Vice Ganda in the MMFF entry, “Sisteraka.”

Gloria Diaz

“Gosh! I don’t mind doing mother roles,” she exclaims. “Even if they get me to be P-Noy’s mom in a movie, I’m game. I could look older with the right make-up.”

Glo’s daughter, Isabelle Daza, is out of her shadow. But they have no brewing mother-daughter rivalry. Listening to how Glo talks about Bel, it’s obvious that they are each other’s best friend.

Celeb X’mas trees

For the last 38 years, Mowelfund has provided welfare, livelihood and film education opportunities for unemployed and marginalized movie workers.

Its joint venture with Robinsons Magnolia—turnover of Celebrities’ Christmas trees and ornaments (plus a Presidential Tree donated by P-Noy) to their respective buyers was a success. Proceeds of the sale will benefit Mowelfund.

Spotted at the event were Dulce, Mitch Valdez, German Moreno, Leo Martinez, D’Ángelos and the Psychedelics. Rez Cortez and foundation president Boots Anson-Roa hosted the program.

Kudos, Tita Boots and company, for helping raise funds for our colleagues in dire need.

PERSONAL: Congrats to my good friends, Boy and Cora Padiernos and Yong Nieva for the relaunch of their exquisite resto, Thaipan (120 Scout Lazcano St., Tomas Morato, Quezon City), my fave oasis in the bustling QC area.